One of the best vacation towns in the southern United States is the gorgeous city of Ashville. And these are the best day trips from Asheville NC!
If you’re traveling to Asheville last minute, you want to ensure you have lodging/tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!
🇺🇸 Best Tours in Asheville (+ Experiences):
- Asheville’s top-rated ghost walking tour (highly recommended!)
- Kayaking tour on the French Broad River (perfect for active travelers!)
- Downtown Asheville walking tour with expert guide
- Scenic driving tour of the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Electric bike brewery tour of Asheville
- Mountaintop yoga and meditation hike from Asheville
🛌 Where to Stay in Asheville:
- The Inn On Biltmore Estate (the most iconic stay in Asheville!)
- The Windsor – Asheville (gorgeous boutique hotel downtown)
- Hilton Garden Inn Asheville Downtown
🚗 Looking for the best way to get around Asheville? Click here to check rental car rates for North Carolina!
Asheville is particularly known for its immaculate views of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range, as well as the many historical sites throughout the city.
However, Asheville is also conveniently located close to tons of other sites that you should be sure to add to your NC travel itinerary.
If you plan on staying in Asheville for a couple of days, why not make a few road trips out of it to see more of what the region has to offer?
If you’re looking into some day trips that you can take from Asheville, read on to see some of our top picks. All of these Asheville day trips are less than 3 hours away and can easily be reached by car.
Best Day Trips From Asheville, NC
1. Linville Caverns
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 52.4 miles (1 hour, 2 minutes)
Being North Carolina’s only show cavern, Linville Caverns are definitely worth visiting if you want to visit a one-of-a-kind gift from nature in the area!
They are open on Saturdays and Sundays and closed every day on weekdays.
They have guided tours that leave every fifteen minutes, so you don’t have to worry about not being able to see the Linville Caverns as they don’t require reservations there!
This is definitely one of the best day trips from Asheville… especially for children and families!
Every tour has a limit of fourteen people, including children who are underage. Admissions are $13 for adults, $12 for senior citizens, $11 for children ages (5-12), and free for children 4 years and younger.
Address: 19929 US-221, Marion, NC 28752
2. Johnson City
Location: Tennessee
Distance from Asheville: 61.2 miles (1 hour, 2 minutes)
With the combination of southern small-town charm and big-city lifestyle and amenities, Johnson City is perfect for those who would like to experience the best of both worlds!
The South is well-known for its country music, and when in Johnson City, you can learn all about the evolution of the genre and its growth in the United States at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum! They are open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10:00 am-6:00 pm and Sundays from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm.
If you want to spend more time outdoors, you can head on over to Buffalo Mountain Park, where you can enjoy the panoramic views! Also, take a short trip to Bristol, a city that is located in both Virginia and Tennessee!
3. Nantahala National Forest
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 108.2 miles (1 hour, 59 minutes)
When you are in Asheville and want to take a trip to reconnect with nature, Nantahala National Forest is the ideal spot!
There, you can engage in various activities such as biking, hiking, fishing, camping (if you’re planning on staying for more than a day), or simply just enjoying the views the park has to offer.
Also, if you are visiting the National Forest and would like to be more well-informed about it, you can stop by the interpretive areas (the Nantahala Ranger District and the Wayah Bald Tower).
Other popular activities include picnicking and horseback riding.
Address: Bryson City, NC 28713
4. Brevard
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 35.1 miles (49 minutes)
Brevard is a unique and underrated town not too far from Asheville.
When visiting Brevard, make sure to check out their craft beer, as it is something they definitely pride themselves on—and for good reason!
The two most popular and highly rated places are Brevard Brewing Co. and Ecusta Craft Beer, which is located in the Pisgah Forest (also another great spot to visit if you’re in the area).
Another great spot in Brevard would definitely have to be the infamous Allison-Deaver House. It is the oldest standing-frame house that has remained unaltered for about two centuries!
The house now serves as a House Restoration Museum and is open for visitors to come to see and become acquainted with its full history.
5. Ocoee Whitewater Center
Location: Tennessee
Distance from Asheville: 140.8 miles (2 hours, 37 minutes)
Temporarily closed: In April 2022, there was a fire at the Ocoee Whitewater Center, burning down the building. While the area is still being used for whitewater rafting, the building (including the museum and shop) are no longer there, and an investigation is ongoing.
The Ocoee Whitewater Center is of real value to its locals and adventurers from all over!
They truly pride themselves on making a name for themselves in history! In 1996, the first Olympic whitewater event that took place on a natural river was at the OWC.
Today, you can visit the OWC and enjoy yourself, especially knowing about its history.
You can either swim, picnic along the river, and enjoy the hush sounds of nature, or take strolls in the native walkways and gardens! If you are planning on doing an activity such as snorkeling, give the center a call at (423)338-3331 to schedule.
The cost is $25 per snorkeler.
Address: 4400 US-64, Copperhill, TN 37317
6. Greenville
Location: South Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 63.3 miles (1 hour, 15 minutes)
Greenville is a cute little town with a cute name and awesome attractions waiting for you to visit!
One of the places you could visit (which is more for the adventurous) would definitely have to be Paris Mountain State Park. The breathtaking colors during the fall and spring seasons are especially worth it.
The park is only a fifteen-minute drive from Greenville and is the place to escape and immerse in nature.
Another interesting place at Greenville, one that it’s especially known for, is Liberty Bridge. Due to its interesting and innovative design, it is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy.
7. Mount Mitchell State Park
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 28.8 miles (55 minutes)
Mount Mitchell State Park is one that stands out from the rest not only in North Carolina but east of the Mississippi altogether!
The summit of Mount Mitchell is the tallest point east of the Mississippi, and with that, it became an inspiration for one of the nation’s first state parks.
You can walk through the park and enjoy the scenic views until you reach a museum that will explain the mountain’s cultural, historical, and natural history.
If you want to stop by, make sure to make reservations by calling (877)722-6762.
Address: 2388 NC-128, Burnsville, NC 28714
8. Tallulah Gorge State Park
Location: Georgia
Distance from Asheville: 102.7 miles (1 hour, 55 minutes)
As you may have noticed, state parks are definitely one of the major spots people choose to visit—and for good reason! Thankfully, Georgia has no shortage!
These places are epic getaways if you’re looking to disconnect from society and enter a world of your own in nature, or if you simply want to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
Whatever the reason may be, Tallulah Gorge State Park is there to suit your needs! The part offers 15 miles of hiking trails to its visitors.
Remember though, the trails may be strenuous, so drink plenty of water before visiting. Also, for animal safety, pets are not allowed, so please keep the furry friends at home.
Permits are required to access the gorge floor but are completely free, so make sure to pick one up at the Interpretive Center.
Address: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
9. Chimney Rock State Park
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 24.6 miles (42 minutes)
When visiting Chimney Rock State Park, make sure to come prepared and wear proper apparel, as you may hurt yourself and/or feel discomfort if you do not.
The park has 10 trails in total, and 6 of them are located within the fee area.
Admissions to enter the park are $17 for adults and $8 for children (ages 5-15). Children under the age of five can get in for free!
The park is truly incredible and stands out from the rest as its “chimney” has stood for over 500 million years and can be reached by simply climbing a mere 500 steps!
It is definitely worth the climb; however, if you’d rather not engage in as much physical activity, you are welcome to use the elevator to reach the top.
Address: Chimney Rock, NC 28720
10. Black Mountain
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 16 miles (21 minutes)
Black Mountain is an absolutely gorgeous small town where the locals are friendly and the vibes are artsy and creative!
This small town, shortly after it was formed, became a haven for pioneers in the world of art, poetry, design, and architecture.
Today, the arts aren’t the only thing that attracts people to visit. For example, one of the spots you could visit like Lake Tomahawk. There, you can either go swimming or simply enjoy the view.
Black Mountain is also a great place to go, as their restaurants serve absolutely delicious foods. Some of their best restaurants are Louise’s Kitchen, Black Mountain Ale House, and My Father’s Pizza.
11. Helen
Location: Georgia
Distance from Asheville: 127 miles (2 hours, 27 minutes)
Helen is one of the coolest small towns in Georgia. For all those who are adrenaline junkies or just like to simply hang out and relax, Helen is for them, as it has just the right mix of both!
One of the most popular activities for both locals and visitors happens to be ziplining, so if you’re one to try new things that challenge your comfort zone or you just want an adrenaline rush, then make sure to try ziplining in Helen! You can do so at Unicoi State Park.
If you want to visit a more low-key place that really portrays the town for what it is and shows off its uniqueness, then visit the Nora Mill Granary Grist Mill & Country Store, where you can learn all about the agriculture of Helen.
12. Lake Lure
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 27.9 miles (48 minutes)
When visiting Lake Lure, NC, make sure to engage in as many activities as you possibly can, as, although you may think that activities available at lakes are limited, there is much to see and do near Lake Lure!
For example, if you like horseback riding, you stop by the Cedar Creek Riding Stables where you can choose from different tours and pick the one that suits your needs the most.
You can also take advantage of the golf areas there and go golfing. Near the lake, there’s a golf course called the Apple Valley Golf Course which is open to all who want to play!
13. Knoxville
Location: Tennessee
Distance from Asheville: 116.2 miles (1 hour, 54 minutes)
If you’re looking for a fun day for either family time or to be with your friends, Knoxville is the place for you!
One thing you can do in Knoxville is visit the World’s Fair Park. There, you can enjoy the gorgeous lawns, awesome water features, and walkways ready for you to explore!
There are many performances and events held there as well, so if you’re lucky, you might catch something while you’re there!
You can also visit the Tennessee Movie Theater. First opened in 1928, the movie theater has only grown over time, creating an atmosphere truly worth visiting!
The place is seen as a historic place in Tennessee and still has the historic architecture and feel to it as well!
14. Blowing Rock
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 90.6 miles (1 hour, 44 minutes)
Down in Blowing Rock, experience the extraordinary remnants of American history as well as a touch of European influence. There, you can explore the cute churches that add to the picturesque scenery of the mountains.
The oldest church there is on Main Street, which first opened in 1900. The churches are still open for service and prayer today, so feel free to join.
Another great spot in Blowing Rock that’s worth visiting is the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.
The art mainly portrays nature, and Blowing Rock is a place where nature and appreciating nature is a big part of society. It only makes sense that the material at their museum would be no different!
15. Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 31.7 miles (42 minutes)
Carl Sandburg was one of the most influential authors of the 20th century, winning three Pulitzer Prizes. According to President Lyndon B. Johnson, “he was America.”
If you enjoy the works of this popular American author or you simply want to learn more about him, you can visit his home, which is now a National Historic Site.
If you would like to visit, tours are available Thursday through Sunday at 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. As far as admissions go, you don’t have to pay a fee for grounds, entrance, trails, and the barn.
Address: 1800 Little River Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731
16. Boone
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 84.6 miles (1 hour, 52 minutes)
For a day filled with new revelations along with feeling the comfort that is the coziness of small towns, visit Boone!
Located not too far from Asheville, it has a world of its own, filled with history, art, and much more!
One place you can visit is the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. Gem mining has played a huge role in the area because of the jewels found in places like Boone. This is when the era of the Gold Rush started.
What’s fun is that when visiting the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, you not only get to learn about the history of it all and get to see it for yourself, but you can actually buy buckets of gems and rocks mixed together with soil.
So, you can be a “miner” yourself and try to find the gems!
17. Toccoa
Location: Georgia
Distance from Asheville: 120.3 miles (2 hours, 14 minutes)
One of the major tourist attractions in Toccoa is the Broken Bridges!
Although not actually broken, the bridges, which are actually two and don’t really “bridge” anything together, were made to create an illusion that looked like there was one big bridge with a gap in the middle.
Apart from its interesting appearance, it is also surrounded by beautiful nature, which is absolutely amazing if you’re planning on taking loads of pictures on your trip.
Because of its obvious rich soil and awesome natural benefits, Toccoa is also ideal for making wine!
When in Toccoa, make sure to stop by the Currahee Vineyard and Winery where you can enjoy the scenic views of the vineyard while enjoying some tasty local wine.
18. Pisgah National Forest
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 46.6 miles (56 minutes)
Filled with waterfalls and breathtaking views, Pisgah National Forest is definitely for those who love and appreciate being in the great outdoors. It also has some of the best waterfalls near Asheville!
Hikers can enjoy hiking up to reach either the heights to enjoy the amazing views, or they could hike up to reach the many beautiful North Carolina waterfalls in the forest.
The Pisgah National Forest does not have an admissions fee, but if you are new to hiking or just being in an environment such as this one in general, you should probably think about booking a tour as the duration may be long and it could become dangerous for newbies.
19. Bryson City
Location: North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 65.3 miles (1 hour, 8 minutes)
Having a big vacation in a small town may not sound practical, but Bryson City never settles for practicality!
Ever want to have an adventurous trip with your friends? Then Bryson City is for you! One place you can visit when in Bryson City is the Tunnel to Nowhere.
Despite its creative and unusual name, the tunnel does in fact lead somewhere: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is on the way to the park and part of an absolutely beautiful landscape.
Another great place you can go is the Deep Creek Trail, where you can enjoy the fairytale-like scenery you’re surrounded by while enjoying a nice, long hike!
20. Great Smoky Mountains National Park + Pigeon Forge
Location: Tennessee and North Carolina
Distance from Asheville: 37.1 miles (49 minutes)
Visiting Deep Creek at Smoky Mountains National Park is a must, where you could either chill with your floaties near the waterfalls or go fishing, swimming, horseback riding, or camping! It is even a great place to visit in the winter!
The hike to the park is very easy and a mere 2.5-mile round-trip hike. However easy, make sure to take a map of the trail with you! When in Pigeon Forge, you will definitely have a blast with your family!
From playing mini-golf to g-carting to whitewater rafting, Pigeon Forge has it all! If you’re planning on visiting, make sure to buy your tickets on their website beforehand!
Did we miss any amazing places to visit near Asheville? Let us know your favorite day trips from Asheville, NC in the comments. Thanks!
More Asheville Travel Guides
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- Waterfalls near Asheville
- Asheville in winter
- Best restaurants in Asheville
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Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she has lived all around the world (including Germany, Finland, Norway, etc) but her heart always finds its way back to Virginia. This blog is to help encourage travelers to explore the great state of VA… and its wonderful neighbors! Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, Fodor’s Travel, the New York Times, and more. She has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries… and wholeheartedly believes that Brunswick Stew is probably the greatest food to ever exist.