A Summer in Western North Carolina — Must Dos and Sees

Western North Carolina is, without a doubt, a prime landing place for vacationers nationwide. Ardenwoods residents are fortunate to be living in the heart of all that this region offers. Now that warmer weather is here, we’ve curated a Summer 2024 bucket list of adventures not to be missed. With outdoor and indoor possibilities and wheelchair-accessible and leg-stretching options — this list has a roundup of activities for everyone in the area.

Stroll or roll through the North Carolina Arboretum or Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary. On the first Saturday of each month, Blue Ridge Audubon hosts free bird outings at Beaver Lake. From April to September, these walks begin at 8:00 a.m.

Discover the world-renowned Chihuly at the Biltmore. Making a return to the Biltmore Estate for 2024, Dale Chihuly’s breath-taking works of glass art will captivate and inspire.

‘Do’ chase waterfalls at these accessible viewing locations: Dry Falls, Glassmine Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Sunburst Falls. Up for a walk? Check out these waterfalls that will make you get your move on.

Savor and sip at these six Asheville favorites with accessible and outdoor seating: Farm Burger, Sunset Terrace at the Grove Park Inn, Nine Mile, Luella’s BBQ, Taco Billy, Taco Boy and The Meadow at Highland Brewing.

Inspire your artistic side with live glass-blowing demonstrations at Lexington Glassworks. Lexington Glassworks is proud of its open-door culture and welcomes all to view the glassblowing process from beginning to end. These free demonstrations run seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Explore new heights at Mount Mitchell State Park. Access both paved and rugged trails directly from the parking lot at the highest point east of the Mississippi. There are also scenic seating areas, a snack bar, restaurant, gift shop, and museum to enjoy.

Picnic the parkway. Whether sandwiches packed from home or take-out from a myriad of nearby local restaurants, there are plenty of amazing views to enjoy a snack, breakfast, lunch, or dinner overlooking the Blue Ridge Parkway, only a 20-minute drive from Ardenwoods.

Get festive at these specialty summer get-togethers. Each third Friday April-September, explore Downtown After 5, this free concert series boasts local bands and local vendors serving some of the regions best bites and brews.

This upcoming season’s possibilities are endless. We couldn’t love summer in Western North Carolina more and encourage visitors and residents alike to explore all the region offers. Hello Summer!