Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Western NC
A private, mountain oasis, Saluda is the perfect place to escape for a romantic celebration, weekend getaway, or a vacation with friends. Outside the bustling city of Asheville, our small town offers serenity and relaxation while remaining close enough to the city for a day trip. While staying at Orchard Inn, you can experience all the things to do in Western NC!
Below, you’ll find some of the best things to do in the Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. Start your planning by accessing our complimentary Vacation Guide we designed especially for you.
Explore These Things to Do in Western North Carolina
Get Away from the Stresses of Everyday Life
It’s time to take a break from your busy routine. Traveling to a place as scenic and serene as the mountains of Saluda will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated in no time. As soon as you step out of the car at Orchard Inn, you will immediately feel your worries wash away. Take a break from your daily habits with these things to do in Western NC:
- Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Indulge in your passion for photography
- Sit on our porch swing and read a book outside
- Take a yoga class with a view in our new spa
Reset in Nature
We’re all busy, and we all spend way too much time indoors. Whether you’re constantly in the office, at home, or even at the grocery store, you’re always in an enclosed space. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air! Our area has some of the most breathtaking scenery you have ever experienced and tons of adventures to enjoy. Unplug with a day spent outdoors at any of these activities:
- Go on the excursion of a lifetime with Green River Adventures
- Hike through the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center
- Visit one of our favorite state parks
- Go horseback riding
- Seek some thrills mountain biking
- See the most breathtaking waterfalls
- Take a walk at our on-site nature trail
Enjoy the City of Asheville
Orchard Inn is located about 40 minutes away from Asheville, making it the perfect day trip during your stay! Browse through quaint shops, dine at award-winning restaurants, visit historic sites, and more!
- Enjoy nature at the Asheville Botanical Gardens
- Visit the historic Biltmore House
- Dine at the best restaurants in Asheville
- Head to one of the many breweries in Asheville
Search for Art
Western North Carolina is known for its incredible art. You never know what you will find! Whether you are just browsing or enjoy watching artists practice their craft, you will love the art scene here. These are some of our favorite spots:
- See artists at work at the Blue Ridge Parkway Folk Art Center
- Explore the shops and galleries of Asheville for unique prints, paintings, and other works
- Take a workshop or shop around for an eclectic mix of goods at Random Arts & Apparel down the street from Orchard Inn
- Visit some pottery studios
Explore Our Culinary & Beverage Offerings
When you’re on vacation, food isn’t just a necessity. It’s part of the experience! Between enjoying all the fun things to do in Western NC, indulge in the delicious cuisine the area has to offer. Here are some of our favorite spots:
- Indulge in a farm-to-table dinner at Newman’s Restaurant
- Try one of our favorite restaurants
- Explore the vineyards of Western North Carolina on the Our Carolina Foothills Wine Trail
- Try some local hard cider
Strengthen Your Relationship
Whether you’re looking for an excuse to get away with your sweetheart or are celebrating a relationship milestone, you deserve a romantic vacation! Here are a few of the best ways to enjoy a special getaway together:
- How to have the best romantic getaway
- Romantic things to do in Asheville
- Indulge in a Romance Package to make your stay extra special
- Get a His & Hers Massage
- Book your mountain getaway at the Orchard Inn, of course!
Learn a Little
A vacation is even better when you are able to go home with some new knowledge! Western North Carolina is filled with incredible history that is waiting to be experienced. You’ll be satisfied knowing you learned something on your trip after you visit any of these attractions:
- Learn about the history of Saluda and the Saluda Grade
- Visit the Henderson Heritage Museum
- Shop for antiques you won’t find anywhere else
- Historic planes await at the Western North Carolina Air Museum
- Bike fanatics will be impressed by the Wheels Through Time Museum
Relish in the Season
No matter what time you choose to visit, there are always Western NC things to do. Here’s how to enjoy the seasons in our area:
- The best things to do in the winter
- Go winter hiking
- Experience the breathtaking fall foliage
- Go apple picking in the fall
- Attend a fall festival or two
- See the Biltmore Gardens in the spring
Experience All the Things to Do in Western NC at Orchard Inn
Set back in the mountains of Saluda, Orchard Inn is the perfect home base for experiencing all the things to do in Western NC. After your day of adventures, you’ll love relaxing in your cozy accommodations! Our luxurious amenities, breathtaking views, and homemade breakfasts will make you feel as if it’s your home away from home. With many spots for you to sit back and relax, Orchard Inn is the ideal destination to recoup and rejuvenate before returning home. Check availability today!