Endless Excitement
Western North Carolina is home to countless things to see and do, from the Appalachian wilderness to the expansive Biltmore Estate. Here are just a few unique attractions to check out during your stay at Early Blue Motel.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is one of Western North Carolina’s biggest tourist draws, and belongs on anyone’s bucket list. Harking back to the Gilded Age, the structure and grounds are steeped in American and world history, and to this day remain the largest home in the United States. The home was envisioned and brought to fruition by George Vanderbilt, with the help of the best architects, construction minds, and artisans of his time. George was grandson of Cornelius “Commodore” Vanderbilt, who created the vast majority of the railroads in the United States, and was one of several titans of industry who invented the hostile takeover that eventually resulted in modern anti-trust legislation. The home is a captivating experience for the entire family, and the Vanderbilt heirs, the Cecils, are philanthropic and engaged members of the Asheville community.
Tryon Equestrian Center
The Tryon International Equestrian Center is an international hub for horseback riding and competition. They host 40 weeks of Olympic Level competition.
Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC
The Hands On! Children's Museum in Hendersonville, NC is a fun and interactive educational space designed for children aged 1-10. The museum features a wide range of hands-on exhibits, including a grocery store, a vet clinic, a giant Lite-Brite, a puppet theater, and much more. The museum also offers various programs and events throughout the year, such as art classes, science experiments, and music workshops. It's a great place for kids to learn and play in a safe and engaging environment. The Museum is focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), as well as literacy and cultural diversity.
Mineral and Lapidary Museum, Hendersonville NC
The Mineral & Lapidary Museum is a museum located in Hendersonville, North Carolina that showcases a wide variety of minerals, fossils, gemstones, and lapidary art. The museum was founded in 1997 by a group of rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts who wanted to share their passion for geology with the local community. The museum's collection includes over 4,500 specimens from around the world, ranging from common minerals like quartz and feldspar to rare and exotic gems like alexandrite and kunzite. There are also displays of fossils from various geological periods, including trilobites, ammonites, and dinosaur bones. In addition to the mineral and fossil specimens, the museum features a collection of lapidary art, which is the art of cutting and polishing stones to create jewelry, sculptures, and other decorative objects. The lapidary collection includes examples of cabochons, faceted gems, and intricate stone carvings. The museum offers a range of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, hands-on workshops, and special events. Visitors can learn about geology, mineralogy, and lapidary art through interactive exhibits and displays, and can even try their hand at polishing stones or making their own jewelry. Overall, the Mineral & Lapidary Museum is a fascinating and educational destination for anyone interested in the natural world, gems and minerals, or the art of lapidary.