Asheville is a vibrant city nestled in the mountains of North Carolina. This unique city combines the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a thriving art and music scene. With its spectacular views and its many attractions, Asheville makes for a great destination for a first date.
1. Asheville parks and places for a walk on a first date
Asheville is home to a variety of parks and trails that make for a great place to explore on a first date. Pack up a picnic lunch and head to the popular Lake Powhatan Recreation Area to take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Or, explore the more rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Parkway and take in the magnificent views of the Appalachian Mountains. For those up for a more challenging hike, the Black Balsam & Squire Creek Loop Trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Finally, the Asheville Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a romantic walk among the beautiful blooms.
2. Places for a coffee date in Asheville
Asheville has a great selection of coffee shops to choose from for a relaxed first date. Take a seat on the terrace of High Five Coffee and enjoy views of the Asheville skyscrapers while you chat over a cup of pour-over coffee. For something a little more unique, the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar is a great spot to sip on a glass of bubbles and browse the shelves for your next read. Or, for a more casual atmosphere, visit BimBeriBon for some delicious pastries and coffee to share.
3. Asheville galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Asheville is home to a number of galleries, museums and exhibitions that offer a great way to get to know each other while discovering something new. The Asheville Art Museum has recently re-opened its doors and is the perfect place to explore the city’s vibrant art scene. Or, brush up on your knowledge of the area’s history at the Smith-McDowell House Museum. Another great place to explore is the Folk Art Center, a museum dedicated to the traditional crafts of the Appalachian region. Other great places to explore include the Botanical Gardens, the Colburn Earth Science Museum and the North Carolina Arboretum.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Asheville
Asheville is known for its vibrant live music scene, making it a great spot to go and hear some tunes on a first date. Catch a show at The Grey Eagle or the Orange Peel for some of the best live music in town. Or, head to The Mothlight, an intimate bar and music venue where you can catch some of the city’s best local talent. For a more low-key evening, check out the city’s many breweries, like Catawba Brewing Co. and Burial Beer Co., both of which host regular live music events.
5. Asheville pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Asheville is home to a number of great pubs, bars and restaurants for a first date drink or dinner. The Admiral is a popular spot for craft beers and cocktails, as well as some delicious bar snacks. Or, for a more upscale experience, The Market Place is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, offering an array of seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. For a unique experience, head to Chai Pani for some tasty Indian street food, or visit Sante Wine Bar and Tap Room for some fantastic wine and small plates.
6. Other date ideas to try in Asheville
Aside from the usual suspects, there are plenty of other date ideas to try in Asheville. Take a ride in a hot air balloon over the city and enjoy the spectacular views. Or, take a stroll along the Urban Trail, an outdoor sculpture walk that meanders through the heart of the city. For a more active outing, rent a canoe or kayak and explore the beautiful curves of the French Broad River. And for a relaxed, romantic evening, take your date to the Diana Wortham Theater in Pack Square Park for a show.
