Free & Cheap Things to Do in Asheville

Parks & Nature

This peaceful 10-acre garden adjacent to UNC-Asheville showcases over 600 native Appalachian plant species along gentle walking trails through natural meadows and woodland settings. One of the most serene free stops in Asheville, it rewards visitors year-round with wildflowers, ferns, and native shrubs that define the Southern Appalachian landscape.

Address: 151 W T Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804

Tip: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) bring the best wildflower displays. The main loop is gentle and wheelchair-accessible. Open daily from dawn to dusk with free parking on site.

Arts & Culture

Located right on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this free NPS-managed gallery showcases traditional and contemporary craft work by Southern Appalachian artisans — pottery, jewelry, weaving, woodwork, and more. Live demonstrations give visitors a rare chance to watch master craftspeople at work, making it one of the best free cultural experiences in the region.

Address: 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805

Tip: Wednesday through Saturday is best for catching live craft demonstrations. Open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Free parking on site — a great first stop before driving the Parkway.

Outdoors

A stunning 1.3-mile loop trail at 5,100 feet elevation on the Blue Ridge Parkway leads to two beautiful waterfalls through a high-altitude meadow landscape unlike anything in the lowlands. In late summer, wild blueberries grow along the trail — and the fall foliage here is spectacular.

Address: Blue Ridge Pkwy Milepost 418.8, Asheville, NC 28709

Tip: Arrive early on summer and fall weekends — the small parking area fills up fast. The main loop is easy; a spur trail extends to the upper falls for a bigger adventure. Bring layers — it's noticeably cooler at this elevation than downtown Asheville.