The Basilica of St. Lawrence is a basilica which stands tall in the downtown neighborhood of Ashville. Established in 1906 it is said to have one of the greatest domes in North America. The imposing structure of the basilica is inspired by the Spanish Baroque style of architecture. The interiors of the church are equally mesmerizing. Several statues of saints make the interiors enchanting, thereby giving the basilica an ancient feel. The stained glasses on walls and the serene ambiance of the church make the experience worthwhile. Both self-guided and guided tours of the basilica are available for visitors. The Basilica of St. Lawrence is worth visiting for its sheer grandeur.
Visit the Southern Highland Folk Art Center at Milepost 382 along the Blue Ridge Parkway and you will be surely amazed by all the cultural exhibits at this museum. The center explains the history of Southern Appalachian craftsmanship. There are three galleries with changing exhibits, a craft shop, a library, and an auditorium. Several of the thousands of pieces from the guild's turn-of-the-century permanent craft collection can be seen at certain times throughout the year.
One of the crown jewels of Asheville, Biltmore Estate seamlessly chronicles the legendary lineage of the Vanderbilts. Nestled in the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains, the house was built between 1889 and 1895 by architect Richard Morris Hunt as the summer estate of George Washington Vanderbilt II. At its heart is the Biltmore House, a four-story mansion inspired by the Châteauesque architectural style in France and England. With 250 rooms encompassing 8000 acres (3237 hectares), it is one of the biggest private homes in the country. Replete with furniture, artwork, and antiques that exude grandeur, the house shelters an array of opulent spaces like the enormous Banquet Hall and George Vanderbilt's master bedroom. Complete with carved paneling, gilded ornamentation, and intricate ceiling work, this grandiose house is the epitome of elegance. Fronting the house are the marvelous gardens which have been modeled on Victorian landscaping principles, complete with delightful foliage and blooming colorful flowers. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the house also harbors restaurants, shops, an inn, and a gorgeous winery and a rooftop that affords breathtaking views of its surrounding environs.
At this hip and vibrant art-centric district near Asheville's downtown, up-and-coming local artists are transforming old factories and warehouses along the French Broad River. The Studio Stroll is the perfect opportunity to learn to throw a pot, work with steel, and paint with watercolors. Artists will show you the secrets of their trades.
Thomas Wolfe, one of the greatest Southern literary icons, once lived here. See the home that Thomas Wolfe grew up in and depicted in his famous novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Though damaged by arson in 1998, much has been restored to the delight of visitors. There are guided tours, trails, outdoor exhibits, monuments, a visitor's center and a gift shop. Each fall, the Thomas Wolfe Festival is held here as well.
Located on the campus of the University of North Carolina - Asheville, the Lipinsky Auditorium can be used for various purposes. The venue can seat approximately 650 and comes well-equipped with technologically advanced and up-to-date facilities. On the level below the Lipinsky Auditorium is the Music Department of the University, so it is very convenient for the department to hold their rehearsal concerts here. Besides concerts, the venue is used for lectures, seminars and other such events. This auditorium is also where the popular 'Concerts on the Quad' performances take place. For more information please see the website.
Built in the 1840s, the John Wesley McElroy House is a museum in Burnsville. It helps you take a step back in time just as you enter. The 3000 square-foot (280 square-meter) house was constructed by John Wesley McElroy for his wife, Catherine. It comprises of the Ce-Nan Museum Gift Shop, the 1860s Civil War-era Smokehouse, 1920s Gas Station, and the Winnie Lou Garden, to name a few. Tickets for the tour can be availed from their office from 10a to 4p, from Wednesdays through Saturdays. More details are handy on their website.
Located close to North Toe River in Spruce Pine, Cross Street Commerce Center is a great place to host events. Some of the events that can be held here are weddings, gatherings, award functions, competitions and workshops. Spreads across an area of 11000 square feet (1021.9 square meters) this building also offers flexible spaces for offices, art studios, stores and more.
The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is a hub of culture in Western North Carolina. The Center houses monthly art exhibits in which often includes folk art and the work of local artists. A particular favorite in the community are the featured art classes and workshops that are held here. Although rare, on occasion the Black Mountain Center for the Arts hosts a theater production. Located in the Black Mountain's old city hall, this establishment brings well-appreciated art and events to the local community.
Opened in 1915, Asheville Masonic Temple is set in the city of Asheville. This historic venue is ideal for private and corporate events like weddings, celebrations, conferences and more. It even features a theater that can accommodate hundreds of guests. Events like musicals, plays, concerts and lectures can be held here. They also offer catering services for various events.
Located in Marion, Catawba River Campground is set along the scenic Catawba River. This riverside campground covers an area of 70 acres (28.3 hectares). It features several well-equipped campsites. Camping enthusiasts can indulge in recreational activities like, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and fishing.
Looking Glass Creamery is an exclusive producer of artisanal cheeses and traditional goat's milk caramel. The creamery uses fresh milk sourced from local family farms where cows and goats are raised in healthy environments. Pack Square, Ellington, Chocolate Lab, Ridgeline, Bear Wallow, Chevre, Fresh Curds and Goat Cheddar are some of the speciality items available here. The charming cheese shop has a small bar where you can enjoy a selection of the highly recommended, flagship cheeses along with a glass of wine.