Fun Things to do in Asheville, NC

In July, my husband and I took a trip to beautiful Asheville, North Carolina to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. I live in Illinois, in the suburbs of Chicago, so I am used to flat land, traffic, and cornfields. Asheville is a relaxing and eclectic small city nestled in the mountains. It was a wonderful change of pace.

We booked the LaZoom Comedy Tour, getting a $5 discount online through www.exploreasheville.com. LaZoom is known for its purple trolley tours through the city. The comedy tour was adults only. The entertainers did a great job and had everyone on the trolley and along the streets laughing. LaZoom also offers a family friendly comedy tour that runs earlier in the evening and an Art tour. You can find out more at www.lazoomtours.com.

My husband and I took one day just to explore the tree lined mountainous road known as the Blue Ridge Parkway. Every few miles, there are overlooks where you can park and enjoy wonderful views of trees, mountains, valleys, and towns below. Also along the Parkway is a Visitor's Center and the Folk Art Museum. It is worth just getting in the car and wandering, stopping as you see fit. We went in the summer, but I imagine the autumn sights would be breathtaking!

One thing I consider a must do in Asheville in taking in the Friday night Drum Circle, held each Friday evening, weather permitting, in Pack Sqare Park. A people watchers's dream come true, the drum circle is fun, energetic, and a guaranteed good time. If you bring your own percussion instrument, you are even welcome to take part! I recommend going earlier in the evening, especially if you have children with you.

Finally, I recommend making the drive to Chimney Rock State Park and hiking some of their amazing trails. My thighs were about to go numb after the amount of stairs we climbed, but the views from the top were worth it. This park also has less strenuous trails that do not entail stairs. Get more information at www.chimneyrockpark.com. After a day of hiking, we enjoyed a great lunch at Riverwatch deli (http://chimneyrockgemmine.com/deli.htm) with an amazing view of the river running right beside us.

We truly enjoyed Asheville and hope to go back again.