Our comprehensive guide to Asheville Area Playgrounds is your ultimate resource for recreation in Asheville with kids! Indoor playgrounds, as well as outdoor playgrounds are included, with everything you need to know in advance to plan your family friendly outing in Asheville and the surrounding area!
This guide is a continuous work in progress, and we will keep adding to it, so keep checking back!
Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains just south of Asheville, The North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region.
SEE WHAT’S NEW AT THE ARBORETUM HERE
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Hours
Parking Fees
Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8am-2pm.
The Curb Market has been a local Hendersonville tradition since 1924. What began as a group of farmers bringing their extra produce to town for the “city folk” has expanded over the years to include some of the freshest fruits & vegetables, plants & fresh cut flowers, homemade jams, jellies & baked goods and hand made mountain crafts.
A favorite of locals and visitors alike, the Curb Market always has something different. Each vendor brings his specialty items for a unique collection of offerings. Come visit and make new friends while enjoying some of the best that Henderson County has to offer.
Summer Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm
TOURS: 10:30am
We offer personalized tours of the 1876 farm house and a number of buildings at 10:30 AM Monday through Friday. The farm house is only open for visitors on the daily guided tour, so please plan accordingly. We follow the Henderson County Public School holiday calendar, so be sure to check our Event Calendar for holiday closings.
FEES & RATES
Fees: $10.00 for Adults. $8.00 for Students, Seniors (65+), and Military. Preschoolers Free.
Group Rate: $5.00 per person for a group of 6 or more. Groups do not have to schedule for the 10:30 slot; they can schedule for whenever works best for their group, even on weekends!
Special Note: On many days during the year, we will have scheduled field trips touring the farm. On these days, the 10:30 tour will be a self-guided tour of the property. To check if we have a field trip, please see our calendar or call us.
Please call (828) 891-6585 to schedule a tour. Walk-ins also welcome.
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“Beginning with Oliver Moss in 1874, the Johnson Farm has a long history in Henderson County. The original farm house was built between 1876 and 1880 but our period of significance begins in 1913 with Mrs. Sallie Johnson. Mrs. Sallie Johnson ran the farm as a summer boarding business from 1913-1958, along with her two sons Leander and Vernon. The brothers closed the boarding business when their mother died but they remained active in Henderson County for the rest of their lives. They had a vision that one day their farm would become an educational resource for the school children of Henderson County, teaching them about the farming life that is so integral to the history of this Appalachian region. Today we honor their legacy by acting as a cultural heritage center owned and operated by Henderson County Public Schools. We offer historic home and grounds tours, field trips and heritage festivals throughout the year. We are also home to the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists in the old boarding house. Visit our website for more details or stop by for a tour today!”
FREE ADMISSION TO LOCAL ATTRACTIONS! Buncombe County Public Libraries have teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders through their ZOOM pass program! All you’ll need is a Buncombe County library card in good standing to reserve one. You can make 1 reservation at a time per library card, up to 30 days in advance, and you may visit each attraction once every 30 days. The process is simple! Reserve your pass on the Buncombe County Libraries website, pick up the pass at the library of your choosing, and go have fun! They’ll even send you an email confirmation of your reservation and a reminder email the day before your visit, so you don’t forget!
All reservations are made online, so you won’t be able to call or email to make a reservation.
WHAT’S CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED:
ASHEVILLE ART MUSEUM … Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18. For general admission only and doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge.
ASHEVILLE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE … Pass admits four people (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass). For admission only and doesn’t include additional programming fees.
HANDS ON! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM … Family Pass admits 4 people. You can get $10 off a membership to Hands On! on the day of your ZOOM pass visit.
NORTH CAROLINA ARBORETUM … One pass per car for personal vehicles. Doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge (like Winter Lights).
PADDLEBOATS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM pass = one 30 minute Paddleboat ride. Minimum passenger age is 2 years old. Minimum age to rent a paddleboat is 16 years old and the paddleboat must have at least one person 16 years of age or older on board.
TEAM ECCO AQUARIUM AND SHARK LAB … The ZOOM Family Pass for the Team Ecco Aquarium and Shark Lab admits 4 people. This pass is available Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
WATERCRAFT LAUNCH PASS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM Pass = one personal watercraft daily launch pass (no gas powered engines on the lake).
WNC NATURE CENTER … Family Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18 (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass).
WELL PLAYES BOARD GAME CAFE … There are two passes available Monday through Thursday starting July 1st. Each pass admits two adults and four kids.
BUNCOMBE COUNTY OUTDOOR POOLS … Seasonally, Beginning May 27th in 2023! Family Pass admits 4 people, and can be used at Cane Creek Pool, Erwin Pool, Hominy Valley Pool, North Buncombe Pool, Owen Pool.
Buncombe County Libraries also partners often with Asheville Community Theatre and NC Stage Company for passes to performances
Seasonally, you may even see passes to Buncombe County pools in the summer, and passes to Winter Lights at Lake Julian in the Winter!
Live in neighboring counties? Several other counties have their own version of ZOOM! We know Henderson County, Transylvania County, Madison County, and Polk County all do! You can also apply for an out of county library card with Buncombe County for a small $20 yearly fee, in which case you’ll qualify to participate in their ZOOM Pass program! Apply in person at any Buncombe County Library branch to become an out of county cardholder. Our guide to Buncombe County Library branches HERE
GET YOUR PIN NUMBER READY AND RESERVE YOUR ZOOM PASS HERE
The Henderson County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above
OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
The Silver River Center for Chair Caning museum serves to educate students and visitors to the River Arts District. Enjoy their rotating collection of 100+ woven chairs that showcase the diversity of the craft. They keep the workshop and classroom area open so you get to observe the weaving process.
All restoration & class fees keep the chair museum free and open to the public.
Chair nerd tshirts and stickers are for sale as fundraisers for the museum.
School visits:
Kids are really good at chair caning. We have a hands-on weaving station in our shop. Hire us to demonstrate chair caning in a history, science, geography, or art class setting. Schedule your visit by calling 828-707-4553 or emailing SilverRiverChairs@gmail.com.
Tuesday-Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays
Admission is FREE
Explore daily life on an early 1800s plantation in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Step inside a 1790s slave dwelling and hear the stories of the women and men who were enslaved by the Vances. Take a tour through the reconstructed birthplace of Zebulon B. Vance to discover how the environment and society of Western North Carolina shaped his political career.
Tucked into the picturesque Reems Creek Valley, our site features seven historic and reconstructed buildings as well as a visitor center with interactive exhibits. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, browse our exhibits, and conclude their visit with lunch in our picnic shelter—featuring panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
All ages are welcome within the facility, but the play area including the playset, children’s tables, play houses and toys are for children 6 and younger. Admission is good for the day, and there is no time limit for playing during open play hours. Parents and guardians must remain on-site at ALL times Socks are REQUIRED for adults and children. Admission is good for the entire day, and families are welcome to leave and re-enter the same day. They accept all major credit cards, but no cash.
Tuesdays-Satudays: 9am – 5pm
Adults $10
Children $10
Members FREE
Hands On! – A Child’s Gallery is an interactive educational museum for children ages 1-10 and families where learning and fun seamlessly blend. All of their exhibits are kid-powered, allowing children to explore, discover, and learn by doing. The museum is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment featuring 13,000 square feet of learning experiences.
Pricing is per child. They do not charge per adult. EVERYONE must wear socks on the main play floor or toddler play floor.
Indoor Play and Party Center with Jungle Gyms, Large Scale Playhouses & Themed Foam Sculptures. Ideal for children aged 12 and younger.
Old Fort has long been considered a “gateway” to the Blue Ridge Mountains and was the site of the westernmost pioneer outpost in North Carolina prior to the Revolutionary War. Our exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and on-site programs interpret life in western North Carolina from the earliest inhabitants into the 20th century.
Housed in a beautiful 1936 WPA stone building on the banks of historic Mill Creek, our museum offers a number of educational programs and exhibits covering a range of topics related to all who call the 38 counties in our service district “home”.
Mondays: CLOSED
Tuesday to Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sundays: 2pm to 5pm
CLOSED ALL STATE HOLIDAYS
Admission to the museum’s exhibits and most programs is free, however donations are appreciated. Some special exhibits and programs do have charges. Please call (828) 668-9259 for more information.
We’re located less than a half-mile off Interstate 40’s exit 73 in the heart of downtown Old Fort. Just minutes away from Black Mountain and less than 30 minutes from downtown Asheville. Our address is 24 Water Street, Old Fort, N.C. 28762.
All exhibits are designed to be self-guided to be enjoyed at your own pace. Groups may register for special guided tours and programming upon availability and size of the group with two weeks advance reservation. Expect to spend about an hour at our museum to see all that we have to offer.
Open Thursdays through Mondays, March through November, 9:00am-5:00pm
Open Saturdays & Sundays ONLY December though February, 9:00pm-4:30pm
Located at the southern gateway to western NC’s High Country region, Linville Caverns is an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. The beauty of our mountains is echoed within Humpback Mountain and visitors are invited to explore the splendor and wonders nature created “inside a mountain”.
For centuries, the marvels of Linville Caverns were unknown to man. In the early 1800’s a fishing expedition headed by Henry E. Colton, of eastern NC, were astounded to see fish swimming in and out of what appeared to be rather solid rock. A small opening in the mountainous terrain allowed them to enter the subterranean recess that is still home to native trout in an underground stream. Colton, who later served as the state geologist of Tennessee, wrote of his exploration in an 1858 issue of NC Presbyterian, “…now began the wondrous splendors of the hidden world…we emerged into an immense passage, whose roof was far beyond the reach of the glare of our torches, except where the fantastic festoons of stalactites hang down within our touch. It looked like the arch of some grand old cathedral, yet it was too sublime, too perfect in all its beautiful proportions, to be anything of human, but a model which man might attempt to imitate. It was not a large, gross cavern,…pendants were of a delicate lightness, and a most beautiful hue…”
Linville Caverns was opened for public touring in 1937. Since that time many upgrades to the pathways and lighting system have enhanced the safe touring experience that now exists. Courteous and experienced guides take you into the subterranean world, giving you the history of the caverns and allowing you to view the grand work of nature. We invite you to visit often and experience the beauty of these age-old mountains from the inside!
A recent bat survey by the US Fish & Wildlife and the NC Wildlife commission did confirm that 6 bats out of the hundreds hibernating in Linville Caverns are infected with White-Nose Syndrome. We are working closely with these two agencies to control & end the spread of this disease. Linville Caverns is open to the public for touring as usual. We assure you that the fungus, Geomyces destructans, poses no health risk to humans…the caverns tour is safe as always. Our staff will ask visitors to follow a simple cleansing routine following their visit & these steps will help us insure that no visitor is contributing to the spread of this disease. If you have any other questions regarding this issue, please call us at 800-419-0540 during our regular operating hours.
Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday & Monday: CLOSED
Closed State Holidays
“Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th-century American literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. House tours are offered daily at half past each hour.”
Bringing motorsports to the masses. Racing sims pair incredible realism with unparalleled accessibility. We offer the chance to drive a supercar or race with family and friends with no risk of a crash!
Thurs-Mon, 10:00am-5:00pm
Admission covers a one-day experience at Wheels Through Time.
On July 4th, 2002 Wheels Through Time Museum became a reality when it opened its 38,000 square foot facility in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. The Museum features one of the world’s premier collections of Vintage American Transportation, guiding visitors through the evolution of American motorcycling and automotive history. The museum has attracted worldwide media attention and brought hundreds of thousands of visitors to Maggie Valley, North Carolina from all over the globe.
Many visitors consider the displays equally as interesting as the rare machines that are within them. The museum layout is more than a timeline of machines. It has the feel of an old garage, but is touched by relevant artwork of the era and houses precious items of memorabilia by the thousands. The museum is literally a cornucopia of American history.
Sundays: 1:00pm-5:00pm
Mondays: 10:00am-5:00pm
Tuesdays: CLOSED
Wednesdasy: 10:00am-5:00pm
Thursdays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday: 10:00am-5:00pm
Saturdays: 10:00am-5:00pm
Children 2 & under are always FREE
The Asheville Museum of Science is the best place to bring the whole family for edutainment in downtown Asheville, NC. Bring the family and discover the science that makes Western North Carolina unforgettable. Tour our Colburn Hall of Minerals, watch as topography changes as you interact with our Terra Box, climb in our Cradle of Forestry exhibit, go back in time with our Teratophoneus dinosaur skeleton, and so much more!
Mondays: 12pm-8pm
Tuesdays: 12pm-8pm
Wednesdays: 12pm-8pm
Thursdays: 12pm-8pm
Fridays: 12pm-10pm
Saturdays: 10am-10pm
Sundays: 10am-6pm
Western North Carolina’s only indoor skatepark. Skater owned and operated. Located in the River Arts District.
BMX friends welcome Wednesdays and Sundays. Soft pegs required. Scooters welcome any time.
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Preschool Story Time is for children ages 3 to 5 years. Activities include stories, songs, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more. Each program concludes with a special craft kit.
Family Story Time is designed for children and their families. Activities include stories, songs, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more. Each program concludes with a special craft kit.
Music & Movement is an interactive program designed for children and their families. Activities include music, movement, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more.
Bouncing Babies is a special program for babies ages 0 to 18 months and their caregiver. Activities include lap rhymes, songs, stories, and more. Each program concludes with playtime and exploration.
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March – December: Wed-Sat, 10:00am-5:00pm
January – February: Saturday, 10:00am-5:00pm
ADMISSION: FREE (Donations Appreciated)
Founded in 1989, the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center is the primary museum of general local history in Buncombe County. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization governed by an 18-member board of directors and funded primarily by generous donations from our members and our extensive special event program. We are located in the Town of Black Mountain’s 1921 fire house, which was designed by Richard Sharp Smith, supervising architect on the Biltmore Estate.
We mount at least one major temporary exhibition annually in our first floor gallery and continually enhance our second floor permanent exhibit exploring the general history of the Swannanoa Valley. We also maintain an active archive of original primary source materials – including photographs, oral histories, ledgers, and ephemera – as well as vertical files of research materials and a local history library.
Every month we organize hikes to historic locations throughout the valley as well as events that take place inside and outside the museum.
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Baby Story Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks—the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.
Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
Hora Del Cuento is a bilingual story time for all ages, where you’ll share books, rhymes, and songs in Spanish and in English
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THURSDAYS:
FRIDAYS:
SATURDAYS:
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Wiggle Worms Storytime is an exciting, interactive music and movement storytime ideal for children 2 to 6 years
Mother Goose Storytime focuses on rhymes, songs, and simple stories to promote early literacy and is ideal for children 0 to 2 years.
Move & Groove Storytime is an exciting, interactive music and movement storytime ideal for children 2 to 6 years.
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WEDNESDAYS:
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Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11:00am-3:00pm
FREE ADMISSION
The purpose of this military museum is to provide an avenue for people to appreciate and honor the men and women who served so bravely in our Armed Forces.
Some examples of what the museum will feature include one-of-a kind artifacts, uniforms, weaponry, original newspapers, personal letters, etc.
All of these special items and more weave the great and proud stories of World War I, World War II, Korea, The Cold War, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
They display and help us empathize with the wonder, but also the danger of our involvement in these wars, and the unique sacrifice of our military men and women!
An added bonus will be lectures outlining battles and their strategies, political aspects of wars, and an expert analysis of all facets of a West Point educational and military experience from a parent perspective.
Love of country plus gratitude to those who served proudly equals the museum’s theme for all ages, both young and old.
Tours are NOT at French Broad Chocolate Lounge in Pack Square. All tours take place at French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe, 821 Riverside Drive, Asheville NC 28801.
We love going to the movies, and we have a lot of theaters in our area to see them!
REGAL BILTMORE GRANDE | 292 Thetford Street Asheville, NC | 828-684-4380 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | DISCOUNTS/DEALS | Open Mondays through Sundays, 11:00am-11:30pm
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CAROLINA CINEMARK | 1640 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC | 828-274-9500 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | DISCOUNTS/DEALS
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AMC RIVER HILLS 10 | 121 River Hills Rd Asheville, NC | 828-298-4885 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | DISCOUNTS/DEALS
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ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING | 675 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC | 828-254-1281 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | Tuesdays are discount days!
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FINE ARTS THEATER | 36 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC | 828-232-1536 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | Asheville’s last remaining downtown cinema. They recommend parking in the Biltmore Avenue Garage (city parking deck) under the Aloft hotel – The first hour is free, then $1.00 per hour for each additional hour.
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GRAIL MOVIEHOUSE | 17 Foundy Street, Asheville, NC | 828-239-9392 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | Located in the River Arts District, Grail Moviehouse is a locally owned, indie cinema showing first run, art and independent, foreign, classic, and documentary titles.
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EPIC THEATERS OF HENDERSONVILLE | 200 Thompson St, Hendersonville, NC | 828-693-1146 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES
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FLAT ROCK CINEMA | 2700 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock, NC | 828-697-2463 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | A clean and friendly bistro-style setting. They don’t always know which movies they’ll be showing too far in advance, so check in often.
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SMOKY MOUNTAIN CINEMA | 235 Waynesville Plaza, Waynesville, NC | 828-246-0588 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | Tuesdays are discount days!
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CO ED CINEMA | 79 W Main St, Brevard, NC | 828-883-2200 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES | Co Ed Cinema is a single screen theater, established in 1936, and shows are daily (except Mondays & Tuesdays) at 1, 4 & 7 PM. They begin selling tickets in person thirty (30) minutes before each show.
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HOMETOWN CINEMAS OF MARION | 1212 B North Main St, Marion, NC | 828-559-2776 | NOW PLAYING/SHOWTIMES
The Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County was founded with the goal of providing a place where people could discover and learn about the beauty and diversity of the world beneath our feet.
The museum’s goal is to be a primary resource for education and information to the community on the earth sciences related to geology and paleontology.
The museum currently features a mix of exhibits that range from specimens of raw minerals in their natural state to polished gemstones and other finished material. The museum also hosts special exhibits of collections on loan.
Among the popular highlights of the exhibits are the displays of minerals found in Henderson County and in the state of North Carolina — which has one of the nation’s most diverse mineral deposits, the exhibit on the Hendersonville meteorite, and the fluorescent mineral display. Also popular, especially with youngsters, are the museum’s displays of fossils which are highlighted by a casting of a tyrannosaurus rex skull, a mastodon tusk and teeth, and a wooly mammoth leg bone.
Visitors to the museum will quickly discover that there is more under our feet than dirt and that there is much more to rocks than most suspect.
The Mineral Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and is volunteer run.
Explore our brewery nestled in the Appalachians.
When we brewed our first batch of beer in 1980 in Chico, California, the lush forests of North Carolina were far from our mind. Over the last four decades, our thirst to brew quality, flavorful beer led us across the country and around the globe. In 2012, we broke ground on our second production location in order to send the freshest beer possible to our friends and fans all over the world. Come visit our sprawling East Coast home in Mills River, North Carolina and see first-hand how determination and a pioneering spirit can lead to incredible adventures. Our tours fill up quickly. You must make reservations online for all tours except the Guided Tastings and the self-guided Visitor Corridor.
SUNDAY–THURSDAY
11:00am–9:00pm
FRIDAY–SATURDAY
11:00am–10:00pm
GUIDED:
Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or we’re on your brewery bucket list, a Mills River tour is for you — so we recommend you reserve a spot! Our interactive tours offer everything from hop handling to nature hikes to — what you really came for — beer sampling.
Join us for a taste of our iconic Sierra Nevada Pale Ale as we dive into our roots: from humble beginnings in Chico, California to our LEED Platinum certified facility in Mills River, North Carolina. We will walk through our production facility, exploring the brewing process and ingredients, and highlight how our sustainability commitment fits into it all. We will end with guided tasting of eight beers in our Grand Tasting Room and Bar. Wheelchair accessible. No one under 12 years old permitted.
Our Mills River brewery is nestled within over 200 acres of lush, forested land just waiting to be explored, so join us on a Trip in the Woods! On this 1.5-mile guided nature hike, you will explore our beautiful, forested property, visit our resident chickens, donkeys, and sheep who graze freely across nearly 4 acres of pasture, and wrap up with a sampling of a few of our award-winning brews in our Back Porch Beer Garden. Grab your hiking shoes and get ready for a beer adventure! *The loop trail features moderate elevation change. Those with allergies should note that the group will hike near our beehives.
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SELF GUIDED:
Groups not your thing? We get it. For those who prefer to wander solo, our Brewery has been designed with guests in mind! Our upstairs Visitor Corridor includes a raised mezzanine for bird’s-eye views of our copper-clad brewhouse, a real-time look at fermenting beer and a visit to our warehouse and packaging hall. Self-guided tour areas do not require a reservation, and are open to the public during normal business hours.
Every Thursday 11:00am-1:00pm
That’s right, board games will make your kids smarter! When you play board games, you stimulate the areas of the brain responsible for memory formation and complex thought function (which is true for adults, too.) Games help develop cognitive skills, including decision-making, problem-solving, and logical analysis.. And the benefits continue on throughout a person’s life. In older adults, playing games has been shown to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Then why not join us for our Homeschooler’s Hangout? Every Thursday from 11am to 1pm our game passes will be only $3 per person.
RSVP by sending an email to events@wellplayedasheville.com
Open Daily, 11:00am-5:00pm, except for major holidays
Our facility celebrates the extraordinary legacy of synthesizer pioneer Robert Moog, whose invention of the Moog synthesizer in 1964 helped revolutionize the face of music. The Moogseum brings Bob’s complex life and career to life through experiential exhibits for the aficionado and lay person alike; His story is one of the spirit of American innovation. Come explore theremins and synthesizers, learn how electricity turns into sound, discover over 100 years of electronic music history, and delve into Bob’s world through a re-creation of his workbench.
The Moogseum is the convergence of the Foundation’s goals of educating and inspiring people through electronic music, just as Bob did himself. It serves as a educational, historical, and cultural resource to Western North Carolina and the worldwide electronic music community through the following experiences:
VISITING HOURS FOR SELF GUIDED TOURS:
Monday, 11:00am-12:00pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 11:00am – 1:00pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
The following options for tours are available:
COMPLIMENTARY GUIDED TOURS – Schedule a tour by completing the online form. Tours Available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 1:30pm (These tours take 45 minutes), and immediately after Sunday Masses. Mass times are Saturday, 5:00 p.m., Sunday, 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon (these tours take 25 minutes). Tours of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence must be prescheduled at least two weeks in advance and re-confirmed with the Tour Coordinator before your scheduled visit. Trained Docents (tour guides) are provided unless you make other arrangements with the Tour Coordinator.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR – The brochure, The Art & Architecture of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, D.M., provides a very informative self-guided tour. When visiting the Basilica, copies may be found in the side vestibule. You may also download a copy of the brochure HERE
Tours are free but donations are very much appreciated.
Church parking is located in the first lot to the west of the Parish Office building and behind the Basilica. On weekends additional parking available is in the large gated lot across the street.
The Basilica’s parking lots are clearly marked “Church Parking.” Parishioners and the many Visitors who attend Mass at the Basilica usually find our parking adequate unless they arrive late. There is no charge for parking to attend daily and weekend Masses, and other church activities.
When visiting the Basilica please pay close attention to our parking lot signage, as parking in non-church lots may result in the unpleasant, expensive experience of having your vehicle towed.
Open daily 11am–6pm. Closed Tuesdays.
Late-night Thursdays until 9pm;
Pre-purchased online tickets are encouraged; walk-in tickets are also available.
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The Asheville Art Museum presents exhibitions and public programs based on its Collection of 20th + 21st century art. Founded by artists in 1948 in Asheville, NC, the Asheville Art Museum annually presents an exciting, inviting and active schedule of exhibitions and public programs based on its Permanent Collection of 20th and 21st century American art.
The Wells Fargo Art PLAYce is a creative space for everyone to play and learn together. Although designed for our youngest visitors, the Art PLAYce encourages creative wanderings for all ages in a sensory-rich environment. This art-inspired space allows for exploration of colors, shapes, textures, and patterns. Visitors can move and play, sit and enjoy a book, try out a variety of one-of-a-kind interactives created by regional artists, or make art of their own. The Art PLAYce is the perfect place to disconnect from the outside world.
The Museum’s rooftop Perspective Café serves freshly prepared lunch fare created with locally sourced ingredients. A variety of local snacks and beverages are also available, including Poppy’s Popcorn, French Broad Chocolates, Asheville beers, organic coffee, wine, and cocktails. Whether you choose to sit inside the Café or outside on the Sculpture Terrace, you’ll be astonished by the panoramic city skyline and mountain views. Perhaps the most beautiful vista found in Downtown Asheville.
Climbing Gym Hours: Mon-Thurs: 12-10pm , Fri, Sat + Sun: 12-8pm
Bike Park Hours: Mon-Sun: 12-8pm
Walk-Ups Welcome! Daily Rates and Memberships available.
The Riveter’s mission is to provide an inclusive space with outdoor adventure training opportunities for all ages and skill levels to foster confidence, inspiration, community, and a mutual stoke for adventure. Located in the heart of Western North Carolina, the Riveter boasts a full-service rock climbing gym, outdoor dirt jump lines, tap room, fitness studio, infrared-heated yoga studio, retail shop, community workspaces, youth programs, parents nights out, camps, special events, and outdoor seating with epic views of the Blue Ridge.
CLIMBING GYM … The Riveter Climbing Gym boasts over 16,000 sf of climbing terrain. With a lead climbing cave, 14 autobelays, and 68 rope lanes, there is something for every level climber. The boulder area features 60 boulder routes, a campus board with Tension rungs, and a 12′ adjustable KILTER board. The dedicated kids climbing cove has 2 massive geometrix climbing routes, 11 rope stations, and a boulder area that tops out to the world’s coolest slide. Riveter also features state-of-the-art hangboard and pulley systems to support recreation and competitive fitness.
BIKE PARK … The CANOPY is a covered portion of the bike park with four separate lines from green to black. Riders can anticipate a variety of features, from rollers to jumps to wall rides. The Canopy also covers a progressive drop zone and a warm up pumptrack built with younger riders in mind. The OUTDOOR terrain is differentiated by four unique lines, from green to double black, that share the same start point and return line. This terrain is the perfect spot for any rider trying to progress their skills on the bike. RENTALS … We offer a wide range of the best rental bikes to accommodate mini-shredders to adult riders. We also carry helmets and pads.
The Riveter also features a state of the art sweat studio, fitness studio, and libation station.
Citizen Vinyl is a communal space housing a record press facility, cafe, bar, recording studio & analog art & record store – located in the historic Citizen Times building in downtown Asheville – an incredible specimen of the Art Moderne style whose grand civic space serves to celebrate the history of manufacturing & craft alongside the current state of music, food & beverage within our local community.
A very few walk-up spots are available for most public tours, but reservations are strongly recommended — first come first served! Gather at the Coda Shop Counter for your guide at the scheduled time, Tours will last ~45 minutes. Punctuality is appreciated: Late-comers may join in at any point before the group heads up to the recording studio, about 20 minutes in.
Be advised that there is limited access [ stairs / elevator to the 3rd floor ] due to the nature of the historically preserved 1930’s construction. Please email tours@CitizenVinyl.com ahead of time with any questions or concerns!
“You can watch blobs of vinyl smooshed into discs, then trimmed into perfect circles, while listening to the Daily Sides—curated playlists available in printed form on clipboards. On one molasses-slow Asheville afternoon, as light streamed through some of the twenty-thousand glass bricks, Lauryn Hill’s voice filled the air. “ – Esquire
Tours Offered by Appointment Only, Wed-Sun
There’s something very satisfying about seeing pins get knocked down from a perfectly aimed ball, and getting a group together in a friendly game of bowling is a great way to spend a day or evening!
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SKY LANES | 1477 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC | 828-252-7566 | WEBSITE HERE | Sky Lanes Asheville is a family-friendly bowling center with 24 lanes, pool, air hockey, video games and more. Sky Lanes Bar & Grill is a full service restaurant and bar. Other fun includes karaoke on Thursday nights and cosmic bowling on Friday and Saturday at 11pm!
AMF STAR LANES ASHEVILLE | 491 Kenilworth Rd Asheville, NC | 828-254-6161 | WEBSITE HERE | Sky Lanes Asheville is a family-friendly bowling center with 24 lanes, billiards/pool, arcade, video games, sports bar and more.
TARHEEL LANES | 3275 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville, NC | 828-692-5039 | WEBSITE HERE | Tarheel Lanes is the largest bowling center in Western North Carolina, and can accommodate groups to 192.
ROCKIN’ BOWL | 271 Rosman Hwy, Brevard, NC | 828-884-2695 | FACEBOOK PAGE HERE | Rockin’ Bowl is a family entertainment and recreation facility offering bowling, billiards, and arcade games.
LIGHTNING LANES | 80 Finley Rd, Marion, NC | 828-652-2626 | Rockin’ Bowl is a family entertainment and recreation facility offering 16 Lanes and a Pro Shop.
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Select bowling centers and schools around the country participate each spring/summer in the super popular Kids Bowl Free program! This program was designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend their time. Children whose age does not exceed the limit set by their participating bowling center are eligible to register for 2 free games each day of the KBF program, all summer long, courtesy of the participating bowling centers along with the schools and organizations. Learn more HERE: https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/
Most require bowling shoes (not included, but available for rent).
Family passes are also available for a fee.
PARTICIPATING BOWLING CENTERS IN OUR AREA (for available hours and other restrictions, visit the link to their specific location):
SKY LANES ASHEVILLE: May through Oct … Ages 2 to 15yrs … Register HERE: https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=6762
TARHEEL LANES HENDERSONVILLE: May through August … Ages 2 to 18yrs … Register HERE: https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=6476
Mondays: 1:00pm-6:00pm
Tuesdays: CLOSED FOR REPAIRS
Weds, Thurs, & Fris: 2:00pm-9:00pm
Saturdays: 12:00pm-9:00pm
Sundays: 1:00pm-6:00pm
PLAY 35 PINBALL MACHINES & 35 CLASSIC VIDEO GAMES AS LONG AS YOU LIKE FOR $15 PER PERSON.
Play a wide array of pinball machines spanning from the 1950’s to the 21st Century!
Although they are open daily, 12:00pm-2:00am, it’s 21+ after 9:00pm
“Over 5000 Video Games, Pinball, Billards, Skeeball, Foosball, and the best in Retro Music all day till 2am for Only $10! That’s right, from Open till Close Unlimited Play for only $10! We Offer the Best Selection in Local Craft Beers, Wine, and Coke Products. Our Nightlife Really Heats Up With the Best of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s Music with Dance Parties on the Weekend. Chill out on our Outside Deck and Patio Area. Over 200 pieces of Beer Memorabilia Dating Back to the 1930’s. So Come, Take a Step back in Time With Us, At the Retrocade!
Drop in to our gym Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays from 12:30 pm-1:30 pm, for an hour of free play or self training.
Entry fee is $15 per child ages 5 or older. $10 per child ages 4 & under. No pre registration required.
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 1:00pm-4:00pm (small shark and ray feeding Thursday & Friday at 1:30pm, and 1:30pm & 3:00pm on Saturdays. Reptile encounter throughout the afternoons)
The Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO is:
MONDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
TUESDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
WEDNESDAYS: 2:00pm-5:00pm
THURSDAYS: 2:00pm-5:00pm
1st & 3rd SATURDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
Playspace AVL is a neighborhood/community playspace for babes, tots and their loved ones. Our curated environment is filled with several different types of gross motor opportunities and play experiences for littles from age birth to 3 years old.
A special after-school workshop just for our youngest cat-lovers. Families with children age 7 & under are invited to relax in the cat lounge and listen to a cat-centric book surrounded by our resident panthers! Foster a love of reading in your kiddos while also socializing the cats in the lounge.
Tickets are $15 and include entry for 1 (one) child + 1 (one) adult. Additional children can be added for $10 at checkout. MAX: TWO children per ONE adult.
Black Cat Tales Story Time workshop is held Wednesday-Friday at House of Black Cat Magic in West Asheville from 4-4:30PM.
Thursdays, 4:00pm-11:00pm
At 5:30 pm on Fridays, Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (A new weekly featured movie begins each Friday)
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. will be showing a different kids movie each week so you can bring your little’s for something fun to watch on the big screen while enjoying food and beverages.
6:00am-8:00am and 11:00am-1:00pm, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
The YMCA of Western North Carolina partners with Buncombe County Schools to manage the new Buncombe County Schools Aquatics Center. The 17,380 square foot building features a 10-lane, 400,000 gallon climate-controlled pool. The center also includes 420 spectator seats, a state-of-the-art timing and scoreboard system, UV water filtration, and numerous energy efficient design features.
At this time, we only offer lap swimming. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult and pass a swim test to be in the pool.
Our comprehensive guide to Asheville Area Playgrounds is your ultimate resource for recreation in Asheville with kids! Indoor playgrounds, as well as outdoor playgrounds are included, with everything you need to know in advance to plan your family friendly outing in Asheville and the surrounding area!
This guide is a continuous work in progress, and we will keep adding to it, so keep checking back!
Explore Cruso Farmer’s Market every Tuesday and Friday from 8AM-2PM beginning May 28th through Nov 29th, 2024.
Fresh from the field to your fork! Support local farmers, savor homemade produce, and scoop up other homemade goods. Stop by for a dose of delicious, wholesome goodness!
Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains just south of Asheville, The North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region.
SEE WHAT’S NEW AT THE ARBORETUM HERE
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Hours
Parking Fees
Summer Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm
TOURS: 10:30am
We offer personalized tours of the 1876 farm house and a number of buildings at 10:30 AM Monday through Friday. The farm house is only open for visitors on the daily guided tour, so please plan accordingly. We follow the Henderson County Public School holiday calendar, so be sure to check our Event Calendar for holiday closings.
FEES & RATES
Fees: $10.00 for Adults. $8.00 for Students, Seniors (65+), and Military. Preschoolers Free.
Group Rate: $5.00 per person for a group of 6 or more. Groups do not have to schedule for the 10:30 slot; they can schedule for whenever works best for their group, even on weekends!
Special Note: On many days during the year, we will have scheduled field trips touring the farm. On these days, the 10:30 tour will be a self-guided tour of the property. To check if we have a field trip, please see our calendar or call us.
Please call (828) 891-6585 to schedule a tour. Walk-ins also welcome.
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“Beginning with Oliver Moss in 1874, the Johnson Farm has a long history in Henderson County. The original farm house was built between 1876 and 1880 but our period of significance begins in 1913 with Mrs. Sallie Johnson. Mrs. Sallie Johnson ran the farm as a summer boarding business from 1913-1958, along with her two sons Leander and Vernon. The brothers closed the boarding business when their mother died but they remained active in Henderson County for the rest of their lives. They had a vision that one day their farm would become an educational resource for the school children of Henderson County, teaching them about the farming life that is so integral to the history of this Appalachian region. Today we honor their legacy by acting as a cultural heritage center owned and operated by Henderson County Public Schools. We offer historic home and grounds tours, field trips and heritage festivals throughout the year. We are also home to the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists in the old boarding house. Visit our website for more details or stop by for a tour today!”
FREE ADMISSION TO LOCAL ATTRACTIONS! Buncombe County Public Libraries have teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders through their ZOOM pass program! All you’ll need is a Buncombe County library card in good standing to reserve one. You can make 1 reservation at a time per library card, up to 30 days in advance, and you may visit each attraction once every 30 days. The process is simple! Reserve your pass on the Buncombe County Libraries website, pick up the pass at the library of your choosing, and go have fun! They’ll even send you an email confirmation of your reservation and a reminder email the day before your visit, so you don’t forget!
All reservations are made online, so you won’t be able to call or email to make a reservation.
WHAT’S CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED:
ASHEVILLE ART MUSEUM … Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18. For general admission only and doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge.
ASHEVILLE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE … Pass admits four people (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass). For admission only and doesn’t include additional programming fees.
HANDS ON! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM … Family Pass admits 4 people. You can get $10 off a membership to Hands On! on the day of your ZOOM pass visit.
NORTH CAROLINA ARBORETUM … One pass per car for personal vehicles. Doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge (like Winter Lights).
PADDLEBOATS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM pass = one 30 minute Paddleboat ride. Minimum passenger age is 2 years old. Minimum age to rent a paddleboat is 16 years old and the paddleboat must have at least one person 16 years of age or older on board.
TEAM ECCO AQUARIUM AND SHARK LAB … The ZOOM Family Pass for the Team Ecco Aquarium and Shark Lab admits 4 people. This pass is available Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
WATERCRAFT LAUNCH PASS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM Pass = one personal watercraft daily launch pass (no gas powered engines on the lake).
WNC NATURE CENTER … Family Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18 (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass).
WELL PLAYES BOARD GAME CAFE … There are two passes available Monday through Thursday starting July 1st. Each pass admits two adults and four kids.
BUNCOMBE COUNTY OUTDOOR POOLS … Seasonally, Beginning May 27th in 2023! Family Pass admits 4 people, and can be used at Cane Creek Pool, Erwin Pool, Hominy Valley Pool, North Buncombe Pool, Owen Pool.
Buncombe County Libraries also partners often with Asheville Community Theatre and NC Stage Company for passes to performances
Seasonally, you may even see passes to Buncombe County pools in the summer, and passes to Winter Lights at Lake Julian in the Winter!
Live in neighboring counties? Several other counties have their own version of ZOOM! We know Henderson County, Transylvania County, Madison County, and Polk County all do! You can also apply for an out of county library card with Buncombe County for a small $20 yearly fee, in which case you’ll qualify to participate in their ZOOM Pass program! Apply in person at any Buncombe County Library branch to become an out of county cardholder. Our guide to Buncombe County Library branches HERE
GET YOUR PIN NUMBER READY AND RESERVE YOUR ZOOM PASS HERE
The Henderson County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above