Budget travel in Asheville, North Carolina, is surprisingly easy. While you could spend a pretty penny living it up in the big city, exploring on the cheap is a breeze.
But don’t pack your bags just yet.
Today, we’re spotlighting seven of the top free things to do in Asheville to help you start planning your next favorite trip.
Let’s hit it!
About Visiting Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is surrounded by major public lands. Nantahala National Forest, Pisgah National Forest, and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are all within an hour or so of the city. So, it’s no wonder folks come here from across the country to enjoy countless outdoor activities.
This is a four-season destination. Its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains means there’s something exciting to do year-round.
But there’s more to this eccentric city than its proximity to the great outdoors. It’s a hub for artists, with lots of galleries and museums showcasing regional works. The vibrant culinary scene offers world-class cuisine. Plus, tons of local breweries ensure there’s always something tasty to sip.
Best of all, you’ll find plenty of free things to do in Asheville! If you need some inspiration, here are seven highly-rated options.
#1 Stroll the Asheville Urban Trail
Folks looking to dive into Asheville’s history will enjoy meandering along downtown’s famed Urban Trail. This 1.7-mile loop features 30 sculptures, plaques, and works of art celebrating the city’s past.
Pieces commemorate prominent figures such as F Scott Fitzgerald, Thomas Wolfe, and George Vanderbilt. You’ll spot larger-than-life irons, realistic livestock, and ornately carved facades throughout the journey.
You can start and stop wherever you like. As you take in the sights, be sure to make pit stops at the many restaurants and galleries you’ll pass. After all, this free tour is all about bringing together Asheville’s past and present.
Pro Tip: The Explore Asheville website includes a complete list of stops and a free audio tour.
#2 Admire Handcrafted Goods at the Folk Art Center
Asheville’s Folk Art Center is the ultimate place to immerse yourself in both contemporary and traditional crafts. This is the home base for the Southern Highland Craft Guild, a group of makers devoted to cultivating impressive works and sharing their skills with others.
You can peruse their three fine art galleries year-round. From March to December, they offer daily craft demonstrations where you can see how these masterpieces are made.
The first level also features the Allanstand Craft Shop, which is considered the oldest in the country. Purchase hand-carved housewares, jewelry, blown glass, and much more from over 400 Appalachian artists.
#3 Step Back in Time at Biltmore Village
Just outside the iconic Biltmore Estate is a dining, shopping, and entertainment district straight out of the 1890s. George Vanderbilt constructed the site as a mixed-use community to house the estate’s employees. Today, it’s home to restaurants, hotels, and a wide range of shops.
As you stroll the cobblestone streets, stop in at quaint garden markets, Christmas-themed stores, and high-end boutiques. You can even hop on the classic red trolley to get from place to place.
Of course, you don’t have to buy anything to experience the magic of Biltmore Village. This Asheville destination can provide free fun for all.
Find the Best Free Campsites Near Asheville!
#4 Explore the River Arts District
One of the city’s most notable features is its River Arts District, also known as the RAD. This neighborhood, which once housed numerous industrial mills, is now a hotspot for artists.
To get a true sense of the Asheville community for free, you can’t miss the RAD.
Over 270 creatives regularly open their studios to the public. You can get to know the folks who make your favorite pottery or hand-blown glass and purchase pieces that catch your eye. Many offer workshops for visitors hoping to learn more about the process.
Restaurants, bars, and coffee shops dot the area along the French Broad River. There’s also a year-round farmers market located at the Smoky Park Supper Club.
Know Before You Go: Check out the official River Arts District website for an interactive map of participating studios.
#5 Hike the Craggy Gardens Trail
While there’s no shortage of hiking trails near Asheville, Craggy Gardens is a must-trek experience, especially in the summer. Every June, the rhododendrons explode into pink and purple hues, lining the pathway with colorful petals.
The Craggy Gardens Trail is a short, one-mile jaunt through dense forest. It has a bit of a grade, but it’s relatively easy for most folks. Take a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, and stop by the visitor center before you leave.
The trail closes in winter, so plan accordingly.
#6 Join a Drum Circle at Pritchard Park
Anyone traveling through Asheville on a budget should consider sticking around on Friday night when locals get together to make music and merriment. When the weather is nice, folks gather at Pritchard Park’s outdoor amphitheater as the sun begins to set. You’ll hear a steady beat evolve into a living work of art as more drummers get in on the fun.
On a busy evening, hundreds of onlookers might soak up the special atmosphere created by the musicians. You can bring your own instrument or simply take in the sights and sounds.
This event first began in 2001. Today, it’s bigger than ever. Just like the RAD, this is a uniquely Asheville experience you won’t get anywhere else.
Looking for more? Here are the Best Day Trips Near Asheville!
#7 Visit the Moog Music Headquarters
Asheville’s free drum circle is far from the only budget-friendly musical activity to relish in the area. Another destination is the Moog Music Headquarters. You can tour the factory where they make their world-class synthesizers, see live demonstrations, and even play them yourself.
What better way to learn about the science and engineering that goes into these devices?
Demos take place twice daily and last about 45 minutes. You’ll see craftspeople hard at work making them right before your eyes. Best of all, you can take it in at no cost.
Snag a copy of Exploring Asheville: Its History, Attractions, Mysteries, Ghosts, and Tall Tales.
Asheville’s Free Activities Don’t Disappoint
Asheville puts off a welcoming energy of acceptance, and that’s true whether you’re traveling on a budget or here to spend big bucks. Locals have gone out of their way to provide one-of-a-kind experiences to everyone.
The next time you head to the Blue Ridge Mountains, be sure to spend a little time in this dynamic city. It’s one you’ll never forget!
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