Asheville. North Carolina, is a gorgeous and historic city. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find fun and excitement in this city of almost 92,000 people. If you’re headed to Asheville for a visit, here are a few of the places you absolutely have to check out.
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence
Why not experience some history during your trip? Asheville has plenty to offer, including the gorgeous Basilica of Saint Lawrence. Churches are deemed basilicas if they’re historically important or significant. The Basilica of Saint Lawrence was designated in 1993 and continues to attract visitors looking to enjoy the beauty and architecture of this church.
You can take a self-guided tour of the building or join a complimentary guided tour. You’ll witness the incredible structure of the basilica, which was made without the use of any wood. You’ll also find amazing artwork throughout the church. No matter your religious affiliation, you’ll admire the history and beauty of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence.
The Biltmore Estate
If you can’t get enough of the Asheville architecture, check out the Biltmore Estate. It was originally owned by George and Edith Vanderbilt and is America’s largest home. Construction was completed on the house in 1895, and today you’ll find the home incredibly preserved to reflect life in that era.
The house was opened to the public in 1930 and has been a popular tourist destination ever since. During your visit, you can take a tour of the home, gardens, and winery. Dine at one of the restaurants and visit the attached shops. There’s even a spa if you’re looking to relax. You could spend days at the Biltmore, so plan accordingly.
The Music Scene
Asheville has an incredible music scene. There are tons of places to hear live music, from professional music venues to bars. North Carolina is known for its mountain music or bluegrass, so you’re likely to find people playing banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin as you listen to tunes in Downtown Asheville.
The soulful melodies and performances will leave you tapping your toes and smiling. If you want to really get into the spirit, buy some Western apparel and rock some cowboy boots. You can find a new artist to listen to every night during your trip to Asheville, and you won’t be disappointed by what you hear.
The Med
You can’t end your trip without dining at The Med in Asheville. The Med has been in business since 1969 and it’s easy to see why when you taste the food. Nestled in Downtown Asheville, the diner offers an amazing array of breakfast and lunch items. Everything is cooked from scratch with local ingredients. For a taste of North Carolina, try the Dixie Benedict with a side of home fries.
For lunch, you’ll want the fried catfish. But really, you can’t go wrong when there’s this much good food on the menu. The old school diner vibe and amazing options will leave you wanting to eat at the Med every meal, and don’t forget about the friendly staff and great hours. Hit the road and head there as soon as possible (they’re the earliest-opening breakfast place downtown!).
There are tons of things you can do in Asheville, North Carolina. Start planning your trip now and get excited about all the places you’ll see, the music you’ll hear, and the food you’ll eat. A week or two in Asheville is the perfect vacation for anyone who loves to explore cities and learn about history. Plus, with temperatures ranging from 50 degrees in the winter to 80 degrees in the summer, North Carolina is the best place to spend some time.
