While you’re on the Ale Trail, check out some other activities to keep you busy!
While exploring the vibrant brewery scene in Asheville and Western North Carolina, visitors and residents alike will find no shortage of activities to round out their experience. Between tastings, take time to stroll through the city’s walkable downtown, filled with local shops, and art galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit adventure centers, get on the river, venture along the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and unwind with riverfront views in the River Arts District. From live music and rooftop views to historic landmarks and farm-to-table dining, Asheville offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation to complement every brewery visit.
The Adventure Center of Asheville
The Adventure Center of Asheville offers Asheville’s best adventures, just 5 minutes from downtown. Enjoy expansive views of the Asheville skyline from Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures or head up into the trees at Asheville Treetops Adventure Park. Jump on a mountain bike to experience Kolo Bike Park or grab your kids and check out KidZip, America’s first zipline adventure designed for kids under 10.
‣ Location: 15 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
‣ Hours: Available adventure times vary by day, check website for hours
‣ Reservations: 877-247-5539
Mast General Store
Mast General Store is a nostalgic fixture in downtown Asheville, known for its creaky wood floors, vintage-inspired atmosphere, and thoughtfully curated mix of outdoor gear, apparel, home goods, and old-fashioned candy. Rooted in Appalachian heritage, the store offers a unique shopping experience that blends practicality with charm, making it a must-visit stop for both locals and visitors exploring the city.
‣ AVL Location: 85 Expo Dr, Asheville
‣ HVL Location: 527 N Main St, Hendersonville
‣Call: 828-232-1883
Appalachian Beer Spa
Appalachian Beer Spa & Massage Lounge offers a unique relaxation experience with beer-infused spa treatments, including beer soaks, vinotherapy, and massages. Services also include feet reflexology soaks, facials, spa packages, couples massages, and group bookings. They also provide barrel saunas, zero-gravity lounges, and local craft beverages with complimentary Brew n’ Renew craft beverages with beers, wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic juices, sodas, teas, and snacks.
‣ AVL Location: 142-K Airport Rd, Arden, NC
‣ Call: 828-230-1441
‣ Book: AppalachianBeerSpa.com
A-B Tech Craft Beverage Institute
The Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast ® (CBI) at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is designed to support the rapidly growing craft beverage industry in Western North Carolina and the Southeast by providing curriculum and non-credit courses in brewing, distilling, fermentation, and related business practices. The Institute prepares individuals for positions in brewery and distillery operations and management, distribution, sales and marketing, and customer service or to be self-employed and open their own craft production facility.
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GreenFlash Watersports
GreenFlash Watersports provide guided kayak and paddleboard tours, making stops at breweries along the French Broad River. Family-friendly options include mini-cat tub rentals and four wheeling mountain adventures. Early booking is recommended. Book online via their website.
‣ Service area includes: Asheville, Black Mountain, Old Fort, Marion
‣ Hours: Seasonal, see website for current tour hours
‣ Call: 828-775-1008