7 Kid-Friendly Activities to Do In and Around Asheville

I'm not a travel expert and certainly don't have all the details in an organized form here. But my sister has lived in Asheville for several years now and let's just say - She Knows Her Stuff. On our many visits to see her, she has sent me on dozens of excursions with the kids. These are some of our favorites that we go back to every time - no matter the season.

1. WNC Farmer's Market- We go here every time we visit. It's open every day (hello, Sunday) and at 8AM! I always stock up on jam and honey, and any of the current local produce. The sellers are so kind and welcoming. Sometimes we don't buy a thing and just browse, but I like the open concept and supporting local farmers. FREE
   

2. Botanical Gardens- One of our favorites because my kids can easily hike the trail around the gardens as it's only 1/2 mile. It's a good way to get exercise without taking on too much. We've hiked here in winter and fall and there is always something to see. The river runs alongside the gardens. I will usually take Ollie (2) in the hiking pack and Declan (4) walks the trail. They also do a good job with labeling the plants. FREE
   

3. Asheville Science Museum- This is the perfect rainy day activity. There are several paid parking lots available across from the museum, as it's on the main street and they don't have a designated parking lot. It used to be a gem museum but has since evolved. When we were there, (exhibits are subject to change), the kids can experience a hands on water cycle of the French Broad river, look at how gears work, climb up the tree house, uncover dinosaur fossils, play with sand that mirrored landforms, and examine several different rocks and minerals. $
   

4. Hands On! Children's Museum- This museum is in Hendersonville, about 30 minutes from Asheville. We have been twice and have plans to return. They have a STEM section, dinosaur exhibit, water play area, sensory tools, a small theater, a Lego station, and several pretend play setups such as a grocery, bakery, and fire truck. It's all very hands on, safe, clean, and the town of Hendersonville is so much to walk around in afterwards - look for the bear statues throughout downtown! $

5. WNC Nature Center- This is a must with kids! This nature center is smaller than our state zoos, yet offers several different animals for the whole family to enjoy and learn. You'll see everything from gray wolves to otters to black bears to exotic snakes. The layout is stroller friendly, and there's a fun little section toward the end of made of nature inspired playground with some opportunities to play. There are restrooms and picnic tables nearby, or you can drive a short 5 minutes below the center to have a picnic by the river like we did. Just enough to cover in a 2 hour morning and be home for naptime! FREE with ZOOM pass

6. Arboretum- I love the Arboretum because it's not kid-centered; rather, all ages can enjoy it equally. There's so much to do here- walk the trails, explore the gardens, enjoy the water features, have lunch on the grounds, check out the special exhibits in the museum and the kids' museum. We always pack a picnic and spend the morning here. FREE with ZOOM pass

7. Looking Glass Falls- These falls are located in Brevard, about a 45 minute drive from Asheville. The hike is very short and doable for most ages. The town of Brevard is adorable, so after seeing the waterfall, check out the downtown. There are several parks, festivals, and a college. A great idea for a day trip! FREE