Everything is in full bloom this Spring in Western North Carolina creating a lot of buzz about “things to do”. There are many festivals and activities in full swing here from bike rallies to art tours. If you live in the mountains, you know this is a place buzzing with fun. If you are planning to visit WNC, you will be surprised by the shear amount and diversity of amusements.
Spring travel in the mountains offers stunning flowers bursting with color, as well as countless ways to experience a healthy getaway to rejuvenate and shed those extra winter pounds. A few calories burning activities could include a hike to Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway or sightseeing in a quaint village like Dillsboro. Scenic drives are a wonderful way to experience the majesty from the highest peak east of the Mississippi, to see flowers actually go from buds to blooms, or drive to an authentic spa town with hot spring waters.
If flowers are your passion, think about checking out the 25th Annual Festival of Flowers at Biltmore Estate. More than 100,000 tulips will kick off the start of the festival which begins in April and runs through May. The stunning floral display sprawls across the estate and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the festival. Expect live music daily in the garden house and conservatory, with daily seminars offered. The restaurants feature special menu items, drinks and desserts, with the Winery offering a commemorative Festival of Flowers wine, wine programs, and children’s activities on the weekends.
The 2010 French Broad River Festival is an annual festival has grown steadily from a one night benefit party on the banks of the French Broad to an all weekend family festival featuring some of the best music in the area and a number of outdoor events in celebration of this beautiful river and setting. The 13th annual festival is set for April 30 – May 2, 2019 where the French Broad River meets the Appalachian Trail at the beautiful Hot Springs Campground & Spa (www.camp.nchotsprings.com ). Festival begins at 4:00 on Friday, April 30 and ends Sunday, May 2. Visit our website www.frenchbroadriverfestival.com for details or call 828-253-1240. Proceeds from the festival will be donated to American Whitewater and the new Hot Springs Community Learning Center.
Saturdays in Waynesville beginning at the end of May kick off the BLOCK PARTY or Downtown is Alive at Night with live music and dancing. Eats and treats are offered on the street and restaurants are open. A children’s area near Fun Things, Etc is available to keep the kid’s entertained. On Saturday night’s downtown Waynesville is the place to be.
With 53 miles of track, 2 tunnels and 25 bridges, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a variety of excursions that explore the amazing landscape of Western North Carolina. With the romance and mystique of an era gone by, guests on-board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will enjoy scenic train journeys across fertile valleys and through river gorges in a spectacular region near The Great Smoky Mountains.
There is plenty to do in the mountains of Western North Carolina during the spring months depending on your tastes. You will find something to entertain yourself no matter what you are interested in. We hope you’ll visit us in the beautiful mountains.
