As springtime approaches, an escape to Asheville is calling your name. Stretch your legs on mountain trails filled with the blossoming beauty of native wildflowers, drive the scenic route to find miles of amazing mountain vistas, and stroll through the streets of Asheville’s festive downtown as our community celebrates the welcome return of milder days.
Biltmore Blooms
According to Explore Asheville, celebrating spring with a spectacular display of colorful blooms across Biltmore Estate is must. Starting on the first day of spring, Biltmore celebrates the legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted and his final project – George Vanderbilt’s magnificent Biltmore gardens. The bright colors in the gardens are brought inside with an opulent display of tropical plants and lavish flowers within Biltmore House. During this festival of flowers, see spring evolve with a steady progression of blooms. Tulips abound at Biltmore’s main entrance and the big display in the Walled Garden.
Top 5 Sunset Spots in Asheville, NC
Del Holston, with Explore Asheville, stated that it’s no question that some of the world’s oldest mountains offer some of the best vantage points to watch the sun drop below the peaks in a splash of color.
In an online poll, fans of Asheville, NC nominated their favorite places to watch the sun set over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here are their responses, in descending order of popularity:
- Omni Grove Park Inn: The most popular spot to watch the sunset, according to the fans, is undoubtedly the Omni Grove Park Inn. The aptly named Sunset Terrace is famous for its dazzling views of downtown and the mountains, as well as for its chophouse cuisine.
- Anywhere: Many readers made a very good point—almost anywhere in the Asheville area is a good place to see the sunset! Because we are surrounded by some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River (including the highest), views are bountiful all over town.
- Biltmore: The 8,000 acres of George Vanderbilt’s historic estate offer numerous scenic options, from the meadow behind America’s Largest Home, to the lagoon with views of the back of the house and a good chance of a deer sighting.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive—as well as several of the stops along the way—is also a popular choice for some pre-dusk views. Hop on near Asheville and drive south to catch several scenic vistas.
- Max Patch: This grassy bald is definitely a favorite, with true 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and an intersection with the Appalachian Trail.
8 Great Asheville Tours for Spring
For first-time visitors, or for seasoned travelers looking to dive a bit deeper, city tours can be a great way to get to know Asheville, according to Explore Asheville. And like everything else, many of Asheville’s city tours are just a little bit different. Check out these tours that Explore Asheville put together for us that are just perfect for enjoying warm spring weather and becoming acquainted with “Paris of the South,” “Land of the Sky” or “Beer City USA.”