Asheville, North Carolina, nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, is more than just the famed Biltmore Estate. While the grandeur of the Biltmore is undeniable, this vibrant mountain town offers a wealth of Family Activities Asheville that extend far beyond its historic mansion. From breathtaking natural landscapes to a lively downtown brimming with unique character, Asheville is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered with your children.
For families seeking an unforgettable getaway, Asheville presents a delightful blend of outdoor adventure, culinary delights, and a welcoming atmosphere. Perhaps it doesn’t immediately scream “kid-friendly vacation,” but let me guide you through an amazing 48-hour itinerary in Asheville, designed specifically for families, proving that you can have an incredible time without even stepping foot on the Biltmore Estate grounds (unless you want to!).
Having grown up within easy driving distance of Asheville, I’ve visited the Biltmore countless times. This trip, however, was about immersing ourselves in the mountains and the unique charm of Asheville itself. Seeking refuge from the intense summer heat of Nashville during paternity leave, Asheville’s promise of milder temperatures and lower humidity in August was incredibly appealing. The idea of enjoying outdoor activities without instantly needing another shower was the perfect motivation for a weekend escape.
Where to Stay in Asheville with Kids
When it comes to accommodation in Asheville, the options are plentiful, ranging from large hotel chains to charming inns and bed and breakfasts. While hotels offer convenience, for a truly unique and family-friendly experience, consider opting for a smaller inn or B&B. Asheville boasts numerous bed and breakfasts, but finding one that genuinely welcomes toddlers can be a challenge.
Fortunately, we discovered the Sweet Biscuit Inn, a gem that is not only kid-friendly but also an exceptional B&B in its own right. Located in the peaceful Kenilworth area, just a mile and a half from downtown Asheville, this seven-bedroom inn, housed in a beautifully restored 1915 revival home, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. Imagine relaxing afternoons on a sprawling porch, enjoying the ambiance of a library, and being surrounded by the elegance of 11-foot ceilings.
The innkeepers, Christian and Claudia, originally from Germany, fell in love with Asheville while visiting to enroll their son in university. Their passion for the area led them to purchase the Sweet Biscuit Inn and make Asheville their home. As hosts, they are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, offering invaluable insights into the best local spots and family activities Asheville has to offer.
Each morning at the Sweet Biscuit Inn begins with a delectable three-course breakfast prepared by Claudia. Her gourmet creations change daily, and she graciously catered to our daughter’s “toddler dietary restrictions” without hesitation, demonstrating their genuine care for families.
Our family stayed in the Birdsong Suite, a spacious retreat featuring a comfortable living area and a bathroom complete with a charming clawfoot tub. The king bedroom was bright and airy, filled with morning sunlight. The separate living area was thoughtfully equipped with games and toys for children, a small refrigerator, and a daybed with a trundle. Even with our travel crib set up, there was still ample space for everyone to relax and play. It was truly the perfect home base for our weekend of family activities Asheville.
The inn’s expansive, shaded lawn was an ideal spot for afternoon downtime. Our daughter adored the tree swing and the small playground area. Having a dedicated space for her to play while our little one napped peacefully in our room was a huge advantage. Had we opted for a standard hotel, we would have likely been confined to a darkened room during naptime.
Christian and Claudia’s genuine warmth and understanding towards children made our stay at the Sweet Biscuit Inn exceptional. Whether you are traveling with kids or not, I wholeheartedly recommend this charming B&B for your Asheville visit.
Day One Itinerary: Asheville Family Fun – Breweries and Outdoor Adventures
Morning/Early Afternoon: Family-Friendly Brewery Experience at New Belgium
To kick off our Asheville family weekend, we headed straight to the renowned New Belgium Brewery, situated along the scenic French Broad River. Arriving mid-morning, a brewery visit seemed like the perfect way to start our Asheville exploration.
The New Belgium tasting room is an industrial-chic space with a lively atmosphere, featuring a long bar and plenty of tables. Beer enthusiasts will be delighted by the extensive tap list offering a diverse range of New Belgium brews. Large windows overlook the outdoor patio and river, providing a pleasant view while enjoying a game of ping pong. New Belgium offers brewery tours suitable for “kids of all ages” (lasting 90 minutes), though we opted to skip the tour on this occasion, focusing on the outdoor space.
The expansive lawn at New Belgium is a haven for families. Children can run freely and play while parents relax in Adirondack chairs. Picnic tables are available, and while a food truck is on-site, you are also welcome to bring your own food, making it a truly flexible and family-friendly destination for family activities Asheville.
Address: 21 Craven Street
Lunch: Casual Eats at Wicked Weed Pub
For lunch, we ventured to Wicked Weed Pub, a funky gastropub located in the heart of downtown Asheville. This spot offers a vibrant atmosphere, a great patio for outdoor dining, and boasts 16 beers on tap, all brewed in-house. To sample the variety, we both opted for tasting flights, choosing different selections to maximize our tasting experience.
Wicked Weed’s menu is diverse, with options to please everyone, including children. We shared a burger, which was a definite highlight, and highly recommend it. The relaxed atmosphere and kid-friendly menu make Wicked Weed Pub a great choice for families seeking family activities Asheville that include delicious food in a casual setting.
Address: 91 Biltmore Avenue
Afternoon: Hiking and Waterfalls at Skinny Dip Falls & Looking Glass Falls
After lunch, it was time to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding Asheville. We set off for Skinny Dip Falls, a picturesque waterfall accessible via a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 60-minute drive itself is an experience, winding through breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Reaching mile marker 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, we found the parking area. Directly across the road, a sign marked the Mountains to Sea Trail. The hike to Skinny Dip Falls is a relatively easy 0.75-mile walk along this trail. You’ll soon arrive at a bench and a staircase leading down to the falls.
Skinny Dip Falls offers different water experiences for varying ages. To the right, shallow pools among the rocks are perfect for younger toddlers to splash and play safely. To the left, the falls cascade into a deeper swimming hole, approximately six feet deep, tempting for a refreshing jump for older kids and adults. We spent a good amount of time at Skinny Dip Falls, allowing our daughter to enjoy the shallow waters and the natural beauty of the area, making it a fantastic option for family activities Asheville in nature.
Address: Mile marker 417 on Blue Ridge Parkway
On our return from Skinny Dip Falls, we made sure to stop at the overlook for Looking Glass Falls. This roadside waterfall is easily accessible and offers stunning views without requiring a hike, perfect for a quick and impressive stop. Our plan was to head back to town and prepare for dinner. However, as we drove, an unexpected bee sting incident with our daughter in the car slightly altered our plans.
Despite the brief upset, we were soon back on track and ready for dinner. Seeking a relaxed and low-key dining option after our afternoon adventures, we chose Bhramari Brewing Company. Located behind the Orange Peel music venue, Bhramari offers a spacious patio area with cornhole and plenty of outdoor seating.
Bhramari’s menu is unique, incorporating beer elements into each dish. The brewer’s culinary background ensures excellent food and thoughtful beer pairings. While the menu isn’t strictly designed for kids, they were incredibly accommodating to our little ones, making it a welcoming spot for families seeking family activities Asheville that include craft beer and good food in a relaxed setting.
Address: 101 Lexington Ave
Day Two Itinerary: Exploring Nature and Playtime in Asheville
Morning: Scenic Hike at Craggy Gardens
Day two of our Asheville family adventure began with another breathtaking drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this time heading to Craggy Gardens for a hike. The drive to mile marker 364 takes about an hour and brings you directly to the visitor center and parking area. Inside the visitor center, you can find small, inexpensive children’s binoculars, a fun treat to reward good behavior during the car ride and enhance the hiking experience.
The Craggy Gardens hike starts in a lush, rocky forest, quickly opening up to a picnic pavilion – an ideal spot for a picnic lunch if you plan to stay longer or need a rest stop. Continuing past the pavilion, the trail transforms into beautiful grassy meadows dotted with wildflowers and unique, windswept trees. The trail culminates at an overlook boasting panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. In the summer months, wild blueberries abound, adding an extra element of fun for kids to spot and even sample (when in season). The entire roundtrip hike is just under two miles, making it manageable and enjoyable for families with young children looking for family activities Asheville in nature.
Address: Mile marker 364 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Lunch & Afternoon: Fun and Games at Sierra Nevada Brewery
After our Craggy Gardens hike, we were ready for lunch and some playtime. We headed to Sierra Nevada Brewery for a combined dining and entertainment experience. This brewery proved to be one of the most impressive we’ve visited. While initially hesitant due to its larger, more commercial scale compared to our usual preferences, the grounds and amenities quickly won us over.
Sierra Nevada offers a vast indoor dining area, but for a more relaxed lunch, ask to be seated on the back patio, which features a casual menu of shareable small plates. We ordered a selection of these plates, along with a couple of beer flights, and were pleasantly surprised by the delicious food quality.
However, the true highlight of Sierra Nevada for families is its outdoor space. On a sunny day, the outdoor amphitheater, with its steps and seating areas, provides an engaging play space for toddlers. A large sandbox with toys offers another designated play area where children can entertain themselves while parents relax, making Sierra Nevada a top pick for family activities Asheville that cater to both adults and kids.
Address: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC
Following a fun-filled morning and afternoon, we returned to our B&B for naps and downtime. Our daughter, having dozed in the car throughout the morning, opted to play on the beautiful grounds of the Sweet Biscuit Inn. Staying at a smaller inn provided the flexibility to put our youngest down for a nap while our older daughter enjoyed outdoor play, a significant advantage over being confined to a hotel room.
Evening: River Arts District, Dinner at The Bull & Beggar (Early Bird Family) & Dessert at French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Once everyone was refreshed, we ventured to the River Arts District. This vibrant area is filled with art studios and unique shops, offering a different flavor of family activities Asheville. While there are several restaurants in the River Arts District, we weren’t particularly hungry for a full dinner yet.
We decided to try The Bull & Beggar. Known for its upscale ambiance, it might not seem like an obvious choice for families at 7 pm (reservations recommended). However, arriving at 5 pm, just as they opened and before the dinner rush, we decided to take a chance. They graciously welcomed our children.
We opted to share a selection of appetizers, anticipating that our toddler’s patience might not extend to a full meal in this setting. Every dish was delicious, and while The Bull & Beggar might be ideal for a date night, we found it surprisingly manageable as a young family for an early dinner, showcasing the versatility of family activities Asheville that can be adapted for different family styles.
Address: 37 Paynes Way
And now for the grand finale of the evening – dessert! We all know that sometimes a little bribery (whether we admit it or not) can be effective with toddlers. Throughout our “nice restaurant” experience, we’d promised our daughter a special treat if she used her best manners. Our secret destination all along was The French Broad Chocolate Lounge, the ultimate spot for sweets and treats in downtown Asheville.
Often, as was the case during our visit, there’s a line extending out the door. Don’t let this deter you! Stepping inside is like entering a chocolate lover’s paradise. The options are overwhelming, from house-made ice cream to artisan truffles, cakes, brownies, cookies, and a variety of decadent drinking chocolates. It’s a place that will make any sweet tooth’s eyes widen with delight, making it an essential stop for family activities Asheville focused on delicious treats.
Address: 10 South Pack Square
Day Three Itinerary: Gardens, Nature, and Water Play Before Heading Home
Morning: Discovering Asheville Botanical Gardens
Before departing Asheville, a stop at the Asheville Botanical Gardens is a must. Entrance to these beautiful 10-acre gardens is free. The gardens showcase a diverse collection of native plants and are alive with butterflies. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find “investigation passports” designed for children. These passports offer a fun, guided way for kids to explore the gardens, with five different themes focusing on plants, birds, insects, animals, or nature words. While our toddler was a bit young to fully grasp the passport concept, she still enjoyed trying to spot the bugs mentioned in her booklet, making the Botanical Gardens an engaging and educational option for family activities Asheville.
Creek Play at Botanical Gardens
One of the most appealing features of the Asheville Botanical Gardens for families with young children is the creek that runs behind the main garden area. A short walk down a small hill leads to the shallow creek waters. This is a perfect spot for toddlers to play in the water, splash around, and throw rocks for endless entertainment. Bringing a change of dry clothes is highly recommended, just in case of an accidental splash or fall. The creek at the Botanical Gardens provides a natural and fun way to cool off and engage in simple water play, rounding out our list of fantastic family activities Asheville.
Address: 151 West T. Weaver Blvd
I hope this itinerary inspires you to plan your own weekend trip to Asheville with your kids! Let me know in the comments what family activities Asheville you enjoy most!
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