Hendersonville

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Hendersonville's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the Historic Center, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, admiring the charming storefronts and historical architecture that define Hendersonville's character. Stop by the Historic Courthouse to learn about the town's fascinating history and enjoy the beautiful surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Henderson County Heritage Museum to gain deeper insights into the region's history through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling some southern favorites while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Post-lunch, take a scenic walk around the nearby Patton Park, where you can relax by the pond or explore the trails.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dine at one of the fine restaurants in downtown Hendersonville, where farm-to-table dining showcases local produce. After dinner, catch a live performance or local music at the Flat Rock Playhouse, known as the State Theatre of North Carolina. End your day with a leisurely stroll under the stars, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.

day 2
Nature Trails and Waterfalls
morning
:

Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast before heading to Dupont State Recreational Forest, famous for its stunning waterfalls. Spend your morning hiking the well-marked trails, taking in the sights and sounds of nature as you approach waterfalls like High Falls and Triple Falls. Capture breathtaking photos and enjoy the tranquility of the wooded surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the designated areas, surrounded by the beauty of the forest. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or take a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by the falls. For the adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the forest on two wheels, soaking in the fresh mountain air.

evening
:

Return to Hendersonville in the evening and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local barbecue joint, famous for its smoky flavors. After dinner, take a walk through the town's quaint streets, perhaps stopping for some ice cream at a beloved local shop. Enjoy the evening ambiance, listening to the sounds of laughter and conversation from nearby restaurants.

day 3
Apple Picking Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy diner, fueling up for a day of fun at the apple orchards. After breakfast, make your way to one of the local apple farms, where you can pick a variety of delicious apples straight from the trees. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque views of the mountains while you fill your basket.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, participate in an apple-themed workshop at the orchard, where you can learn about different apple varieties and how to make delicious cider. Afterward, indulge in a homemade lunch at the orchard's café, featuring farm-fresh ingredients and apple-inspired dishes. Spend some time exploring the farm's other attractions, such as petting zoos or hayrides.

evening
:

After a day of apple picking, head back to Hendersonville and prepare a homemade apple pie using the apples you picked. Gather with friends or family to enjoy a cozy dinner at home, sharing stories of the day's adventures. As the sun sets, enjoy the warmth of a fire pit in your backyard, sipping cider and reflecting on your day.

day 4
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Start your day at the Art League of Henderson County, where you can enjoy a light breakfast in the art-filled space while taking in local artwork. Engage with local artists during their morning workshops, learning about different techniques and mediums. Take a moment to appreciate the creativity surrounding you before heading to the next cultural stop.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Blue Ridge Community College to see student art exhibitions and perhaps catch a performance by local musicians or theatre groups. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, discussing your favorite pieces and artists from the morning. After lunch, take a guided art walk through downtown, discovering murals and installations that celebrate Hendersonville's artistic spirit.

evening
:

As night falls, attend an art gallery opening or a cultural event at one of the local theaters, immersing yourself in Hendersonville's vibrant arts scene. After the event, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant that showcases local art on its walls, allowing you to dine amidst creativity. Conclude your evening with a glass of wine at a nearby wine bar, reflecting on the day's artistic experiences.

day 5
Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains
morning
:

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off for a day in the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for their breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. Start with a guided rock climbing session on the rugged cliffs, experiencing the thrill of scaling the heights with stunning views. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow climbers as you tackle different routes under the guidance of experienced instructors.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, embark on a scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail, taking in panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Engage with fellow hikers, sharing stories and discovering hidden gems along the trail. Keep your camera handy for capturing the stunning natural beauty around you.

evening
:

Return to Hendersonville in the evening, and rejuvenate with a well-deserved dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant, savoring seasonal dishes. After dinner, unwind at a local brewery or taproom, sampling craft beers inspired by the region's natural ingredients. Relish the lively atmosphere, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the day's adventures.

day 6
Exploration of Local Wineries
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a vineyard-themed café, enjoying views of the vineyards as you sip your coffee. After breakfast, head out to the nearby wineries for a guided tour, learning about the winemaking process and the unique varietals produced in the region. Engage with the winemakers, asking questions and soaking in their passion for their craft.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, participate in a wine tasting session, sampling a selection of local wines paired with artisanal cheeses. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the wineries that features seasonal ingredients from local farms. Spend time exploring the vineyard grounds, taking in the serene landscapes and perhaps purchasing a bottle or two to take home.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Hendersonville for a dinner at a restaurant known for its extensive wine list, where you can select the perfect pairing for your meal. Enjoy the ambiance of the evening as you savor your meal and reflect on the day's experiences. End your night with a leisurely stroll through town, enjoying the twinkling lights and inviting atmosphere.

day 7
Family-Friendly Fun at Lake Lure
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a family-friendly diner, where the kids can choose from a variety of delicious options. After breakfast, make your way to Lake Lure, where you can spend the morning enjoying water activities such as paddleboarding or kayaking. The beautiful lake surrounded by mountains provides a perfect backdrop for family fun.

afternoon
:

After a morning on the water, have a picnic lunch by the lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery and perhaps some games on the grassy shores. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat tour around the lake, learning about the area's history and enjoying views of the famous Chimney Rock. Allow some time for the kids to play at the nearby beach area, building sandcastles and splashing in the water.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Hendersonville and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where everyone can find something to enjoy. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town's parks, allowing the kids to run around and burn off energy. Conclude the evening with a family game night at your accommodation, sharing laughter and stories from the day.

day 8
Local Markets and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hendersonville Farmers Market, where you can enjoy breakfast from local vendors while browsing fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with the friendly farmers and artisans, learning about their products and the stories behind them. Afterward, spend some time exploring the market, picking up unique ingredients for later culinary experiments.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head back to your accommodation to prepare a delicious lunch using the fresh ingredients you picked up at the market. Experiment with new recipes, perhaps focusing on Southern cuisine to celebrate the local flavors. After lunch, consider signing up for a cooking class at a local culinary school, learning how to create traditional dishes with a modern twist.

evening
:

As evening falls, invite friends or fellow travelers to join you for a taste of your culinary creations, enjoying a home-cooked meal together. Share stories and laughter over the dinner table, celebrating the flavors of Hendersonville. End the day with a dessert made from fresh fruits, perhaps inspired by your morning visit to the farmers market.

day 9
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast at a local café, focusing on fresh, wholesome ingredients to set a relaxing tone. After breakfast, head to a nearby spa for a rejuvenating morning of pampering, including massages and facials that will leave you feeling refreshed. Allow yourself to unwind in the tranquil atmosphere, embracing the serenity of the surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your spa treatments, continue your relaxation with a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its healthy options. Spend your afternoon at a local park, enjoying the fresh air while practicing mindfulness through yoga or meditation. Take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of nature, allowing it to recharge your spirit.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat yourself to a light dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can savor flavorful dishes made with local ingredients. After dinner, consider enjoying a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s indulgences while listening to live music. Conclude your day with a calming stroll through the town, soaking in the tranquil night air and the beauty of Hendersonville.

Discover Hendersonville

Read more in our Hendersonville 2025 Travel Guide.

Hendersonville Travel Guide