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.
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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.
Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm, Hendersonville NC
Gem mining is the main attraction at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, where visitors can sift through buckets of dirt and discover a variety of gems, including rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and more. The farm provides all necessary tools and equipment for gem mining, and staff members are available to assist visitors with identifying their findings. In addition to gem mining, Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm is also home to a variety of farm animals, including goats, chickens, and pigs. Visitors can interact with the animals, feed them, and even milk the goats. The farm also offers guided tours that provide insight into the daily operations of a working farm. The farm is open year-round, and visitors can purchase a variety of products, including gemstones, jewelry, and goat milk soap. There is also a picnic area available for those who wish to bring their own food. Overall, Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm offers a unique and family-friendly experience that combines outdoor recreation, education, and animal interaction.
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, Hendersonville NC
One of the main attractions at Saint Paul Mountain Farms is u-pick fruit, where visitors can pick their own fruit directly from the farm. The farm provides baskets for collecting fruit, and staff members are available to provide guidance and assistance. Saint Paul Mountain Farms hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including fall festivals, live music performances, and educational tours. The farm also offers private event space for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Overall, Saint Paul Mountain Farms is a popular destination for visitors seeking a unique farm experience that combines outdoor recreation, fresh produce, and community events.
Justus Orchard, Hendersonville NC
One of the main attractions at Justus Orchard is the apple orchard, where visitors can pick their own apples directly from the trees. The farm offers a variety of apple varieties, including Gala, Honeycrisp, and Fuji, as well as other fruits such as peaches, blackberries, and pumpkins, depending on the season. The farm also offers pre-picked fruits for those who prefer not to pick their own. In addition to apple picking, Justus Orchard features a farm store that sells a variety of fresh produce, including apples, cider, vegetables, jams, and baked goods. The store also sells souvenirs, gifts, and seasonal decorations. Visitors can also enjoy a hayride around the farm, visit the farm animals, and explore the corn maze during the fall season. Overall, Justus Orchard is a popular destination for visitors seeking a family-friendly farm experience that combines outdoor recreation, fresh produce, and community events.
Grandad’s Apples, Hendersonville NC
The farm features over 100 acres of orchards, where visitors can pick their own apples during the apple season, which typically runs from late August to October. Grandad's Apples offers a variety of apple varieties, including Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith. In addition to apple picking, Grandad's Apples also offers a range of other activities, including a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and a playground for children. Visitors can also enjoy live music and a variety of food and drinks, including apple cider and apple cider donuts. Grandad's Apples is known for its friendly staff and warm atmosphere, making it a popular spot for families and groups of friends. The farm also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including apple blossom tours, harvest festivals, and Christmas tree sales. Overall, Grandad's Apples is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and authentic farm experience in Hendersonville, North Carolina.
Appalachian Pinball Museum, Hendersonville NC
Visitors to the Appalachian Pinball Museum can enjoy playing on the vintage pinball machines, which have been meticulously restored and maintained to their original working condition. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for groups and schools, where visitors can learn about the history of pinball and the evolution of pinball machine technology over the years. In addition to its collection of pinball machines, the Appalachian Pinball Museum also hosts special events and tournaments throughout the year, where pinball enthusiasts can compete against each other for prizes and bragging rights. The museum is a popular destination for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a fun and nostalgic way to spend an afternoon in Hendersonville. Overall, the Appalachian Pinball Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that celebrates the art, history, and culture of pinball machines. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves pinball, classic arcade games, or just wants to experience a bit of retro fun and nostalgia.
Apple Valley Model Railroad Club, Hendersonville NC
The Apple Valley Model Railroad Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the art of model railroading. The club is located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and is open to the public for tours and events. The club features a large HO scale model railroad layout, which covers over 2,000 square feet of space. The layout is intricately detailed, with mountains, rivers, towns, and industries, as well as realistic train operations. Visitors can watch the trains run and interact with the club members, who are happy to answer questions and share their knowledge of model railroading. Membership in the Apple Valley Model Railroad Club is open to anyone interested in model railroading, regardless of skill level or experience. Members have access to the club's facilities and resources, as well as opportunities to participate in club activities and events. Overall, the Apple Valley Model Railroad Club is a great place for model railroading enthusiasts and anyone interested in trains and railroads. The club's dedication to the hobby and community makes it a valuable resource for the Hendersonville area.
Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard, Hendersonville NC
Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard is a family-owned and operated orchard located in the heart of Hendersonville, NC, that has been providing locals and visitors with fresh, locally-grown apples and other seasonal fruits for over 50 years. Here are some great things about Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard: Wide variety of apples: Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard grows over 20 different varieties of apples, including classic favorites like Red Delicious and Granny Smith, as well as unique varieties like Honeycrisp and Pink Lady. U-pick experience: Visitors to Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard can enjoy a fun and memorable u-pick experience, where they can select and pick their own apples directly from the trees. Seasonal events: Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, including fall festivals, live music performances, and apple cider tastings. Family-friendly activities: In addition to u-pick apples, Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard offers a range of family-friendly activities, including corn mazes. Farm-to-table market: Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard also has a farm-to-table market where visitors can purchase fresh apples, cider, and other seasonal fruits, as well as locally-made jams, jellies, and baked goods. Stunning views: Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard is located on a picturesque hillside with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, making it a beautiful and tranquil destination for a day trip or family outing. Overall, Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and bounty of the North Carolina countryside, and a must-visit attraction for apple lovers and foodies alike."
Burntshirt Vineyards, Hendersonville NC
Burntshirt Vineyards is a stunning winery located in Hendersonville, NC, that is known for its award-winning wines, picturesque setting, and commitment to sustainability. Burntshirt Vineyards has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, using green practices to reduce its environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Overall, Burntshirt Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the best of what North Carolina has to offer.
Henderson Heritage Museum, Hendersonville NC
The Henderson Heritage Museum is a local history museum located in the heart of downtown Hendersonville, NC. The museum showcases the rich history and heritage of Hendersonville and the surrounding region through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays. The museum is housed in the historic building that once served as the city hall and police station. The building itself is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture and has been restored to its original 1920s glory. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that cover a range of topics related to local history. Exhibits include displays on the Cherokee Indians who once lived in the area, the role of Hendersonville in the Civil War, the impact of agriculture and industry on the region, and the development of transportation in the area. The museum also has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the history in a hands-on way. For example, visitors can sit in a vintage car, play with historic toys, and learn about local agriculture. Admission to the museum is free, though donations are accepted. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.
Point Lookout Vineyards, Hendersonville NC
Breathtaking Views: The winery sits atop a hill at an elevation of 3,000 feet, providing panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy these stunning views from the tasting room, the outdoor deck, or while strolling through the vineyard. Award-Winning Wines: Point Lookout Vineyards produces a variety of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and more. Visitors can sample these wines in the tasting room or purchase bottles to take home. Vineyard Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyard to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard. The tour includes a walk through the vineyard and a visit to the winery production area. Unique Tasting Room: The tasting room at Point Lookout Vineyards is a beautifully designed space with a modern and rustic aesthetic. The room features large windows that provide natural light and stunning views, as well as a cozy fireplace for colder days. Overall, Point Lookout Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina.
The Western North Carolina Air Museum, Hendersonville NC
"The Western North Carolina Air Museum is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in the western North Carolina region. It is located in the town of Hendersonville, North Carolina, and features a collection of vintage aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia related to aviation history. The museum was founded in 1989 by a group of aviation enthusiasts who wanted to create a space where the public could learn about the rich aviation history of the region. The museum is housed in a former World War II era hangar at the Hendersonville Airport, which was donated to the museum by the county. The museum's collection includes a variety of vintage aircraft, such as a Piper J-3 Cub, a Luscombe Silvaire, a Cessna 150, and a Grumman AA-1B Trainer. The museum also has displays of aviation artifacts, including flight gear, engines, and instruments, as well as photographs and documents related to local aviation history. The Western North Carolina Air Museum is run entirely by volunteers, and admission is free. The museum is open on Saturdays from April through October and by appointment during the off-season. Visitors can take guided tours of the museum, interact with knowledgeable volunteers, and learn about the important role that aviation has played in the history of western North Carolina."
Bullington Gardens, Hendersonville NC
"Bullington Gardens is a public botanical garden and horticultural education center located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, USA. The gardens cover 12 acres and feature a wide variety of plants, including perennials, annuals, shrubs, trees, and water plants. The gardens were established in 1989 on the former estate of retired horticulturist Bob Bullington. Today, the gardens are maintained by a non-profit organization and offer educational programs for adults and children on topics such as gardening, nature study, and environmental conservation. Visitors to Bullington Gardens can take self-guided tours of the gardens and enjoy the various garden rooms and plant collections. The gardens include a Native Woodland Garden, Shade Garden, Butterfly Garden, Dahlia Garden, and several others. In addition, Bullington Gardens also offers a gift shop that sells plants, garden-related items, and educational materials. Bullington Gardens is open to the public year-round, except on major holidays. The gardens also host several annual events, including a spring plant sale, summer garden tour, and holiday wreath-making workshop.
Bearwallow Mountain, Hendersonville NC
Bearwallow Mountain is a popular destination for hikers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from its summit. The mountain is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species. In addition to hiking, visitors to Bearwallow Mountain can also enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The area is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with several species of raptors, including red-tailed hawks and bald eagles, often seen soaring overhead. Bearwallow Mountain is located within the 4,000-acre Bearwallow Mountain Preserve, which is managed by Conserving Carolina, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural beauty of the region. The preserve is open to the public and offers a variety of trails and recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
Team ECCO Aquarium & Shark Lab, Hendersonville NC
The facility features a variety of exhibits showcasing marine life, including live sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and a touch tank with interactive displays. The aquarium also has a coral reef exhibit with live coral and tropical fish, as well as displays about local freshwater ecosystems. In addition to the exhibits, Team ECCO offers educational programs for all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and workshops. These programs cover a range of topics related to marine science, from marine biology to oceanography to marine conservation. One of the unique features of Team ECCO is its Shark Lab, which allows visitors to observe and interact with live sharks and other marine animals. The Shark Lab features a variety of species of sharks, including nurse sharks, sand tiger sharks, and blacktip sharks, as well as other marine animals such as rays and sea stars.
Jackson Park, Hendersonville NC
One of the park's main features is its sports facilities. Jackson Park has several baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, and tennis courts. There are also basketball courts and a disc golf course for those who enjoy these sports. The park also has playgrounds for children, walking trails, and picnic areas with grills and tables. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon with family and friends while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. In addition to these recreational amenities, Jackson Park also hosts various community events throughout the year. These events include festivals, concerts, and sports tournaments. Overall, Jackson Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities for people of all ages and interests to enjoy."
Hendersonville Visitor Center, Hendersonville NC
The center offers a wide range of resources and services for visitors, including maps, brochures, and other informational materials about local attractions, events, and activities. The knowledgeable staff at the center can also provide personalized recommendations and advice to help visitors make the most of their time in the area. In addition to offering information and assistance, the Hendersonville Visitor Center also serves as a hub for local events and activities. The center hosts regular events and workshops throughout the year, as well as seasonal exhibits and displays. Overall, the Hendersonville Visitor Center is a great resource for anyone planning a trip to the area. Whether you're interested in exploring the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, experiencing the rich history and culture of the region, or simply enjoying the local food and entertainment scene, the center can help you find the information and resources you need to make your visit a success.
Hendersonville Theatre, Inc., Hendersonville NC
The theatre presents a wide variety of plays and musicals throughout the year, including classics, contemporary works, and family-friendly productions. They also offer a variety of educational programs and workshops for people of all ages who are interested in theatre. Hendersonville Theatre, Inc. is run by a volunteer board of directors and staffed by a team of dedicated volunteers who help with everything from acting and directing to set design and ticket sales. The theatre is supported by donations from individuals, businesses, and grants from various organizations. The theatre is located in downtown Hendersonville and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere that allows audiences to get up close and personal with the performers. The space can seat up to 100 people, making it a great option for community theatre productions. Overall, Hendersonville Theatre, Inc. is a beloved cultural institution in the Hendersonville area, and a great place for anyone who loves theatre to get involved and experience the joy of live performance.
Sawyer Springs Vineyard, Hendersonville NC
The vineyard has a tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. They offer a variety of experiences, including guided tastings, tours of the vineyard and winery, and private events. Sawyer Springs Vineyard has received positive reviews from customers and wine critics alike for their high-quality wines and friendly customer service.
Stone Ashe Vineyard, Hendersonville NC
Stone Ashe Vineyard is a family-owned and operated winery located in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The vineyard was established in 2010, and since then, it has become a popular destination for wine lovers in the region. The vineyard is situated on a scenic hilltop, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. The vineyard grows a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Viognier, which are carefully tended to by the family and their team of experienced vineyard workers. Stone Ashe Vineyard offers a range of wine tastings and tours, where visitors can sample the vineyard's award-winning wines and learn about the wine-making process. The winery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances, art exhibits, and wine pairing dinners. In addition to its wine offerings, Stone Ashe Vineyard also has a charming tasting room and a spacious outdoor patio area, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding countryside. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Stone Ashe Vineyard is definitely worth a visit.