Tag: Hendersonville NC

Ride the New Ecusta Trail: Hendersonville’s Scenic Path to Adventure

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What’s Inside: A look at what’s waiting for families on Hendersonville, NC’s Ecusta Trail.

You may be familiar with the Swamp Rabbit, Mary Black & Doodle Trails, maybe you’ve even taken a road trip up to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail near Damascus, but if your family is looking for a brand-new trail to explore, I’ve got great news! The first 6 miles of the long-awaited Ecusta Trail are open to the public, with another dozen miles set to eventually connect Hendersonville to Brevard, NC!

The Grand Opening of the Ecusta Trail

Hundreds of people gathered in Hendersonville earlier this summer to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for the Ecusta Trail, the newest rail trail added to the growing network of multi-purpose trails crisscrossing western North Carolina. The Ecusta rail line was built in 1894 to service a paper mill, but the last time a train used the rail corridor was in 2002. It has taken 15 years of community efforts from nonprofits, including Friends of Ecusta Trail and Conserving Carolina, to transform it into the trail it is today!

Stops to Make Along the Trail

The Eastern Terminus of the Ecusta Trail

The eastern terminus of the Ecusta Trail (and to the section of trail that is currently open) is Main Street in Hendersonville. The town recently reworked their traffic pattern to make a safe and convenient bike lane that allows trail users to explore downtown, including some of our favorites like the Mineral & Lapidary Museum, the E.C.C.O. Aquarium & Shark Lab, the Appalachian Pinball Museum, Mast General Store and Black Bear Coffee.

Be sure to check out the Bearfootin’ Bears, a public art display featuring decorated, life-size bear sculptures!

A good starting point to exploring downtown is the Welcome Center and Trailhead (with bathrooms and water fountains). As you work your way south, the Ecusta Trail splits off going west just before S. Church & S. Main merge – and the adventure continues!

Lennox Station and Beyond

A popular stop comes up in about ½ mile: Lennox Station. Trail users can grab a quick bite from Ecusta Market & Café, and just next door is Trailside Brewing Company. Then at around mile 1.5 is Southern Streams Coffeehouse and Laurel Green Park, with the Little Laurel Green playground. Next up at mile 2 are a slew of dining options, as well as a convenience and grocery store. And around mile 3 is Basecamp: the Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm, and Guidon Brewing Co.

Where the Trail Ends

The trail currently ends at mile 6 in Horse Shoe, but plans are already underway for the next two sections. 5 more miles in Henderson County through Etowah and another 8 in Transylvania County will take the trail to Pisgah Forest and the western terminus, Main Street in Brevard.

For this part, the trail roughly parallels the French Broad River and Hendersonville Highway. Etowah has more than a couple of eateries and stops, as well as the Horse Shoe River Bend Access point to the French Broad River. Upon reaching Pisgah Forest and Brevard, the trail will intersect with the Brevard greenway near Oskar Blues, just west of where the Davidson River flows into the French Broad.

Please, Follow Etiquette to Stay Safe

While on the trail, users should follow the usual trail etiquette. Please respect private property and stay on the trail! Pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted on the Ecusta, but wheels yield to pedestrians, and you should keep right except to pass.

We’ve found it’s great practice for our “on your left” warning when passing – even the 5-year-old who is just learning his left from right! Helmets are required for children 16 years of age and under (who are on wheels), and pets must be on a leash no longer than 6ft & under control. Please clean up after your pet as you would anywhere!

Check out the Handy Ecusta Trail Map!

To view the interactive trail map, visit the Ecusta Trail website. It’s also got all the latest on the status of the remaining portion of the trail, as well as info on volunteering and trail events. Ecusta Trail also has a Facebook and Instagram page.

If you’re looking for more family-friendly bike trail info, click here for 10+ Family-Friendly Paved and Off Road Bike Trails: Greenville SC.

More Hiking & Biking Near Greenville, SC

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Liene

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August 15, 2025
When It Was ‘Time to Get Out of Florida,’ She Went for an Appalachian Vibe in North Carolina

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When Jamie Petersen moved to North Carolina last fall, she needed fresh air and a fresh start.

Ms. Petersen had faced a string of hardships while living in Brandon, Fla., a suburb of Tampa. In 2012, her brother died from complications of cystic fibrosis. A few years later, her son Wolfgang, now 10, was successfully treated for a cancerous tumor.

[Did you recently buy a home? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

Then, on Labor Day weekend in 2023, Ms. Petersen was sitting in a car in the parking lot of a bar when an assailant fired several shots through the passenger-side window and fled, leaving her with five bullet wounds. “I almost lost my left arm and had to learn how to walk again,” she said. (A suspect was arrested in January 2024, but official charges were never filed due to lack of evidence.)

As she recuperated, she decided it was “time to get out of Florida.”

“I wasn’t happy with my job, the schools weren’t great, the weather was too hot,” she said.

She didn’t love her house in Brandon, either — a three-bedroom, two-bath ranch behind a shopping center in a flat, congested neighborhood.

After ending a relationship last summer, Ms. Petersen, 47, looked for job openings through HCA Healthcare, the hospital system she works for as a radiology technician. She applied for a position in Brevard, N.C., about 45 minutes outside of Asheville, in a smaller hospital that could accommodate her post-injury limitations. The job also came with a raise.

She and Wolfgang visited in August and quickly fell for the area’s majestic mountains and laid-back Appalachian vibe.

“We loved the beauty of it,” Ms. Petersen said. “Also the weather. It was noticeably cooler here, and there were much less people.”

The pair moved up to North Carolina in December, staying in an Airbnb while exploring the housing market. Sometimes they toured listings with Caroline Ericksen, a Coldwell Banker Advantage broker Ms. Petersen found online. Other times, they simply drove around checking out exteriors.

“It was fun, actually,” she said. “We’d pack up snacks, and you can get a feel for a place if you like the look of the outside or the neighborhood.”

Her house in Florida sold in March, giving her enough for a roughly 20 percent down payment on a $400,000 home.

Ms. Petersen wanted an updated home with at least two bedrooms, a porch, a nice view and some privacy. Ideally, it would be within 30 minutes of her job in Brevard, and near a good school. She also wanted some outdoor space where Wolfgang could run around and explore.

And, coming from Florida, central air-conditioning was a must. “I’d die without it,” Ms. Petersen said.

Find out what happened next by answering these two questions:

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Heather Senison

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August 14, 2025
Pick Your Pumpkin Off the Vine at Nix Pumpkin Patch

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Looking forward to picking a pumpkin at The Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC? This u-pick pumpkin patch allows you to cut the pumpkin right off the vine. We visited The Nix Pumpkin Patch and had so much fun searching for the perfect pumpkin, visiting their market, drinking apple cider, and making a lot of memories!

The Pumpkin Patch is open from September 7th, 2024 until late November.

The Nix Pumpkin Patch is a family-owned and operated pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Situated amongst a plethora of orchards and farms, you’ll find one of the only u-pick patches in the Hendersonville area. There is just something about cutting your pumpkin right off that vine that makes it so much better!

Planning to Spend the day exploring Hendersonville, NC? Check out our guide to Things to do in Hendersonville, NC. The guide is full of reviews on places to eat, play, orchards, and vineyards to explore.

The Pumpkin Patch

Once you grab your sheers and wagon from under the repurposed jack-o-lantern painted grain silo, you can head inside The Pumpkin Patch. Make sure to follow all the rules posted at the entrance to keep the patch happy. First, you’ll notice the rows dedicated to cinderella style pumpkins. These are the funky-shaped, bright orange pumpkins reminiscent of Cinderella’s carriage.

As you work your way back, you’ll find several dozen rows of jack-o-lantern pumpkins. These are the ones you may want if you’re going to use them for Halloween because of their uniformity and various shapes and sizes to choose from. Just make sure to not step on the vines when cutting your pumpkin off! Also, if you cut it off, you buy it, so make sure it’s exactly what you are wanting before making the cut.

Pumpkin prices range from $2-$3 for very small, malformed pumpkins, to $45 to $50 for larger pumpkins. Most of the pumpkins in the patch fall somewhere in the middle of that pricing. We were able to purchase two pie pumpkins for $5 each and an average size carving pumpkin for $10. They also have dozens of prepicked pumpkins for the same pricing scale, and you will find a small sharpied price tagged right on top near the stem.

Inside the Market at Nix Pumpkin Patch

Either before or after you pick your pumpkins, you will want to head into the market to explore all the goods and yummy treats for sale. The well-stocked market has everything from ornamental glass gem corn for decorating, to sweet treats, snacks, and multiple flavors of cider slushies! There is even an adorable section of all things Spookley the Square Pumpkin.

You will find refrigerators full of fruits, vegetables, sodas, and more to purchase along the walls. They also sell a lot of local goods, crafts, and vegetables. Don’t forget your bagged apples and jugs of cider before heading to the checkout.

Photo Opportunities at the Pumpkin Patch

There are multiple places to take some amazing photos of your kids at Nix’s. Before you even enter, there are humongous pumpkins by the entrance that will dwarf your toddler, making for a cute photo session.

In the courtyard past the market, you will find a gorgeous display of colorful pumpkins surrounding a bench, perfect for fall photos of the entire family!

In addition, there are wooden photo stand-ins to stick your face through for a silly photo, photos beside the jack o lantern grain silo, and of course, the pumpkin patch itself. So, grab your camera and click away!

Pick Your Own Flowers at Nix Pumpkin Patch

Nix’s also offers a pick-your-own flower patch. The flowers are in rows right before you enter the pumpkin patch, and they are not hard to miss. The flowers are a gorgeous display of colorful zinnias and dahlias, perfect for your fall centerpieces.

Visiting The Nix’s Pumpkin Patch

The pumpkin patch is open every day, Sunday – Saturday, from 9 am – 6 pm beginning in mid-September. The patch will be open into late November, but November hours will only be Friday – Sunday from 9 am – 6 pm.

Nix’s does have wagons available to carry out larger pumpkins to your car, or you can bring your own wagon to carry your pumpkin haul.

The Nix’s Pumpkin Patch
3726 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC
828.808.7346

Discover More to Do in Hendersonville, NC

Pick Your Pumpkin Off the Vine at Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC

Pick apples and grapes, explore a corn maze, and eat pumpkin donuts at Stepp’s Orchard in Hendersonville, NC

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Erin Gorges

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September 18, 2024
Really Fun, Free (and Cheap) Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC

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How does a day full of totally free things to do in Hendersonville, NC sound? It’s a real possibility. There are so many free, as well as a few very inexpensive things to do in Hendersonville that your whole family will enjoy. Really, these are cool and unique free things to do.

Make it one awesome day trip, or make it several fun summer days. Either way, enjoy the gorgeous mountain town of Hendersonville, NC for very little money. Memory-making family adventures don’t have to be expensive!

Totally Free Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC

Bullington Gardens and the Fairy Trail

What’s better than a beautiful free walk through a blooming garden? Fairies. Fairies are better. And you can have both on the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens. Admission is totally free! Check out everything you need to know in our review of the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens.

95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC
The Fairy Trail is open June 1 – the end of August annually

The Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens

Apple Valley Model Railroad

On Saturdays and Wednesdays, you can visit the Apple Valley Model Railroad totally free. Inside this old train station, you’ll find several huge indoor model train displays as well as an awesome outdoor display complete with Thomas the Train.

650 Maple Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Saturdays 10 am to 2 pm
Wednesdays 1 pm to 3 pm

Carl Sandburg Home

The Carl Sandburg Home is a national historic site. You can tour the historic house, home of writer Carl Sandburg, and enjoy the grounds which just happen to include a working goat farm. There are also hiking trails on the property and nearby. Admission is free, so pack a picnic and spend the day.

Baby goats at the Carl Sandburg Home

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
81 Carl Sandburg Lane, Flat Rock, NC 28731

Holmes Educational State Forest

Looking for some more hiking and learning opportunities? Check out Holmes Educational State Forest in Hendersonville. It’s free and a great place to spend a few hours or a whole day.

1299 Crab Creek Road, Hendersonville, NC

Decommissioned NC Forest Service helicopter on the Crab Creek Trail at Holmes Educational State Forest

The Park at Flat Rock

The Park at Flat Rock has one of the most amazing playgrounds we’ve ever seen. Plus, you’ll find a lot of beautiful outdoor garden space to get lost in nature. It’s a sunny area so don’t forget some hats and sunscreen, as well as some snacks and picnics

55 Highland Golf Drive, Flat Rock, NC
Open dawn to dusk

Justus Orchard

Justus Orchard open in Late July/Early August each year from the fall season! Weekends all summer long Justus will be open, with extended weekday hours during apple season. There’s no admission to enjoy the orchard or playground!

For a fee: When they are ripe, U-pick blackberries will be available, as well as apples. You can purchase cider slushies and cider donuts all summer long. The jumping pillow will also be open for a fee.

Justus Orchard
187 Garren Road, Hendersonville, NC

Justus Orchard playground

The Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County

Learn about geology and paleontology for free at the Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County. The museum footprint is small, but the amount of things to see is not! You’ll see and learn about fossils, coral, gems, minerals, rocks, and a lot more. We enjoyed the fossil dinosaur egg nest, the T-Rex head fossil, and the arrowheads particularly. Admission is free, but you can also purchase geodes to be cracked open on-site, which is pretty fun.

Don’t miss the fluorescent rock and mineral display. It is behind the black curtain to the right as soon as you walk into the museum. The button to run the lights and narration is a doorbell-shaped button on the right. You have to press it to see the rocks glow! Do not skip that part. They don’t look at all cool until you press that button!

400 North Main Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Open Monday through Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm and Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm.

Henderson County Heritage Museum

Learn about the history and heritage that made Hendersonville what it is today inside the Henderson County Historic Courthouse. You can visit the Henderson County Heritage Museum for free.

1 Historic Courthouse Square, Hendersonville, NC
Open Wednesday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 1 pm to 5 pm.

TIEC Saturday Night Lights

The Tryon International Equestrian Center’s Saturday Night Lights is a Kidding Around favorite. So, even though this venue isn’t technically in Hendersonville, it still makes our list. It’s just 35 minutes outside Hendersonville and totally worth it. You won’t believe all the free things they have to do, in addition to watching the horses.

Window Shop and Stroll on Main Street

Take a walk in Downtown Hendersonville! Do some window shopping and be sure to pop into Kilwin’s for a sample. Also, don’t forget to check out the front windows of Team ECCO Aquarium and spend a few minutes watching the tortoises eat and explore their habitat. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the volunteers bringing the tortoises out for some sun on the sidewalk.

“Bearfootin’ in Hendersonville” Public Art Display

While you’re walking about Main Street, enjoy the “Bearfootin’ in Hendersonville” public art display. These decorated bears all over Hendersonville are super cute and make great photo opportunities. Make sure to snap a selfie with your favorite!

Western North Carolina Air Museum

Check out cool old aircraft at a hanger beside an operating small airport at the Western North Carolina Air Museum. Volunteers are on hand to answer questions and tell you about the planes. You can learn about the planes and watch others take-off and land! Admission is free.

Wednesdays and Saturdays open 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays open 12 pm to 5 pm (hours vary by season)
1340 Gilbert Street, Hendersonville, NC

Scenic Views and Hiking at Jump Off Rock

Drive to the top of the mountain for scenic views at Jump Off Rock. This is a great spot for picnics and a bit of hiking. There are three short trails available and they vary in difficulty, covering rocky areas, and densely wooded areas. It’s very pretty and worth the short drive from downtown Hendersonville.

4433 Laurel Park Highway, Laurel Park, NC

Cheap and Very Cool Things to Do in Hendersonville

Team Ecco Aquarium

The coolest little aquarium you’ll ever visit, Team ECCO is totally worth a stop in Hendersonville, NC.

Admission is cheap at $7.50 per person ages 5 to 65. Under the age of 5 is $5.25 and over 65 is $6.50. Teachers, EMTs, police, and firefighters get in for $6.50

511 North Main Street, Hendersonville, NC
Team ECCO
Open 1 pm to 4 pm Wednesday – Saturday
No public hours the first Wednesday of each month

Appalachian Pinball Museum

Admission to Appalachian Pinball Museum is actually totally free, but if you want to play the 80+ games in the museum you’ll need to pay a flat $12 fee. You can stay all day and play pinball and arcade games on historic and modern machines.

538 North Main StreetHendersonville, NC
Hours: Sunday and Monday 1 pm to 6 pm, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 2 pm to 9 pm, and Saturdays 12 pm to 9 pm

Fireside Golf

Fireside Golf has a driving range, mini golf course, batting cages and more. The driving range is an affordable family outing if you have your own clubs. A bucket of balls costs $10 to $12. A round of mini-golf will cost you a little more here, but folks really like this pretty course. Mini-golf costs $9 for adults, $7 for kids and kids under age 4 are free.

485 Brookside Camp Road, Hendersonville, NC

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Maria Bassett

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September 5, 2024
Kids Eat Free (or Cheap) in Hendersonville, NC

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If you’re looking for a restaurant where kids eat free or cheap in Hendersonville, North Carolina, you found the right list! We have a detailed list of restaurants for each day of the week that you can use to plan your dining experience with your family.

Monday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Outback Steakhouse

Offer: Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree from 6/24-9/2 2024
Time: Monday’s all-day
Age: 10 and under
At Participating Locations:
250 Mitchelle Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Golden Corral

Offer: Kids under 3 eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet
Time: All day
Age: 3 and under
At Participating Locations:
2530 Chimney Rock Road Hendersonville, NC 28792

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

French Fryz

Offer: 0.99 cent hotdogs on Monday’s
Time: All day
Age: All ages
At Participating Locations:
2109 Hendersonville Road Arden, NC 28704

Tuesday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Mary’s Burritos and Beer

Offer: Kids eat free after 4 pm with purchase of an adult meal.
Time: After 4 pm
Arden Location: 1939 Brevard Road, Arden
Mary’s Burritos and Beer

Denny’s

Offer: Kids eat free
Time: Tuesday’s from 4pm to 10pm
Age: 10 and under
At Participating Locations:
1550 Four Seasons Hendersonville, NC 28792

Golden Corral

Offer: Kids under 3 eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet
Time: All day
Age: 3 and under
At Participating Locations:
2530 Chimney Rock Road Hendersonville, NC 28792

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

Wednesday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Mary’s Burritos and Beer

Offer: Kids eat free after 4 pm with purchase of an adult meal.
Time: After 4 pm
Hendersonville Location: 2560 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville
828.696.9888
Mary’s Burritos and Beer

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

Thursday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Brooks Tavern

Offer: Kids meals are $3.99
Time: All day
Age: 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
142 3rd Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28792
10 Oak St. Tryon, NC 28782

Golden Corral

Offer: Kids under 3 eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet
Time: All day
Age: 3 and under
At Participating Locations:
2530 Chimney Rock Road Hendersonville, NC 28792

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

Friday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

Saturday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

Sunday Kids Eat Free: Hendersonville, NC

Culver’s

Offer: Free scoop of ice cream and Scoopie Token with purchase of kids meal
Time: All day
Age: Kids 12 and under
At Participating Locations:
371 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704

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Jordan Burchette

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August 20, 2024
These Views Make an Epic Picnic at Jump Off Rock in Hendersonville
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Have you seen the panoramic views at the top of Echo Mountain from Jump Off Rock? Just a few minutes outside Hendersonville, NC in Laurel Park, NC is Jump Off Rock Park. You’ll drive straight to the top for some gorgeous views, and while you’re there you can do a little hiking or enjoy the grassy mountain top lawn for a picnic with a view. Admission is free and that’s not the only reason this park is so great for families. Here’s why we love Jump Off Rock.

This article includes:
What is Jump Off Rock?
Why Do They Call it Jump Off Rock?
Picnics at Jump Off Rock
Hiking Trails
Is Jump Off Rock a Good Place to Bring Kids?
How do I get to Jump Off Rock?

What is Jump Off Rock?

Jump Off Rock is a popular park near Hendersonville, NC at the top of Echo Mountain. The park features a grassy, manicured lawn with picnic tables and benches surrounded by a panoramic mountain view of both the Blue Ridge and Pisgah ranges. There is a large viewing area at the rock edge which is fenced with a pretty mountain-themed barrier so you can get right up close to the view. The park also contains three short hiking trails through rocky areas, as well as densely wooded areas.

It’s a beautiful place to spend some time. It’s quiet and peaceful and even on a warm sunny day the breezy mountain air had just a touch of crispness that really swept the tension of the school week right up and carried it off. It’s only about 15 minutes from Hendersonville, but you feel quite far away on the mountain top.

Why is it called Jump Off Rock?

No, there is definitely no jumping at Jump Off Rock. The name comes from a sad legend about a Cherokee Indian maiden whose young chief died in a battle. Overcome with grief, she jumped off the rock to her death. Hence, Jump Off Rock. It is a rather morbid tale and name, once you know about the tale, for a beautiful park, so we will leave that topic there.

Picnics at Jump Off Rock

The grassy lawn and beautiful views make this an epic picnic spot. You can spread a blanket in the sun on the grass, or pick a picnic table in the shade.

Don’t want to pack a picnic? There are some great places in downtown Hendersonville, NC where you can grab some sandwiches to go. If I had thought about it, we would have picked up some treats and sandwiches at Black Bear Coffee before heading up to the park.

Hiking at Jump Off Rock

The hiking trails here are very short, ranging from just .1 miles to .25 miles. They do not take very long at all to complete. That said, they offer quite a bit of variety. There is a trail that goes down alongside the overlook where you’ll be walking between boulders and over rocks. It’s moderately difficult, but also very short. The other two trails are located on the other side of the parking lot. They weave through woods with some moderate elevation changes.

Is Jump Off Rock a Good Place for Kids?

Yes! Jump Off Rock is definitely a good place to bring the kids for a number of reasons.
- Drive to the top, so there are no tired legs required to take in that view or enjoy the crisp mountain air.
- Short hiking trails have a lot of variation. The trails range from just .1 mile to .25 mile long and only take about 15 minutes.
- You’re never very far from the car so you don’t have to lug that picnic or giant snack bag with you. Just leave it in the car until you’re ready for it.
But, don’t forget that you are at the top of a mountain. This is not a place to let the kids run off without supervision. While there are barriers at the steepest points. There are many places where a young child, or anyone really, could fall. As always, be careful, follow all signage, and supervise the kids.

There are no restroom facilities at Jump off Rock. If you start your day in Hendersonville, NC, you’ll find public restrooms at 125 5th Ave West, just around the corner from Team ECCO Aquarium. I highly recommend using the facilities here or at the Hendersonville Visitors Center before you head up to the mountain.

Plan on spending more time in Downtown Hendersonville? There are lots of things to do and delicious places to eat, so don’t miss this Hendersonville, NC Guide.

How Do you Get to Jump Off Rock?

Essentially, you’re going to hop on Laurel Park Highway, a windy wooded road past beautiful vistas, and take it all the way to the top of the mountain at Jump Off Rock. However, if you put the address into your phone or GPS, it will likely take you off Laurel Park Highway and through some residential streets. Either way, you’ll get there. But, should your GPS ask you to turn one way while you see a sign pointing to Jump Off Rock in the other direction, know that the signs are just pointing to keep you on Laurel Park Highway and you can just go whatever way looks like more fun to you. You’ll get there.

Jump Off Rock
4501 Laurel Park Highway
Laurel Park, NC 28739

Discover More to Do in Hendersonville, NC

Jump Off Rock: Drive for the View, Stay for a Picnic & Hike in Hendersonville, NC

Find Fairies in This Fairy Garden Trail FREE in Hendersonville, NC
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Maria Bassett

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August 1, 2024
Don’t Miss This Pint-Sized Powerhouse Aquarium in Hendersonville, NC
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Did you know Hendersonville, NC has an aquarium? Team ECCO Aquarium and Shark Lab is located right on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville, NC. Squeezed in beside stores, restaurants, and coffee shops, Team ECCO ‘s footprint may be small, but the education squished between those walls is massive. The aquarium’s true charm is in interactive experiences led by its knowledgeable volunteers. Here’s a bit about our visit to Team ECCO, plus everything you need to know to plan your family’s visit.

Team ECCO: Small But Mighty

“Small but mighty” is a good way to describe Team ECCO. Don’t expect to be visually wowed when you enter the aquarium, especially if you’ve visited a much larger aquarium. You won’t find floor-to-ceiling aquarium tanks here, no fancy technology or huge atriums. But you don’t need it and you won’t miss it. I promise.

What you will find at Team ECCO is a variety of reptiles, fish, sharks, rays, and marine life accompanied by a knowledgable staff and group of volunteers waiting eagerly to share their knowledge and passion with visitors.

After our visit, my husband confessed he expected we’d only spend a few minutes walking around the aquarium when he first saw the space. We were both surprised at the amount of time we spent inside discovering all of Team ECCO’s treasures. We had to drag the kids out after about an hour and a half.

Animals to See at Team ECCO

Our favorite Axolotls

Do all kids love axolotls? I am potentially raising a future herpetologist. So, the official names of all kinds of scaly, amphibian, and reptile creatures are common vernacular in our home. But, the kids tell me the axolotl is popular because of its addition to Minecraft. So perhaps your Minecrafting kids also discuss these unique salamander-like creatures. My point? There are 3 axolotls at Team ECCO and they are super cute.

Reptiles

The first animals you see when you enter Team ECCO (in fact you can see them from the window on Main Street without even paying admission) are some tortoises. We enjoyed watching them eat and move around their enclosure.

The reptile section of the aquarium also houses some box turtles, a crested gecko, a leopard gecko, and an alligator gecko. These guys are fun to watch, but make sure to ask questions. They are really interesting creatures and the staff at the aquarium has a lot of knowledge to share.

Crested gecko

Reptile Interactions

In fact, the reptile section of the aquarium includes an interaction station. Staff members remove the lizards and turtles from their enclosures to feed them vitamins and give them any care they need, but also so visitors can pet the lizards and see them up close.

You’ll get to see how different these lizards are, despite looking similar. Everything from the texture of their skin to the shape of their feet is uniquely suited to each variety of lizard and their needs.

Marine Life at Team ECCO

The bulk of the aquarium is dedicated to fish, sharks, eels, rays, and other marine life. There are probably a dozen or so tanks to observe, but once again, you’ll get the most out of your visit by asking the volunteers about the creatures you see.

There were several staff and volunteers in the room when we were there, just walking by and pointing out different things to people viewing the sea life. It made the experience very interactive, educational, and truly engaged my kids. I think they would have happily stayed until closing.

Touch Tank and Table

The marine life side of the aquarium also has a touch tank with starfish, crabs, sea urchins, and more. The tank area is manned by staff available to direct and answer questions. There is also a table set up in the middle of the space with shells and other non-living specimens that you can touch, pick up and examine.

Who Will Enjoy Team ECCO?
- Is Team ECCO good for little kids?
- Will my pre-teen enjoy a visit to Team ECCO?
- Is Team ECCO aquarium a good place to bring the grandparents?
YES! Anyone who enjoys watching interesting animals, reptiles, and marine life will enjoy Team ECCO. Relax on the bench in front of the large tank and just watch the fish swim by, or walk around and ask every question under the sun, or just listen as aquarium staff point out interesting tidbits about the animals and marine life. Just because the aquarium is small does not mean it’s only for young kids. Far from it!

Plan Your Visit

Team ECCO is only open to the public 3 days a week.

Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday: 1 pm to 4 pm
- The aquarium is closed Sunday and Monday.
- Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for private programs by reservation including field trips.
Admission Cost:
- $7.50 for ages 5-65
- $5.25 for children ages 1 to 4
- $6.50 for those over age 65
- $6.50 for teachers, police, firefighters, and EMT with ID
- Free for active military with ID
- Groups of 8 to 12 can take advantage of a special group rate
511 North Main Street, Hendersonville, NC
Team ECCO

Team ECCO in the News! Can a stingray mate with a shark?

Team ECCO is getting national attention for their expecting stingray, Charlotte. This is rather mysterious because the aquarium does not have a male sting ray. How does this happen?

One possibility is a phenomenon called Parthenogenesis where the mother essentially clones herself. This is rare but possible with sharks and rays.

The other possibility is a cross-breeding between Charlotte and the juvenile male bamboo sharks in her tank. Bite marks typically seen in mating sharks were found on Charlotte. Answers will have to wait until the pups are born. She is expected to give birth any day and we will update when we know more!

Watch Charlotte in the video below:

More to Do in Hendersonville, NC

There are lots of fun things to do and great restaurants right near the aquarium in Hendersonville, NC. Don’t miss the Park at Flat Rock with its unique ropes course-like playground. For lots more, see our Guide to Hendersonville, NC.

Disover Hendersonville, NC

Team ECCO: Don’t Miss This Pint-Sized Powerhouse Aquarium in Hendersonville, NC

Moonshine Mountain Delivers Thrilling Snow Tubing During Winter Months
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Maria Bassett

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February 12, 2024
See, Explore, and Even Climb into Planes for FREE
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Did you know Hendersonville, NC has a FREE airplane museum? The Western North Carolina Air Museum is in a hangar beside a small runway full of historic airplanes. Learn about the history of the planes, how they’re made, and how they fly. There are even aircraft that kids can climb in, explore, and experiment with the controls. If you have an aviation enthusiast in your family, no matter their age, this is not a place you’ll want to skip. Let us introduce you to this amazing little gem in Hendersonville so you can plan your visit soon!

What is the Western North Carolina Air Museum?

The museum consists of a single hanger filled to the brim with interesting and historic aircraft, informational exhibits, and knowledgable staff there to answer your questions and explain everything about these planes. There is also an aviation library that takes up almost an entire wall of the hanger, full of information for anyone researching an aviation topic whether it’s historical, technical, or anything in between.

Is the WNC Air Museum a Place for Kids?

YES! Definitely bring kids to this museum. Signage at the museum asks parents to supervise their children at all times, which makes sense since there are so many valuable aircraft and exhibits densely packed into the space.

That said there are definitely things for kids to touch, explore, play with, and enjoy. There are photo ops for kids in the form of a wooden painted plane. And your kids may also notice some stuffies doing a little piloting. Both a plane and a gyrocopter are available for kids to climb into the pilot’s seat and move the controls. They’ll actually be able to move the rudder, ailerons, and elevator. This was definitely my kids’ favorite part of the museum.

The staff at the museum were very kind to my kids, answering all their questions and complimenting us on their inquisitiveness and behavior. And really, what parent doesn’t want to hear things like that about their kids?

On our way out, my kids were offered copies of some aviation magazines which they eagerly accepted. Members of the Air Museum donate copies they are done with to the museum so kids can bring them home to learn more.

When Can We Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum?

The regular hours of the museum are as follows:
- April – October: Wednesday & Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm
- November – March: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm
The museum may also be open for additional hours for special events, like the Hendersonville Apple Festival. Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum website for special event information.

Getting to the WNC Air Museum

When you plug the address into your GPS or maps app you should have no trouble getting to the museum. It’s located just a few miles from downtown Hendersonville, but the area is residential and you may feel like you’re headed off in the wrong direction. The drive is gravel and you’ll see the hanger from the road.

Western North Carolina Air Museum
1340 Gilbert Street, Hendersonville
FREE admission and parking

More to Love in Hendersonville, NC

See Historic Planes for FREE! Western North Carolina Air Museum in Hendersonville, NC

Tis the Season of Awesome: Christmas in Hendersonville, NC
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Maria Bassett

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November 20, 2023
Christmas Events and Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC
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If you’re ready for a little fa la la la boost of holiday spirit, the events celebrating Christmas in Hendersonville, NC should do the trick. The Hendersonville, NC Christmas parade is one of the most festive we’ve been to, and the rest of the town’s holiday events are loaded with fun and cheer.

Our list includes some of the very best Christmas Hendersonville, NC events and our all-time favorites. Most of these events and things to do are actually totally free, so they’ll be easy on your budget. Here’s your guide to celebrating Christmas in Hendersonville, NC.

The Big Events: Christmas, Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville really turns up the Christmas charm every year. This year, their season is Home for the Holidays and they are loaded up on free, family fun, beautiful downtown decorations, and lots of lights. Christmas is gorgeous up here, and these events are 100% worth the drive for locals and visitors alike.

Hendersonville Christmas Tree Lighting

Hendersonville Courthouse: November 24th, 2023, 5 to 8 pm

Kicking things off, it’s the Christmas Tree Lighting on November 24th, 2023 from 5 to 8 pm. Santa will arrive with Mrs. Claus to light the tree at about 6 pm. Kids will get to visit with Santa for free after he’s lit the tree, and there will also be free carriage rides. Downtown Hendersonville is beautiful at Christmas, and we can’t think of a more festive way to say hello to the Christmas season.

December 1st Holds a BIG Holiday Celebration in Hendersonville

Downtown Hendersonville, North Carolina

What comes to mind when you think of a holiday Christmas small-town celebration? Whatever just popped into your head, it’s probably happening on December 1st, 2023 in Hendersonville. There are several simultaneous events and happenings occurring all along Main Street and most of it will be free. From an Old Fashioned Christmas with songs and shopping, to visits with Santa, cookies, cocoa, and carriage rides, you’ll find it all in Downtown Hendersonville.
- Santa Claus in the Square: Bring your camera and take a free photo with Santa. You’ll also get to enjoy hot cocoa, games, and crafts. You’ll find Santa in front of the courthouse from 5 pm to 8 pm
- Live holiday performances, carolers, and festive music spread throughout Downtown Hendersonville
- Holiday Shopping: Tonight the shops are open late, so feel free to wander amongst the twinkling lights and holiday music while you find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list
- Free Carriage rides: Enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas favorite and take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage down the beautifully lit and decorated Main Street. Rides begin at Historic Courthouse Plaza
The Hendersonville, NC Christmas Parade Might Be My Favorite Ever

Downtown Hendersonville, NC
December 2nd, 2023, 6 pm

If you are in need of Christmas cheer and you can only go to one event all season, the Downtown Hendersonville Christmas Parade should probably be that one event. Everyone from high school marching bands, to the fire department, the local plumber, and the llama farm come out to celebrate the season together with a giant parade, full of lights, floats, music, and more. You’ll get Christmas spirit thrown at you no matter where you look, in the best possible way. Of course, the parade ends with the final float carrying Santa straight from the North Pole.

Parent Tips for the Hendersonville, NC Christmas Parade
1. Check the weather and dress warm if needed. We were pretty chilly last year. Especially if you’re coming from a town in nearby Upstate, SC, don’t forget that it’s colder in Hendersonville.
2. Arrive early for a good seat along Main Street. Pick up something delicious to eat and enjoy while you’re sitting out along the street waiting for the parade to start. Black Bear Coffee and Mike’s on Main are two good places to grab a bite to eat to go.
3. Of course you could also bring a picnic dinner and a thermos full of cocoa to enjoy while you wait!
4. Bring a bag for candy passed out during the parade.
Linda’s Plants and Shrubs

We were visiting Linda’s and saw them setting up their 2023 Christmas Haybale maze! Check back soon for dates and details. In the meantime, you can read all about last year’s holiday maze at Linda’s Plants and Shrubs.

Awesome & Free Things to Do for Christmas: Hendersonville, NC

One of the things I absolutely love about Hendersonville is all the free things to do any time of the year. But at Christmas time, they really take the cake. We’ve already covered the free opportunities to see Santa and carriage rides, but there’s so much more!

December 2nd, 2023 Free pictures with Santa at Ace Hardware. We LOVE free pictures with Santa and this time he’ll be at Carolina Ace Hardware with Paula Roberts Photography for FREE photos, plus cookies, cider and candy canes. Visit Santa between 11 am and 2 pm.

December 2nd and 3rd, 2023, Go skating for free! And that includes the skate rentals. It’s an iceless rink that allows for skating no matter the weather. Find it at 85 Howard Gap Road in Fletcher. The rink will be open from 3 to 6 pm on the 2nd and from 1 to 4 pm on the 3rd. December 2nd will also have a festival event including vendors, live music, and inflatables.

December 16th, 2023, Mountain Fresh Orchards is bringing their Apple Express Train downtown for free Holly Jolly Train Rides down Main Street. In addition to the holiday train rides, the orchard will also have their delicious baked goods available for sale. Hop aboard the train at the Courthouse Square in Downtown Hendersonville.

December 22nd, 2023, Christmas Sing Along at The Buzz. The Apple Country String Band will be at The Buzz playing all your favorite Christmas songs and everyone is invited to sing along. If you’ve never visited The Buzz, this sober bar and coffee shop offers unique mocktails and lots of delicious coffee beverages in an alcohol-free environment. They’re on our list of favorite coffee shops in Hendersonville, NC.

November 24th through December 31st, 2023, Visit Marked Tree Vineyards for free holiday lights and decorations. You can hike or drive through the lights at the vineyard for free. You can also enjoy their Wine with Winter Wonder series of live holiday music on Saturday nights. Reservations are recommended for the live music events. Visit the Marked Tree Vineyards website for information closer to December.
623 Deep Gap Road, Flat Rock

All holiday season: Find the Peppermint Bears in Downtown Hendersonville. Visit the Hendersonville Welcome Center to pick up a brochure and then get hunting through Henersonville’s downtown businesses. Once you find at least 12 bears, you can bring your brochure back to the visitors center and drop it in the mailbox to win a prize.

November 24th, 2023- January 7th, 2024: E.L.F’s Holiday Light Show offers a free family holiday light show annually. This year they are taking donations for the Blue Ridge Humane Society. This family has been running these light shows in Hendersonville since 2019 and is bringing new lights and props to the show in 2023.

Worth the Drive: More Christmas Fun Near Hendersonville

Winter Lights – This popular light show at the NC Arboretum in Asheville is a walk-through light experience unlike any other! The show runs from November 17, 2023 – December 31, 2023 nightly from 6 pm – 10:30 pm.

2023 Festival of Trees Greenville, SC: Come see the holiday trees on display from November 17th through December 25th, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown, the Courtyard Greenville Downtown, and the Hampton Inn & Suites River Place.

For more Christmas Fun just a short drive from Hendersonville, NC, visit the huge Holiday Events Guide to Greenville, SC. It has over 100 Christmas things to do on it and you won’t be disappointed!

More Things to Do in WNC and Hendersonville, NC

Tis the Season of Awesome: Christmas in Hendersonville, NC

You Can Hike With Llamas at Earthshine Lodge
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Maria Bassett

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November 14, 2023
Head to Hendersonville, NC for Fun Museums and Great Food

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Are you looking for things to do in Hendersonville, NC? Just over the border into North Carolina is the mountaintop town of Hendersonville, NC. There are lots of things to enjoy, but the thing Hendersonville, North Carolina is most famous for is their apple orchards! If you are planning a trip to Hendersonville, we’ve got all the info you’ll need to fill your day with fun, or enjoy a day trip or weekend getaway any time of year.

We Love Adventures in Hendersonville, NC

Check out our Guide to U-Pick Apple Orchards Near Greenville & Spartanburg for more apple options.

Apple Orchards in Hendersonville, NC

Go apple picking! One of the first signs that cooler weather is on the horizon is people flocking north to Hendersonville and neighboring Flat Rock, to enjoy everything apple! Freshly picked apples, apple cider, apple cider donuts, and my favorite, frozen apple cider. We’ve been to most of them, and you can learn all about each orchard and what it has to offer, below.

Check out some less crowded farm and orchard options in Hendersonville, NC

Apple Cider Donut Trail

If you are a fan of those apple cider donuts that the orchards sell, have we got a tour for you! Kidding Around’s Apple Cider Doughnut Tour takes you to eight of the orchards in Hendersonville where you can snack on one of these fall-time delicacies.

The Nix Pumpkin Patch

The huge pumpkin-shaped silo of this farm is hard to miss! You can grab pumpkins of all shapes and sizes here, as well as an apple cider slushie! There are tons of photo opportunities to be had, so bring that camera along!
Nix Pumpkin Patch Facebook Page

Apple Valley Model RR Club
Check out this totally FREE model train museum with indoor and outdoor model train displays. They are open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Bearfootin’ Bear Hunt
May through October, custom-decorated bear statues line the street. In October they get auctioned off to benefit the downtown area and local non-profits.

Carl Sandburg Home
Located in Flat Rock, this poet’s home is open to the public and free to visit. It is not only a historic site but also a working goat farm.
If you are heading to the Carl Sandburg Home, you should sign up for the Kids In Parks incentive program! It’s free and allows kids to earn prizes for spending time outdoors.

Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens
These free-to-visit gardens include a popular fairy-themed garden that is open seasonally.

Team Ecco Aquarium
This aquarium is home to aquatic life as well as reptiles. Plan your trip to be there for the Shark and Sting Ray feedings. Admission is under $10 per person.

Mineral And Lapidary Museum
Admission is free, which is awesome because craking open your own geode is something everyone should get to do, and the free entry makes it more affordable.

Western North Carolina Air Museum

See historic aircraft for free at this former hanger converted to a museum. There are opportunities to climb into aircraft and learn how they fly. Everything is free, and donations are accepted.

Great Parks and Playgrounds: Hendersonville, NC

Jackson Park: Inclusive Playground

The new inclusive playground at Jackson Park is open, and it is truly a place where all kids can play together!

The Park at Flat Rock
A beautiful park with restrooms, a playground hiking trails, and more.

Jump Off Rock

Beautiful mountain views at the scenic overlook, short hiking trails, and a great place for a picnic.

Check out this local mom’s recommendations of where to eat and how they spend a day in Flat Rock, NC

Appalachian Pinball Museum
Visitors to the museum can play all day for just $12 per person.

Kanuga Bike Park
This mountain bike park has everything you need to enjoy a unique family outdoor adventure.

Hands On! Children’s Museum
A “hands-on” children’s museum targeted at children ages 10 and under.

Moonshine Mountain
If you’re looking for some wintertime fun, Moonshine Mountain has it. Tubing and other fun winter activities will keep your family entertained.

Arabella’s Breakfast and Brunch
One of our family’s favorite breakfast spots in Hendersonville, you’ll enjoy some delicious and unique breakfast options with a little southwestern flare. They also have great coffee and coffee drinks.

HenDough
Go to where all the magic began, the original HenDough location! Did you know, that the nickname for Hendersonville is “Hendo”?

McFarlan Bakery
Recommended by readers this nearly centuries-old bakery consistently wins local “best of” awards.

Black Bear Coffee Shop
This great coffee shop offers coffee lovers and diners tons of options. They feature locally made baked goods, plus super fresh salads, soup, sandwiches, breakfast meals, and more. Of course, they also offer a wide array of coffee beverages and teas.

Mike’s Sandwich Shop
Right on Main Street, you’ll find this 1950s Soda Shop style restaurant. Here you can grab a great sandwich and enjoy indoors at a table on the sidewalk out front. Mike’s also has classic diner breakfast options, and all your favorite classic soda fountain desserts, malts, floats, shakes and more!

Salad and soup from Black Bear Coffee

Southern Streams Coffee House

Just a couple minutes from downtown, you’ll find the adorable Southern Streams Coffee House. You’ll feel like you’re off somewhere on a mountain vacation as soon as you pull into the large gravel lot beside this coffee house. You’ve got your pick of indoor and outdoor seating options including a large sunny deck. They offer house-made pastries, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, salads, and all the coffee and tea drinks you could want.

1628 5th Ave West, Hendersonville

Family-friendly Breweries: Hendersonville, NC

Trailside Brewing Company

Located in historic Lennox Station, Trailside Brewing Co. offers a wide variety of beer made in-house, as well as wine and non-alcoholic options. Food trucks are frequently on site beside the beautiful beer garden, and the brewery hosts live music and other events regularly.

Here’s our review of Trailside Brewing Co.

Blue Ridge Beer Garden

In the heart of Downtown Hendersonville lies a former gas station building converted into Hendersonville’s Blue Ridge Beer Garden. This gathering spot features a space for food trucks, open outdoor space with a variety of seating options, a fireplace, covered seating and indoor seating.

You’ll find a very large variety of local beer here at the beer garden, more than I’ve seen most places. And you’ll find extremely friendly service. This is a great spot to hang out, play a board game, and talk.

Cheers! Trail Passport: Hendersonville Vineyards and Breweries

Hendersonville also offers visitors a great selection of stops to enjoy locally produced wine, beer, and more. You can explore them with the passport program offered by the Hendersonville Visitors Information Center.

The Cheers! Trail Passport may be purchased for $10 at the Visitor Center. Visit at least 12 venues and get your passport stamped to redeem it for your choice of several trail souvenirs and swag.

Choose from a selection of 27 different tasting experiences along the trail.

Tasting experiences include:

Breweries

Vineyards

Hard cideries, and meadery

The Passport is available at the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street, online, and at the participating vendor locations.

Where to Stay Near Hendersonville, NC

There are some super cute places to stay near Hendersonville, NC!

This map contains Stay22 affiliate links. Kidding Around earns when you book through these links.

Find all our WNC ideas in Kidding Around WNC, our guide to Western North Carolina.

Looking for more places to spend the day with your family? Here’s our list of Day Trip Towns, just a short drive from the Upstate.

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Kidding Around Team

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October 24, 2023