Asheville, NC attractions for couples highlight the best ways to make memories in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From picnic spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway to candlelit dinners in downtown Asheville, this guide helps you plan a romantic escape. Written from the perspective of Saluda Mountain Retreats, a romantic mountain escape coming in 2025, part of Enjoy Unique Stays, you’ll learn how our cozy mountain cabins make the perfect base for exploring Asheville’s top couples’ activities.
Saluda Mountain Retreats is nestled among ponds, creeks, and great hiking trails just 30 minutes south of Asheville. After a day of exploring, you can unwind in your private hot tub or barrel sauna, then drift to sleep in a modern cabin surrounded by nature.
Ready to discover the best Asheville attractions for couples? Let’s dive in — and if you’re still searching for inspiration, explore our unique stays in Western North Carolina for even more romantic escapes in the mountains.
Table of Contents
Asheville, NC Attractions for Couples
1. Picnic & Sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Plan a romantic picnic for two along the scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville Picnic Company offers ready-to-go picnic baskets you can order ahead.
⭐ Ratings: 5/5 (84 reviews)
💵 Price Level: $$ (baskets from $50)
📍 Location: Asheville Picnic Company, Asheville, USA
📞 Phone: +1 828-633-3151
⏰ Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Key Details:
Best Spot: Milepost 382 Overlook for sunset views 🌅
What to Pack: Blanket, wine, and light layers
Tip: Visit in spring for wildflowers or fall for foliage
After your picnic, come back to Saluda Mountain Retreats for a warm and cozy evening.
2. Explore the River Arts District
The River Arts District is a hub of creativity along the French Broad River. Walk hand-in-hand past glassblowing studios and galleries featuring local artists.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (25 reviews)
📍 Address: 191 Lyman St #310, Asheville, NC 28801
📞 Phone: +1 828-776-2716
⏰ Hours: Wed-Sat 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sun 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Key Details:
Glassblowing: Try a couples’ glass class together 🎨
Murals: Snap photos at the street murals
Food & Beer: Grab a craft brew at New Belgium nearby
Learn more about 310 Art Gallery.
3. Couples Spa Day at Shoji Spa
Treat yourselves to relaxation at Shoji Spa, tucked in the mountains near Asheville. Their couples’ packages include hot tubs, steam rooms, and massages.
⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5 (858 reviews)
💵 Price Level: moderate
📍 Address: 96 Avondale Heights Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
📞 Phone: +1 828-299-0999
⏰ Hours: Wed 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Fri-Sat 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; closed Tue
Key Details:
Package: Mineral Soak + 60-min Couples Massage 📖
Feature: Indoor/outdoor hot pools
Reservation: Book 2 weeks in advance
Learn more about Shoji Spa.
Recharge at your cabin’s barrel sauna, then toast with wine on your deck.
4. Kayaking on the French Broad River
Float side-by-side on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard down the gentle French Broad River. It’s intimate, serene, and perfect for wildlife watching.
📍 Location: French Broad Outfitters, 447 Riverside Dr, Asheville, NC 28801
📞 Phone: +1 828-258-1605
⏰ Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Key Details:
Packages: Kayak, SUP, or tube rentals
Highlight: Sunset floats for romance
Safety: Life jackets and dry bags provided
5. Adventure Ziplining & Whitewater Rafting
For thrill-seeking couples, head to Adventure Center of Asheville for ziplining, whitewater rafting, and treetop ropes courses.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (437 reviews)
📍 Address: 85 Expo Dr, Asheville, NC 28806
📞 Phone: +1 828-225-2921
⏰ Hours: Wed-Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Mon-Tue
Key Details:
Zipline: 7 zipline canopy tour for two
Rafting: Half-day guided rafting package 🌊
Learn more about Adventure Center of Asheville.
Return to your cabin for a soothing steam shower and a starlit deck chat.
6. Decadent Dessert at French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Indulge your sweet tooth at French Broad Chocolate Lounge in downtown Asheville. Share liquid truffles or pastry flights.
⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 (4263 reviews)
💵 Price Level: inexpensive
📍 Address: 10 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801
📞 Phone: +1 828-252-4181
⏰ Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Key Details:
Specialty: Liquid truffle flights 🍫
Seating: Upstairs lounge with skyline views
Learn more about French Broad Chocolate Lounge.
7. Wine Tasting at the Biltmore Estate
Roam the Biltmore Estate winery for a pleasant wine tasting and vineyard walk.
⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (36538 reviews)
💵 Price Level: $$ (tasting flights $25)
📍 Address: Asheville, NC 28803
📞 Phone: +1 800-411-3812
📅 Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Key Details:
Includes: Winery tasting, vineyard tour
Best Time: Late afternoon for sunset over vines
Tip: Buy estate wine to take home
Learn more about Biltmore Estate.
Back in the mountains, uncork your favorite bottle by cabin firelight.
8. Wander the North Carolina Arboretum
Walk hand-in-hand through the North Carolina Arboretum, 434 acres of gardens and bonsai exhibits north of Asheville.
⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (284 reviews)
📍 Address: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806
📞 Phone: +1 828-665-2492
⏰ Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Key Details:
Bonsai House: Tiny tree displays
Arboreal Trail: Paved garden walk
Events: Botanical yoga and light shows
Learn more about NC Arboretum.
Gather wildflower bouquets for your cabin porch table.
9. Stroll Downtown & Pack Square Park
Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and street performers in downtown Asheville. Relax at Pack Square Park.
⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 (1767 reviews)
📍 Address: 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC 28801
📞 Phone: +1 828-259-5800
⏰ Hours: Open 24 hours
Key Details:
Drum Circle: Friday nights at Pritchard Park 🥁
Food Trucks: Lexington Ave. for late-night bites
Malaprops Bookstore: Champagne bar upstairs
Learn more about Pack Square Park.
10. Catch Live Music at The Orange Peel
Dance to local and national acts at The Orange Peel, downtown’s premier live music venue.
⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (1984 reviews)
📍 Address: 101 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
⏰ Hours: Varies by show
Key Details:
Atmosphere: Intimate dance floor
Genres: Rock, jazz, hip-hop, electronic
Ticket Tip: Buy in advance online
Learn more about The Orange Peel.
Finish the night back at your Saluda cabin stargazing.
11. Guided Couples Ghost Tour
Join a haunted walking tour to learn spooky stories from Asheville’s past.
📍 Meeting Point: Downtown near Battery Park Book Exchange
⏰ Tours: 7:00 PM Fri-Sat
Key Details:
Bring: Comfortable shoes, light jacket
Duration: 1.5 hours
Highlight: Haunted Thomas Wolfe House
Conclude your night with a warm drink by the cabin wood stove.
Tips & Tricks for Your Couples’ Getaway
Pack Layers: Highs and lows in the mountains can vary greatly.
Reserve Early: Spa and Biltmore Estate spots fill fast.
Link Up: Check our Destinations page for more ideas for places to stay in Western NC.
More Romantic Ideas: Discover more ideas like these in our blog about romantic getaways in North Carolina for couples, where we highlight dreamy destinations.
Conclusion
From a picnic on the Blue Ridge Parkway to a couples’ massage and hot tub under the stars, these Asheville NC attractions for couples offer romance at every turn. And when you’re ready to unwind, Opening soon in 2025, Saluda Mountain Retreats provides the perfect backdrop—modern cabins with hot tubs, barrel saunas, and mountain views just 30 minutes from Asheville.
Escape the ordinary and discover the best Asheville NC attractions for couples.
Book your stay today at Enjoy Unique Stays and start creating memories to last a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to go to Asheville?
The best months to visit are April to June and September to early November when daytime temperatures range from the 50s to mid-70s. You’ll enjoy spring wildflowers or breathtaking fall foliage with comfortable weather for outdoor adventures.
What do people usually go to Asheville for?
Asheville draws foodies, craft beer lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With 50+ breweries, world-class restaurants, 11 farmers markets, and millions of protected acres for hiking, rafting, and ziplining, there’s something for every couple.
How do I spend a day in Asheville, NC?
Morning: Have a fun picnic at a beautiful spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Bring a blanket and some yummy snacks!
Afternoon: Visit the famous Biltmore Estate. Don’t forget to check out the winery and taste some great wines.
Evening: Stroll through the River Arts District. Look at the cool art and maybe even join in a fun art class together! End your day with a nice dinner at a cozy restaurant nearby.
What famous person lives in Asheville, NC today?
Notable residents include David Wilcox (folk musician), Rachael Yamagata (singer-songwriter), and Chuck Garvey of the jam band moe.
What are must-pack items for an Asheville couples’ trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, a picnic blanket, reusable water bottles, and your favorite camera. Don’t forget evening attire for a special dinner or live music show.
How can I find more romantic cabin retreats in Western North Carolina?
Explore our Western North Carolina collection at Enjoy Unique Stays to discover romantic cabins near Saluda, Saluda Grade, and Pisgah National Forest.
Ready to plan your getaway?
Reach out on our Contact Us page and start your journey to romance in Asheville today!
