Discover Gratitude at Altitude in Hendersonville

Discover Gratitude at Altitude in Hendersonville

Discover Gratitude at Altitude in Hendersonville

Welcome to Hendersonville, where charming small-town vibes meet exciting city amenities. We sat down with Camden and Kiersten Diggs, social media influencers from Charlotte, to uncover the best of Hendersonville—a hidden gem less than a 2-hour drive from the Queen City. Join us as we explore their unforgettable experiences and recommendations for your next weekend getaway.

Why Hendersonville Stands Out

Camden and Kiersten love Hendersonville for its perfect blend of small-town charm and urban attractions. It’s a refreshing change of pace from bustling city life. The town’s proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway means stunning natural beauty is just minutes away, alongside fantastic dining options and unique activities.
“Hendersonville has a small-town charm (with such kind locals) while having the amenities of a city. This allows for a great change of pace when visiting from a bustling city.” 

CLT-Living-1

Unique Adventures: Llama Hiking

One standout adventure in Hendersonville? Llama hiking at Ellaberry Llama Farm! Camden and Kiersten raved about this personal ecotourism experience. Picture yourself choosing your llama hiking partner and strolling through an apple orchard. Making a connection with these gentle animals is truly unforgettable.
Hendersonville offers other great options for those who want to get outside and enjoy the view.

CLT-Living-1

The Cheers! Trail Experience

Exploring Hendersonville’s craft beverage scene on the Cheers! Trail was a highlight. Camden and Kiersten rode with Van in Black, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey through local wineries, breweries, and more.

 

Vineyard and Cidery Tours

Immerse yourself in Hendersonville’s burgeoning beverage scene with vineyard and cidery tours. Sip on award-winning wines amidst rolling vineyards, all while learning about the winemaking process from passionate vintners. Hendersonville’s fertile soil isn’t just good for grapes, though. Be sure to taste some of the crisp, locally crafted ciders at picturesque orchards, where tastings are often paired with stunning mountain views—a true treat for the senses.

Breathtaking Views from Jump Off Rock’s Scenic Overlook

Drive to the summit of Jump Off Rock for breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Perched high above Hendersonville, this vantage point offers a mesmerizing panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest. Capture stunning sunset hues painting the sky or simply soak in the tranquility of nature’s grandeur from this iconic spot. Camden and Kiersten shared a magical evening enjoying takeout while taking in the breathtaking mountain vistas.

 

 

 

 

CLT-Living-1
jump-off-rock<br />

Exploring Downtown’s Culinary Scene

There are a variety of diverse attractions and flavors waiting to be discovered in Hendersonville. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, or arcade aficionado, there’s something to delight every traveler in this charming North Carolina town.

Brunch at Arabella

Arabella is a must-visit for brunch enthusiasts in Hendersonville. Camden and Kiersten recommend it for its unbeatable homemade biscuits. Picture fluffy, buttery biscuits served with a variety of delicious toppings like local honey or savory gravy. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Arabella the perfect spot to start your day of exploration in Hendersonville.

Handmade Ice cream at Celtic Creamery

Cool off with a sweet treat from Celtic Creamery, where they churn fresh handmade ice cream daily. Camden and Kiersten loved the creamy textures and unique flavors offered here, which include innovative combinations that reflect the local flair of Hendersonville. Whether you’re a fan of traditional vanilla or adventurous enough to sample bourbon-infused scoops, Celtic Creamery promises a delightful experience for your taste buds.

A Memorable Dinner at Postero

For a special evening out, head to Postero, a local favorite restaurant. Camden and Kiersten recommend this spot for its inviting ambiance and exceptional cuisine. From perfectly cooked steaks to creative vegetarian dishes, Postero’s menu showcases the uniqueness of Hendersonville’s culinary scene. Pair your meal with a local wine or craft cocktail for a truly memorable dining experience.

Discover Local Treasures: McFarlan Bakery and Dandelion Café

Explore the flavors of Hendersonville by visiting McFarlan Bakery and Dandelion Café. McFarlan Bakery, in operation since 1930, offers a nostalgic experience with its freshly baked pastries, bread, and cakes. Indulge in classic treats like cinnamon rolls or pick up a loaf of artisanal bread to enjoy later. At Dandelion Café Bakery, not only will you find delicious food, but you’ll also support a restaurant
dedicated to making a positive impact. The café serves up tasty dishes while providing support and education for survivors of violence—a true gem in Hendersonville’s culinary landscape.

 

 

teenage girl wearing an apron holding out ice cream cone with 2 scoops toward the camea
teenage girl wearing an apron holding out ice cream cone with 2 scoops toward the camea

Interactive Fun at the Appalachian Pinball Museum

Step back in time and enjoy a playful visit to the Appalachian Pinball Museum. Camden and Kiersten loved this interactive museum, which features a fascinating collection of vintage pinball machines and arcade games. Learn about the history of these classic games and then try your hand at playing them—all for a single admission fee that allows unlimited play all day!

Carolina Mountain Artists Guild for Unique Local Artwork

Check out Hendersonville’s vibrant arts scene at the Carolina Mountain Artists Guild. This creative cooperative showcases a diverse range of local artworks, from paintings and photography to jewelry and woodworking. Discover unique pieces that capture the essence of the Blue Ridge Mountains and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir to commemorate your trip.

appalachian-pinball-museum

Why Hendersonville?

Insider Tips for Hendersonville
To make the most of your trip, Camden and Kiersten recommend:
• Hiring a local driver for the Cheers! Trail
• Embracing Hendersonville’s local charm by exploring without a strict itinerary

“Our biggest recommendation is to hire a local driver to explore The Cheers! Trail with at the start of your trip,” they said. “Planning a tour at the start of a trip is something we always like to do because the locals recommend the best attractions and restaurants for the remainder of your stay.”

With insider tips from Camden and Kiersten, your Hendersonville getaway promises to be unforgettable. From llama hikes to scenic vistas and craft beverages to culinary delights, this charming destination has something for every traveler.

Ready to experience Hendersonville like a local? Plan your weekend adventure now and discover why this vibrant town is wowing its visitors with plenty of unforgettable mountain moments.

For The Love: History, Mountain Magic and Attention to Detail

For The Love: History, Mountain Magic and Attention to Detail

For The Love: History, Mountain Magic and Attention to Detail

“The mountains worked their magic, and we never looked back,” Michele says. “This is the place we were meant to settle.”

Meet Michele Azan and Elisabeth Perez

In 2007, Michele Azan and Elisabeth Perez made their first visit to Hendersonville for a four-day weekend with friends. The New York City residents were so charmed by Hendersonville’s warm and friendly people, they called a real estate agent on a whim and wound up putting an offer on a house during their vacation.

Not able to replicate their NYC careers here, they opted for a new take on something they dabbled in years earlier in Florida – vacation rentals. They knew how to renovate and decorate properties. Now the digital age made it easier to reach customers. With keen eyes and a love of history, they came across a group of cottages and cabins surrounding an old stone guesthouse in an area known as Brightwaters.

And Brightwaters Vacation Rentals were born.

Two women pose for the camera, smiling

A Lesson in History & Community

When they bought the property, Michele and Elizabeth immersed themselves in its interesting history. Both are history buffs and were intrigued to learn about the property.

In the early 1920s, a former shoe salesman from Pennsylvania named Samuel Childs purchased 400 acres west of Hendersonville from which he carved a 100-acre resort. He named it Brightwaters after an area near Tampa and promoted the resort to Floridians seeking to vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The resort consisted of 25 cabins, an eight-bedroom hotel, plus lodge and dining hall.

Today, the two-story, 1938 former hotel is the centerpiece of the property.

Michele and Elisabeth found it important to connect with the descendants of Mr. Childs, so they had their new neighbors connect them with Martha Pryor, Samuel Childs’ granddaughter, and were thrilled to hear Martha’s stories and pore over old photos and brochures of Brightwaters Resort.

“We’re forever grateful for her generosity in sharing so much info,” said Michele. “It’s important to us to be good stewards of the legacy created by Samuel Childs and maintain the stories of this key part of Hendersonville history.”

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

Inviting Atmosphere

Michele and Elisabeth are often complimented on the interior design of their properties. “Our philosophy is that each home has its own personality, designed to be warm, comfortable and inviting,” said Michele. “Our style has several components: thoughtful attention to detail; uncluttered spaces; texture and layering that delight the senses; decorative accents and large-scale artwork to add flair and drama; and mixing high/low, modern and vintage furniture to create interest and make the spaces feel like home.”

People also love that some of the Brightwaters properties are dog-friendly, a big part of what makes Hendersonville a unique place to visit. 

Lots to Love

Over the years, Michele and Elisabeth have welcomed guests from across the globe. Some of their notable mentions include: Alaska, Canada, Venezuela, Germany, Sweden, Ecuador, Argentina, Australia and China.

“We love meeting new people and offering help where we can,” says Elisabeth. “Over the years, many guests have become Hendersonville residents and we’ve helped them get settled. We support and share advice with local business owners, and partner with them to provide memorable visitor experiences.”

Why Hendersonville?

Our guests frequently tell us they come here for the plethora of outdoor activities our area offers – from pristine lakes, rivers and waterfalls to forests that welcome hikers, bikers and nature lovers. In particular, they also choose Hendersonville for U-pick apple orchards, and charming, family-friendly downtown Hendersonville, which is full of art galleries, unique boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops and breweries.

If there was one “secret” we could let potential visitors “in on,” it would be that September is one of the best times to visit. In September, it still feels like summer, but with a hint of fall. Plus, it’s easier to get reservations at popular destinations in our area.

Great for Groups

One thing that really makes Brightwaters stand out is that it offers 9 properties that neighbor one another and can accommodate up to 46 people. The property also offers a shared public, outdoor space, making this a great option for family reunions, bridal parties or small, destination weddings, as well as for other smaller sized groups and clubs visiting the region.

Each home comes with the amenities you would expect, like TVs and Wi-Fi, but also offers some extras, such as fully equipped kitchens, locked storage for outdoor gear, gas grills, and top-notch personalized, concierge-like services from Michele and Elisabeth — as much or as little as you would like. 

red Adirondack chairs surrounding a firepit without a fire

Michele & Elisabeth's Top 5 Hendersonville Suggestions

Jump Off Rock
What Michele & Elisabeth say about it: “This is one of the few peaks from which visitors can experience amazing views and sunsets without having to hike.”

Umi Japanese Restaurant
What Michele & Elisabeth say about it: “Umi offers consistently delicious food and great service seven days a week.

The Horse Shoe Farm
What Michele & Elisabeth say about it: “The
Horse Shoe Farm provides guests with luxury accommodations, a restaurant and spa, on an 85-acre riverfront estate.

Marked Tree Vineyard
What Michele & Elisabeth say about it: “They serve award-winning wines in a thoughtfully designed setting, including spectacular views from every angle.”

Packa’s Place
What Michele & Elisabeth say about it: “This beer garden welcomes everyone like family, offering music, food trucks and agritourism on their beefalo farm.”

Vineyards, Tranquility, and Culinary Delights: A Bachelorette Escape in Hendersonville

Vineyards, Tranquility, and Culinary Delights: A Bachelorette Escape in Hendersonville

Vineyards, Tranquility, and Culinary Delights: A Bachelorette Escape in Hendersonville

Before you say “I do,” it’s time to celebrate on a bachelorette trip you’ll never forget. Skip the hustle and bustle! Hendersonville will feel like a breath of fresh air, with its perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, charming wineries, rejuvenating spas and delectable restaurants. Join as we explore the ultimate bachelorette destination that promises relaxation, laughter and unforgettable memories!

Discover the allure of the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA

The Crest of the Blue Ridge was officially designated as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the summer of 2019 – a mark of distinction that solidifies Hendersonville’s reputation as a must-visit wine destination. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the region’s unique soil, climate, and elevation, creating the perfect terroir for grape production. With warm days, cool mountain nights, and pristine water quality, Hendersonville provides an idyllic setting for crafting exquisite wines, predominantly of the drier variety. And with views for days, it is the perfect, Instagrammable getaway with the gals.

Bonus! If your squad loves more than just wine, check out the Cheers! Trail. 

 

main-street-coffee
main-street-coffee

Getting Around Town

Because so much of the area surrounding Hendersonville is rural, it’s true that you can’t always catch an Uber, but thankfully, you can explore the local wineries worry-free with these convenient transportation services, any of which will ensure a smooth and delightful journey throughout your Hendersonville bachelorette bash!

  1. The Regal RideExperience tailor-made excursions to Western North Carolina’s vineyards, breweries, and distilleries with The Regal Ride. Travel in style aboard a new Mercedes Sprinter van, immersing yourself in the stunning local scenery. Offering customized tours for groups ranging from 2 to 26 persons.
  2. The Trolley Company Enjoy guided tours of Historic Hendersonville, Wine Tours, and special events with The Trolley Company. Arrange group transportation year-round for 1 to 200 passengers.
  3. Van in Black Choose from their fleet of spacious Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans and luxurious Cadillac Escalades, with easy online booking, pricing, and availability for your convenience.”
driver standing in front of a private van

Culinary Delights:

A special weekend away calls for a little indulgence! Treat your taste buds to the culinary wonders of Hendersonville during your bachelorette celebration. From farm-to-table delights to creative culinary experiences, savor every moment of this delectable adventure with your bride tribe. Looking for something more low-key? Check out our entire list of dining options!

 

  1. Season’s at Highland Lake Inn: Gather your squad for a delightful dining experience at Season’s. Located at Highland Lake Inn, this restaurant offers farm-to-table cuisine in a charming setting. Savor delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a carefully curated wine list.
  2. Postero: For a chic and contemporary dining experience, head to Postero in Downtown  Hendersonville. This restaurant combines modern flavors with Southern hospitality. With a diverse menu and craft cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to celebrate your last days as a bachelorette.
  3. Shine: Experience culinary excellence at Shine in Downtown Hendersonville. This restaurant is known for its creative dishes and warm ambiance, offering a unique and memorable dining experience. Celebrate with your friends and toast to the future with a curated selection of cocktails and wines.
pork chop over mashed potatoes on a plate
pork chop over mashed potatoes on a plate

Stay a While

Get the gals all together and choose from a large selection of whole-home vacation rentals tailored to your desires. Whether it’s a gracious mountain house for bride squad, a charming treehouse nestled in the woods, or a cozy cottage just steps away from main street dining and shops, the options are nearly endless.

Know your friends prefer a more traditional lodging option? Hendersonville also offers a great selection of both locally-owned and chain hotels, and even a few resort-style options, where you can really put all cares aside. 

hidden-trails-coffeehouse

"Bach"-tivities

From pedal-powered fun with HVL Pedal and Brews to llama farm hikes at Ellaberry Llama Farm, your bachelorette trip promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with artsy classes, scenic biking or hiking, kayaking, shopping, tea service, and farm experiences waiting to be explored.

  1. HVL Pedal and Brews: A lively 14-person pedal-powered vehicle with room for 10 Peddlers, 4 Non-Peddlers, and your entertaining conductor, offering downtown Hendersonville tours with humor, style, and BYOB fun, starting and stopping at Blue Ridge Beer Garden.
  2. Ellaberry Llama Farm: Check out Ellaberry Llama Farm for bachelorette-friendly tours, llama hikes, and even running the llamas through an obstacle course – a unique and delightful experience. Reservations required.
  3. The Art Place: This rotating gallery offers many special events, classes and workshops – a perfect bachelorette haven for art enthusiasts and to create unforgettable memories with your closest friends.
  4. Lazy Otter Outfitters: Offers kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle-boarding on the “undiscovered” and most tranquil stretch of the French Broad River – a scenic journey past wildlife and farmland that perfectly blends relaxation and outdoor recreation. Reservations required.
  5. The Book & Bee Café & Tea: An English-style café and tea room that offers literary-inspired décor, a delightful menu of sandwiches, salads, soups, assorted teas, scones, sweets, fruit, and more to indulge in.
  6. Jeter Mountain Farm: This 400-acre family farm is now a haven for U-pick apples, peaches, blueberries, flowers and more. Each fall, indulge in a variety of delights, from savoring traditional BBQ at the 1813 Smokehouse to enjoying locally roasted coffee at the Jeter Mountain Orchard Coffee House. With a hard cider tasting room, wagon rides, live music, and a market featuring apple cider donuts and handcrafted treasures, the farm offers a perfect blend of fun and relaxation for your celebration.
  7. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Did you really visit Western North Carolina if you didn’t take time to see a waterfall? DuPont is home to 6 waterfalls, including its most popular 3-mile waterfall hike, which includes Hooker Falls, Triple Falls & High Falls. Park at the Hooker Falls Access Area or High Falls Access Area.

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

Make Planning a Breeze

Not sure how to fit all these activities into one trip? No worries, Juniper, a local travel planning business, offers curated and crafted experiences that will save you time, help you discover local gems, and allow you to be more present! Juniper is run by a true Hendersonville native, so you are sure to find the best everything Hendersonville has to offer on your weekend getaway.

Two women relaxing at the spa.

A Different Kind Of Camping Experience

A Different Kind Of Camping Experience

A Different Kind Of Camping Experience

The Cold Spring Basecamp team is a vibrant ensemble of individuals who share a deep-rooted love for this pristine wilderness.

 

Guest Writer: Hartwell Carson

Meet the People Behind Cold Spring Basecamp

Cold Spring Basecamp is a family-owned business spearheaded by partners Steve Waggoner and Hartwell Carson. Steve knows the basecamp like the back of his hand, as he grew up camping on this property as a kid. His father, Bill Waggoner, was the owner of Camp Windy Wood on Lake Summit, and the Cold Spring property was used for overnight camping and adventures. Bill and Steve built some of the original cabins by hand.

Steve Waggoner: A native of the area, Steve’s upbringing was steeped in the wonders of camping and adventure as he spent his days exploring every nook and cranny of this pristine property, starting with his time as a camp counselor and over the next three decades, through his career as a land surveyor. His journey of discovery has made Steve intimately familiar with the lay of the land. Today, he serves as the “President of heavy equipment, surveying, and rock hauling” at Cold Spring Basecamp.

Hartwell Carson: Hartwell has worked for almost 20 years to clean up and protect the waterways in Western North Carolina as the French Broad Riverkeeper for MountainTrue. This work involves monitoring our waterways, pulling tires and trash from the river, and building the French Broad River paddle trail, a series of campsites connecting over 150 miles of the river. Hartwell is also the founder of Clean Water for Africa, which support African Riverkeepers with drinking water wells, water tanks and water filters. At Camp, Hartwell heads up the cleaning up messes division, among other duties.

Teela Waggoner: A true local, spent her childhood camping on these grounds. She brings her expertise as one of the area’s finest mortgage brokers to the table, along with a knack for style and invaluable advice.

Wilder Carson: In charge of excavators and skilled in “shredding the gnar,” adds an adventurous spark to the team.

Evan Carson: The vice president of plant relocation, step building, and entertaining his little brother, rounds out this dynamic group.

A Basecamp for Your Adventure

After a health scare a few years ago Hartwell and Teela decided they wanted to build something together that would stand the test of time. They both love camping and biking, so a campground with trails was a natural fit. 

For Steve, this land had been in the family for decades and had been a huge part of his upbringing. He wanted to keep the property, which once served as a youth summer camp and later, a local hangout spot for teens and young adults, in the family, but loved the idea of again sharing it with others. They beauty of the property helped make it an easy decision to partner.

The property offers rustic camp sites for tent camping, three rustic 3-sided cabins, miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a beautiful waterfall, trickling creeks, cold plunge tubs, and an overwhelming feeling of peace and stillness throughout the 38 acres. They have plans to add treehouse camping in the near future.

Cold Spring Basecamp makes a great central place to stay because they are located so close to the many outdoor recreation opportunities that the Green River area (nestled between Hendersonville and Saluda) has to offer, as well as the many other things that make the region a draw, like apple picking and leaf peeping in the fall, the craft beverage scene, Hendersonville’s quaint downtown and so much more. See Hartwell’s top local picks below!

unique cabin experience

The filters used for the drinking water at Cold Spring Basecamp — which comes straight from the property’s creek — are the same filters used for clean water projects in Uganda, Kenya and Togo and a portion of the proceeds from each booking will go to support Clean Water for Africa.

The rustic and historic cabins that were rehabbed by Steve and Hartwell managed to keep all their old charm, with their wooden walls and furniture. They offer the feeling of being out in the open wilderness, but with a roof over your head. The cabins have a kitchen, eating area, and bunk beds (with queen on the bottom and twin up top). Cook over the stone fire pit or on cast iron pots and pan on the propane stove in the fully-equipped kitchen, which includes a French press, teapot, utensils and more. Relax under the solar lights and charge your devices using the solar-powered charging station — allowing you to be connected to the outside world as much or as little as you want.

Spacious, private Campsites are all nestled in the woods, next to the creek. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grill for cooking, and a water filter is provided for purifying drinking water from the creek.

Cold Spring Basecamp is also dog-friendly, meaning you can launch any adventure, whether you are visiting with 2 or 4-legged friends, or both.

Check out this video tour and hear from Hartwell what makes it so special

Hartwell Carson's Top 5 Hendersonville Suggestions

Ride Rock Creek
What Hartwell says about it: “World class downhill biking for all skill levels, with a shuttle to the top, on a beautiful property.

Green River Adventures 
Hartwell says: “Rappel down a waterfall, paddle class 1-3 rapids in the beautiful Green River Gorge.

Flat Rock Village Bakery
Hartwell says: “Great coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries on a relaxing deck.

Carl Sandburg Home
What Hartwell says about it: “Explore the history of the home, but also enjoy the beauty of the property and the trails.”

DuPont State Forest
Hartwell says: “Waterfalls, hikes and stunning mountain views is why Dupont is world famous.”

 

Meet Hendersonville’s Pinball Wizard

Meet Hendersonville’s Pinball Wizard

Meet Hendersonville’s Pinball Wizard

“I’m having the time of my life,” says John French, the owner of Hendersonville’s Appalachian Pinball Museum. “I have a jobby – not a hobby, not a job.”

Meet John French

As an eight-year-old in Boulder, Colorado, John French would go after school to his father’s electronics company. He found it too boring to sit around and do homework, so he befriended the women who built circuit boards and they taught him the trade.

It didn’t take long for young John to become a wizard with circuit boards. Then, at age 13 while hanging out in a Boulder arcade, he was bothered by how many machines were out of order, so he asked the owner if he could repair them.

The owner skeptically agreed to let John attempt to fix one machine. The youngster whipped a soldering iron out of his backpack and wound up repairing everything in sight.

“By the end of the week, I had the keys to the arcade,” John says.

That ability to fix circuit boards and electronics eventually led to a job in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. On the side, he would restore vintage pinball games until his wife complained that their house was full of the machines. That provided the impetus to partner with a friend to start a pinball museum in Asheville before launching his own endeavor, the Appalachian Pinball Museum in Hendersonville.

Unlike Other Museums

The Appalachian Pinball Museum encourages visitors to touch (and play!) the exhibits. At any given time, there are more than 80 pinball and electronic arcade games on the floor. Patrons pay an admission fee and can play all the machines as many times as they want that day.

There’s also a snack bar with sodas and snacks for kids, and the owner recently added craft beers for adult kids.

“My philosophy is you can’t play pinball without beer,” John says with a laugh. “It has added to the camaraderie of the place because adults can come in and relax a little bit and have a beer while they’re playing.”

John French also has a philosophy for how his business is supposed to make you feel.

“When people come in here, they’re not coming to talk to somebody about their taxes, they’re coming in to have fun and have a good time,” he says. “They are smiling when they come in and I want to make sure they are smiling when they leave.”

Because he can fix almost any pinball machine, he rescues them from people’s garages and basements, applies his magic touch, and puts them on the museum floor. Among the 50-plus pinball machines are several classics.

“We have a good old-fashioned Theater of Magic from 1995, and it’s everybody’s favorite,” John says. “We’ve got Addams Family and Twilight Zone from 1993 or 1994. We have an Incredible Hulk from 1979, Police Force from 1989, Harlem Globetrotters from 1978, and a lot of electro-mechanical games from the 1970s.”

In the arcade section, there are legendary games like Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Frogger and Galaga.

Stop On In

Next time you’re in Hendersonville, stop by the Appalachian Pinball Museum at 538 North Main Street. There’s no charge to walk around and check out the vintage games. If you want to play ’em, just pay the admission fee and you can play all day – even leave and come back later.

Oh yeah, if you would like to meet the Pinball Wizard, aka John French, he’s usually there. Just look for the man in the APM t-shirt with a smile on his face.

John French's Top 5 Hendersonville Suggestions

Hands On! Children’s Museum
John says: “Cool place where kids – and adults – learn by doing. Lots of space and educational, fun activities.”

Arabella Breakfast & Brunch
John says: “Great fresh-made food and cocktails at a reasonable price. The loaded waffles are wonderful!”

Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO
John says: “Educational and fun. Lots of displays and shark feedings!”

Mast General Store
John says: “OK, so I just go for the bulk candy.”

The Kingmaker’s Draft
John says: “Board Games and beer. Who could ask for more?”

My Favorites
Your favorites list is empty. Look for to add favorites to your list.