Escape the Hustle: Hendersonville’s Best Spots to Relax and Recharge

Escape the Hustle: Hendersonville’s Best Spots to Relax and Recharge

Escape the Hustle: Hendersonville’s Best Spots to Relax and Recharge

In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville offers the perfect backdrop to unwind and rejuvenate. From serene spas to tranquil outdoor settings, discover the best places to relax and recharge in this charming mountain town.

Something for everyone

Hendersonville offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking to unwind, savor local flavors, or immerse yourself in nature. Relax with rejuvenating spa treatments, indulge in wine tasting experiences, or explore tranquil outdoor spaces. 

The Stable Spa

Located at The Horse Shoe Farm, The Stable Spa offers services that are carefully designed to offer a unique and relaxing experience, reimagining the traditional spa visit. Their focus is on rejuvenation and personal care, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling refreshed, restored, and truly cared for.

They offer a wide range of services, including facials, therapeutic massages, couples massages, and pregnancy massages. Guests can also indulge in foot therapy, wellness classes, and more. For ultimate relaxation, The Stable Spa features a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and cold plunge, creating the perfect environment for unwinding and enhancing the overall spa experience.

SKYLARANNA Resort & Spa

Visit SKYLARANNA Resort & Spa and enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with experiences tailored to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Indulge in holistic treatments, tailored massages, and rejuvenating therapies. From tranquil massages to invigorating spa rituals, the Wellness Center is a serene escape for ultimate relaxation.

Their facilities include a steam room, a traditional Finnish sauna, and a pool with breathtaking views of the mountains. These amenities provide the perfect space to unwind, soothe muscles, and refresh the senses, all while soaking in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

 

skylaranna-ext

Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill

Casual elegance paired with Southern hospitality is at the heart of Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill. The seven stunning guestrooms offer a perfect blend of comfort and charm, ideal for a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat for business travelers, or a cozy home base for exploring the beauty of Western North Carolina. This purpose-built B&B is conveniently located in the “Playground of the South” and is also pet-friendly, making it a welcoming escape for all guests.

For a truly relaxing experience, guests can enjoy a massage. Choose to unwind in the comfort of your suite or immerse yourself in nature at the outdoor birdhouse pavilion. Professional therapists customize their techniques to meet each guest’s specific needs, ensuring a deeply relaxing and restorative experience.

Unwind in the Vines

For those who prefer to “wine” down, Hendersonville’s wineries and vineyards offer the perfect escape.

Hendersonville’s wineries are a sanctuary for relaxation, offering serene settings to unwind and recharge. Nestled in the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, these seven wineries pair the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with exceptional wines, creating an experience that soothes the mind and lifts the spirit.

Picture yourself sipping wine at Burntshirt Vineyards or Stone Ashe Vineyard, surrounded by rolling hills and peaceful vistas. Find tranquility at Marked Tree Vineyard, perched on the Eastern Continental Divide, or let the mountaintop views at Point Lookout Vineyards take your breath away. Each winery offers its own escape, whether it’s the rustic charm of Souther Williams Vineyard, the family-friendly warmth of Sawyer Springs Vineyard, or the inviting ambiance of Saint Paul Mountain Vineyard.

From intimate tasting rooms to expansive patios with sweeping views, these vineyards invite you to slow down, savor the flavors, and connect with the natural beauty around you. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment alone or sharing a glass with loved ones, Hendersonville’s wineries provide a retreat where every sip is a step closer to total rejuvenation. 

winery tasting room and grape vines
stone-ashe-vineyard-grapes

Nature’s Bounty

The great outdoors offers more than just stunning scenery—it provides a chance to breathe deeply, feel grounded, and rediscover gratitude in life’s simple pleasures. From peaceful trails to stunning vistas, every moment in nature invites relaxation, reflection, and connection.

Escape to the great outdoors and find peace in some of the region’s most serene spots. Jump Off Rock, a beloved overlook with breathtaking panoramic views, offers a tranquil retreat for quiet reflection or an inspiring backdrop for a sunset picnic. Nearby, Bullington Gardens invites visitors to wander through themed gardens bursting with seasonal blooms, providing an oasis of color and calm. Take a moment to sit on a shaded bench and let the peaceful atmosphere renew your spirit.

For those seeking adventure paired with relaxation, DuPont State Recreational Forest offers an enchanting mix of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Meander along paths that lead to natural wonders and let the soothing sound of rushing water wash away stress. Pisgah National Forest, with its towering trees and hidden swimming holes, is another perfect place to immerse yourself in nature’s rejuvenating embrace.

Whether you’re strolling along the Oklawaha Greenway, picnicking by the river at Mills River Park, or simply sitting under a tree with a good book, these outdoor escapes remind us of the restorative power of nature. Each destination offers its own unique way to relax, recharge, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Grandad's Apples and Such
dupont waterfall

Your Next Adventure Awaits

Relax, rejuvenate, and let your journey be filled with discovery, gratitude, and lasting memories. The best of what this region has to offer is ready and waiting for you.

stone-ashe-cheers

4 Seasons, Endless Fun! Why Hendersonville is Great Year-Round

4 Seasons, Endless Fun! Why Hendersonville is Great Year-Round

4 Seasons, Endless Fun! Why Hendersonville is Great Year-Round

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville, NC, offers an incredible variety of activities and experiences that showcase its charm no matter the season. From blooming flowers in the spring to cozy winter getaways, Hendersonville has got something for everyone.

Spring: A Blooming Paradise

As the chill of winter fades, Hendersonville comes alive with the vibrant colors and scents of spring. The mild weather beckons visitors to explore the outdoors, where blooming flowers and lush greenery set the stage for unforgettable experiences.

Point Lookout Vineyards:
Elevate your wine experience at this breathtaking mountaintop vineyard, part of the prestigious Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, home to seven exceptional wineries. Sip on a glass of award-winning wine while soaking in the panoramic views, or pair your favorite vintage with a curated charcuterie board for an unforgettable outing. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon or celebrating life’s special moments.

Art in Bloom:
This highly anticipated annual event showcases a unique blend of visual artistry and floral creativity. Stroll through the exhibit to admire the synergy between beautifully crafted floral designs and exceptional juried artworks. Docents and artists often provide insights into the inspiration behind their work, creating an enriching cultural experience.

Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend
The 2025 Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, happening May 2-4, features local wineries and cideries offering tastings, tours, pairing dinners, live music, orchard hikes, vineyard yoga, and more. This signature event highlights artisan hard ciders and award-winning wines.

Bullington Gardens:
An enchanting destination for nature lovers, Bullington Gardens boasts expertly maintained botanical displays and serene walking trails. Attend one of their spring workshops to enhance your gardening skills, or simply meander through the gardens as blossoms and greenery come to life.

Garden Jubilee:
Celebrate the beauty of spring at Garden Jubilee, Hendersonville’s premier gardening event. Stroll through vibrant displays of plants, flowers, and gardening supplies, meet expert growers, and find inspiration for your outdoor spaces. A gardener’s paradise in the heart of downtown!

 

Summer: Outdoor Adventures and Festivals

With sun-filled days and warm evenings, summer in Hendersonville invites you to embrace the outdoors and celebrate the season with lively festivals and recreational activities.

Apple Festival:
As the heart of apple country, Hendersonville celebrates its heritage with this iconic festival every Labor Day Weekend. Sample fresh cider, indulge in apple-themed desserts, and explore craft booths and live entertainment. The festival is a must-visit for families and foodies alike.

Sliding Rock:
This natural wonder offers a thrilling way to cool off in the summer heat. Located just a short drive away, Sliding Rock is a smooth, sloping rock formation where visitors can slide into the refreshing mountain water below. Bring water shoes, towels, and a picnic to enjoy in the shaded recreation area.

Holmes Educational State Forest:
Explore an immersive outdoor classroom at Holmes Educational State Forest. This serene forest features easy hiking trails, engaging exhibits, and towering trees that create a peaceful retreat. Discover the Forest Demonstration Trail, listen to educational audio boxes, or enjoy a picnic in the shade. Ideal for families, students, and nature enthusiasts.

Rhythm & Brews Concert Series:
Downtown comes alive during these festive evenings of live music, craft beverages, and food trucks. Enjoy performances by talented musicians while savoring the flavors of local beer and cider. The lively atmosphere is perfect for dancing, mingling, or simply relaxing under the summer sky.

Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail:
Treat your taste buds to a sweet adventure as you journey through local creameries and ice cream shops. From classic scoops to unique, handcrafted flavors, each stop offers a delicious way to cool off and enjoy the charm of Hendersonville.

Two women relaxing at the spa.
Two women relaxing at the spa.
Two women relaxing at the spa.

Fall: A Festival of Colors

Autumn paints Hendersonville in rich hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a breathtaking backdrop for seasonal festivities and outdoor excursions.

DuPont State Recreational Forest:
Experience the kaleidoscope of fall foliage as you explore trails leading to the forest’s renowned waterfalls, including Triple Falls and High Falls. Whether hiking, biking, or horseback riding, the scenery will leave you in awe.

Souther Williams Vineyard:
Savor the crisp air and stunning autumnal views at this award-winning winery, part of the prestigious Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, home to seven exceptional wineries. This 21+ winery offers a serene atmosphere to enjoy a glass of their Rebel Red Cynthiana Rosé while relaxing on the patio for a delightful afternoon.

Hendersonville Apple Orchards:
Delight in the vibrant colors of autumn while savoring the crisp taste of freshly picked apples. Wander through scenic orchards, enjoy hayrides, and sample cider doughnuts and apple cider. A perfect blend of natural beauty and seasonal flavors awaits.

Jump Off Rock:
A favorite for locals and visitors alike, Jump Off Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. This iconic destination is perfect for a relaxing day trip. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the scenic overlook, or venture onto one of the nearby trails for an invigorating hike through the forests.

Nix Pumpkin Patch:
Embrace the spirit of fall at Nix Pumpkin Patch, where family fun meets autumn charm. Pick the perfect pumpkin, explore festive photo ops, and enjoy seasonal activities surrounded by picturesque farm scenery. A delightful destination for creating cherished autumn memories.

winery tasting room and grape vines
winery tasting room and grape vines

Winter: Cozy Retreats and Festive Cheer

Winter transforms Hendersonville into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive activities, and cozy retreats, making it an ideal destination for holiday celebrations and quiet relaxation.

Hendersonville’s Home for the Holidays:
This annual celebration lights up the season with parades, festive events, and dazzling decorations. The parade down Main Street is a highlight, featuring floats, music, and holiday cheer for all ages.

Moonshine Mountain Snow Tubing:
Experience winter thrills at this beloved snow tubing destination. With slopes designed for all ages, it’s an adventure the whole family can enjoy. Don’t forget to bundle up and capture the fun in photos!

Sierra Nevada Brewery Tours:
Discover the brewing process behind some of the most celebrated craft beers at Sierra Nevada’s brewery tours. Take a guided journey through the state-of-the-art facility, where you’ll learn about their brewing techniques, sustainable practices, and passion for quality. Enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the brewery and finish with a tasting of their award-winning beers. Ideal for beer enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation of craft brewing.

Exploring Downtown Hendersonville:
Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Hendersonville, where a vibrant mix of boutiques, unique shops, and local restaurants await. From antiques and handmade goods to trendy apparel and gifts, there’s something for every shopper. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. The walkable, pet-friendly downtown makes it easy to explore at your own pace, with cozy spots to relax along the way. Perfect for a day of leisurely discovery in a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Hendersonville NC
kid riding snow tube down mountain
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Hendersonville NC

Claywood: A Family-Owned Business That Goes Beyond Dining

Claywood: A Family-Owned Business That Goes Beyond Dining

Claywood: A Family-Owned Business That Goes Beyond Dining

Claywood is not just another restaurant; it’s a place where family values, local flavors, and community spirit come together. “We wanted a place for people to come, laugh, and enjoy a bite to eat with good company.”

Meet Carly and Jean

Owned and operated by Carly and Jean, Claywood embodies everything that makes Hendersonville unique—from its historic charm to its strong sense of togetherness. Carly shares, “We wanted to have a family-owned business. My mom and I have talked about this forever. Owning a business together. We wanted to argue. We wanted tense times. We wanted fun times. We wanted to laugh, and we wanted a place for people to come and do the same, to be honest.”

For Carly and Jean, the idea of owning a business together was about more than just a dream; it was about creating a place where they could share their passion for hospitality with the community. Both bring decades of experience to the table—Carly from her time in fine dining in Chicago and Jean from 25 years in hospitality. “We definitely have a lot of experience in operating a restaurant and enjoying entertaining and dining,” Carly reflects.

A Menu That Honors the Region

Claywood’s menu is crafted with intention, reflecting the values of the community it serves. With an emphasis on Appalachian cuisine, the restaurant prioritizes local ingredients sourced from within 75 miles of their establishment. “It was really important for us to provide produce and meat that were local to this area. We partner with French Broad Cattle Farm who supplies our beef, chicken, and pork,” says Carly. Their commitment to local agriculture is not just a business choice, but a way to give back to the region they call home.

In addition to their farm-to-table menu, Claywood offers an extensive selection of mocktails and craft cocktails, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

claywood-plated-food

Resilience in Hurricane Helene

When Hurricane Helene hit, Claywood found itself in the heart of a crisis that affected not only the restaurant but the entire community. “Hurricane Helene did affect Claywood. We were without water and utilities for three weeks,” Carly explains. But instead of shutting down, the team at Claywood found innovative ways to continue serving their community.

When they realized that some of their food wasn’t spoiled, Carly and Jean decided to do something meaningful with it. “We were able to open up our establishment and do free cookouts,” Carly recalls. This act of generosity brought new energy into their building, turning Claywood into a place of healing and hope during a difficult time.

But their support didn’t end there. “My mind just didn’t stop from there. I was thinking about kids at home with their parents, people who still needed to work, all these things that still needed to go on. And we have kids at home. So I knew that our kids now would be at home with us for who knew how long. And I wanted to then use this space as a community center,” Carly says. Whether it was offering Wi-Fi for parents working from home or providing arts and crafts for children to help take their minds off the storm, Claywood became a hub for connection and support.

The restaurant also offered free coffee, a place for parents to sit down, share stories, and offer help to one another. Jean adds, “That’s what we normally do. You just kind of wrap your arm around people and you just take care of ‘em.”

 

The Road to Recovery

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene revealed the true strength of the Hendersonville community. Carly speaks fondly of the bonds that were formed as neighbors came together to rebuild. “Post-Helene, I’ve bonded with my neighbors, and I truly know them… We showed up very strong and ready to help. We are still going, we are strong, we are ready to serve others, and we’re open.”

claywood-chef

The Heart of Hendersonville

Claywood’s commitment to its community is as strong as its roots in Hendersonville itself. Located in the Seventh Avenue District, which is currently undergoing revitalization, Claywood sits in one of the most historic buildings in the area—built in 1910.” Once you pull back the acoustical tile and the hardwood flooring, you get this beautiful building,” Carly explains. It’s a place that blends history with modern hospitality, creating an inviting environment for all who visit.

A Call to Visit and Support

“The way people can really help Hendersonville right now is book an Airbnb, book a charming bed and breakfast. Come to Hendersonville and stay, walk down Main Street, See Seventh Avenue. Come and enjoy our charm. We are open and we’re ready to serve you.”

red Adirondack chairs surrounding a firepit without a fire

Your 2025 Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Hendersonville

Your 2025 Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Hendersonville

Your 2025 Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Hendersonville

What’s on your “Bucket List” of things to do this year? Explore these unforgettable experiences when you visit Hendersonville!

Discover the best of Hendersonville

After the ball drops (or in Hendersonville’s case, the Apple Rises), the confetti settles, the tree and its trimmings are put up for the next holiday season, and folks ease into the quiet stillness of winter in a new year, you can’t help but start thinking about what you hope to accomplish in the light of the new year: be it planning for new experiences, ways to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, or ways to reveal a “new you.”

Everyone is guilty of occasionally daydreaming, but maybe this year, it’s time to make some of those daydreams come true, to cross some items off your bucket list.

Discover the best of Hendersonville with these unique and exciting experiences—from running your best half-marathon time in an all-downhill race, to tasting your way through local vineyards, seeing the most iconic sights of the region, and spending time on North Carolina’s official trail. This blog will guide you through a diverse array of adventures that showcase the heart of Western North Carolina.

 

Earn a PR In a half Marathon

The Jump Off Rock Half Marathon — May 10th, 2025  

Experience the thrill of running one of the most scenic half marathons in the region! The Jump Off Rock Half Marathon, hosted by iDaph Events annually each May, kicks off at the breathtaking Jump Off Rock overlook, perched 900 feet above Hendersonville’s charming Main Street.

This USATF Course Certified and chip-timed race is designed to help runners achieve their personal best time! With a mostly downhill route, you’ll enjoy an exhilarating 13.1-mile journey that’s as rewarding as it is picturesque.

The race course winds through stunning vistas, historic neighborhoods, and serene lake views, all culminating in a celebratory finish in downtown Hendersonville. After crossing the finish line, you can stroll to one of over 20 locally-owned restaurants for a well-earned meal.

Two women relaxing at the spa.

Take America's Most Scenic Drive

Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway

A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just a scenic outing; it’s an experience that touches the soul. Spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Parkway offers a continuous journey of breathtaking views, cultural history, and natural wonder.

The mountains’ iconic blue hue, first marveled at by the Cherokee, comes from a fascinating natural phenomenon—trees release hydrocarbons into the air that create a hazy effect, appearing blue to the human eye.

The best time of year or day to visit is as often as you can! Filled with budding leaves and wildflowers in the spring; fully green and blue, or clinging to low-hanging clouds for a surreal, foggy drive in the summer; majestically showcasing red, yellow, orange and bronze foliage in the fall; and frosty and clear, with the longest views of the year in wintertime. 

As night falls, the Parkway becomes a stargazer’s paradise, with the Milky Way blazing across the sky and, in late spring, the enchanting glow of Blue Ghost Fireflies.

Taste your way through an entire AVA Wine Region

Explore the Crest of the Blue Ridge, A Certified Wine Region

Hendersonville and its surrounding areas are home to the Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticulture Area (AVA), one of North Carolina’s premier wine regions. This designation is reserved for regions with exceptional soil, climate, and growing conditions that result in distinctive and high-quality wines.

The Crest of the Blue Ridge benefits from a long growing season, rocky, mineral-rich soils, and a climate of warm days and cool nights, ideal for cultivating grapes. The wines produced here tend to lean toward the dry side, but you’ll also find sweeter options to suit a range of palates.

Established in 2019, this AVA is now home to seven wineries (and counting), all of which have earned accolades for their outstanding vintages. Each winery offers a unique perspective on the terroir, giving you the chance to explore a full spectrum of flavors within a compact, easily navigable region.

If you’ve ever dreamed of tasting your way through an entire wine region, Hendersonville makes it possible in a single weekend or a leisurely weeklong getaway. With stunning mountain views, charming tasting rooms, and award-winning wines, this experience is a must for wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Chase waterfalls

Visit Hundreds of Waterfalls in the Region

Forget what they say—chasing waterfalls is a bucket list adventure you won’t want to miss in Hendersonville. With its stunning collection of falls scattered throughout the mountains and forests, the region offers some of the most breathtaking spots to explore.

Start your waterfall journey at DuPont State Recreational Forest, home to the dramatic High Falls and Triple Falls, where you can hike alongside their powerful cascades. Then, head over to Pisgah National Forest to discover hidden gems like Moore Cove Falls and the iconic Looking Glass Falls, each offering a unique view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, check out the Green River Gamelands where you’ll find the serene Little Bradley Falls and the impressive Lower Big Hungry Falls. These lesser-known waterfalls provide a peaceful retreat, tucked away in the lush forest, and make for a perfect escape into nature. (Please note: at the time of publication, the Green River Gamelands have not yet reopened after being hit hard by Hurricane Helene, but we are hopeful for summer 2025!)

So, go ahead—follow the sound of the rushing water and embrace the adventure. After all, some things are just too beautiful to pass up. 

Dine at a Yelp top 100 NC restaurant

Enjoy a meal at the Taproom at Sierra Nevada in Mills River

Each year, Yelp releases its top 100 restaurants in each state, and in 2024, one of those restaurants was located just outside Hendersonville, making it a must-visit for your bucket list when coming to Hendersonville.

Coming in at #40 in the entire Tar Heel State: the Sierra Nevada Taproom in Mills River.

Yelp’s annual list is curated based on restaurants that consistently deliver high-quality dishes, offer innovative and memorable culinary experiences, and are well-regarded in their area. The Sierra Nevada Taproom ticks all these boxes. Known for its diverse and seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients, guests can enjoy dishes like Chicken Wings, Duck Fat Fries, and wood-fired pizzas. The menu changes seasonally and incorporates many locally grown foods, including ingredients sourced from their on-site garden. The Taproom also uses their own compost produced onsite and features unique dishes that utilize the whole animal to minimize waste.

In addition to the exceptional food, diners love the vibrant atmosphere, which includes live music, stunning views, a large property to explore, and, of course, their exceptional brews and the popular brewery tour.

See the Fall FOliage

In October, Western North Carolina is Ablaze in Fall Color!

Fall in Hendersonville is nothing short of magical. Vibrant hues of red, gold, and orange paint the landscape, turning every hillside, forest, and overlook into a breathtaking canvas.

DuPont State Recreational Forest is a must-see, as its expansive trails and serene waterfalls are framed by an explosion of fall color. Picture yourself hiking through paths lined with fiery red maples and golden oaks.

For those who prefer a leisurely drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers unparalleled panoramic views. This scenic drive winds through some of the most vibrant foliage in the region, with countless overlooks perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the splendor of nature. Each twist and turn reveals another breathtaking perspective, making it an adventure in itself.

If a quick stop with a rewarding view is more your style, head to Jump Off Rock. A short walk from the parking area leads to a sweeping overlook where the surrounding mountains are blanketed in warm autumn tones. It’s the perfect spot to catch a sunset or enjoy a picnic while you pause, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and marvel at the seasonal transformation.

Learn to Fly Fish

Go On A Guided Fishing Excursion With a Local Expert

Fly fishing in Hendersonville is a must for any outdoor enthusiast. With its pristine rivers and crystal-clear streams, this area provides the perfect backdrop for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you’re casting your line for the first time or looking to refine your technique, Hendersonville offers the ideal environment to grow your skills.

The area offers multiple options for guided sessions, many of which will show you where to go, refine your technique, and may even provide you the gear and licensing you need.

  • Bloom Fly Fishing, where expert instructors provide personalized lessons tailored to your experience level. Great for a guided adventure!
  • Hendersonville Outfitters offers trips to some of the area’s best fishing spots, complete with all the gear you need. For a truly memorable experience,
  • Davidson River Outfitters provides guided tours along the renowned Davidson River, one of the region’s most sought-after fly-fishing destinations.
  • DB Bar D Outfitters provides guided fishing access along the North Mills River, located right on their farm; they will provide all the equipment and licensing you need.
  • WNC Fish Hunter guides you through hidden gems in Western North Carolina’s rivers, with great opportunities to reel in trout and musky.

Whether you’re fly fishing on well-known waters or discovering new spots, learning to fly fish in the Blue Ridge Mountains is an unforgettable experience that combines outdoor adventure with breathtaking natural beauty.

gingerbread house

See America's Largest Home

You Simply Must Visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville

The Biltmore Estate is a destination that offers an extraordinary experience, seamlessly blending grand architecture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this iconic estate once served as the seasonal retreat of the wealthy Vanderbilt family. Today, it welcomes visitors from around the globe to explore its timeless beauty.

Each season brings its own unique magic to the estate. In winter, the Biltmore transforms into a holiday wonderland during Christmas at Biltmore, with exquisitely decorated rooms, twinkling lights, and festive cheer—a nod to its grand opening on Christmas Eve in 1895. Spring and summer awaken the gardens, bursting with vibrant blooms and lush greenery, inviting leisurely strolls through acres of meticulously designed landscapes. In autumn, the estate is a masterpiece of fall foliage, with shades of gold, orange, and red painting a stunning backdrop for exploration.

Whether marveling at the mansion’s architectural grandeur, wandering through its enchanting gardens, or savoring world-class wines at the Biltmore Winery, every moment here feels unforgettable. The Biltmore Estate is more than a destination—it’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Hike a stretch of North Carolina's state Trail

Pick Up the Mountains To Sea Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway

For avid long-distance hikers, few experiences rival the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a challenging trek. These journeys aren’t just about miles—they’re about personal growth, discovering your resilience, immersing yourself in nature, and finding camaraderie with fellow hikers as you push your body and mind to their limits. Among the many celebrated long distance trails in America, North Carolina’s state trail, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST), stands out as a must-experience adventure.

This incredible trail runs all the way from the Great Smoky Mountains through rolling foothills, across the flatlands of the Piedmont, and ends at the Atlantic Coast, where a big stretch of it is actually on the beach. It’s the perfect way to experience North Carolina’s amazing biodiversity and take in some truly unforgettable views.

The portion of the MST that is closest to Hendersonville parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers some of the trail’s steepest climbs and descents, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a true test of endurance.

The MST is supported by a network of generous “Trail Angels,” who assist thru-hikers with resupply, accommodations, rides, or even companionship along the way. For those hiking in Western North Carolina, one pro-tip is to be prepared for a little rain, especially during the spring and fall seasons.

Note: Due to damage from Hurricane Helene, the Blue Ridge Parkway will be closed to all outdoor recreation this winter. As a result, portions of the MST that cross the Parkway will be inaccessible until the Parkway reopens in spring 2025. Plan accordingly!

2025 Vision: A Look Ahead at Hendersonville’s Events and Festivals

2025 Vision: A Look Ahead at Hendersonville’s Events and Festivals

2025 Vision: A Look Ahead at Hendersonville’s Events and Festivals

Get ready for an exciting year in Hendersonville! This blog previews the upcoming signature events and festivals that really shape Hendersonville. From music festivals to community gatherings, discover the highlights that promise a year of entertainment and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, stay in the know with our guide to Hendersonville’s must-attend happenings.

Spring

May 2-5 – Cider, Wine and Dine Weekend

Henderson County wineries and cideries partner together to present a weekend filled with a long list of activities including tastings of artisan hard cider and award-winning, local wines, food pairings, educational programs, live music, tours and more; events take place at each of the scenic and unique local wineries and cideries.

May 5 – Fiesta Hendersonville

Fiesta Hendersonville is a cultural celebration featuring live music, dance, food, and art that highlights the diverse heritage of the community. Attendees can experience a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of entertainment right in Downtown Hendersonville, on the South end of Main Street.

May 24-25 – Garden Jubilee

Garden Jubilee is a springtime celebration of gardening and horticulture. Western North Carolina’s premiere lawn and garden show transforms Hendersonville’s Main Street into the biggest and best garden center you’ve ever witnessed! Plus, enjoy educational sessions on the stage at the Welcome Center.

May – October – Bearfootin’ Bears on Main Street

Bearfootin’ Bears are fiberglass outdoor bear sculptures that are painted and decorated in different themes by local artists, and displayed along the sidewalks of Main Street as a public art display. A new set of bears is released each May, and the bears are auctioned off each October to benefit local non-profit organizations.

Summer

May – October Summer Concert Series

Every summer, Hendersonville is filled with the sound of live music! Downtown, enjoy the danceable Top 40 hits at Music On Main, groove to modern regional performers at Rhythm & Brews, and experience the sound of the Southern Appalachian region at the 106-year-old Street Dances. A little further out, relax while enjoying a variety of music at Music by the Lake, remember the days gone by with oldies performed at Fletcher Park Concerts, and enjoy the view and the sounds at the Jump Off Rock Concert Series. (All music acts TBD at time of publication.)

July 4 – 4th of July Parade, Concerts & Fireworks

The July 4th parade includes inflatables, kid’s games, and activities, food trucks, and 2 stages featuring live music. The evening will be capped-off with fireworks display that can be seen from either concert area. Located on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville.

July 12 – Chalk it Up!

Narnia Studios presents the 29th annual Chalk it Up! Watch as Downtown Hendersonville’s sidewalks are transformed into beautiful murals. Located on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville.

August 29 – September 1 – The North Carolina Apple Festival

The annual NC Apple Festival includes a street fair, arts & crafts, live music and entertainment, children’s activities and rides, parade, food & much more — all in celebration of our rich apple growing heritage here in Hendersonville. Festival located on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville; plus, there are other special events that take place throughout the weekend across town.

bear statue in Hendersonville nc
North Carolina apple festival stand

Fall

 September 27-28 – Art on Main

Celebrate fine art and fine craft on the last weekend of September each year at Art On Main, a gathering of distinctive local and regional artists from across the southeast US. More than 70 juried artists bring their wares to Main Street to sell works of fine art paintings, clay, metal, wood, fiber, photography, jewelry and more.

Dates TBD – Art in Bloom

Art in Bloom pairs twenty professional floral designers with an equal number of artists to present imaginative interpretations of juried works of art. The floral pieces are exhibited in tandem with the artwork that inspired the designer, creating a dynamic visual display. 

October 4 – Farm City Day

Farm City Day, held the first Saturday of October each year, offers a unique look into Hendersonville’s agricultural roots, with rural and educational displays, antiques and modern farm equipment, craft vendors, a special youth area with hands-on activities, a farm animal petting zoo, old-timey demonstrations, games and a fishing pond, plus there will be live music and food trucks. Located at Jackson Park in Hendersonville.

October 31Treat Street Carnival

Trick or Treat with downtown merchants and community partners along Main Street from Allen Street to 6th Avenue, the even includes a costume contest, music and dancing, Halloween movies, inflatables and more!

 

art-in-bloom

Winter

November 15 – December 31 – Home for the Holidays

From mid-November through New Year’s Day, Hendersonville invites visitors to come “Home for the Holidays” in this special town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Main Street’s shops, galleries and boutiques are decorated in holiday splendor, while large wreaths with big red bows hang from streetlights. Add in the twinkling lights and decorations along the serpentine street, and you get a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie.

Dates TBD – Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

Get ready for a magical evening as Santa arrives to light up Main Street! Join us for the exciting countdown at the Historic Courthouse, where Santa will flip the switch and illuminate the tree, filling downtown with holiday cheer. Enjoy free visits with Santa, cozy carriage rides, warm drinks, and tasty treats, along with plenty of holiday shopping to start the season with joy.

November 28 – Olde Fashioned Christmas

Step back in time and join Hendersonville for an old-fashioned open house in Historic Downtown Hendersonville! Explore the unique destination shops, enjoy family-friendly entertainment, and indulge in the delicious offerings from the local eateries. 

December 31 – New Year’s Eve Apple Rise

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Historic Courthouse at a family-friendly celebration which counts down to the GMT midnight — or 7pm locally! Enjoy live music, noisemakers, glow sticks and hot beverages, and count down as you watch the apple rise!

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Hendersonville NC
New Year's Eve Apple Rise family fun Hendersonville, NC

Ready to plan your getaway?

Whether you’re dreaming of cozy cabins, charming inns, or modern hotels, we’ve got you covered!

Head to our Lodging Page to explore all your options. Need a little inspiration? Check out our curated list of unique stays: Stay Your Way.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Hendersonville! 

elizabeth-leigh-inn-room

Holiday Gift Guide: Find Your Holiday Gifts on One Of America’s Best Main Streets for Christmas Shopping

Holiday Gift Guide: Find Your Holiday Gifts on One Of America’s Best Main Streets for Christmas Shopping

Holiday Gift Guide: Find Your Holiday Gifts on One Of America’s Best Main Streets for Christmas Shopping

Come to Hendersonville, one of America’s cutest Christmas towns, to finish up your holiday shopping! 

Cross every name off your Holiday Shopping list in Hendersonville!

Hendersonville, NC was recently named one of the Top Main Streets For Christmas Shopping and it’s easy to see why. With its charming, curvilinear Main Street adorned with twinkling lights and welcoming window displays, this picturesque town evokes a sense of nostalgia that feels like stepping back in time.

This holiday season, add Hendersonville to your must-visit list for a last-minute getaway to find the perfect gifts and soak up the festive spirit. Though small in size, this town is big on holiday cheer

Can’t make it in person this year? No worries—many of our local stores offer online shopping, making it easy to grab a thoughtful, last-minute gift that ships right to your doorstep.

For The Wellness Enthusiast

A Gift Certificate The Stable Spa at Horse Shoe Farm + Farm Day Pass

Treat your loved one to an unforgettable experience at the Horse Shoe Farm, an 85-acre family-owned boutique resort nestled in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the banks of the French Broad River. The property is home to the luxe Stable Spa, which offers a serene escape with an array of luxurious services designed to rejuvenate body and soul.

To make the gift even more special, include a Farm Day Pass. This addition grants your recipient full access to the farm’s stunning 85-acre property for an entire day. They can enjoy the pool, sauna, cold plunge tub, game room, nature trails, gardens, farm animals, and so much more. It’s the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration—a truly extraordinary holiday gift!

Two women relaxing at the spa.

For the Arts Aficionado

Discover the Perfect Gift at Art MOB

Located in the heart of downtown Hendersonville, Art MOB is a vibrant art gallery showcasing the works of over 80 local fine artists and crafters. From paintings and pottery to jewelry and handmade cards, the gallery offers a wide variety of unique, one-of-a-kind treasures, making it the perfect destination for finding a gift that will delight the art lover in your life.

Art MOB is also home to five working art studios, where you might catch a glimpse of talented local artists bringing their creations to life. With so many incredible pieces to choose from, the only challenge will be narrowing it down to just one!

Grandad's Apples and Such

For The FOodie

A Gift Certificate to Postero

Delight the foodie in your life with a gift certificate to Postero, a gem in downtown Hendersonville known for its exceptional New American cuisine. This acclaimed restaurant is a melting pot of flavors and culinary techniques, offering modern twists on classic recipes made with high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients.

With its warm and inviting atmosphere, every meal at Postero feels like a celebration. Give the gift of a dining experience that’s as special as the restaurant itself—perfect for creating cherished memories over delicious food!

Grandad's Apples and Such

For the Craft Beverage Connoisseur

Give the Cheers! Trail Passport

Stuff your loved ones’ stockings with more than two dozen wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries. The Cheers! Trail Passport is your guide to boutique tasting rooms where you can spend a few days sipping creative beverages, learning about the craft and creating unforgettable memories in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

As an added bonus, once the passport is stamped at 12 locations, it can be redeemed for exclusive Cheers! Trail swag. It’s a gift that pairs perfectly with good company and great sips!

Grandad's Apples and Such

For the Philanthropist

Donate to a Hendersonville Organization in Their Name

This holiday season, give a gift that truly makes a difference—perfect for the philanthropic person on your list. In September 2024, Western North Carolina, including Hendersonville, faced the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, the largest natural disaster in the region’s history. While Hendersonville was fortunate to experience less damage than some areas, many homes and businesses are still in the process of rebuilding. The loss of tourism has further impacted this small, tourism-reliant community.

By donating to a Hendersonville organization in your recipient’s name, you’re not just giving a thoughtful gift—you’re supporting the recovery and resilience of this beloved town and the surrounding region. It’s a meaningful way to honor their generous spirit while helping Hendersonville and Western NC rebuild and thrive once more.

For the Outdoor Adventurer

Paddle with Lazy Otter Outfitters or Fly Fish with WNC Fish Hunter

Give the gift of adventure on the scenic French Broad River! With Lazy Otter Outfitters your recipient can explore a peaceful stretch of this ancient river by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. They can choose from trips ranging between 4 to 7 miles, making for a memorable day on the water. Gift cards are available for the 2025 season, perfect for planning a future outdoor getaway.

For the fishing enthusiast on your list, book a guided fishing trip with WNC Fish Hunter. Led by a local expert, this experience offers the chance to enjoy backcountry wild trout fishing or hunt for musky in the French Broad River. It’s an unforgettable gift for anyone who loves the thrill of casting a line in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains!

For the Wine Lover

Bottles of Wine from Hendersonville’s 7 Wineries

Surprise the wine lover in your life with a bottle—or a few—from one of Hendersonville’s seven wineries, all located in the prestigious Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticultural Area (AVA). This certified wine region is celebrated for its exceptional soil and growing conditions, producing award-winning wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

With accolades piling up year after year, these wines are sure to impress and offer your recipient a true taste of the Blue Ridge. It’s a thoughtful and delicious way to share the charm of Hendersonville this holiday season!

For the Homebody

Cozy Accessories from Downtown Hendersonville

For the homebody on your list, nothing says winter like snuggling up with cozy accessories! Downtown Hendersonville‘s festive, twinkling streets are the perfect place to find thoughtful, warm gifts. Here are a few ideas to wrap up the season:

Take a stroll through downtown, and you’ll find everything you need to create the coziest gift package this holiday season!

For the Creative Soul

A Hand-Woven Treasure from the Heritage Weavers or A Creative Class at The Art Place

For the person in your life who exudes creative energy, give a gift that inspires!

  • The Heritage Weavers & Fiber Artists at Historic Johnson Farm offer beautifully hand-woven scarves, blankets, sweaters, accessories, and more. Each piece is a unique, handmade work of art, perfect for someone who appreciates craftsmanship and tradition.
  • For a more hands-on experience, gift a class at The Art Place, the home of the local Art League. With offerings in painting, collaging, clay, vision boards, art therapy, and more, there’s something for every artistic interest.

Whether they unwrap a handwoven creation or dive into a creative class, this gift is sure to spark joy and imagination.

For the Coffee Enthusiast

A Hendersonville Mug & Locally Roasted Beans

For the highly caffeinated, the perfect gift is a simple choice.

Start with locally roasted coffee beans from Sharewell Coffee Co, who established their commitment to a good cup of joe in 2016, and since then, have trained coffee shops and restaurants around town in how to serve the best possible coffee. They now own their own 2 coffeeshops where you can pick up a variety of different roasts.

Pair this with a special Hendersonville coffee mug, painted by a local artist and sold exclusively at Black Bear Coffee Co. This mug not only keeps their coffee warm but also adds a local touch to their morning routine. It’s a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves the taste of Hendersonville!

For the Runner

Gift Certificate for iDaph for a Triathlon, 5k or Half Marathon

Give the gift of a thrilling and memorable experience with a gift certificate from iDaph Events. This locally organized race company that organizes more than 20 events annually, including triathlons, 5ks, half marathons and more, taking place at locations across the region.

 

Runners will enjoy courses that wind through downtown streets, along scenic greenways, and even through the lush forests for trail races. iDaph Events is renowned for their expert race planning, ensuring participants stay safe and happy throughout each race. Plus, they always provide top-notch medals, t-shirts, and other swag, making this gift a must for any avid runner!

gingerbread house

For the Animal Lover

A Day at the Farm & a White Squirrel for Their Home

Give a meaningful gift experience with a visit to the Hendo Care Farm, a local farm dedicated to healing and wellness through the natural benefits of the great outdoors, plants, and animals. As a “care farm,” they offer equine assisted learning, farm yoga, horticultural therapy, and customized farm tours, providing a day full of relaxation, mental health support, and physical activity. Your gift recipient is sure to enjoy this unique and memorable experience!

To complete the gift, give a ceramic white squirrel from All Nations Trading. Known for its adorable and quirky charm, this handcrafted piece will bring a touch of the region’s famous white squirrels into their home, serving as a reminder of their time in Hendersonville.

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt: A How-To

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt: A How-To

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt: A How-To

This holiday season, you’re invited on a merry adventure. Peppermint Bear’s cubs are hiding in shops on Main Street and she needs help finding them. Create holiday memories while exploring businesses via this fun scavenger hunt.

starting & Ending point

Hendersonville Welcome Center
201 S. Main St.
Hendersonville, NC 28792

Brochures are available inside the Welcome Center during regular hours, or outside during hours we are closed. 

The Story of Peppermint Bear

The Blue Ridge Mountains are renowned for their incredible wildlife, and few creatures capture the heart of Western North Carolina quite like the majestic black bear. One of the most iconic animals found in Western NC is the black bear. Here in Hendersonville, we just love black bears, and celebrate them in many ways — through the Bearfootin’ Public Art Walk, vibrant murals, bear-inspired businesses, and our cherished annual tradition, the Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt.

So here’s the story behind Peppermint Bear…

Mama Peppermint Bear is in a tizzy — her 29 playful cubs have gone missing while exploring downtown Hendersonville. The cubs visited shops on Main Street hoping to find the perfect Christmas tree and decorations to make their den sparkle for the holidays. As the hours tick by Mama Peppermint is worried because there’s still no sign of them. She fears they won’t make it home in time to celebrate Christmas. So, she’s counting on your sharp eyes. Can you help find the cubs so they can get safely back to Peppermint Bear? This heartwarming scavenger hunt is perfect for adventurers of all ages — join the fun and save Christmas for the Peppermint Bear family!

Scavenger Hunt directions

  1. Start at the Welcome Center: Pick up your Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt brochure to get started.
  2. Meet the Bear You’re Looking For: Find the bear hidden in the Welcome Center to know what the cubs look like!
  3. Explore Main Street: Stroll into at least 12 participating shops listed in your brochure. Keep your eyes peeled—bear cubs are hiding in plain sight! Once you spot one, show your brochure to the shopkeeper to get it stamped. Many stores will also have a small treat waiting for you as a reward! While you’re there, be sure to browse for gifts to surprise your loved ones this holiday season.
  4. Complete Your Brochure: After collecting at least 12 stamps (though you’re welcome to find more), fill out the form on the back of the brochure.
  5. Submit Your Brochure: Drop off your completed brochure at the Welcome Center, either inside or in the Peppermint Bear Mailbox located outside. Prefer digital? You can also submit your form online. All submissions are entered for a chance to win a giant stuffed bear, plus other fun prizes!
  6. Make More Memories: Take time to explore the rest of Hendersonville and enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere with your family.
Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt starts at Welcome Center in Hendersonville, NC

Your Guide to Hendersonville’s Holiday Sweets & Specialties from Local Confectionaries

Your Guide to Hendersonville’s Holiday Sweets & Specialties from Local Confectionaries

Your Guide to Hendersonville’s Holiday Sweets & Specialties from Local Confectionaries

This holiday season, spread the magic of Christmas with the most festive sweet treats from Hendersonville’s local bakeries and confectionaries!

Deck the halls (and your table) with these treats!

As the holiday season sparkles into full swing, Hendersonville’s charming bakeries and confectionaries are whipping up some of the sweetest ways to celebrate. From buttery, fruity Christmas stollen bread, dusted with powdered sugar, to dreamy peppermint fudge and festive Christmas cookie ice cream, everyone will find something to bring holiday cheer to their tables this season. Whether you’re hunting for a decadent gift basket or a treat to savor with a cozy cup of cocoa, these eight local bakeries have all the magic to make your holiday merry (and delicious), and they are only available this time of year! Grab your Santa hat—it’s time for a sweet adventure!

Dairi-o

Special Seasonal Treat: Christmas Cookies Ice Cream

Description: Your favorite holiday cookies – chocolate chip, snickerdoodle and sugar – combined in a tasty sugar cookie ice cream with red sprinkles and a green icing swirl throughout. A very merry flavor!

Available: November – December

What else you need to know: Dairi-O is a small North Carolina-based chain, and other locations may have other seasonal flavors. Go try them all!

Grandad's Apples and Such

Kilwins

Special Seasonal Treats: Peppermint bark, Peppermint fudge, Christmas and Hanukkah treats, and gift baskets

Description: Find all of your holiday favorites for gifting to friends (or yourself!)

Available: November & December

What else you need to know: Kilwins is a small, franchised chain of confectionaries that sells candy, ice cream and other sweet treats. They are known for their high-quality chocolates, fudge and ice cream, so while these holiday specialties are great this time of year, you will find lots of other year-round treats here too!  

Grandad's Apples and Such

Mast General Store

Special Seasonal Treat: Many different Holiday Jam Flavors, Raven’s Nest Mulling Spices, Ye Olde English Fruit & Nut Cake, Provisioners Christmas Cider, Cheerwine Milk Chocolate Bar, Appalachian Campfire S’mores Chocolate Bar, and more!

Description: Jams include Santa Jam, Sugarplum Jam, Elf Jam, Bah Humbug Jam and more; Raven’s Nest Mulling Spices are perfect for adding to your hot cider; Ye Olde English Fruit & Nut Cake is a traditional fruitcake with a rich batter; Provisioners Christmas Cider is a sweet, spiced non-alcoholic bottled cider; the Cheerwine Milk Chocolate Bar combines creamy milk chocolate, punchy cherry flavor, and fizzy, popping candy; and the Appalachian Campfire S’mores Chocolate Bar is is filled with graham crackers and marshmallows.

Available: November & December, while supplies last

What else you need to know: Mast General Store may not be the first place you think of for holiday treats, but they offer such a wonderful selection of nostalgic and North Carolina-based items, that you won’t want to skip a stop here! There are plenty more options besides what was listed above, and many of these items make wonderful stocking stuffers.

christmas cookies

McFarlan Bakery

Special Seasonal Treat: Peppermint Mocha Cake, Gingerbread Men, Cranberry Orange Cake, Pumpkin Pie & Pumpkin Squares, Holiday Iced Sugar Cookies, and much more!

Description: The Peppermint Mocha Cake is a chocolate cake enveloped in luxurious peppermint buttercream with chocolate drizzle on top and festive peppermint pillows. The Gingerbread Men are a Bakery staple available year round, but at the holidays, these spicy ginger cookies are decorated in festive holiday cheer. The Cranberry Orange Cake layers cranberry orange cake with orange buttercream and cranberry filling. It is delightfully topped with dried orange slices. Pumpkin Pie is a holiday must-have, and McFarlan’s Pies & Squares are light and creamy with a flaky crust. The Holiday Iced Sugar cookies are offered in a delightful array of holiday designs.

Available: November – December 

What else you need to know: McFarlan Bakery has been a Hendersonville institution since 1930 and still uses its original recipes, meaning every bite tastes like it always has and will bring you right back to your childhood. In addition to the items listed here, McFarlan’s has tons of other seasonal and non-seasonal options.

Mini Batch Bakery

Special Seasonal Treat: Specialty cookies, cakes, pies and gift baskets

Description: As a local bakery that makes everything to perfection in small batches, Mini Batch Bakery pours their heart and soul into each confection. Each of their baked items sings tidings of good cheer, and each gift basket, filled with a combination of baked goods and items from their farm, Raspberry Fields, are the perfect gift item.

Available: November & December

What else you need to know: Mini Batch Bakery started as a stand at a local farmers market, but their popularity (and a bakery opening mere steps from their spot at the Hendersonville Farmer’s Market) prompted them to move in permanently. They offer sweet treats and boxed lunches year-round, but the holidays always offer something a little extra special! 

Sharewell Coffee Co.

Special Seasonal Treats: Pumpkin bread with chai glaze and cinnamon coffee cake, quiches, and holiday syrups.

Description: The flavored holiday syrups that can be added to your coffee include spiced maple, peppermint mocha, gingerbread and regular peppermint. The seasonal quiche flavors will be a rotating selection of savory options.

Available: late November – December at both the Flat Rock & Horse Shoe Gap Village locations

What else you need to know: ShareWell Coffee Co. is a locally owned coffee shop and coffee roaster on a mission to serve some seriously tasty coffee! They also offer baked goods and gift items at their two locations.

sharewell coffee roaster

Underground Baking

Special Seasonal Treat: Christmas Stollen

Description: Underground Baking’s unique version of a sweet bread, this holiday favorite is loaded with seven different dried fruits and soaked overnight in Jamaican rum.

Available: Daily starting December 4th

What else you need to know: Underground Baking Co. was founded with a passion for traditional baking techniques and a commitment to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The bakery is a must-visit for travelers and locals alike. It offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and showcases the creativity and passion that make Hendersonville’s culinary scene so vibrant.

gingerbread house

Whit's Frozen Custard

Special Seasonal Treat: Eggnog Shake & Peppermint Shake

Description: The Eggnog Shake blends Whit’s creamy vanilla custard with eggnog rather than milk and is topped with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg! The Peppermint Shake combines creamy vanilla custard with crushed peppermint, and is topped with whipped cream and more peppermint flakes. Add a bit of hot fudge for an extra special treat.

Available: All December long

What else you need to know: Check out their Facebook page to see their daily rotating flavors, many of which are seasonal favorites

gingerbread house

More Sweet Treats

While the list above highlights seasonal sweet treats that are only available this magical time of year, there are many more places that offer sweet treats in Hendersonville throughout the year. To get your sugar fix, check out the full list at the link below!

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    Stay Your Way: The Perfect Hendersonville Accommodation for Every Type of Traveler

    Stay Your Way: The Perfect Hendersonville Accommodation for Every Type of Traveler

    Stay Your Way: The Perfect Hendersonville Accommodation for Every Type of Traveler

    Discover the ideal getaway spot tailored to your travel style, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a picture-perfect retreat.

    Something for everyone

    Not everyone travels the same way, and one of the wonderful things about Hendersonville is that there are so many different kinds of places to stay, so you are sure to find the perfect place to lay your head after a long day — be that a day of hiking or biking, shopping for unique treasures, tasting your way through wine country, learning about the things that make this place special, or exploring an apple orchard with the family.  Hendersonville offers traditional hotels, affordable motels, quaint bed & breakfasts, all different kinds of whole home or condo vacation rentals, and even camping. See the full list of places to stay or scroll below to find your match. 

    Adventurous Travelers

    If you seek thrills and excitement when you travel and love to explore things that are off-the-beaten-path, you should check out Cold Spring Basecamp, where you can sleep in their open-air, 3-sided cabins. The charming cabins give you the feel of tent camping, but with a cozy bed, solid roof and without having to bring all the necessities along with you, since each cabin is stocked with kitchen amenities, including a propane stove, French press, tea pot, pots and pans; has a campfire ring; offers fresh mountain-fed water; a solar device charging station; and more. The camp itself is set on 38 wooded acres, and includes hiking and biking trails, a waterfall, creek access, a cold plunge tub and more, located close to town and the area’s hot outdoor recreation spots, like DuPont State Forest, Ride Rock Creek, the Green River Gamelands, and more.

    Cozy Seekers

    For those looking for a relaxed, comforting experience in a cozy inn with a cup of cocoa in front of a stone fireplace, you will love the slower pace of the Echo Mountain Inn. Built in the 1890s, the Echo Mountain Inn is perched on the side of a mountain, meaning it offers cooler temperatures, epic views, and some of the freshest air around. But what you will really love are the communal areas, like the giant, 2-sided stone fireplace, the care they take in decorating for Christmas, the manicured gardens, and the splash of green, since the entire common area is filled with houseplants. Owned and operated by by a multi-generational family, you are sure to feel at home, as you settle into the plush sofas or dig into an epic complementary breakfast.

    Multi-Generational Families

    If you like to travel with the extended family, heed to call of the mountains of North Carolina! Grandparents, parents and kids of all ages will enjoy all that Hendersonville has to offer. But what’s the best home base for your larger group between your visits to family-friendly attractions, easy hikes, and both kid and parent-friendly dining? You have got to look into Carolina Wildwood! This spacious home, which can sleep up to 12 people, is located in a neighborhood in Fletcher, very close to the airport, the high way and only about 20 minutes from Downtown Hendersonville. But what really sets this property apart from many of its competitors is that it was designed for groups, specifically for families. The home has an upstairs living room and dining room, as well as an entire downstairs that is perfect for kids: another living room, a smaller dining area with a small drink fridge, an air hockey table, a foosball table and kids games. Plus, the property is set up with a tankless water heater, meaning EVERYONE can have a hot shower after playing in North Carolina’s great outdoors.

    Food & Wine Enthusiasts

    If you love to explore local cuisine, wineries & breweries, you simply MUST stay at one of the area’s wineries, many of which have vacation rentals on property or nearby. We recommend Burntshirt Vineyard’s Vintner’s Cottage, a stone house that captures all the charm of a home built in the 1930s. It is situated right next to the winery’s restaurant, tasting room, patio and vineyards, in a bucolic area, nestled among apple orchards and rolling hills.

    Burntshirt Vineyards is one of the area’s first wineries, and their award-winning wines helped to pave the way for the area to receive its accreditation as an American Viticulture Area, or AVA. They opened a restaurant on the property, the Vintner’s Table, a locally-sourced farm-to-table restaurant.

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    History Buffs & Culture Seekers

    For those interested in museums, historic landmarks, unique architecture, cultural experiences or who love learning the history of an area they visit, you simply must stay in the Village of Flat Rock, where one of the most unique homes is Five Oaks at Flat Rock

    The entire village of Flat Rock is on the National Registar of Historic Places! The area itself was beloved by wealthy Charlestonians who in the 1820s, wanted to escape the oppresive heat and disease that was rampant in the low country in summertime. Many came to the first town they reached in the mountains and stopped, bought land, and built their summer estates right here in Flat Rock. The area had so many Charlestonians there each summer, it became known as the Little Charleston of the Mountains.

    Five Oaks at Flat Rock was built in 1888 as the summer estate of one of the sons of a high-ranking Confederate officer from Charleston, who also had a summer estate in Flat Rock. The home itself, which has 4 bedrooms, offers a wrap-around porch with multiple French doors opening into it, high ceilings, and so much charm and history. The property owners live on-site, and share a love for architecture and history, so they would love to tell you more about the history of the home and the area.

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    Nature Lovers

    Slightly different from the Adventure-Seeker, you crave a quiet getaway, tucked deep in the woods, where the only sounds you will hear are the birds chirping in the morning, the breeze through the trees in the afternoon, and the katydids in the evening. If this sounds like you, then Tuxedo Falls is the spot for you. With their upscale boutique lodging nestled among hiking trails, creeks and waterfalls on 50 acres of old growth forest, you won’t be able to help yourself but quote John Muir the whole trip. (Please note: Tuxedo Falls opens Spring 2025.)

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    Couples & Romance Seekers

    If you and your partner are looking for an escape where you can reconnect and relax, you have to check out the Horse Shoe Farm. This vast property, set on a former horse farm, offers rolling pastures with access to lakes, a pool, the French Broad River, high-end dining, an on-site spa, sauna and cold plunge tub, private yoga and wellness sessions, farm animals, and one of the best sunsets in the area.

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    Solo Travelers

    For those traveling on their own, there are a few things you really want: a safe, welcoming accommodation that is located in a walkable area, where you can make new friends. Downtown Hendersonville is the ideal spot because you can walk to many downtown restaurants, pull up a stool to the bar, and make some friends or chat up the bartender to see what they think you can’t miss. There are plenty of options in downtown Hendersonville, but one of the best for those going it alone is The Henderson. Located just one block of Main Street, this historic inn offers a cozy place to stay, includes a gourmet breakfast made by their award winning chef, and friendly inn owners who will help you figure out how to map out your stay.

    Hendersonville Accommodations

    BUdget-Conscious Travelers

    Hendersonville can be a very affordable vacation destination because there really is quite a bit that you can do for free: hiking, fishing, window shopping, touring museums and attractions, listening to live music at a local brewery or winery, or taking a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. To compliment your budget-friendly getaway, you’ll also want an accommodation that doesn’t break the bank, and The Mountain Inn & Suites is a great option. Highly rated on Booking.com, it is found by many reviews to be quiet, clean and convenient. It has everything you need, and is close to both downtown Hendersonville, the airport, Asheville, the wineries and apple orchards, and many different outdoor recreation locations. 

    Mountain Inn & Suites - Airport

    Want something Insta-worthy

    For those looking for a place that will stand out in your Instagram feed, one of the most photogenic, unique places to stay in Hendersonville has to be The Barn at Edenwood or the Treehouse at Edenwood (both are on the same property). The outside of the house itself looks straight out of a picture, but you’ll also find great photo ops in the wood-fired hot tub, the massive spa tub in the loft, the giant picture windows, the vintage and quirky touches to the interior decor, the cozy porch nestled among the trees, the pond, the hiking paths and so much more.

    barn-at-edenwood

    Farm Stay enthusiasts

    For those interested in staying on a farm or in a quiet countryside setting, those who enjoying working with, feeding or learning about farm animals, enjoying freshly-picked produce, and don’t mind getting their hands dirty, we see you. As a place with agriculture at its heart, there are a few options for Farm Stays, and a great one to try is the River’s Call Inn. This special 10-acre farm offers a barnhouse with rolling hills, manicured gardens, river access, mini goats, chickens, and lots of space to relax in the outdoors. There’s even a hot tub, meaning you can really relax while you are here. The worst part of your stay will be leaving.

    christmas cookies

    The pet-lover

    For those who love traveling with their dogs, Hendersonville is fantastic. Many accommodations are pet-friendly, most restaurants with outdoor seating welcome pets on their patios and many stores allow furry friends too. Plus, almost all outdoor recreation is open to your pooch . So while there are plenty of options to choose from, paws-down, the best bet is Barkwell’s. Located in Mills River, they cater to dogs, and honestly prefer if you bring your dog! All cabins come fully equipped with everything your pup needs to enjoy their stay, have a fenced in yard, offer a dog wash station, endless free tennis balls and ample space to run in their fully-fenced in property. During warmer months, your pup can swim in their lake.

    christmas cookies

    There's plenty to choose from

    Whether you’re an adventure seeker, looking for a place to relax, or a social media-savvy traveler looking for the next photogenic hotspot, Hendersonville has a stay that perfectly suits your personality. From cozy cabins in the woods to farm stays and chic inns downtown, there’s no shortage of unique accommodations to make your visit unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience a stay that feels tailor-made just for you. Your perfect getaway is waiting in Hendersonville, where every traveler can find their ideal home away from home.

    Grandad's Apples and Such

    Discover Your Perfect Romantic Holiday Getaway in Hendersonville

    Discover Your Perfect Romantic Holiday Getaway in Hendersonville

    Discover Your Perfect Romantic Holiday Getaway in Hendersonville

    Escape to Hendersonville this holiday season, where festive charm, cozy accommodations, and scenic beauty set the stage for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

    Experience Holiday Romance Together

    Picture yourself in the heart of a holiday movie, where a charming small town sparkles with seasonal magic—that’s Hendersonville! Plan a romantic holiday getaway with your partner and discover the warmth that fills every moment. Whatever you look for in a romantic getaway before the holidays — exploring a new town, the glow of festive lights, the taste of award-winning wine and craft beer, a cozy fireside ambiance, or simply the joy of being together — you will find it here in Hendersonville.

    Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Hendersonville NC

    Day 1:

    Arrive to Hendersonville a little early to attend a matinee of Flat Rock Playhouse’s Christmas Show, which starts at 2:00 pm. You will love this annual music review, which includes all of your holiday favorite songs. The Flat Rock Playhouse, North Carolina’s State Theatre, delivers exceptional performances and enchanting set designs that bring Broadway-level magic right to the heart of Hendersonville.

    After the show, head to the Elizabeth Leigh Inn to check in. Every year, owner Cindy Baer goes all out to decorate the inn for Christmas. From the wrap-around front porch, into the grand entry room, and the cozy living room, with a roaring fire, you will feel right at home.

    elizabeth-Leigh -inn

    After you settle in and get your bearings, it’s time for dinner. Visit the Vintner’s Table, which is located at Burntshirt Vineyard, one of Hendersonville’s oldest and most beloved vineyards. This beautiful restaurant overlooks their vineyard and tasting room. In the winter, they are festively adorned, with a warm fire crackling in the fireplace to create the perfect holiday atmosphere.

    Save room for a second glass! The next stop is Marked Tree Vineyard’s “Wine in Winter Wonder” event, which includes a drive-through light display on your way up to the tasting room, where you can enjoy wine tastings. Be sure to buy a few bottles to give as Christmas gifts to loved ones (or yourself, you deserve it!)

    Safely head back to the inn to turn in for the night.

    Burntshirt Winery

    Day 2:

    Breakfast is served at the Elizabeth Leigh Inn each morning.

    Following breakfast, make your way to Historic Johnson Farm, where you will take part in a guided tour of one of the county’s earliest tourist homes. The farm served as a place where families from Florida retreated from the oppressive summer heat in the late 19th and early 20th-century. Parents enjoyed the downtime, and city kids loved the freedom the farm life provided them. Each Christmas, the farm is decorated in the same, simple way the family did in the late 1800s, their only time of quiet throughout the year. Be sure to check out the Heritage Weaver and Fiber Artists shop at the farm, where you will find wonderful handmade gifts to give this holiday season.

    Have a light lunch at the Book & Bee Café, and English-style café that serves soups, salads, sandwiches and a great selection of hot tea. Each room in the café is dedicated to a different author.

    In the afternoon, relax at the Stable Spa at the Horse Shoe Farm. The spa is located in a reinvented horse barn, and masters the art of combining rustic charm with radiating peace and tranquility. Services include massages, facials, foot soaks, acupressure, dry brushing, and much more. (Make your reservations in advance!)

    For dinner, stay on property after your massage. You can take advantage of the sauna, walk the trails or enjoy the farm animals, enjoy the spectacular sunset, have a drink or sit by the roaring fire before you sit down to dinner at the Silo Cookhouse at Horse Shoe Farm.

    The Silo Cookhouse’s menu showcases locally sourced, seasonal ingredients crafted into thoughtfully curated dishes that are simply delicious.

    If you’re up for a nightcap, check out one of the area’s breweries. Within 2 miles from the Inn, there are 6 breweries to choose from. The closest option to the Elizabeth Leigh Inn is Trailside Brewing Co, which is just over a half mile away, so you could park at the inn and walk to the brewery.

    Day 3:

    A trip to Hendersonville wouldn’t be complete without strolling Main Street. Each holiday season, downtown Hendersonville is decked to the nines! Lights galore, wreaths with red bows, a magnificent tree adorned with lights, and the cutest window displays you’ve ever seen.

    So after breakfast at the Inn, you are headed to Downtown Hendersonville. We recommend parking at the Welcome Center or the parking deck at the corner of Church Street & Fourth Avenue. Be sure to check out Black Bear Coffee Co on Main Street if you need another dose of caffeine.

    While in town, get your picture made in front of the large Christmas tree in the 200 block, with one of the permanently installed Bearfootin’ Bears along Main Street, or with Santa, if he happens to be in town that day. (See here for our calendar of events.)

     

     

    historic general store at sunrise

    Don’t miss The Emporium on Main, a sprawling showroom with 85 unique vendors offering everything from fine art and hand-crafted pieces to antiques, vintage finds, woodwork, Fiesta Ware, and even a dog boutique. Having recently moved to this larger space, The Emporium on Main is the perfect place to check off a few names on your holiday shopping list.

    Take a lunch break at Postero, a new American style restaurant that offers an elevated melting pot of flavors, where each plate is expertly crafted.

    Before you head home, finish your Main Street stroll, hitting any of the boutiques you missed because (there are a lot of great shops, especially when looking for unique holiday gifts!

     

     

    pork chop over mashed potatoes on a plate

    Bonus Day 4:

    Add an extra day to your stay to go check out the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home. Biltmore, once the summer retreat of the esteemed Vanderbilt family, is celebrated for its timeless elegance and its enchanting annual Christmas display. Depending on whether you want to see it at night or during the daytime – two very different experiences – you can either tack it on to the evening of Day 3, or head there first thing the morning of day 4. Reservations are required. 

    wine glasses clinking with mountain view

    Create Unforgettable Memories: A Family Holiday Itinerary in Hendersonville

    Create Unforgettable Memories: A Family Holiday Itinerary in Hendersonville

    Create Unforgettable Memories: A Family Holiday Itinerary in Hendersonville

    Find a little magic this holiday season in Hendersonville, where festive fun, family-friendly adventures, and heartwarming traditions await around every corner.

    Holiday Magic for the Whole Family

    Make magical holiday memories with your family in Hendersonville! This quaint southern town feels like you stepped out of real life and into a movie scene, with its friendly shopkeepers, festively decorated accommodations, downtown that is adorned with holiday lights, wreaths and trees, and many special holiday events.

    Holiday and Christmas events in Hendersonville Blue Ridge Mountains NC

    Thursday:

    This family getaway to the mountains will have you residing at Kanuga, a conference and retreat center set on 1,400 wooded acres, complete with a lake, hiking trails, a labyrinth, playground, tennis courts, a library, a great room with crackling fire, a children’s summer camp, and much more.

    This is a place you can really unplug and unwind. Lodging options include a hotel, cottages and guest houses, but if you plan to stay for 3+ nights the week leading up to Christmas, your cottage or guest house reservation will include a live Christmas tree for your family to decorate, as well as meals included, Christmas crafts for the kids, evening programs and a worship service.

    Check in starts at 4, but if you arrive early feel free to explore the property before you check in. Kanuga offers dinner in its dining hall starting at 5:30 (which is included in the cost of reservations made the week before Christmas), so the easiest plan for food on your first night in town is just to stay at Kanuga.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building

    Friday:

    Wake up early and enjoy a coffee overlooking the lake, using the time to reflect on the season and yourself. For breakfast, swing by Pita Express for an authentic Mediterranean breakfast. They don’t have a lot of room to sit inside, but you can take your food to go if needed.

    You will spend most of the day in Downtown Hendersonville, where there are a lot of fun options for kids. We recommend parking in the parking deck on Fourth Avenue & Church Street or at the Welcome Center.

    At the Welcome Center, you can pick up your Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt guide. Spend the day doing a mix of hunting for the “missing” Peppermint bear cubs, crossing names off your holiday shopping list, feeling festive, and participating in family friendly activities.

    For gift buying, you’ll find something for everyone on your list: The Doll Clothes Factory for your niece, Vessel for jewelry for Grandma, A Walk In The Woods for your artistic or quirky friend, Mast General Store for your outdoorsy brother-in-law, The Lazy One for family holiday PJs, and so many more. Be sure to also stop in front of the Historic Courthouse (located in the 200-block) to snap a family photo in front of our ginormous tree.

    Lunch is at Mike’s On Main, a historic soda fountain shop, which will transport you back in time.

    Mike's On Main Street

    After lunch, keep exploring downtown while doing the Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt, and plan to stop at either Hand’s On! Children’s Museum with younger kiddos or The Appalachian Pinball Museum with older kids.

    All your walking and playing will work up an appetite, and Downtown Hendersonville has so many great places to eat, but tonight dinner is at Tartan’s Sports Bar. You’ve had a long day exploring, so you can have a moment to zone out while watching sports on one of 12 TVs, and enjoying a truly authentic Philly cheesesteak.

     If you are in town on December 6th, be sure to check out Olde Fashioned Christmas in Downtown Hendersonville! Santa will be here, plus there will be free carriage rides, carolers strolling Main Street, and many businesses stay open late to offer sweet holiday treats on this special night. On December 20th, be sure to check out the Hendersonville Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker.

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    Saturday:

    For breakfast, start your day off right at one of Flat Rock’s newest restaurants, Hubbaloo, where the menu includes breakfast tacos, pancakes, biscuits, eggs and more. Hubbaloo is located in the historic village of Flat Rock, which has fondly been known as “Little Charleston of the mountains” by the Charlestonians who have vacationed here since the 1820s.

    After breakfast, take a short drive over to Holmes Educational State Forest, home to the “Talking Trees” as well as outdoor exhibits of forest fire fighting equipment. Even in December, temperatures are often warm enough for outdoor recreation.

    historic general store at sunrise

    Wash your hands, and then lunch is served at the Flat Rock Village Bakery, where the menu includes wood fired pizza, sandwiches and salads. There are a few tables inside, or step onto the back porch. If the weather is cool, they have outdoor heaters.

    Afterwards, wander into the Wrinkled Egg, which adjoins the bakery, to find some great local gifts and souvenirs. Your kids will love discovering the shop’s furry mascot in the back room. The historic building itself used to be a small, local grocery store called Peace’s Grocery, so the floors creak in the most nostalgic way!

    historic general store at sunrise

    Next up, it’s time to catch the 2:00 pm matinee of the Flat Rock Playhouse’s annual Christmas Show, which will have you dancing in your seat, singing along to your holiday favorites. (Dress is casual, but you may want to bring a change of clothes, just in case anyone got messy on your hike.)

    After the performance, head back to Kanuga to rest or to let the kiddos run wild – whichever your family needs most!

    For dinner, drive into Downtown Hendersonville. A great, family-friendly option is Champa. Located right on Main Street, where all the action is, they offer a variety of sushi, Thai, hibachi and Asian cuisine.

    If you are in town on December 7th, be sure you are in Downtown Hendersonville at 6pm for the annual Christmas Parade, where the holiday floats light up the night, and the Big Guy in Red is guaranteed to make an appearance. If it’s a different weekend, the North Carolina Arboretum hosts their annual Winter Lights, open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights!

    Head back to Kanuga to unwind and turn in for the night.

    Sunday:

    Take it easy this morning with breakfast at Kanuga’s on-site dining hall, then head back to your room to gather your belongings and check out.

    The first stop today is drive up to Jump Off Rock to take in the epic views, play in the field at the top of the mountain or hike the few, short trails if you’re up for it.

    Next up, it’s off to Elijah Gem Mine for the kiddos to dig and sift for buried treasure! Depending on the weather, the property also has an outdoor obstacle course and some farm animals. (Everything is open year-round, weather dependent, but as you can see from the video here, you may need to change clothes afterwards!)

    In the afternoon, there is still time to squeeze one more fun activity into your itinerary, so if you are in town during the first 3 weekends of December, check out Jeter Mountain Farm, a local apple orchard who offers all sort of apple goodies and fun farm experiences (including an indoor playground for the kids, and a coffee shop or hard cider tasting room for the adults). They have a permanent food truck on-site, so plan to grab a plate of slow roasted BBQ for lunch on the farm.

    Head home knowing you’ve made some very magical memories for your kiddos, feeling grateful for time spent together.

    wine glasses clinking with mountain view

    2024 Fall Color Report

    2024 Fall Color Report

    2024 Fall Color Report

    This fall more than ever, we encourage you to visit. Peak leaf season runs the last half of October through the first week of November. Go to an orchard, a winery, a brewery and soak in the beauty of autumn’s splendor. Many stores, restaurants, attractions and accommodations have reopened after the damage caused by Hurricane Helene, and a visit right now can make a big difference.

    Your Guide to Fall Foliage In The Blue Ridge Mountains

    Every Fall season, Western North Carolina becomes a hot spot for people chasing the fall foliage. This region is hailed for its diverse flora and fauna, which means the color diversity each October is spectacular!

    This year, after Hurricane Helene, things look and feel a little different than most years, but the sun still rises, and these mountains are still bursting with brilliant color. While some of the area’s parks remain closed in order to complete the hard work of repairing roads and cutting trees, many spots, such as Downtown Hendersonville, Jump Off Rock, county and municipal parks, Pisgah National Forest, apple orchards, and wineries are open and surrounded by brightly colored trees.

    Here is a quick guide to the elevation for finding your best views:

    • Late September – The higher elevations, 6,000 feet and above, which are a short drive north of Hendersonville, begin to burst into color, making the highest ridges popular among both photographers and hikers.
    • First and second weeks of October – Elevations above 4,000 feet (such as Mount Pisgah and Black Balsam) start to hit their stride with blazing oranges and reds. This is a great time for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
    • Mid-October – 3,000-4,000 feet elevations are awash in color. Expect places like DuPont State Recreational Forest and Chimney Rock Park to explode with reds, oranges, and yellows.
    • Late October – The mid and lower levels (2,000-3,000 feet), including Downtown Hendersonville, showcases its seasonal best at this time.
    • Early November – The foothills (1,000-2,000 feet) see the later-season fall foliage. To see color this time of year, you will need to drive a little further afield, but it will be worth the drive.

    See below for our running updates on where things stand for this year’s color show.

    (Please note: we are continually updating the list of places that have reopened. Be sure to check out the Things To Do page and filter to the places that are confirmed open after the storm damage.)

    Running list of foliage updates

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    11/4 — Kanuga — There is still fall color hanging on to many of the trees at Kanuga — Photo Credit Jane Childress of Kanuga

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    11/1 — Holt Orchards — There aren’t quite as many leaves on trees anymore, but there is still a lot of bright, fall color to be found — Photo Credit Tracy Cavagnaro, owner, Holt Orchards

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    10/30 — Stone Ashe Vineyard — There may be fewer leaves on the trees than last week, but the trees on the hills surrounding the vineyard that do still have their leaves are looking lovely — Photo Credit Tina Little, owner, Stone Ashe Vineyard

    10/29 — Jump Off Rock — This time of year, Hendersonville gets a lot of early morning fog, making it look like the valley below Jump Off Rock was covered in a blanket; there are fewer leaves on the trees this week, but this scenic overlook is a great spot to see views of the vibrant hills beyond — Video Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/29 — Point Lookout Vineyards — These hills are on fire with fall color! — Photo Credit Mike Jackson, Owner, Point Lookout Vineyards

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    10/26 — Kanuga — Trees are bursting with color at Kanuga, adding to the property’s serene feeling — Photo Credit Jane Childress of Kanuga

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    10/26 — Jeter Mountain Farm — For the final fall weekend at Jeter Mountain Farm, the surrounding hillside was ablaze with color! What a spot for a family photo! — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/25 — The Perry N. Rudnick trails at the Kellogg Center — Where nature and art collide, these trees are painted with color — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/25 — The Park at Flat Rock — In the misty morning fog, surrounded by the popping foliage, The Park at Flat Rock is absolutely magical — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/25 — The Park at Flat Rock — Don’t be fooled as you stroll The Park at Flat Rock this time of year, this is real life, not a painting! — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Etowah — The Hendersonville area is filled with many farms, including this cute, little private farm that sits in front of a luscious hillside of foliage and offers views of the French Broad River and rolling mountains to the west– Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Palmer’s at Cummings Cove — This restaurant, which is located at a golf course but is open to the public, has amazing westward views that are currently filled with every shade imaginable — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Etowah Valley Golf — The trees on and around the golf course property, and the surrounding hills are dappled in a variety of fall colors — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Downtown Hendersonville — The red maple trees in the 500-block, which are often ahead of the rest of the area, are at peak foliage — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Downtown Hendersonville — The ginko tree across from the Historic Courthouse is at alive in vibrant, yellow foliage — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Jump Off Rock — The well-known three trees that stand atop Jump Off Rock are still standing strong (and near peak foliage), but it looks like Hurricane Helene did knock some of the leaves off, as the tree is not as full as most years — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Jump Off Rock — The westward view from the rock showcases a vibrant mix of near-peak foliage — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/24 — Holt Orchards — The maple tree beside the orchard has burst into its full fall color — Photo Credit Tracy Cavagnaro, owner, Holt Orchards

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    10/23 — Edenwood — The cabins at Edenwood are nestled in the woods, surrounded right now by a burst of fall color — Photo Credit Catherine Morris from Edenwood

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    10/23 — Edenwood — The cabins at Edenwood are nestled in the woods, surrounded right now by a burst of fall color — Photo Credit Catherine Morris from Edenwood

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    10/23 — Stone Ashe Vineyard — What a difference a few days makes! The hillside overlooking Stone Ashe is absolutely gorgeous, speckled with fall color — Photo Credit Tina Little, owner, Stone Ashe Vineyard

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    10/21 — Point Lookout Vineyards — The hill beyond the winery’s tasting room has much more red and orange than a week ago, when we last checked in — Photo Credit Mike Jackson, owner, Point Lookout Vineyards

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    10/22 — Sideways Farm & Brewery — things growing on the farm may have slowed down, but there is still a lot to do, beer to enjoy and the trees are looking vibrant! — Photo Credit Jessica Schaefer of Sideways Farm & Brewery

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    10/21 — Downtown Hendersonville — This “Tree City USA” has a wide variety of trees that bloom in all shades, and right now, the south end of town is beginning to pop — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/21 — Lake at Kanuga — beginning to see fall colors around the lake and in the distant hills — Photo Credit Jane Childress of Kanuga

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    10/20 — Stone Ashe Vineyard — The foliage on the hillside overlooking the vineyard is starting to showcase more fall color — Photo Credit Tina Little, owner, Stone Ashe Vineyard

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    10/19 — Downtown Hendersonville — The north end of Main Street showcases a few red maple trees that are already in full flourish — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/19 — Stone Ashe Vineyard — The grape vines are beginning to brown, but not much color on the hill beyond the vineyard in this direction — Photo Credit Tina Little, owner, Stone Ashe Vineyard

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    10/18 — Holt Orchards — While apple trees don’t offer much in the way of fall foliage, this maple tree beside the orchard is beginning to show its colors — Photo Credit Tracy Cavagnaro, owner, Holt Orchards

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    10/17 — Jump Off Rock — The Park itself appears to have had very little storm damage and there is still very little fall color on the trees yet — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/17 — Ride Kanuga — Most trails cleared and open for biking, very little fall color yet — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/16 — Point Lookout Vineyards — Photo taken at golden hour, so you can see this is a great time of day to visit, but there is only a little bit of color change on the surrounding hills so far — Photo Credit Mike Jackson, owner, Point Lookout Vineyards

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    10/16 — Jeter Mountain Farm — A little bit of color on the farm, not much on the surrounding hills yet — Photo Credit Jocelyn Hunsader from Jeter Mountain Farm

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    10/15 — Stone Ashe Vineyard — not showing much fall foliage yet, probably another week or 2 before peak color — Photo Credit Tina Little, owner, Stone Ashe Vineyard

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    10/15 — Downtown Hendersonville, South Main Street — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    10/15 — Downtown Hendersonville, North Main Street, Near Mast General Store — these trees often turn red before the rest of the area — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    9/24 — Downtown Hendersonville’s earliest tree — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

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    9/23 — Carl Sandburg Home — Photo taken before Hurricane Helene, showing very early signs of trees just beginning to change color — Photo Credit VisitHendersonville Staff

    History Lesson Drive from Hendersonville to Flat Rock

    History Lesson Drive from Hendersonville to Flat Rock

    History Lesson Drive from Hendersonville to Flat Rock

    Explore downtown Hendersonville and Flat Rock on this scenic drive through neighborhoods and historic attractions.

    starting point

    Hendersonville Welcome Center
    201 S. Main St.
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Total Mileage

    • 4.7 Miles
    • Approximately 20 minutes of driving time + Many stops recommended

    scenic drive description

    Beginning on Main Street in Hendersonville, this drive will take you through Downtown Hendersonville and into Flat Rock. The drive itself weaves through neighborhoods, stately, historic homes, and rolling farmland. This drive truly is great at any time of year, but best times of year are in the spring, when the dogwoods, wildflower and gardens are blooming, or in the fall, when the foliage is vibrant, often in late October.

    This self-guided drive also serves as a history lesson to some of the historic places in the area, and we recommend stops at any of the linked places on the driving directions below!

    driving directions

    1. Depart from the Welcome Center, turning left out of the parking lot onto S Main Street, continuing north for a few blocks, driving through the Historic Downtown area. After one block, you will see the Historic Henderson County Courthouse on your left. It was built in 1904, and today houses the Henderson County Heritage Museum (open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, with local artifacts, culture and a history of the area), as well as local governmental offices.
    2. After a few blocks, turn right onto 5th Avenue. On your left, you will see the historic City Hall building. The current building, built in 1928, is home to offices for the City of Hendersonville, but the stately building itself is beautiful and still shows some elements of a bygone era (including some less savory history, like the segregated public facilities of the past). If you are interested, you can stop inside (the entrance is on the back or 6th Avenue side of the building), and see a mold used to create a statue that currently resides in Raleigh, NC at the statehouse. The mold of the statue is large, cast in bronze, and depicts former US Presidents Andrew Jackson, James K Polk, and Andrew Johnson. Each former president lived part of their lives in North Carolina.
    3. Continue to the next block and turn right onto Grove Street, where you will see the Grey Mill Apartments, a former textile mill that was converted into housing, and then take another quick right into 4th Avenue. At the next block, you will see the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development building, which was built in 1914, and originally served as Hendersonville’s first public library. The original library was made possible from a land grant from a local man and a gift of $10,000 from Andrew Carnegie, who was famous in part for his philanthropic work of building libraries in communities across America.
    4. After 2 blocks, turn left onto Church Street. At the Church Street / 4th Avenue intersection, on your left, you will see the Federal Building, which was built in 1914 to serve as the area’s Post Office, and was one of the first buildings in the area to have electricity. The building now houses private offices.
    5. After you have turned onto Church Street, in 2 blocks you will see the Henderson County Curb Market on your right. The Curb Market was formed in 1924 by seven local farm families who sold their produce on a vacant city-owned lot on Main Street in a farmers market setting. Today, there are many more vendors inside the building, which is open year-round, and all items sold at there must be locally grown or handmade in Henderson County.
    6. Stay on Church Street, which turns into Greenville Highway/NC Route 225, for about 3 miles, and you enter the Historic Village of Flat Rock. Flat Rock began in the early 19th century with large summer estates built in the English manner by the affluent Charlestonians, Europeans and prominent plantation owners of the South’s low country. Flat Rock is named for the large outcropping of rock that covers several acres. In early days, the rock was a gathering place for Indian ceremonies. Highway 225 passes over the center of the flat rock. A small portion can be seen in the parking area of the Flat Rock Playhouse.
    7. Shortly after you enter the Village limits, you will see a small church and cemetery on your right. This is Saint John in the Wilderness Church, which is one of the oldest churches in the area, and is often open for self-guided tours or they offer regular guided tours. This English-style chapel was built in 1833 as the private chapel of the Baring family, a family from Charleston, SC who spent their summers in Flat Rock. The church was eventually deeded to the Episcopal church, and now offers services year-round. The cemetery features names from a number of prominent Charleston families, and also has a section dedicated to enslaved people who traveled to Flat Rock with the families they served each summer.
    8. As you continue south, you will see the Flat Rock Playhouse on your right. The Playhouse opened in 1940, under a tent near its current location, as a summer theatre, moved to its current home in Flat Rock in 1952, where they eventually built a permanent structure and transitioned to year-round theatre, and was named the State Theatre if North Carolina by the NC General Assembly in 1961. The grounds are open to explore, though it isn’t recommended to do so while performances take place, as parking is extremely limited. 
    9. Passing the playhouse, you will come to the intersection of Greenville Highway & Little River Road, where you will see another historic building on your left. This building, built in 1845, served as the first Flat Rock Post Office. Today, it operates as a Cultural Center and Museum, which is open during the summer months. 
    10. Turn right at the intersection of Greenville Highway & Little River Road. In less than a mile, you will come to the Carl Sandburg Home, a National Historic Site and National Park, which is worth making a stop for. The 264-acre property served as the home to Pulitzer Prize winning author, historian and poet Carl Sandburg, who lived the last 22 years of his life here and published more than a third of all his works here. The National Park offers hiking trails, tours of the home, an operating goat dairy with goats that can trace their lineage back to the original Sandburg line, and a lot of history. There are 2 parking lots available, with a shuttle from the main parking lot running most days.
    11. After leaving the Carl Sandburg Home, turn right out of the parking lot and head back to the heart of Flat Rock. In the town’s center you will find “Little Rainbow Row,” which was named in honor of Charleston’s Rainbow Row because there were so many Charlestonians that spent their summers in Flat Rock. In Little Rainbow Row, you will find a number of shops and restaurants, and if you ask the right person, you might just learn more about the history of this historic town.
    12. Heading North on Greenville Highway will take you back to Downtown Hendersonville.
    historic general store at sunrise

    One Historic Scenic Drive

    We hope you enjoy this drive, which highlights some of the historic buildings in the Hendersonville and Flat Rock areas. All of the Village of Flat Rock is on the National Register of Historic Places, and many of the private homes date back to the 1820s – 1840s. The connection between Charleston & Flat Rock is unique: it was just a 2-day carriage ride from one town to the other, and Flat Rock was the first town Charlestonians could reach in the cooler mountain climate, making it a very appealing summer destination. Flat Rock obviously has a lot of history, and the attractions mentioned in this self-guided driving & history tour are great places to start learning.

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    Scenic Drive from Hendersonville to the Blue Ridge Parkway And Back

    Scenic Drive from Hendersonville to the Blue Ridge Parkway And Back

    Scenic Drive from Hendersonville to the Blue Ridge Parkway And Back

    The Blue Ridge Parkway spans the Blue Ridge Mountains across 2 states, and Hendersonville is one of the neighboring, or gateway towns to America’s Most Scenic Drive.

    starting & Ending point

    Hendersonville Welcome Center
    201 S. Main St.
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Total Mileage

    • 68 Miles
    • Approximately 2 hours of driving time + any stops you decide to take along the way

    scenic drive description

    Beginning on Main Street in Hendersonville, this drive will take you north to the Blue Ridge Parkway, through 10 stone tunnels through the mountains (that were built in the 1930s by FDR’s Civilian Conservation Corps — an effort to put men back to work after the Great Depression), along the main road through Pisgah National Forest, through the rolling farmland of Western Henderson County, and eventually back to Downtown Hendersonville. The Blue Ridge Parkway itself is 469 miles long, and this drive takes you across approximately 18 of (arguably) the most beautiful miles of the whole roadway.

    This drive is great to do in the spring, summer and fall, but if often closed to car traffic in winter because of unsafe driving conditions and roadwork. You can however park and walk along the roadway in winter (only when the road is closed to cars).

    Whenever you drive along the Parkway, be sure to keep in mind that cell service is spotty and there are no gas stations along the parkway. While there are plenty of places to stop for scenic views, photos, hikes and picnic, there are very few facilities available.

    driving directions

    1. Depart from the Welcome Center, turning left out of the parking lot onto S Main Street, continuing north for a few blocks.
    2. Merge onto Asheville Highway near the 1898 Waverly Inn and Hendersonville Fire Station.
    3. In about 1/4 of a mile, turn left onto Haywood Road/NC Route 191. Follow this road for 7 miles. Attractions you may want to stop at along this route include Historic Johnson Farm & Mills River Park, plus you will be close to Bold Rock Hard Cider and Mills River Brewing Company.
    4. Turn right when you come to the intersection of NC Route 191 & NC Route 280 at a traffic light. Follow this for about a mile. You will pass Mills River Restaurant and Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s Mills River Location— both serve food.
    5. Turn left onto Old Haywood Road/Old NC Route 191. Follow this for about 7 miles.
    6. Not long after you see the French Broad River on your right, you will see signs for the Blue Ridge Parkway and the North Carolina Arboretum. Turn left at Frederick Law Olmstead Way, and stay left.
    7. Turn right onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, heading west. Stay on this road for about 18 miles. There will be many places to stop for hiking, photos, scenic overlooks and more. The only restroom facility you will pass for a while will be at the Pisgah Inn, so be sure to stop there if you need to.
    8. Shortly after passing the Cradle of Forestry Overlook on your left, you will want to turn left onto NC Route 276/Pisgah Highway, which takes you winding through Pisgah National Forest. As you drive through the National Forest, you will pass the Cradle of Forestry in America, Looking Glass Falls (a massive, roadside waterfall), many picnic areas, the Davidson River Campground, access to fish or play in the Davidson River, The Pisgah Forest Stables (where you can go horseback trail riding), the Pisgah Ranger’s District’s Visitor Center (maps, brochures and restrooms are available here), and many options for biking and mountain biking.
    9. All told, you’ll remain on the same road, Pisgah Highway for about 15 miles until you come out of the National Forest at the intersection of NC Route 280, Pisgah Forest Road and US Route 64. This intersection offers plenty of food options. To get back to Hendersonville, go straight through the intersection onto US Route 64.
    10. Follow US Route 64 for about 17 miles until you find yourself back in downtown Hendersonville. Turn right onto Main Street and drive a few short blocks south to the Welcome Center. While driving back towards Hendersonville, you will pass restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream shops, attractions, breweries, antique stores and more.

    Explore the unknown

    The Blue Ridge Parkway is a great option for folks of all ability and mobility levels. Many of the overlooks offer stunning views, even from your car! Get out there and explore, whether that means from your car or from the top of Mount Pisgah. This is one drive you won’t want to miss on your visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains! 

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    Fall Foliage Scenic Drive to Jump Off Rock

    Fall Foliage Scenic Drive to Jump Off Rock

    Fall Foliage Scenic Drive to Jump Off Rock

    Jump Off Rock is a beloved scenic overlook that is just a few miles from Downtown Hendersonville and offers stunning westward views. It is great all year-round, but especially in the fall when the leaves are changing color.

    starting point

    Hendersonville Welcome Center
    201 S. Main St.
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Total Mileage

    • 13.5 Miles
    • Approximately 40 minutes of driving time + however long you stay at Jump Off Rock to explore

    scenic drive description

    Beginning on Main Street in Hendersonville, this drive will take you up a winding road to the top of a mountain that is just outside Downtown. At Jump Off Rock, there is free parking and after a very short walk, you will be able to see sweeping views of Pisgah National Forest, the Great Smoky Mountains and more. This is a great place for a picnic lunch, to catch a sunset, or to hike any of the short trails through the woods around the summit. The drive back winds you down a different side of the mountain, back to Main Street.  

    driving directions

    1. Depart from the Welcome Center, turning left out of the parking lot onto S Main Street, continuing north for a few blocks.
    2. When you reach 5th Avenue, make a left. After about a mile, the road name changes to Laurel Park Highway. Stay on this road (for a total of about 5 miles) until you reach Jump Off Rock. Park in the gravel parking area to the side of the road.
    3. When you are ready to leave, head back down the way you came, taking Laurel Park Highway.
    4. After about a mile, turn right onto Roberts Drive.
    5. After 0.4 miles, turn right onto Essowah Drive.
    6. After 0.2 miles, turn right onto Hebron Road. Follow this for about a mile, it is a windy road along the side of the mountain. 
    7. When you come to an old, abandoned church, make a left onto Finley Cove Road. This is somewhat of a blind intersection, so use caution. As you continue to wind your way down the mountain, you can expect to see a wide variety of trees. Along this route, you are likely to see yellow poplar trees, copper oak trees, orange elm trees, red sumac trees, and much more, depending on how far into the season you are.
    8. After about 2 miles, you will reach a stop sign. Turn left onto Willow Road. Here, you will drive through more of a neighborhood, so you are likely to see burgundy foliage of dogwood trees, and a variety of colors of shrubs and bushes.
    9. Follow Willow Road for about 2 miles until you come to Kanuga Road, where you will turn left.
    10. Follow Kanuga Road for about 0.3 miles until you find yourself back on Main Street in downtown Hendersonville, a few blocks south of the Welcome Center.

    Embrace the fall foliage

    There are plenty of routes throughout Western NC that offer scenic drives throughout the year, but one thing that makes fall extra magical is that the Southern Appalachian region is so biodiverse! There are more varieties of plants that grow here than most other parts of the world, and the trees, bushes and shrubs that reveal their lovely fall colors is extremely diverse, happening at all different stories of the forest and for weeks at a time! Check out the other scenic drives you will find across the region by clicking below.

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    On The Water: Discover All The Water Activities Hendersonville Has To Offer

    On The Water: Discover All The Water Activities Hendersonville Has To Offer

    On The Water: Discover All The Water Activities Hendersonville Has To Offer

    Hendersonville NC, is a water enthusiast’s dream, offering an array of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty. From awe-inspiring waterfalls to serene paddling adventures, tranquil parks, and prime fishing spots, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best water activities in Hendersonville.
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    Hiking to Waterfalls

    The highlight of Hendersonville’s water activities is undoubtedly the stunning waterfalls the region is best known for. One of the most popular places to see waterfalls is DuPont State Recreational Forest, which is home to some of North Carolina’s most breathtaking waterfalls, including Triple Falls, High Falls and Hooker Falls. The Green River Game Lands are known as having more rugged terrain than some of the other public lands in the area, and while that is true, there are quite a few cascades here that you won’t want to miss,  including some that are pretty easy to get to! Pisgah National Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Hickory Nut Gorge are also great areas to explore as you seek out waterfalls.

    Kayaking and Canoeing Trips

    For those who enjoy paddling, the area’s two outfitters, Lazy Otter Outfitters and Green River Adventures, offer two similar options, but at two very different locations. With Lazy Otter Outfitters, you’ll explore the calmest section of the French Broad River while Green River Adventures offers a few options ranging from a lower-key outing on the lower Green River all the way up to Class IV white water rapids on the upper Green River. Either location provides your boat rental along with shuttle services to and from their shop, making it easy to enjoy a stress-free day on the water.

    Lazy Otter Outfitters

    Lazy Otter Outfitters invites you to experience a unique outdoor adventure on the serene French Broad River. Located at the end of Horse Shoe Bend, between the river and the Ecusta Trail, this spot offers a tranquil escape. Glide past wildlife and farmland in a kayak, canoe, or on a stand-up paddleboard. Reservations are required to ensure a personalized experience. Discover this hidden gem and make your next adventure unforgettable!  

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    Green River Adventures

    Green River Adventures takes you from their shop in Saluda to the pristine Green River Gorge’s Green River. They offer a self-guided journey of the more chill, Lower Green River, or a heart-pumping, guided whitewater excursion of the Upper Green River, which includes Class III & IV level rapids. They offer stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals, along with all the gear you need for a memorable day on the water.    

    Public Access to the French Broad River

    Hendersonville offers several public access points and ramps along the French Broad River, making it easy to launch your kayak, canoe or boat. The French Broad River is believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world, and interestingly, it is one of the few rivers in North America that flows north, beginning not far from Hendersonville, in Rosman, NC, winding its way and eventually emptying into the Holston River in Tennessee, onwards toward the Mississippi River, and finally making its way into the Gulf of Mexico.

    kayaker on river

    Blantyre Park

    Blantyre Park is a serene river-access park located at the boundary of Henderson and Transylvania Counties. Spanning 3.46 acres, this peaceful spot offers a convenient canoe port for easy entry into the French Broad River, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy a leisurely paddle. In partnership with the NC Wildlife Resource Commission, Blantyre Park provides ample parking for kayakers and canoeists looking to explore the river’s scenic beauty.

    Horse Shoe River Bend Access

    Horse Shoe River Bend Access offers a convenient boat launch for kayaks, canoes and more, making it an ideal entry point for exploring the scenic French Broad River. The access point includes a small picnic area where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

    Westfeldt Park

    Positioned on the northern boundary of Henderson County where it meets Buncombe County, Westfeldt Park provides easy access to the French Broad River. It features a boat ramp suitable for larger watercraft, making it a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. With river access, a canoe/small boat launch ramp, picnic areas, a walking trail, parking, and an open field, Westfeldt Park offers a perfect riverside retreat.  

    Fishing

    Hendersonville offers a wealth of fishing opportunities, with scenic rivers and well-maintained parks providing ideal conditions for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you seek the calm waters of the French Broad River or the convenience of boat ramps and fishing piers in more active locations, there’s a perfect fishing spot for everyone. Public fishing is abundant throughout the area, with popular choices including DuPont State Forest, Green River Game Lands, North Mills River, and Pisgah National Forest, as well as some of the areas local parks, such as Rhododendron Lake, Mills River Park or Bill Moore Community Park. From peaceful riverbanks to boat-friendly parks, these top destinations cater to both casual and seasoned fishermen. Wherever you go, be sure you have a North Carolina Fishing License before you go (locally, find yours at Carolina Ace Hardware or Walmart).

    hendersonville-outfitters

    Hendersonville Outfitters

    Hendersonville Outfitters provides anglers with the essential tools to ensure success on the water, no matter what species or waters they pursue. Offering a wide range of gear for both fly and conventional fishing, the outfitter ensures that every customer is well-equipped, whether targeting local streams or venturing to more challenging waters. The inventory includes rods, reels, wading gear, flies, lures, and specialized equipment for those pursuing the elusive musky. Hendersonville Outfitters also provides guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about your favorite pasttime!

    Danny’s Fish-N-Camp

    Located in East Flat Rock, Danny’s Fish-N-Camp is a great fishing spot for anglers of all skill levels. With well-stocked ponds, it offers catfish and trout fishing at a peaceful location that is family-friendly. At the communal fish cleaning area, you will find all the amenities needed for a comfortable and successful fishing outing, and may even get a lesson in cleaning your own fish! This is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike who are looking to relax and reel in a catch.

    catfish swimming

    Crab Creek Catfish Pond

    Crab Creek Catfish Pond is a fantastic spot for people of all ages to enjoy a day of fishing for catfish. The pond is well-stocked with five different species of catfish, giving anglers an excellent chance of reeling in a big catch. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or new to the sport, this location offers a fun and rewarding experience for everyone, especially with its shaded fishing pavilions at each dock. 

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    WNC Fish Hunter

    WNC Fish Hunter is a boutique guiding service offering customized fishing experiences in the scenic waters of Pisgah Forest. Led by local native Stratton Hunter, this service focuses on helping anglers catch wily Trout, elusive Muskie, and hard-fighting Smallmouth Bass. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fisherman, WNC Fish Hunter crafts a personalized plan to suit your needs. Fly fishing or conventional tackle, backcountry adventures or jet boat outings -everything is welcome and designed to create a memorable fishing experience.
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    db bar d outfitters

    DB Bar D Outfitters is dedicated to preserving natural resources and offering customized outdoor experiences in Mills River. They provide guided and semi-guided hunting, fishing, and camping adventures, including half-day or full-day fly fishing trips on private waters for rainbow, brown, and brook trout, with catch-and-release practices using single hook flies. All necessary equipment and licenses are provided, with friendly guides available to help you enhance your skills.      

    bloom-fly-fishing

    Bloom Fly Fishing

    Offering expert instruction on fly fishing and casting techniques, Bloom Fly Fishing’s wading trips are ideal for both beginners and seasoned anglers looking to hone their skills. With all gear and meals provided, participants can fully immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the region, leaving with the confidence to fish independently.

    Swimming

    Hendersonville offers a refreshing array of swimming options, from the scenic beauty of lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest to the family-friendly sands of Lake Lure Beach and even the local community pool at Patton Park. Whether you prefer splashing beneath waterfalls, swimming in a cool, mountain lake, or lounging by a pool, Hendersonville has the perfect spot for every swimmer.

     

    DuPont State Recreational Forest

    DuPont State Forest offers lots of great swimming options, with Hooker Falls being one of its most popular options. Park at the Hooker Falls Access Area, and after a short hike, you’ll reach Hooker Falls, which offers a wide pool deep enough in some parts for grown ups to swim. It can be crowded on weekends, so arriving early or later in the day is recommended. DuPont also has a number of lakes that are popular for swimming, including Lake Julia (which can be reached from a 3-mile roundtrip hike from the High Falls Access Area parking or a 4-mile roundtrip hike from the Fawn Lake Access Area parking lot), Fawn Lake (only 0.5 miles from the Fawn Lake Access Area parking lot), and both Lake Dense and Lake Alford, which are near one another, located less than a mile and a half from the High Falls Access Area parking lot. (Please note, lifeguards are not on-duty at any of these locations, swim at your own risk.)

     

    Lake Lure Beach, Marina & Water Park

    Lake Lure Beach offers the perfect spot for a sunny retreat. Relax on 100 yards of clean, sandy beach, float in the refreshing waters, or build sandcastles with the family. For more excitement, enjoy the water park, complete with water slides and fun water games. Amenities include changing areas, bathrooms, beach volleyball net, picnic tables, a large covered picnic shelter and a small store. There is a small admission fee per person.

     

     

    Patton Pool

    Patton Pool, located at Patton Park in Hendersonville, is a public outdoor swimming pool that offers day passes and is great for all ages and abilities. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the pool is a favorite summer destination. It features an accessible chairlift to assist with pool entry and exit, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water. Small admission fee is charged for entry.

     

     

     

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    Pisgah National Forest

    Pisgah National Forest offers a variety of unique swimming spots, ranging from easy-access locations to more adventurous hikes. Enjoy the cool waters at Looking Glass Falls or take on the thrill of Sliding Rock, a natural water slide. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Whale Back provides a quieter, off-the-beaten-path destination. Parts of the Davidson River, which flows along Pisgah Highway, the main road though this area’s section of the National Forest, also offer great spots for wading, and even some parts deep enough to swim! Great places to access the Davidson River include the Sycamore Flats, Stillwater and Coon Tree Picnic Areas. (Please note: parking at the Picnic Areas can be limited, and often fills early on weekends, so either arrive early or try for a weekday.)

    Hit the Water

    From the stunning waterfalls of DuPont State Recreational Forest to paddling down the French Broad River with Lazy Otter Outfitters, enjoying the peace of Rhododendron Lake Nature Park, and casting a line at North Mills River or Danny’s Fish-N-Camp, Hendersonville offers a wealth of water activities. With easy access points, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery, your time on, in or around the water here in the Hendersonville area is sure to be unforgettable.

     

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    Your Guide to Waterfalls near Hendersonville

    Your Guide to Waterfalls near Hendersonville

    Your Guide to Waterfalls near Hendersonville

    One of the things Western NC is best known for is its waterfalls. There are no two ways around it, seeing a few of the area’s waterfalls counts as a “bucket list” item on your visit to Hendersonville.
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    Soothing Sounds of Nature

    **Please note: in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, not all of these trails have reopened. Please explore any that are open at your own risk, as there is likely a lot of work that still needs to be done to clean up the trails.**

    The mountains of Western North Carolina are celebrated for their breathtaking beauty throughout every season, with each offering its own unique charm. Among the region’s most beloved natural wonders are its waterfalls, which captivate visitors and locals alike with their serene and awe-inspiring presence. Whether you’re exploring public parks or venturing onto private lands, the gentle roar and mesmerizing sight of cascading water provide a tranquil escape into nature.

    Hendersonville, nestled in the heart of this stunning landscape, is surrounded by some of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region. Find either a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, using this guide to lead you to the best and most accessible falls near Hendersonville, where you can immerse yourself in the soothing sounds and sights of nature at its finest.

    In this guide, you will find waterfalls at DuPont State Recreational Forest, Pisgah National Forest, The Blue Ridge Parkway, The Green River Game Lands, and more.

     

    Waterfall Safety

    Every year, people are injured or killed around waterfalls, so when you are out chasing waterfalls, be sure to use your best judgement and be safe. Here are some tips:

    • Stay on Marked Trails: Always follow designated paths and signs. Venturing off-trail can lead to dangerous areas, including slippery rocks and unstable ground.
    • Be Cautious Around Wet Surfaces: Rocks and surfaces near waterfalls are often wet and slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and move carefully to avoid falls.
    • Observe Water Levels: Pay attention to water levels, especially after heavy rains. Swift currents and high water can be more hazardous than they appear.
    • Keep a Safe Distance: Admire waterfalls from a safe distance, especially at the edge of cliffs or overhangs. Rocks can be unstable, and a fall could result in serious injury.
    • Don’t Climb Waterfalls: Avoid the temptation to climb waterfalls or the rocks around them. Even experienced climbers can lose their footing, and a fall can be fatal.
    • Supervise Children: Keep a close eye on children, ensuring they stay on trails and away from hazardous areas. Waterfalls can be especially enticing to kids, but they need to understand the risks.
    • Respect Posted Warnings: Pay attention to any posted warnings or closures. These are in place to protect you from known hazards, such as unstable terrain or dangerous water conditions.
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    Dupont State Forest

    DuPont State Recreational Forest is home to some of the area’s best-known waterfalls. Triple, Hooker and High Falls are all within a little over a mile hike from one another, making that a very popular, though strenuous, hike. Both Triple Falls and Bridal Veil Falls were filming locations for major motion pictures.

    One thing to know about DuPont is that it gets very busy, so go on early in the day, Sundays are the most recommended.

    Bridal Veil Falls

    This aptly named 120-foot cascade is known for being a filming location for Hollywood sensations, The Hunger Games and the Last of the Mohicans.

    Access Bridal Veil Falls by parking at the High Falls Parking Area for this 4.4-mile round trip hike. Start on Buck Forest Road, turn right onto Conservation Road after crossing the High Falls Covered Bridge, then turn right onto Bridal Veil Falls Road. One you arrive, to get close to the falls, some climbing on rocks is required, so use caution on slippery rocks.

    Grassy Creek Falls

    One of DuPont State Recreational Forest’s lesser-known waterfalls, Grassy Greek Falls is approximately a 60-foot waterfall and is easy to reach.

    Access Grassy Creek Falls by parking at the High Falls Parking Area, taking Buck Forest Road, across the Covered Bridge. Eventually, turn left onto Lake Imaging Road and shortly thereafter, left onto Grassy Creek Falls Road. The trail takes you to the top of the falls, and you can climb down to about the middle of the waterfall, but please use extreme caution on wet rocks.

     

    High Falls

    One of Western NC’s most spectacular sights, this 150-foot waterfall is reachable by either the High Falls Parking Area or Hooker Falls Parking Area.

    From High Falls Parking Area: Take the High Falls Loop trail, and eventually, you will see the majestic falls to the right of the trail. To get to the bottom of the falls (use caution on wet rocks, it is VERY easy to slip), continue downhill. At the split in the trail, turn right onto River Bend Trail (turning left will take you to Triple Falls).

    From Hooker Falls Parking Area: Cross the footbridge under the roadway onto Triple Falls Trail. (This section has a steep incline, so remember, there is no shame in taking a water break!) As you come up upon Triple Falls, veer left onto the High Falls Loop Trail. After a short time, the River Bend Trail will be on your left. Take this trail to see the bottom of the falls or continue uphill on the High Falls Loop Trail to see the falls from afar.

    This waterfall is very popular, so expect crowds, especially on weekends. High Falls is a great winter hike option.

    Hooker Falls

    Located near Triple Falls, Hooker Falls is an easy 1/2-mile roundtrip hike from the Hooker Falls parking area. This 12-foot fall may not sound as impressive as the taller waterfalls upriver, but its width and the pool (perfect for swimming!) located below the falls is what makes this one so popular.

    Merry Falls

    Another of DuPont’s lesser-known waterfalls, Merry Falls is a smaller roadside waterfall. Drive up DuPont Road through the forest, and at the split, turn right onto Cascade Lake Road. After almost 2 miles, Merry Falls is on the left side of the road. There is limited parking, but you can park, get out and easily get closer to the falls.

    Triple Falls

    One of DuPont State Forest’s best-known waterfalls after having been a filming location for The Hunger Games, this majestic beauty, which is split into 3 separate falls totaling approximately 120-feet, is reachable by either the High Falls Parking Area or Hooker Falls Parking Area.

    From High Falls Parking Area: Take the High Falls Loop trail, and eventually, you will see the majestic High Falls to the right of the trail. Continue downhill and at the split in the trail, turn left. Eventually, you will see stairs down to Triple Falls.

    From Hooker Falls Parking Area: Cross the footbridge under the roadway onto Triple Falls Trail. (This section has a steep incline, so remember, there is no shame in taking a water break!) After a short while, you will come up upon Triple Falls and stairs that take you down to the waterfall.

    This waterfall is very popular, so expect crowds, especially on weekends. High Falls is a great winter hike option.

    Wintergreen Falls

    Wintergreen Falls is another of DuPont’s slightly lesser-known waterfalls. This 20′ waterfall is an easy 1.25 mile hike from the Guion Farms Access Parking Area (so 2.5 total).

    Follow the Guion Parking Trail along the parking lot, then turn right onto Tarklin Branch Road. Take a left onto Wintergreen Falls Trail, and you will be taken directly to the waterfall. (For a slightly longer but easier hike, you can alternately pass the Wintergreen Falls Trail and turn left onto the next trail, Sandy Trail. When that ends, hang a left onto Grassy Creek Trail, and then a right onto Wintergreen Falls Trail — this bypasses one semi-steep portion of the trail.)

    Pisgah National Forest

    Known for its pristine 500,000+ acres, Pisgah National Forest is just a short drive from Hendersonville and offers almost endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some of its waterfalls are absolutely stunning and recognized across the globe, especially those that are right along the side of a road!
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    Looking Glass Falls

    Probably Pisgah National Forest’s most-visited (and most-photographed) waterfall, Looking Glass Falls is set right on the side of the road, and offers roadside viewing for those that are less able to hike or climb stairs. Those that are more mobile can climb down the stairs and climb across a few rocks, and soon be swimming in the cool waters below the 60 foot waterfall. This is a great place for swimming and photos and is lovely year-round.

    To get there, you can simply type “Looking Glass Falls” into your GPS, and it will pull up, but if you don’t have cell service, from Hendersonville, you simply follow US Route 64 (or 6th Ave in Hendersonville) headed west until you reach the entrance to the National Forest. Stay on this road (which at that point will be called Pisgah Highway/Route 276) and eventually (past the Pisgah Visitors Center and a few forest roads and picnic areas), you will begin seeing cars parked on your right, and soon you will see the falls from your car.

    Moore Cove Falls

    Another popular waterfall, parking for Moore Cove Falls is located right on the main road through the Forest, Pisgah Highway/Route 276, not far beyond Looking Glass Falls. The hike itself is approximately 1.4 miles total and while it has some stairs and a few inclines, it is rated easy, and even kids enjoy this hike. At the end, you will reach a 50-foot waterfall where you can actually stand under the falls.

    From the roadside parking, cross a footbridge across a creek, and immediately uphill. You will remain on this trail until you reach the waterfall.

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    Slick ROck Falls

    A much lesser-visited waterfall in Pisgah Forest, Slick Rock Falls is a 35-foot waterfall that cascades off a cliff-face. You can see the waterfall from the side of the road and easily access it after a very short walk along the trail from the small parking area, however, the road to the waterfall (Forest Service Road 475b) is certainly a rough, bumpy road.

    To get here, either types “Slick Rock Falls” into your GPS, or from Hendersonville, follow US Route 64 West until you reach the Forest entrance, follow along that road ( Pisgah Highway/Route 276), then make a left onto Fish Hatchery Rd, and a right onto FS 475b Road for about 1 mile, until you see the waterfall on your right and a small parking area ahead.

    Sliding Rock

    Beloved by people of all ages, Sliding Rock offers a natural waterslide down a smooth 60-foot rockface into a pool of cold mountain water below, powered by 11,000 rushing gallons of water per minute.

    This fun adventure is one of the few paid waterfalls in the region, and the small fee ($5 per person) helps to cover the cost of keeping this gem clean and covers to cost of having lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It tends to be busy each summer, so going early or on a weekday is recommended.

    To get there, take Pisgah Highway/Route 276 past Looking Glass Falls and the Cradle of Forestry, almost to the Blue Ridge Parkway Entrance, and parking will be on your left.

    Blue Ridge Parkway

    The Blue Ridge Parkway spans hundreds of miles, so we have only selected a few of the waterfalls that are closest to Hendersonville, but if you are planning to make a day of the Parkways, be sure to do your research, because there are plenty of other waterfalls, scenic overlooks and great hikes a little further out from town. The Parkway offers countless opportunities to enjoy the majesty of nature all spring, summer and fall.

    (Please note: most of the sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway closest to Hendersonville and going west from here are closed all winter due to snow, freezing temperatures and unsafe road conditions.)

    Graveyard Fields Upper & Lower Falls

    Graveyard Fields is a popular spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway because of its convenient parking, wild blueberry picking in late summer, vibrant foliage each fall, and access to 2 beautiful waterfalls.

    The Lower Falls is only around 1/3rd of a mile from the parking area, though there are steps and some steep parts on the way back. To get to this waterfall, take the trail on the right side of the parking lot, closest to the restrooms. After crossing a footbridge across the river, eventually you will come to a split, go right onto the Lower Falls Trail, which will take you directly to the waterfall.

    The Upper Falls is approximately a 3-mile hike that is considered moderately challenging because of the steps, uphill sections and some exposed roots and rocks. Starting at the parking area, take the left-most trail entrance, the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail. Eventually, you will turn left onto the Graveyard Upper Falls Trail, which will take you to the waterfall. To come back, it is recommended to go left on the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail, crossing through the wild blueberry patch. Once you get past the bramble, you can easily add the lower falls to your hike, but otherwise will want to stay on the Loop until you reach the parking lot.

    Skinny Dip Falls

    This shorter hike (approximately 0.9 miles) is a popular swimming hole and waterfall, so expect a crowd on weekends.

    To get here, park at the Looking Glass Rock Overlook and cross the road to take the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, following that until you reach the Yellowstone Prong and the waterfall. The bridge crossing the creek was destroyed after a tropical storm in 2021, and has still not been replaced, so you may need to cross through the water to get closer to the waterfall and swimming hole.

    Green River Area

    The Green River Game Lands sit on the south east side of the county, spanning nearly 19,000 acres of wilderness that is used for hiking, biking, kayaking (on the Green River) and hunting. An incredible asset to the area, the Game Lands offer a great habitat for many native species of flora and fauna.

    Please keep in mind that the Game Lands are open for hunting, so use caution and wear bright colors during hunting season, which is usually from mid-September to mid-December for deer hunting and through mid-May for other game. Hunters are most active on Fridays and Saturdays, and at the beginning of each game season. 

    hidden-trails-coffeehouse

    LIttle Bradley Falls

    Little Bradley Falls is a hidden gem nestled in the Green River Game Lands of North Carolina. The waterfall itself is a stunning 50-foot cascade that splits into two streams, creating a beautiful curtain of water that spills over moss-covered rocks into a tranquil pool below. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, making it a perfect spot for photography, a refreshing dip, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the forest.

    To reach Little Bradley Falls, you’ll need to embark on a moderate 2.3-mile round-trip hike. To get there, park at the Green River Cove Road trailhead. There is a small pull-off area on the side of the road where you can leave your vehicle. The parking area is not marked, but it is located about 4.3 miles down Green River Cove Road from the intersection with Holbert Cove Road. Be mindful of where you park, as the space is limited and can get busy on weekends.

    The trailhead for Little Bradley Falls is on the right side of the road, across from the parking area. Look for a small footpath leading into the woods. There are no signs at the trailhead, so pay close attention to the location. The trail follows the creek upstream and crosses it several times, so be prepared for wet feet or bring water shoes. The trail is relatively easy but can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so take care as you navigate the terrain. After about a mile of hiking, you will hear the sound of the falls before you see them. Continue along the trail until you reach the base of Little Bradley Falls.

    Lower Big Hungry Falls

    Lower Big Hungry Falls offers a beautiful waterfall, swimming and splashing areas, a sandy beach and peaceful area to picnic or relax, after only a short hike of approximately 1.5 miles. Parking is however very limited (less than 20 spots) and cell phone reception is sparse. One additional word of caution, wildlife, including copperhead snakes have been spotted here.

    To get there: In your map program, search for the “Green River Narrows Put-In,” which takes you to Gallimore Road. When parking, be sure all 4 wheels are off the road. Go under the yellow arm that marks the end of the trail (to the left side of the road, just beyond where the few parking spaces are), and follow this trail straight until it takes you to the river. You’ll be able to hear the falls rushing as you get closer.

     

    Other Waterfalls in the area

    Throughout the area, there are a handful of other waterfalls that aren’t too far away, including a few roadside waterfalls that are very easy to see from your car or a short walk. Throughout the region, there are hundreds more waterfalls of all sizes, some requiring long hikes to access, some along the side of the road, some that aren’t even named! Explore and see what else you can discover!
    hidden-trails-coffeehouse

    Hickory Nut Falls

    This truly majestic waterfall is probably best known for being one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River (coming in at 404 feet tall) as well as having been used in the filming of the 1990s hit movie, The Last of the Mohicans.

    In the winter and early spring, when the trees are bare from leaves or are just starting to regrow their leaves, you can easily spot this waterfall on your right as you drive into the town of Chimney Rock from Hendersonville along Route 64.

    To hike to the waterfall, you will need to park at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, which has a small fee to enter. Go to the Upper Parking Lot. You will pass the Hickory Nut Falls Trail on your right before you reach the Upper Parking Lot, so after you see the trailhead, park at the first spot you find. Follow the sidewalk back down until you reach the trail. Follow this moderately easy trail for about a 3/4ths of a mile before you reach the waterfall. There are some steps that lead to a viewing platform at the end of the hike, making it a great spot for a photo. 

     

    Highland Lake

    Situated along the side of North Highland Lake Road in Flat Rock, this picturesque waterfall pours off manmade Highland Lake, at the site of an old mill. While you can’t really stop in the middle of the road to admire it, you’ll want to be sure to drive slowly, or you can turn into Highland Lake Inn‘s driveway, Lily Pad Lane. This waterfall is perfect for those less physically able to hike, but who still want to enjoy part of what makes Western North Carolina so lovely. (Please note: the lake itself is private, there is no public access.)

    Mill House Lodge

    Much like the Highland Lake Inn waterfall mentioned already, this waterfall streams off the manmade Jordans Lake at an old mill, aptly named Mill House Lodge, located on West Blue Ridge Road in Flat Rock. Nowadays, the property offers condos for both vacation rental and long-term housing. This road tends to be busy, but you can easily pull into the parking area for Mill House Lodge for a few minutes and walk over to admire this small roadside display of beauty. (Please note: the lake itself is private, there is no public access.)

    Pearson's Falls

    Pearson’s Falls is a breathtaking 90-foot waterfall located in a lush glen. The waterfall cascades gracefully over a series of rock ledges, offering a charming and easily accessible waterfall that gives visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in a serene and well-preserved setting. Pack a picnic and enjoy, their are picnic areas by the parking lot.

    Visiting Pearson’s Falls is pretty straightforward and accessible with its short hike and well-maintained trail. Drive to 2748 Pearson Falls Road, Saluda, NC. The parking area is spacious, with easy access to the entrance gate (there is a small fee). Follow the trail, which is only 0.25 miles to reach the waterfall. Your short hike will take you by small cascades, boulders, and a variety of plant life, creating a serene and immersive nature experience.

    Ultimate Family Summer Adventure: Your Last Hurrah Before School Begins

    Ultimate Family Summer Adventure: Your Last Hurrah Before School Begins

    Ultimate Family Summer Adventure: Your Last Hurrah Before School Begins

    Summer is winding down, but if you act quickly, you can make the most of the last days of summer break by visiting Hendersonville!

    Let's Get It Started in Hendo

    As you’re squeezing the best of Hendersonville into just three days, prepare for a fun-filled and busy trip. Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit and towels, hiking clothes, reusable water bottles, lots of snacks, your camera, and a sense of adventure. We’ve got the quintessential “Hendersonville” experience planned for you. Enjoy your visit!
    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building

    Day 1: Hit the Highlights

    You will want to arrive to town as early as possible. While you may not be able to check into your hotel until the afternoon, this is the perfect time to explore Downtown Hendersonville. Check out the shops, grab some souvenirs, and stock up on snacks at Mast General Store, known for its nostalgic and North Carolina-based treats, including giant barrels of candy.

    Be sure to visit McFarlan Bakery, a from-scratch bakery with recipes that have been unchanged for nearly 100 years. Known for their cinnamon rolls and glazed donuts, McFarlan’s is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly.

    For lunch, Downtown offers more than 25 locally-owned restaurants. Poll the family for their preferences: burgers from Brook’s Tavern, sandwiches from Mountain Deli, Pad Thai from Thai Spice, or authentic Philly cheesesteaks from from Tartans Sports Bar.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building
    Just up the mountain from your hotel, go to Jump Off Rock, a scenic overlook that might just turn into a playground for the kiddos, with its hiking trails and big boulders to climb on. After snapping a family photo, meander halfway back down the mountain to Echo Mountain Inn, where you’ll stay for the next few days. The pool will tempt the kids, while the quiet porches with mountain views will appeal to the parents.

    By late summer, many of the area’s apple orchards are open. Visit Grandad’s Apples N Such to get some apples, play in the corn maze, and enjoy dessert before dinner with a slice of apple pie a la mode or an apple cider donut.

    For dinner, stop at Binion’s Roadhouse, a Hendersonville staple since the 1970s. Kids will get a kick out of throwing peanut shells on the floor, and parents will appreciate not having to clean up the mess. Known for their steaks, the fried mushroom appetizer serves as a welcome surprise and the yeast rolls are simply unforgettable.

    couple looking out at mountain views from scenic overlook

    Day 2: Experience The cooler things

    Start the day early with breakfast at the Inn before hitting the trails. Western North Carolina offers endless outdoor adventures, and first up for today is mountain biking. Rent bikes from Epic Cycles (reservations recommended) then go out to DuPont State Recreational Forest. Younger riders will find their best options include the Ridgeline Trail (park at Lake Imaging Access Area) or the Kids Bike Loop (park at Guion Farms Access Area). For new, less experienced trail riders, the pump track at The Riveter is a great alternative (rentals available).

    Return your bikes and head to Hot Dog World for lunch. This local favorite has been serving up hot dogs since the 1980s, with the “slaw dog” being the most popular choice. One taste and you will understand how they manage to sell 6,000-7,000 dogs per week!

    Save room for dessert because up next is a stop on Hendersonville’s Ice Cream Trail. The trail has 13 different ice cream shops serving up cool treats, each location offering something a little different. It can be hard to choose just one ice cream shop, but today, we recommend swinging by Karolina Kremes, located right on Route 64 in Etowah. They offer a great selection of milkshakes, soft serve and hand dipped ice cream.

    From one cool treat to another: up next is a dip in the waters at Looking Glass Falls, located in Pisgah National Forest. One of the largest and best-known waterfalls in the area, Looking Glass Falls is right on the side of the road, and after just a quick walk down a set of stairs, you can swim in the cool waters below the falls. As always, please practice waterfall safety, and pack out your trash with you to help preserve our scenic outdoors and pristine waters.

    Stop back at Echo Mountain Inn to clean up prior to dinner.

    inside historic building and brandy bar

    A trip to Western North Carolina could not be complete without partaking in the local beer or wine scene. (Did you know Hendersonville has its own AVA or nationally certified wine region?)

    Finish up your evening at the best-known brewery in the region, Sierra Nevada. Most days, they offer brewery tours — reservations are required for a small fee, and the last tour begins at 5:30pm, however, children under age 13 are not permitted.

    If a tour doesn’t fit your family and your timeline, you can still explore parts of the brewing process on your own, everything from the brew kettles to the canning line are visible.

    For dinner, Sierra Nevada has its own restaurant with 2 different dining options: you can either eat from the full menu with table service (indoor and outdoor seating options) or there is a walk-up window on the back patio that sell snacks and sandwiches, and offers a more relaxed, outdoor setting, which includes lots of tables and chairs, a small playground, gardens, and open spaces.

    inside historic building and brandy bar

    Day 3: Treats & Good Eats

    First up, you’re off to the Carl Sandburg Home. The hike up to the highest elevation at this National Historic Site, Big Glassy Mountain, is approximately 3.5 miles round trip, and offers a scenic view of the farms, forests and historic homes below. On the way down, you’ll want to stop by the goat barn, which in its hey-day housed the award-winning herd of more than 200 goats that were tended to by author Carl Sandburg’s wife, Lillian. These days, the barn is home to around 15 of the original herd’s descendants. If you have time, the home, which remains exactly as it was when the “Poet of the People” lived there in the 1940s through 1960s, is available to tour, but advance reservations are required.

    After exploring the Carl Sandburg Home, grab some lunch at nearby Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. Opened in 2007, Hubba Hubba is the real deal. They smoke their choice cuts low and slow, in a wood-fired pit, using the best native hardwoods.

    Next, it’s back on the trail – the Ice Cream Trail! Drive over to McConnell Farms for some creamy, dreamy gelato-style confections. What started as a farm growing tobacco, corn and wheat, McConnell Farms, like most of the farms in the area, eventually transitioned to apples, and then when current-day farmer, Danny McConnell, took over the family business, a new idea emerged: a farm that grows all sorts of fruits and veggies in order to support its ice cream business.

    You may not be able to take McConnell Farms’ ice cream home with you, but you will want to stock up on the fruits, veggies and persevered items at the farm stand before you head safely home.

    Your guide to apple season in Hendersonville, NC

    Your guide to apple season in Hendersonville, NC

    Your guide to apple season in Hendersonville, NC

    Hendersonville’s 20+ apple orchards grow more varieties of apples than you can even imagine! This fall, discover the best apple for your palate. 

    Hendersonville's apple growing history through today

    The first apple trees were planted in the farmlands surrounding Hendersonville in the mid-1700s, long before Johnny Appleseed roamed the Midwest United States planting trees. And whether it was because the apples were good eatin’, great for making hard cider, or a way for land prospectors to claim and improve land is up for debate (by somebody else), but one thing is for sure: apples have certainly always grown well in this particular mountain climate.

    For a long time in more recent Hendersonville history, most of the area’s apple orchards grew apples for juice and baby food, but when the local Gerber plant shut down, Hendersonville’s farmers learned to pivot.

    Since the 1990s, some orchards began growing apples for grocery stores and some still sell for juice, but many opened their doors and welcomed the public in. Now, more than 20 apple orchards are open for either U-pick or as a roadside stand, either way, providing their fresh fruits direct to the customer all fall long.

    Apple trees grow well in the fertile soil here, and enjoy the warm days and cool nights, which has helped Henderson County to grow to be one of the top 20 producing counties in the country, but what is really interesting is how many different kinds of apples are grown right here, each kind ripening on its own schedule.

    This guide walks you through some of the kinds of apples grown here, and when you are likely to be able to buy them.

    Early Season APples

    • Early Fuji — has a sweet and crisp texture with a juicy flesh — great for eating fresh
    • Gala — sweet and mild flavor, with a crisp texture — great for snacking and salads
    • Ginger Gold — has a sweet-tart flavor and a crisp texture, and resists browning when cut — great to eat fresh
    • Golden Delicious — sweet and rich with a soft, juicy flesh — versatile for both eating fresh and cooking
    • Honeycrisp — renowned for their exceptional crispness and juicy texture with just a hint of tartness — great for eating fresh and baking
    • Jonathan — a classic! Has a great balance of sweet and tart flavors — great for pies and cider making
    • Melrose — cross between Jonathan and Red Delicious apples, they are slightly tart, with a firm, juicy texture — great for eating, baking and applesauce
    • Redfree — has a sweet-tart flavor and crisp texture — good for fresh eating and cooking
    • Ruben — cross between Elstar and Gala apples, has a sweet flavor with a hint of acidity and a crisp, juicy flesh — good for eating fresh, especially in salads
    • Swiss Gourmet — a cross between Golden Delicious and Idared, they have a sweet-tart flavor and a firm, crisp texture — best for baking 
    • Tsuguru — A Japanese apple variety with a sweet flavor and a juicy, crisp texture — best eaten fresh
    • Wolf River — large apples that are mildly tart and hold their shape well when baked — best for baking
    • Zestar — has a sweet-tart flavor and a crisp, juicy texture — good for eating fresh and for cooking

    Mid-Season Apples

    • Ambrosia — Sweet and juicy with a honey flavor and crisp texture — great for eating fresh
    • Candy Crisp — very sweet with a juicy, crisp texture — best enjoyed fresh
    • Cortland — sweet-tart with a crisp texture that resists browning — great for snacking and eating on salads
    • Empire — sweet, tart, and juicy with a firm texture — good for eating and cooking
    • Enterprise — mildly tart with a firm, juicy texture — good for eating and cooking
    • Fuji — Sweet and crisp with a dense, juicy flesh — great for eating fresh
    • Granny Smith — known for their tartness, they have a crisp, juicy texture — excellent for baking and cooking, plus good for eating fresh, for those who enjoy very tart apples
    • Jonagold — a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, they are sweet-tart with a honeyed flavor and a crisp, juicy texture — great for eating fresh or baking
    • King Luscious — large and sweet with a mild flavor, with a firm, juicy texture — great for eating and baking
    • McIntosh — Known for their tender, juicy flesh and tart flavor — great for eating, applesauce, and baking
    • Mutsu — sweet-tart with a firm, juicy texture — great for eating and cooking
    • Red Delicious — mildly sweet with a soft texture — best eaten fresh
    • Rome — mildly tart with a firm texture — best for cooking
    • Shizuka — similar to Mutsu, they have a sweet with a firm, juicy texture — great for eating and cooking
    • Splendor — sweet and juicy with a crisp texture — best eaten fresh
    • Stayman/Winesap known for their tart and spicy flavor, they have a firm, juicy texture — excellent for baking and cider making
    • Winecrisp rich, sweet-tart flavor with a firm, crisp texture — great for eating and cooking

    Late apple varieties

    • Arkansas Black — Known for their deep, almost black-red skin, they are very firm and crisp with a mildly sweet-tart flavor that actually improves after some time in storage — great for eating and baking
    • Braeburn — sweet-tart with a hint of spice, they have a crisp, juicy texture — good for eating and cooking
    • Cameo — sweet-tart flavor and a firm, crisp texture that resists browning — great for eating and salads
    • Evercrisp — a cross between Honeycrisp and Fuji, they are very sweet and exceptionally crisp and juicy — best eaten fresh
    • Gold Rush — balanced sweet-tart flavor with a spicy undertone and a very crisp texture that actually improves after some time in storage — great for eating and cooking
    • Nittany — sweet-tart with a firm, juicy texture — great eaten fresh or baked
    • Pink Lady — tart-sweet with a crisp, juicy texture and a distinctive pink skin — excellent eaten fresh or for baking

    The Ice Cream Trail: Hendersonville Locals Offer The Inside Scoop on Their Favorite Ice Cream

    The Ice Cream Trail: Hendersonville Locals Offer The Inside Scoop on Their Favorite Ice Cream

    The Ice Cream Trail: Hendersonville Locals Offer The Inside Scoop on Their Favorite Ice Cream

    Hendersonville is quickly becoming known as the “Ice Cream Capitol of North Carolina,” with 13 stops on its Ice Cream Trail, there is everything to choose from, including creamy gelato and custard style ice creams, to worldly flavors from Ireland and Mexico, well known favorites, like Hershey’s and even frozen yogurt, where you can choose from tons of different topping options.

    A Sweet Welcome to the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail

    We warmly invite you to explore all 13 delightful stops on the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail. With such a tantalizing array of sweet treats available, deciding where to begin can be quite the challenge! To assist you in this delicious dilemma, we sought the expertise of local self-proclaimed “Confectionary Connoisseurs.” These passionate ice cream enthusiasts have shared their insights on must-visit locations and flavors that simply cannot be overlooked.

    We thank all of our local experts for their invaluable recommendations, but remember, only you can decide where in Hendersonville to go to grab your next cup or waffle cone.

    Enjoy your journey through the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail, and may your taste buds be endlessly delighted!

    Meet Michele & Elaisa, Owners of Brightwaters Vacation Rentals

    Favorite ice cream shop: Whit’s Frozen Custard

    Favorite Flavors: For Michele, it’s the Brownie Batter and for Elaisa, it’s Chocolate, with a swirl of peanut butter on top. Max (Yorkie), Sadie Mae (miniature Schnauzer) and Cheo (Weimaraner, not pictured) are all enjoying full-size pup cups (vanilla, with peanut butter topping and a doggy bone)

    Why Michele and Elaisa love Whit’s: “The daily flavors are imaginative and delicious, and our dogs LOVE the pup cups!”

    Meet Brittney, Joseph & Sofia from Hands On! Children's Museum

    Favorite ice cream shop: Kilwin’s

    Favorite Flavors: Brittney loves the Mint Chocolate Chip, Joseph is torn between Apple Pie & Cappuccino Chocolate Chip, and Sofia also loves the Cappuccino Chocolate Chip.

    Why Kilwin’s? Kilwin’s supports Hands on Children’s Museum and even has an exhibit! Plus, Brittney says, “they make the best mint chocolate chip.” Joseph says, “I love apples and coffee makes everything better!” Sofia says, “I like coffee and chocolate, and Kilwin’s does a great job of combining the two flavors.”

    Meet Summer, Gibson & Jude, Owner of Juniper

    Favorite ice cream shop: Whit’s Frozen Custard

    Favorite Flavors: Summer’s favorite ‘daily flavor’ is Churro, but if they don’t have that, she gets a Whitser with Oreos & cookie dough; Gibson’s favorite daily flavor is Banana Pudding; and Jude’s is a Whittie (Ice Cream/Custard Sandwich).

    Why this whole family loves Whit’s: “The reasons are two-fold: their custard is absolutely delicious & we can walk there from our house!”

    Meet Ashley Clifford & Aaron Adams, Owners of White Duck Taco Shop

    Favorite ice cream shop: El Rio Ice Cream & Paleteria

    Favorite Flavors: Ashley loves the Pistachio in a regular cone and Aaron loves the Guayaba in a regular cone.

    Ashley & Aaron love El Rio because: “It’s locally owned and operated with many unique flavors that are just delicious.”

    Meet Tracy Cavagnaro & Todd Kirmss, Owners of Holt Orchards

    Favorite ice cream shop: McConnell Farms

    Favorite Flavors: “We have many favorites!” On their most recent stop, Tracy chose Pumpkin Chunkin’ and Todd had Raspberry Hooray.

    What this brother & sister duo loves about McConnell Farms: “We love it because McConnell Farms is close to our own farm, they have unique flavors and it’s all homemade. The setting is beautiful and, of course, we always like to support our fellow farmers.”

    Your Guide to Hendersonville’s EV Charging Stations

    Your Guide to Hendersonville’s EV Charging Stations

    Your Guide to Hendersonville’s EV Charging Stations

    As more and more people own electric cars, more and more people are wanting to know where to charge their vehicle. Well, it is no surprise that a Bee City USA and a Tree City embraces EVs and has many charging options. See below for a town-by-town guide to juice up and go.

    Downtown Hendersonville

    City of Hendersonville Azalea Parking Lot
    301 N. King St., Hendersonville
    – 1 FREE J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    City of Hendersonville Dogwood Parking Lot
    411 N. Church St., Hendersonville
    – 2 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    City of Hendersonville Parking Deck
    432 N. Church St., Hendersonville
    – 4 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

     

    Greater Hendersonville Area

    Boyd Automotive
    1875 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville
    1 FREE J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    Chick-fil-A Hendersonville South
    640 Spartanburg Hwy, Hendersonville
    1 FREE NACS Tesla Port

    Chick-fil-A Hendersonville North
    60 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville
    – 1 FREE NACS Tesla Port

    Hendersonville Community Co-op Grocery Store
    60 South Charleston Lane, Hendersonville
    – 2 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    Hunter Nissan
    1340 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville
    1 FREE J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    Ingles Market
    625 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville
    2 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    Panera Bread
    160 Coolridge Street, Hendersonville
    – 12 PAID CCS & Tesla Superchargers (Level 3)

    Parks Ford
    601 Duncan Hill Road, Hendersonville
    1 PAID J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    Patton Park
    114 E. Clairmont Dr., Hendersonville
    – 2 PAID J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    Flat Rock Area

    Blue Ridge Community College
    2 East Campus Drive, Flat Rock
    – 3 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)
    -2 PAID CCS & CHAdeMO Ports Level 3

    Fairfield Inn & Suites
    836 Upward Rd., Flat Rock
    2 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    Holiday Inn Express
    107 Upward Crossing Drive, Flat Rock
    – 1 FREE J1772 Charging Port (Level 2)

    Pinebrook Manor (for guests only)
    2701 Kanuga Rd., Hendersonville
    – 1 FREE (to guests) Tesla Charger (Level 2) 

    Village of Flat Rock Offices
    110 Village Center Drive, Flat Rock
    – 2 PAID J1772 Charging Ports 

    Fletcher & Mills River

    Sierra Nevada Brewery
    100 Sierra Nevada Way, Fletcher
    6 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    Mills River Park
    124 Town Center Drive, Mills River
    4 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

    Asheville Regional Airport
    61 Terminal Drive, Fletcher
    –  2 FREE J1772 Charging Ports (Level 2)

     

    10 Ways to Experience the Arts in Hendersonville

    10 Ways to Experience the Arts in Hendersonville

    10 Ways to Experience the Arts in Hendersonville

    Hendersonville is known for its vibrant arts scene, which includes live theatre and music, art galleries and studios, street art and murals, arts festivals, art class or instruction offerings, and multiple organizations dedicated to supporting the arts in the community.

    Arts & Crafts

    Western North Carolina has been known for its rich arts tradition for decades. Original settlers developed skills to make utilitarian wares, clothing and household items, which were vital to a family’s survival in this remote region.

    Over time, those skills once necessary for daily life evolved into fine crafts and artistic media. Schools devoted to craft and art sprang up, and people from all over the world came to Blue Ridge Mountain communities to develop their talents in pottery, glass, photography, fiber, music, dance and theater, to name a few.

    Today Hendersonville is home to a vibrant arts community with a diverse array of media represented. Check out these 10 ways to experience the arts firsthand on your next visit to Hendersonville.

    main-street-coffee

    Live art

    1)  Flat Rock Playhouse, the state theater of North Carolina, is known as the “Little Broadway in the Mountains.” For more than 70 years it has entertained audiences with professional performances of top musicals, comedies, dramas and farces from February through December. In recent years, a popular music series has been added. The theater crafts every element of each show, including the sets and costumes. A favorite annual tradition is “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas,” a musical variety show that promises tried-and-true classics and new surprises each year. The grounds themselves resemble a work of art with colorful gardens maintained by local Master Gardeners.

    driver standing in front of a private van

    events that celebrate art

    2)  What do you get when you combine fine wines, local artists and a mountaintop setting overlooking acres of rolling vineyards — La Vie En Rosé Art & Wine Festival. The three-day event takes place in mid-June at Marked Tree Vineyard. Take a plein air painting workshop, listen to a poetry reading or symphony concert, and meander through the artist village. All the while enjoy sipping Marked Tree rosé and soaking in mountain views that stretch for miles.

    3)  The last weekend of September, Hendersonville’s serpentine Main Street transforms into an outdoor gallery for more than 70 artisans to display and sell their work. Art on Main, a juried event, attracts artists from throughout the Southeast and is regarded as one of the finest outdoor art shows in the region. Artistic media include oil and acrylic painting, clay, metal, wood, fiber, photography and jewelry. Several artists demonstrate their talents and answer questions about their processes. Judges present awards for fine art, fine craft and overall best of show.

    pork chop over mashed potatoes on a plate

    Art Galleries

    4)  Tucked into a small strip of shops in this eclectic village, the Gallery at Flat Rock exhibits 60 regionally and nationally known artists. Many artists live in Henderson County and surrounding mountain towns, which offers a few perks for gallery shoppers. Artists often drop off work in person and interact with customers. The gallery also offers a slew of events, such as artist meet-and-greets, exhibit opening receptions and workshops. Each September, Art in Bloom pairs floral designers with artists to present floral interpretations of various works of art.

    5)  See artists in their natural habitat at Art MoB Studios. This downtown gallery has five resident artists who maintain studios in the back of the shop. Visitors may watch them work, ask them questions and purchase pieces directly from the working studios. For a decade, Art MoB has showcased the work of more than 80 local and regional fine artists and fine crafters.

    6)  Art on 7th is located in Hendersonville’s up-and-coming Seventh Avenue district, known as downtown’s creative edge. The gallery is the county’s only contemporary art gallery. Exhibiting work from local artists (Hendersonville, Asheville, Flat Rock, Horse Shoe), as well as artists from throughout the Southeast (Texas, Florida, Alabama), Art on 7th adds a distinct element to the town’s arts community. The diverse lineup of artists includes black, Mexican and Japanese artists. Media include glass, sculpture, wood, fiber and numerous forms of painting.

    7)  Make a single stop into Horse Shoe Gap Village and discover a collection of artsy businesses. Expect to see hand-blown glass, clay sculptures, antique and vintage home decor, jewelry made by metalsmiths, and inspirational paintings. ShareWell Coffeehouse, also located in the village, serves locally roasted coffee and baked goods to fuel your shopping spree.

    8)  For a touch of Hollywood in Hendersonville pop in the cottage-style Sweet Magnolia Gallery. This is the storefront of jewelry artist Melinda Lawton. Lawton’s career started in Hollywood as a graphics artist for the film industry. Along the way, she started making jewelry, inspired by the vintage pieces she had collected all her life. Then one night, Carrie Underwood wore her earrings on live TV when she won “American Idol.” Things took off from there. Now Lawton sells unique pieces to superstars and Hendersonville residents and visitors.

    hidden-trails-coffeehouse
    hidden-trails-coffeehouse
    hidden-trails-coffeehouse

    Street and public art

    9)  Each May, a new set of 20 bright bear statues hits Main Street for the Bearfootin’ Art Walk. Each bear is decorated by a different artist and dedicated to a local nonprofit. Often the artwork relates to the worthy causes the bears support. These colorful bears have become social media stars, so make sure you snag a selfie with one as you stroll. In October, the bears are auctioned off for charity and go to their permanent homes. The auction brings in more than $100,000 annually for local nonprofits.

    10)  An elaborate honeybee mural covers two sides of the building housing Hands On! Children’s Museum in downtown Hendersonville. The mural, which is designed to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators, depicts honeybees, butterflies and native flowers. The mural is part of an international campaign by artist Matthew Willey called The Good of the Hive, which involves painting 50,000 honeybees — the number in a healthy hive — in murals around the world. To see the mural, walk along Third Avenue between Main and King Streets.

     

    hidden-trails-coffeehouse

    Make ‘Em Laugh!

    Make ‘Em Laugh!

    Make ‘Em Laugh!

    “Her laugh was beautiful,” said Scott Treadway, “and even though I was only 6 years old, I was addicted from that point on.”

    Meet Scott Treadway

    Scott Treadway grew up in Tennessee, but he began spending summers in Hendersonville as a child, visiting his aunt Louise. His first introduction to Flat Rock Playhouse was an apprenticeship in 1984. Since then, Scott has performed in more than 145 productions across 40 seasons and directed more than 14 shows. Today, theater patrons scan the program to see which character will benefit from Scott’s quick wit and enthusiasm.

    Flat Rock Playhouse traces its roots to a traveling troupe of performers known as the Vagabond Players. In 1952, the troupe purchased a piece of property, and a rented big top tent became the first Flat Rock Playhouse. In 1961, the North Carolina General Assembly designated Flat Rock Playhouse as the State Theatre of North Carolina. The playhouse is now a year-round arts hub for Broadway musicals, comedy, drama and theater for young audiences, as well as the Music on the Rock concert series.

    Two women pose for the camera, smiling

    Caught the bug young

    At only 6 years old, Scott received puppets for Christmas, and began performing shows for his sister, who had severe cerebral palsy. 

    “She couldn’t walk or talk, but she could laugh. Her laugh was beautiful, and I was addicted from that point on,” said Scott. As he got a little older, he spent his time waiting for Saturday night at 10 p.m. — ‘The Carol Burnett Show.’ It was through these that he developed his love for comedy and his sense of comedic timing.

    “I suppose I just have an ear for comedy,” Scott continued, “and to be honest, I feel most worthwhile, most productive when I make people laugh. It’s a feeling of accomplishment, and it feels like I’m doing something good.

    A woman puts things into the trunk of her SUV in front of an old stone house

    Reflecting on his acting career

    Scott got his start at the Flat Rock Playhouse in the ensemble of many productions, but finally got his first “real role” in 1985 portraying Eugene in ‘Look Homeward, Angel.’ 

    “It was and still is one of the most important roles for me,” Scott says. “The playhouse performed the show annually for years. I was given the honor of playing the Thomas Wolfe role in the final production.”

    With so many roles under his belt, it’s hard for Scott to choose a favorite role. The ‘Tuna’ shows (a series of comedic plays where 2 actors play all the parts) were some of the most popular, and Scott had a lot of fun acting in them.

    “I also really loved ‘The Drowsy Chaperone,’ a wonderful musical where I played a role called ‘Man in Chair.’ I literally sat in a comfy chair and talked to the audience while the rest of the cast sweated their butts off, but I got to get laughs,” Scott said. “And my recent role of Michael in ‘God of Carnage’ was an absolute blast. It’s really impossible to pick just one favorite.”

    What Makes it the State Theater of North Carolina?

    Not everyone realizes that The Flat Rock Playhouse creates every show from the ground up: sets, costumes, music, sometimes even the scripts/plays themselves. There is an entire crew that works tirelessly back stage, creating and moving sets to make each performance magical. And the Playhouse’s culture in the live acting world is one of legend — many actors and crew members come back time and again, or even move here, because they know there is something quite special about this theater, and how each show is approached and crafted.

    “Theatre is an artform where every production is blessed by each theater’s personal artistic interpretation and approach,” said Scott. “When the entire Playhouse team gets to formulate the role, environment and interpretation, we all feel as if we are building our own unique show.”

    Meaning a performance at the Flat Rock Playhouse is truly one-of-a-kind, and won’t be like one you’ve seen at any other theater. 

    Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas season show

    Scott's Top 5 Hendersonville Suggestions

    Big Glassy at the Carl Sandburg Home
    What Scott says about it: “You have to hike Big Glassy at Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. It’s my favorite spot on God’s earth.

    Three Chopt 
    What Scott says about it: “Get a ‘sammich’ at Three Chopt in downtown Hendersonville. So good!”

    Downtown Hendersonville
    What Scott says about it: “I recommend you take a stroll down our glorious Hendersonville Main Street. I just love it
    .

    Hubba Hubba Smokehouse and Little Rainbow Row
    What Scott says about it: “Partake of Rainbow Row in Flat Rock and get the best barbecue anywhere at Hubba Hubba Smokehouse!”

    U-Pick Apples
    What Scott says about it: “Pick your own apples at one of our wonderful apple orchards.”

    “Summer Camp” Movie Copycat Itinerary

    “Summer Camp” Movie Copycat Itinerary

    “Summer Camp” Movie Copycat Itinerary

    Experience your own “Summer Camp” getaway in Hendersonville and feel like one of the movie’s stars!

    Welcome to Summer Camp!

    Summer Camp, starring Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard, Eugene Levy and Josh Peck has turned out to be one of the summer’s most endearing comedies, retelling the story of 3 lifelong friends attending a reunion at their beloved summer camp in the mountains of North Carolina, Camp Pinnacle.

    While Camp Pinnacle is an actual kid’s summer camp right here in Flat Rock that has been around for almost 100 years and was the setting for most of the film, it isn’t open to the public. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a fun camp-like getaway just like the stars did!

    (Please note: we tried not to give too much away from the movie, but there may be one or two things in this itinerary that could be considered spoilers. Read at your own risk!)

    Checking In Please!

    While the swanky cabin that Ginny, Nora & Mary stayed in (decorated by Martha!) might have been a little bit of “movie magic,” you will find some equally swanky accommodations at The Horse Shoe Farm (yup, it used to be a horse farm, just like in the movie!!) Check into your plush lodging, there are options ranging from large houses to small cabins and even single rooms, comparable to a hotel room.  And the best part? You won’t need to turn in your devices – though you may want to turn them off, as you dive headfirst into a few days of relaxation and outdoor immersion.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building

    Day 1

    In the movie, the girls spent a lot of time hanging around the gorgeous Camp Pinnacle property and in its outdated computer lab, and at Horse Shoe Farm, you will find similar places to chill out: the pool, sauna, hot tub, cold plunge tub, swimming lakes, nature trails that lead to the French Broad River, and the communal game room. Spending some time on the property will help you to image yourself right there at your own camp reunion! The Horse Shoe Farm also has The Stable Spa right on-site. You are sure to feel like a celebrity while you are pampered in this energizing space.

    Two women relaxing at the spa.

    To recreate the cocktail reception scene, head to the restaurant at The Farm, The Silo Cookhouse, where you will enjoy cocktails and a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.

    After supper, head outside to enjoy a crackling campfire – where you won’t be expected to share your deepest, darkest secrets with someone who looks like Kathy Bates!

    pork chop over mashed potatoes on a plate

    Day 2

    In Summer Camp, Mary loved horseback riding. Those scenes were filmed at Shoal Creek Farm, which offers horse boarding and a small cottage for rent, meaning you can’t actually go there to ride, but you can either drive by Shoal Creek to see some stunning horses on your way to a hike at DuPont State Forest, or if you are itching to ride, you can instead head over to the Turkey Pen Gap Trailhead in Pisgah National Forest and go for a trail ride with Saddle Up Trail Rides. Afterwards, head back to The Farm to relax, or grab a coffee and a light lunch at the nearby Cognative Brew House.

    4 people sitting on a rock on top of a mountain at sunset

    The whitewater rafting scenes were filmed at a location a few hours from Hendersonville, but the girls were expecting a “lazy river excursion,” so instead of driving all the way to Nantahala, find your own lazy rafting day with Lazy Otter Outfitters, where you can float down the French Broad River, right past the Horse Shoe Farm.

    CLT-Living-1

    While we can’t promise you a food fight like in the movie, we can promise you a similar dining experience right down the road from Camp Pinnacle at the Campfire Grill, owned by a local former summer camper, this restaurant is completely inspired by the summer camp culture and history of the region – but please, no throwing food! (And hey, on your way to dinner, be sure to drive by Camp Pinnacle to see the same sign from the beginning of the film at the entry to camp!)

    Also nearby, the Flat Rock Cinema played home to a reception for the cast and crew when the movie premiered, and houses a signed Summer Camp movie poster!

    BONUS! Recommendations from the stars

    The actors in the movie loved filming in Hendersonville and Flat Rock! Here are some of the things they loved most about their time spent filming here. Many Hendersonville locals also supported the film as extras on the set, and overwhelmingly, the favorite thing the extras loved was filming the food fight scene!

    Appalachian Pinball Museum
    What Summer Camp actor Josh Peck said about it in a behind the scenes invterview: “I went to the Appalachian Pinball Museum, which was the sickest thing I’ve ever seen!”

    Downtown Hendersonville
    What Summer Camp actor Josh Peck said about it in a behind the scenes interview: “Hendersonville was beautiful. They have an adorable downtown.”

    Spring flowers and nature
    What Summer Camp actress Kathy Bates said about it in a behind the scenes interview: “Hearing the birds. Driving in and every day, we would drive in and there would be more flowers — like they bloomed overnight!

    Jump Off Rock
    What Summer Camp actress Beverly D’Angelo visited and loved were the amazing views, per an Instagram post shared shortly after filming wrapped.

    The Fresh Air and Beauty in Nature
    What Summer Camp actress Beverly D’Angelo said about it in a behind the scenes interview: “It’s a beautiful atmosphere, the air is fantastic
    ! Everywhere you look, you see the beauty in nature. And I think that just has a huge effect – the urgency that you feel, kind of floats away.

    Downtown Hendersonville & the Bearfootin’ Bears
    What Summer Camp’s younger actresses Kensington Tallman, Taylor Madeline Hand & Audrianna Lico visited and loved (besides the laughs and lifelong friendships they made) was visiting Downtown Hendersonville and seeing the Bearfootin’ Bears Public Art Display, per Instagram posts each of them made. 

    The Almost Camper — 3-Day Itinerary

    The Almost Camper — 3-Day Itinerary

    The Almost Camper — 3-Day Itinerary

    For the Almost Camper: You enjoy time outdoors and may have fond memories of childhood summer camp, but you aren’t packing a sleeping bag this week! You’re ready to reminisce and relax, while adding in a few outdoor activities.

    Engage all your senses

    This itinerary offers up a blend of outdoor escapades, re-living childhood favorites, breathtaking views and some darn good food. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a good time, this weekend-long schedule has something for everyone. So, buckle up and let’s hit the road!

    Friday: Ease into the weekend

    Hendersonville has a lot of great vacation rental homes, and one of our favorites is Carolina Wildwoods, because this lovely, clean space can accommodate up to 12 people, the shared space has both a foosball and an air hockey table, the kitchen is stocked with everything you could possibly need, has a great outdoor space with a firepit, and even a few hiking backpacks are provided. They have lots of games and kid’s items too, for those traveling with children.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building

    Once you check in, head to nearby Sierra Nevada, the east coast headquarters for their brewing operation, where they offer brewery tours, a great restaurant, live music, and grounds and gardens to explore. Be sure to register in advance for your tour, they tend to fill quickly, especially in the summertime. Tours go deep into the story of Sierra Nevada and explain why they chose the mountains of Western NC for their east coast set up. For dinner, you can either sit down inside for small plates, snacks and pizzas, or head outside to their back porch, where they offer a smaller selection of sandwiches and snacks.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building

    Saturday: Scenic Drive and Local Favorites

    Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Fletcher Village Bakery, fueling up for a day of fun ahead. Then, hop in the car and head to the Blue Ridge Parkway, where stunning vistas and historic landmarks await.

     The closest entrance to the famous 469-mile scenic route is at the North Carolina Arboretum, located just south of Asheville. As you wind your way westward, marvel at the 10 hand-built tunnels crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Make sure to stop at the Pisgah Inn for panoramic views and photo ops aplenty.

    Exit the Parkway onto Route 276 and descend into Pisgah National Forest. Don’t miss the majestic Looking Glass Falls, a roadside waterfall that’s sure to take your breath away. As you journey back towards Hendersonville, you may want to make pit stops at a local coffee shop or art stores, but you must stop at Packa’s Place for a unique farm experience complete with beer, live music, and food trucks – and a herd of beefalo in a nearby pasture.

    After lunch, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Bullington Gardens, a public garden known for its dahlias and fairy trail. Though it is close to town, these 13 acres feel far from anything.

    Quench your thirst with a wine tasting at Souther Williams Winery, a bicentennial farm that has been in the same family for more than 200 years, and offers some truly spectacular wine.

    End your day on a high note with a scrumptious dinner at The Silo Cookhouse, a farm-to-table restaurant located at the Horse Shoe Farm, a place that can unironically be called magical, and is one of the best places to see a cozy sunset. Be sure to ask about s’mores by the fire pit after dinner.

    Horse-Shoe-Farm-Credit-Jared-Kay-copy3

    Sunday: Riverside Relaxation and Downtown Delights

    Start your morning off right with coffee and light breakfast at Cognative Brewhouse, gearing up for another day of excitement (pun intended, as they sell mountain biking gear here too). Then, head to Lazy Otter Outfitters for a leisurely paddle trip along the tranquil waters of the French Broad River, one of the oldest rivers in the world. Choose from a 4-mile or 7-mile paddle, and you’ll be picked up after your float.

    cognative-brewhouse-jared-kay

    You’ll work up an appetite on the river, so refuel with a delicious lunch at Arabella before exploring downtown Hendersonville. Relive your childhood memories at the Appalachian Pinball Museum, where you can play old pinball machines to your heart’s content for a flat fee, try your luck at gem mining at Pisgah Forest Gem Mine, grab an ice cream cone at Kilwin’s and check out the Bearfootin’ Bears, a fun public art installation.

    Plan your eclectic Getaway

    And there you have it, a perfect weekend getaway filled with scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights in Hendersonville. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure today!

    wine glasses clinking with mountain view

    The Glamper — 3-Day Itinerary

    The Glamper — 3-Day Itinerary

    The Glamper — 3-Day Itinerary

    For the Glamper: You reminisce fondly on your younger days spent at summer camp and in the great outdoors, but these days you crave a nice mix of recreation and relaxation.

    Recreation meets Relaxation

    This itinerary for 3 days spent in Hendersonville takes you out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerses you in the outdoors, while still making time for the restorative power of a vacation. From rustic cabins to scenic hikes, this getaway promises to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. So, pack your bags and let’s embark on a journey of relaxation and adventure!

     

    Your weekend starts at Kanuga Conference & Retreat Center, which is nestled amidst 1,400 peaceful, wooded acres. Kanuga has offered summer camp to kids since 1931, and the rest of the property, which offers a mountain bike park as well as the retreat center and conference space, feels like an extension of the summer camp, to the point that it still offers Kanuga toast in their buffet breakfast and plays the bugle call daily.

     

    Friday: Cabin Comforts and Downtown Delights

    After checking and settling in at Kanuga, head to downtown Hendersonville to take a leisurely stroll, stopping by Mast General Store to step back in time as you peruse their candy barrels, eclectic finds and camping essentials. You’ll want to grab a bottle of wine from Wine Sage Merchant & Wine Bar before indulging in dinner at the well-known White Duck Taco Shop, who offers non-traditional tacos, like Bangkok Shrimp and Mole Roasted Duck.

     

    Be sure to save room for ice cream from Celtic Creamery, where the top selling flavor is The Sea & The Bee. Celtic Creamery has a drive-thru window to easily take your treat to go. Head back to Kanuga to enjoy your ice cream and wine on the porch of your cabin.

    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building
    people crossing the street in front of a big coc-a-cola mural painted on a brick building