Renowned for its rich arts and music scene, breweries, outdoor adventures, and beyond, there are numerous romantic things to do in Asheville NC. Read on to get the ultimate couple's guide on exploring this beloved mountain town.
1) Walk around Biltmore Estate
Built in 1895, George Vanderbilt’s 250-room chateau still stands as magnificent wonder of architecture and opulence. Guests can self-tour the grounds of the house, gardens, and the Antler Hill Village, which also includes the Winery, The Biltmore Legacy, Village Green, and the Farm. Try to see if you can locate the hidden passageways and secret rooms throughout the house, although guests aren’t permitted to enter them. Additionally, the Estate hosts many seasonal events not to miss.
2) Shop, Sip, and Consider Marriage at Fleetwood’s
If you want a Vegas-style wedding in North Carolina, look no further. Fleetwood’s acts as a “quickie Vegas style” Rock-n-Roll wedding chapel, as well as a vintage shop and bar. At Fleetwood’s, you can get married, see live music and comedy shows, pick up an interesting item, and top off the evening with beer or wine.
3) Get Your Game On
Located downtown across from the Grove Arcade, the Asheville Pinball Museum welcomes all pinball machine and vintage video game aficionados. Once you pay admission, you can play any of the 80 machines without quarters or tokens (except for two special machines that each charge 50 cents).
Other Gaming Spots:
4) Learn Archery
Looking to learn new skills together? Consider taking private archery lessons or public archery classes. With both indoor and outdoor options, you can have fun and channel your inner Katniss, Robin Hood, Lara Croft, etc:
Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar / Facebook
5) Relax at the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar
This used bookstore and champagne bar specializes in books about North Carolina, American History, the Civil War, and the American South, as well as many more categories. Constantly changing and expanding, you’re bound to come out with a book or two, and perhaps a bit of a buzz. Better yet, the store also showcases live music and events.
The bar’s menu also includes wine, sparking wine, and bistro-style bites. Furthermore, you can set up an appointment to sell or trade your books for wine.
6) Play Mini-Golf
This classic date still works as one of the most romantic things to do in Asheville, NC. Challenge your partner at any of these local courses:
7) Dance Classes
Couples interested in learning how to dance or showing off their ballroom skills should bring their dancing shoes to any of these local establishments:
Refresh after a long day with cold ale.
8) Sip Brews
Asheville is craft beer country, perfect for couples looking for romantic things to do in Asheville NC. If you like to drink brews while snacking on appetizers, check out any of these institutions:
9) Experience a Burlesque Show
If you’re feeling a bit more saucy, consider attending a burlesque show at any of these popular Asheville theaters and bars. You'll also be able to purchase food and drinks at most establishments.
10) Get Outside
Outdoor lovers should take advantage of the beautiful sites the local area has to offer. With more than a dozen hiking trails, the parks around Asheville are worth exploring with your love. Just make sure to bring a phone, sunscreen, water, food, and navigation devices. Some of the area’s top-rated hikes include:
- Black Balsam Knob
- Great Smoky Mountains National Forest
- Hot Springs Campground
- Nantahala National Forest
- Asheville Glamping
- & Many More
11) Laugh Together at an Improv Show
Who doesn’t like to laugh? Clutch your sides together at any of these local comedy venues:
Bellyak / Facebook
12) Try Bellyaking
Described as a combination of swimming, kayaking, and surfing, bellyaking got its start in Asheville on the French Broad River. Participants paddle through the water with webbed gloves while lying face-first on a stable board resembling a cross between a kayak and a boogie board. One of the most unique things to do in Asheville NC, as well as anywhere else, you don’t want to miss out if you prefer a challenge outdoors together.
13) Test Yourselves in the Kitchen
Making food with one another yields fun, sweet, and funny memories. Consider taking any of these cooking classes to learn new skills and recipes together:
- Cooking Cottage Asheville
- Asheville Mountain Kitchen
- Williams-Sonoma Asheville
- The Farmer’s Hands
- The Asheville Kitchen
14) Fly High Hot Air Balloon Rides
Soar over gorgeous landscapes, and feel entranced by the striking mountains and vibrant green spaces beneath you. Departing near sunrise, guests can begin their day with awe-inspiring views. A truly unique experience, you don’t want to miss out on one of the most romantic things to do in Asheville, NC. Two top-rated hot air balloon rides in the area include:
15) Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is part of the National Park Service and is Known as "America's Favorite Scenic Drive", the Blue Ridge Parkway is part of the National Parks Service and includes 469 miles of weaving roads. Connecting the Blue Ridge Mountains to Shenandoah National Park (in Virginia) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (in North Carolina), you can cover plenty of ground if you wish to get away for the day.
Get lost in the mountains.
16) Peruse Farmer's Markets
Home to fresh food vendors, retailers, artisans, nonprofits, and small businesses, couples looking for romantic things to do in Asheville should shop at any of these local markets:
- Asheville City Market South
- East Asheville Tailgate Market
- West Asheville Tailgate Market
- French Broad Food Coop Tailgate Downtown Market
- North Asheville Tailgate Market
- WNC Farmer’s Market
- Asheville City Market
17) Dine Out
Of course, dining out at a local restaurant and trying new food or classics together is one of the top romantic things to do anywhere. Opt for any of these well-rated mood-setting eateries in the area:
- Cúrate
- Chestnut
- Cuchina 24
- Zambra
- Limones
- & More
Take a romantic getaway to Asheville, NC!
Connect with Your Sweetheart in Asheville
Now that you know the most romantic things to do in Asheville, NC, where will you head to first?