The Ultimate 2025 Guide To: The Best Things To Do This Summer in and around Asheville, North Carolina

Are you ready for summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains?!

+ special discounts for TGA followers 🤍

We’ve curated your perfect bucket list for a perfect summer in Asheville ⤵️

Save this guide on our Instagram to easily reference & share with friends.

1. Cats at Play Cafe

Instagram: @catsatplaycafe

Location: 12 Eagle St, Asheville, NC

TGA Followers Discount: Complimentary vinyl cat sticker!

Tucked into the heart of downtown Asheville, Cats at Play Cafe is a one-of-a-kind destination where craft beverages meet feline charm. This cozy, vibrant cat cafe offers guests the chance to unwind with a drink and spend quality time in a spacious lounge filled with friendly, adoptable rescue cats. Whether you’re looking for a little purrtherapy, a fun family outing, or a quiet moment with a tasty beverage, Cats at Play Cafe delivers a uniquely heartwarming experience.

The cat lounge operates by reservation, allowing for a calm, welcoming environment where both cats and humans can truly connect. Walk-in visits are based on availability. Lounge visits for guests 8+ years. Kiddie Kitty time available for children under 8 years old Saturdays at 10 am and Mondays at 11 am. No reservations needed for the cafe and boutique.

Purrfect for solo visitors, date nights or small groups, Cats at Play Cafe is more than just a cafe—it’s a feel-good stop that supports rescue and adoption, one purr at a time.

2. Navitat Canopy Adventures

Instagram: @navitat

Location: 242 Poverty Branch Rd, Barnardsville, NC

Navitat is celebrating 15 years in Asheville! Escape the ordinary and experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains from a whole new perspective. Offering tours for ages 5+, Navitat is the perfect family getaway this summer! Join us, it's cooler up here...

3. Drip Sauna

Instagram: @drip_sauna

Location: 123 Flow State Vis, Asheville, NC

TGA Followers Discount: Use code TGADRIP for 10% Off Community Sessions and Private Bookings!

Located just outside downtown Asheville, Drip Sauna offers wood-fired sauna and cold plunge sessions in a peaceful setting overlooking the French Broad. We host community sessions every day, as well as private bookings, events, and special seasonal gatherings.

Each visit includes access to our hot saunas, cold plunges, outdoor showers, and space to relax and reset. You can come on your own, bring a friend, or gather a group.

This summer at Drip, you’ll find:

Community Sessions every day of the week, with expanded hours on weekends

Sunday Sauna Socials featuring movement, music, and shared time in the heat
Drip After Dark, an evening series with breathwork and music
Monthly community gatherings and more!

4. Asheville Throwing Club

Instagram: @axeville_avl

Location: 99 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville, NC

TGA Followers Discount: Use promo code TGAAVL for 10% off!

Axeville, Asheville’s first axe-throwing club, offers a fun and unique experience in a modern, cozy space. With 10 targets, comfortable lounges, an outdoor area, and games for groups of up to 60, it’s a must-visit destination. Enjoy craft beer, cider, and wine while you throw—perfect for outings with friends, family, or coworkers!

5. Bold Rock Mills River Cidery

Instagram: @boldrockmillsriver

Location: 72 School House Rd, Mills River, NC

Bold Rock Mills River Cidery, a premier dining destination, is located just a short 20-minute drive from Downtown Asheville nestled amidst the bountiful farmlands of North Carolina.

Our offerings include an array of hard ciders, flights, spirits, and even a selection of craft beers. To satisfy your culinary cravings, we offer a mouthwatering food menu prepared daily by the Bold Bites Mobile Kitchen. Our expansive Cider Garden provides ample space to unwind and savor the moment.

We extend a warm welcome to all, including furry friends and little ones – we are proudly dog and kid-friendly! Come by today and experience the unique charm of Bold Rock Mills River Cidery for yourself.

6. Sauna House

Instagram: @saunahouseasheville

Location: 230 Short Coxe Ave, Asheville, NC

TGA Followers Discount: Use code LOVEASHEVILLE for 15% off your visit!

Sauna House is a sustainable, modern bathhouse where everyone's invited. Discover our unbeatable wellness experience featuring public and private saunas, cold plunge pools, and chill vibes, all walking distance from downtown. Walk-ins welcomed.

7. Rooted in Wine

Instagram: @rooted_in_wine

Location: 1327 Charlotte Hwy, Fairview, NC

Rooted in Wine is a wine bar, garden, and retail shop located just 8 miles from Asheville, in the charming town of Fairview, NC. Founded by husband-and-wife team J and Renata, Rooted in Wine was born out of a love for good wine, good people, and supporting the local community.

We offer over 175 thoughtfully selected wines in our retail wine shop, along with a regularly updated wine list available by the glass or bottle. Our space also showcases a rotating collection of locally made goods—everything from artisan cheeses, craft chocolates, and roasted coffee to handmade art and homewares.

Whether you’re here for a casual glass of wine, to pick up a unique gift, or to explore our garden, we’ve created a welcoming space that invites you in. Plus, we host monthly wine tastings to help you discover and try new wines from around the world.

At Rooted in Wine, we’re proud to be a gathering place that supports local makers and helps people find wines they love, one bottle at a time. Join us in the shop or garden—we’d love to share a glass with you. Cheers!

8. Wake Foot Sanctuary

Instagram: @wakefootsanctuary

Location: 1 Page Ave #115, Asheville, NC

Step into Wake Foot Sanctuary—your serene escape in the heart of Asheville, NC. Whether you're seeking a moment of calm or a peaceful way to unwind, our beautifully crafted foot soaks and soothing massages offer the perfect retreat. Let your stress melt away as you sink into comfort, surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of our unique Foot Sanctuary.

9. The Never Ending Flower Farm

Instagram: @theneverendingflowerfarm

Location: 152 Tom Harris Trl, Barnardsville, NC

Our flower farm is nestled in the blue ridge mountains of the barnardsville community. We offer you-pick flowers throughout our growing season. Open every day from 8am-8pm. No reservations needed. Picnics are welcome!

Also, check out our Supper Club Dinners we host throughout the season. These are a unique dining experience on the farm with a curated menu from local chefs.

10. Pisgah Climbing School

Instagram: @pisgahclimbingschool

Location: 3526 Asheville Hwy, Pisgah Forest, NC

Come experience Rock Climbing with Pisgah Climbing School. Whether you've never worn climbing shoes or you're a seasoned alpinist, we’ve got something for you. We offer a variety of rock climbing options for all skill levels and we can personalize for your needs.

Our rock climbing guides and instructors are AMGA certified and our programs provide a cutting edge level of safety, education, and adventure across all disciplines and terrain.

Pisgah National Forest lies inside The Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, which are some of the oldest mountains in the world and offer some amazingly diverse rock climbing and are perfect for your next adventure.

11. Round Mountain Creamery

Instagram: @round_mountain_creamery

Location: 2203 Old Fort Rd, Black Mountain, NC

Tucked away in the scenic hills of Black Mountain, Round Mountain Creamery is a hidden gem and a memorable stop for anyone exploring the area. What started as North Carolina’s first Grade “A” goat dairy has grown into this charming, locally-run farm focused solely on incredible farmstead cheese. RMC offers a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and experience farm life up close.

Visitors can enjoy engaging farm tours by appointment, where they’ll meet (and pet) the goats, learn about the milking process, and see firsthand how RMC's award-winning cheeses are made. It's an ideal experience for families, couples, and curious travelers looking for unique things to do in Black Mountain.

The goats are friendly, the views are peaceful, and the cheese tastings are delicious - each flavor crafted with care and rooted in sustainability. Whether you’re a foodie seeking local flavor, an animal lover, or simply someone looking for an authentic farm experience, Round Mountain Creamery is the kind of place that stays with you long after your visit.

12. Tumblestone Tours

Instagram: @tumblestonewaterfalltours

TGA Followers Discount: Book direct and save 10%! Use the code HIKE10 when booking.

Get out into the forest to see waterfalls & remarkable beauty in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Tumblestone Tours offers waterfall hiking & scenic excursions that begin in Asheville! Let us do the driving while you enjoy the spectacular views. Book a tour today to experience the incredible scenery, flora and fauna that have been bringing travelers to the mountains of Western North Carolina for generations.

On this unique waterfall excursion you will hike approximately 3 miles, visit 3 impressive waterfalls, 2 protected forests, and ride on the historic Blue Ridge Parkway (when open). The tour is informative and fun! During this 5 1/2 hour excursion, you will see beautiful scenery, hear about the interesting facts and history of the area, and have time to sit and enjoy the majesty and scenery of the waterfalls.

Our tour sizes are kept to a maximum of 7 people to ensure a safe and personal experience. The cost of the tour includes drinks, snacks, hotel pick up in downtown Asheville, transportation, and a local experienced guide who will be with you throughout the excursion.

13. Lovely Picnics & Events

Instagram: @lovelypicnicsnc

TGA Followers Discount: Use code TGA for $50 off any luxury picnic package!

We create beautiful, stress-free luxury picnics that turn any day into something special. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic date, or just want to enjoy the beautiful WNC mountains, we've got you covered. We take care of everything, all you have to do is show up, relax, and enjoy the moment.

Website

14. Addison Farms Vineyard

Instagram: @addisonfarms

Location: 4005 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester, NC

Addison Farms Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard and winery situated on 55 acres in Leicester, NC. Located approximately 17 miles northwest of Asheville, NC, the property has been in the family for four generations. Addison Farmer and his parents purchased the property in 1937. We began this adventure with the vineyard and winery as a way to preserve the family farm for future generations.

15. The Salt Spa of Asheville & Himalayan Salt Cave Sanctuary

Instagram: @saltspaasheville

Location: 473 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC

Your relaxation and stress relief are our number one priorities. Experience real, science-based salt therapy at North Carolina’s first Salt Therapy Spa. Breathe in salt air and relax deeply with a salt therapy session, an added massage, or choose one of our Salt Spa Packages to achieve deep relaxation and inner peace.

Just be, and let the therapeutic power of salt therapy carry you into balance. Our Himalayan Salt Cave Sanctuary is both unique and healing. All walls and the floor are covered with pure Himalayan salt, and dry salt particles are dispersed into the air. Breathing this dry salt air offers many health benefits.

16. Tukit Tour Co.

Instagram: @tukittourco

Location: 515 Short McDowell St #6, Asheville, NC

Tukit Tour Company, a unique touring company in Asheville, NC, provides pickup and drop off at your downtown area Hotel, B & B or other places of choice.

Come enjoy fun tours around Asheville on our all electric Tuk Tuk. Learn about Asheville and points of interest on our city history tour, or try our Brewski or Rooftop Hop and drink your way around Asheville. All tours are private, and we can create your very own tour experience with your interests and requests.

Our local Tour Guide gurus are here to make your tour memorable and fun! Book your tour today!

Website

17. Cedar Rock Adventures

Instagram: @cedarrockadventures

Location: 220 Hominy Creek Rd, Asheville, NC

Cedar Rock Adventures is a locally owned outdoor tour company offering unforgettable experiences in Asheville, NC. Our passionate local guides lead unique brewery tours and scenic hikes that showcase the best of Western North Carolina.

Join us for our signature Brewery Raft Tour — a four-hour float down the iconic French Broad River with stops at three riverside breweries. It’s the perfect way to combine the beauty of the water with Asheville’s vibrant craft beer scene. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, planning a bachelor or bachelorette party, or just want a fun, relaxing day on the river, this trip is built for groups who love good beer and good vibes.

For those seeking mountain views and outdoor exploration, we also offer guided hiking tours in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover lush forests, panoramic overlooks, and hidden gems on half- and full-day adventures led by experienced local guides who know these trails inside and out.

Website

18. ‘99’ Creemee Stand

Instagram: @99_theyard

Location: 284 Railroad Avenue, Brevard, NC

'99' Creemee Stand is a must-visit dessert spot at The Yard Brevard, serving up rich and creamy treats from a charming vintage Airstream. Specializing in authentic Vermont creemees made with premium dairy from Kingdom Creamery of Vermont, a family-owned farm, this ice cream bar brings a taste of tradition to the heart of Brevard.

Guests can also enjoy North Carolina-made hard-scoop ice cream, crafted with all-natural ingredients and no corn syrup, as well as house-made gluten-free waffle cones for the perfect crunch. For a quick, refreshing treat, their selection of handcrafted popsicles is sure to hit the spot. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cone or a cool pop, 99' Ice Cream Bar is the ultimate stop for a sweet escape!

Website