Adventure in , USA!

Blue Ridge Parkway

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating journey along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile route rich with majestic scenery, thrilling hikes, and storied American heritage. Start your adventure in the vibrant town of Asheville, North Carolina, easily accessible via Interstate 40 or the Asheville Regional Airport. Rent a car, the preferred mode of travel for flexibility and comfort along the scenic route.

Day 1: Asheville to Mount Mitchell

Kick off in Asheville with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. Drive north to Milepost 355 to visit Mount Mitchell State Park. As you ascend, learn that Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The summit hike is short but steep, a perfect start to an adventure-packed trip.

Day 2: Exploring Linville Gorge

Continue your drive to Milepost 317.4, where you"ll detour to Linville Falls, a stunning three-tiered waterfall within the Linville Gorge, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians." Choose between several trails ranging from moderate to strenuous to explore the gorge and surrounding wilderness, providing ample opportunities for rock climbing and photography.

Day 3: Blue Ridge to Roanoke

Travel north towards Virginia, stopping at various overlooks like the Glassmine Falls at Milepost 361.2, each offering unique vistas and photo ops. Upon reaching Roanoke, explore the city’s vibrant downtown or hike up Mill Mountain for a sunset view beside the famous Roanoke Star, shining brightly since 1949.

Each stop on this picturesque parkway offers not just natural beauty but also a chance to engage with the rich cultural tapestry and adventurous spirit of the Appalachian highlands. Whether it’s hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the vistas, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a paradise for adventure lovers.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

River Arts District

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilaration-infused journey through Asheville"s pulsating heart, the River Arts District (RAD), where artistry meets adventure. Nestled along the French Broad River, this dynamic area invites you to explore its depths on foot, bike, or even paddleboard.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your adventure at the Asheville Visitor Center. Grab a map and rent a bike from nearby carriers, like Asheville Bicycle Company, to effortlessly navigate the district. Head towards the RAD"s center, where old factory buildings now buzz with the creative energy of over 200 artists. Start at the North Carolina Glass Center to watch molten glass transform into dazzling sculptures—participation is encouraged, so try your hand at glassblowing to create a small souvenir.

Midday: Fuel Up

By midday, refuel at the 12 Bones Smokehouse, a local haunt famous for its succulent ribs and ties to President Obama’s visits. It"s just a short cycle from the heart of RAD along Lyman Street.

Afternoon: Adventure Along the River

Post-lunch, swap your bike for a paddleboard with Wai Mauna Asheville SUP Tours, located directly by the river. Glide along the serene French Broad, viewing the district from a fresh perspective. For those preferring terra firma, the newly paved RAD Tip Greenway offers a scenic route for both walkers and bikers, featuring stunning river views and access to hidden murals.

Late Afternoon: Gallery Hopping

Back on land, delve deeper into the district"s artistic soul. Explore the magnetic Pull-Proof Studio for cutting-edge printmaking or the vibrant studios of Wedge Building, where you might just catch an artist in the throes of creation.

Evening: Unwind and Reflect

Conclude your visit at the Wedge Brewing Company. Reflect on your day"s adventures over a craft beer amidst the hum of local banter, rounding off the perfect blend of art and adventure in Asheville’s River Arts District.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Biltmore Estate

Why Visit?

Unleash the adventurer in you with a visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. This grand estate is not just a journey through American history, but also a playground for the outdoor enthusiast.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Kick off your adventure at the Biltmore Estate, easily accessible via Interstate 40 and just a few minutes from downtown Asheville. Upon arrival, dive into the world of the Vanderbilts with a self-guided tour of the Biltmore House, America’s largest home. Marvel at original art by Renoir, 16th-century tapestries, and an impressive library with 10,000 volumes. Don"t miss the stunning views from the rooftop tour, offering a unique perspective of the estate’s architecture and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

After delving into the opulence of the Gilded Age, lace up your boots for some outdoor action. Biltmore offers a variety of activities that cater to adventure seekers. Start with a guided horseback ride along meticulously maintained trails or rent a bike to explore miles of well-groomed paths. For a unique twist, try your hand at falconry or take a Land Rover off-roading experience, navigating through obstacles and learning about the estate’s natural environment.

Day 3: River and Wine

Conclude your visit by kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the serene French Broad River, which borders the estate. Afterwards, unwind with a tour and tasting at the Biltire Winery, where you can savor estate-grown wines in Antler Hill Village.

Throughout your stay, indulge in various dining options on the estate, from casual eateries to fine dining, all embracing farm-to-table principles and showcasing estate-raised and local ingredients.

By blending historical exploration with outdoor excitement, a visit to the Biltmore Estate offers a truly unique adventure that captivates the spirit of any thrill-seeker.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Wheels Through Time Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the American spirit at the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Renowned for its remarkable collection of American motorcycles, this unique museum promises a deep dive into the history of American motorcycling, showcasing over 300 rare motorcycles along with a myriad of fascinating memorabilia.

### Day 1: Arrival in Maggie Valley

Getting There

Maggie Valley is easily accessible by car. From Asheville, North Carolina, take I-40 W to exit 27 for US-74 W toward Waynesville. Follow US-74 W to exit 103 to merge onto US-19 S toward Maggie Valley. The journey takes about 40 minutes. For those flying in, the nearest airport is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), from where you can rent a car or take a taxi.

Exploring Wheels Through Time

Begin your adventure by stepping into the Wheels Through Time Museum, open from April through November. Start your tour by viewing the introductory video, which sets the stage for the innovative spirit of American motorcycle engineering. The museum"s highlights include the rare 1916 Traub motorcycle, considered the world’s most mysterious motorcycle, and the “Motor Maids” display celebrating women riders.

Interactive Experiences

Don"t miss the museum"s demonstrations where vintage bikes are fired up, allowing you to hear the roar and feel the power of historic engines in action—an exhilarating experience for any motor enthusiast.

Local Eats

Refuel with a hearty meal at nearby Joey"s Pancake House, a local favorite known for its classic American breakfasts and home-style ambiance.

### Day 2: Exploring More and Departure

Scenic Ride

Cap off your visit with a scenic motorcycle ride (rentals available nearby) through the Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its stunning views and sweeping curves, perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a ride through nature’s best.

This adventure through the Wheels Through Time Museum isn"t just a visit, it"s a pilgrimage to the heart of American motorcycle culture, offering both reverence and thrill to the spirit of every adventure lover.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.