There are many reasons why people visit the area, and hiking in the forests ranks pretty high. North Carolina National Forests is a very solid site to help you decide how to spend your time. The NC Arboretum is a wonderful afternoon's visit. If its water that you are after, check out the wonderful offerings that Nantahala Outdoor Center has. They have mild to terrifyingly exciting rafting trips, and the guides and staff are highly professional and fun. There is also the renown Outward Bound, with a base camp not very far away. They can adjust your attitude toward nature in a hurry. Another interesting thing around here is the East Fork Llamas. I think that you can understand what they are all about! If you didn't get here by the Blue Ridge Parkway then do look at thier web site. What a beautiful drive. If you are going out you need to get food goodies together, and we have a scrumptios list of places. The first place to head is the co-op.
If you want to know what it looks like here in Asheville, go to the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. They have hints and pretty pictures, plus a great schedule of events, like when the Asheville Art Museum is having a special exhibit. If you want to read about the music scene, whats happening over the weekend, you will want to check out the Mountain Express, an alternative local news. If your interest in music is classical, there is the Asheville Symphony Orchestra . The local Gannett owned paper, Asheville Citizen Times, can give weather and other current happenings in the area. There is a great live cam from a tall downtown building.The local tv station is often very informative. If you are coming to this area, odds are you will visit the Biltmore Estate. Doing so in virtual reality will insure a smooth physical visit. Oh, and there is lots of theatre, Asheville Community Theater , for example.
If you are thinking of moving here, the the links to Asheville City Schools , Asheville-Buncombe Tech, University of North Carolina Asheville and Warren Wilson College will give you an idea of what to expect academically. The city has a page, too. Of course there are lots of things to buy in the area. Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe has won awards for everything known in the independent bookstore business ... its a fun, central, exciting place to hang out, buy a great book . Crafts are spectacular here. Take a look at the Southern Highland Guild.There are places to do zen meditation, places to buy meditation cushions, and a wonderful place to have retreats.