Art Studio Tour. Western North Carolina is a draw for many of the country's top artisans. Take a rare opportunity to visit the working studios of potters, painters, glassblowers and metal-smiths, seeing the artists at work and shopping for ‘off the rack' unique pieces in all price ranges.
The Local Scene. Two dozen eclectic galleries, shops and boutiques inhabit Asheville's downtown area – all within easy walking distance of each other. Guided gallery tour? Shopping shuttle? Guided antique shopping tour? It can all be easily arranged!
The Palatial Biltmore Estate. A castle straight out of a fairytale, the renowned Biltmore Estate is the largest private residence in the country: 255 rooms; original collection of 50,000 furnishings, artwork and antiques; 8,000 nature-filled acres. Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, Biltmore Estate also features fabulous gardens and restaurants.
Raft and Rail. The Nantahala Gorge and Great Smoky Mountains Railway combine for an unparalleled two-tiered experience. A scenic 2-hour railroad excursion over Fontana Lake takes group members into the Nantahala Gorge for an exhilarating 8-mile ride down the Nantahala River. Those not wanting to raft can remain on the train, meeting up with rafters later in the afternoon - riverside picnic lunches or snacks optional.
Art, Drama & Shopping! Hit the highlights of Asheville. First, a visit to the Folk Art Center, a gallery showcasing the finest in traditional and contemporary Appalachian craft. Next, Blue Ridge Motion Pictures shares secrets of movie making and effects using current productions in progress. Finally, Asheville's historic downtown boasts nearly 150 retail boutiques dedicated to natural fiber clothing, arts and crafts, fine art galleries, furniture, home accessories, handmade jewelry, quilts, pottery, and more.
Chimney Rock Park. Stand atop a 500 million-year-old rock at the edge of a tall mountain with the world literally spread at your feet. An awe-inspiring view – undulating waves of mountains, the shining tendrils of Lake Lure, 1,200 vertical feet down along the Hickory Nut Gorge. Chimney Rock Park offers a great outdoor experience for the entire family with several trails to accommodate different ability levels.
And So Much More…