If you’re searching for beautiful mountain towns to visit, you will find plenty of outdoor things to do in Brevard NC!
Brevard is the heart of Transylvania County in the North Carolina Mountains. It’s a popular destination, also known as the Land of Waterfalls, and is on the National Registry of Historic Places.
Brevard is rich in years of history, offers tons of outdoor activities and plenty of unique shops, has a nice food scene, and is even home to a rare white squirrel population.
It’s an excellent place to visit and a wonderful place to live!
I’ve put together a list of some of the best things to do in this awesome mountain town. If you’re wondering if Brevard, NC is worth visiting, check out these options!
Things to Do in Brevard NC
1. Take a Hike in Pisgah
Explore the Pisgah National Forest with its 500,000+ acres of pristine wilderness and waterfalls. Hike the Art Loeb Trail or Graveyard Fields Trail, which is known as the best waterfall trail in the park.
2. Visit the Biltmore Estate
Take a short 45-minute drive to explore the famous 8,000-acre estate of George Vanderbilt II. The Biltmore Estate is a historic house museum and tourist attraction in Asheville, North Carolina.
Built between 1889 and 1895, it is the largest privately-owned house in the United States, at 178,926 square feet. The estate includes a 250-room chateau, gardens, a winery, and a village. It is still owned by the Vanderbilt family and is open to visitors.
3. Go White Water Rafting
Enjoy a thrilling ride down the French Broad River. The area is known for its many rivers, creeks, and streams, which offer a wide range of rafting options.
The most popular rafting spots in the area are the French Broad River, the Nolichucky River, and the Pigeon River. These rivers offer Class I, II, and III rapids, making them an ideal spot for a whitewater adventure.
4. Visit the Brevard Music Center
Experience a world-class performance venue. The Center offers an 8-week summer music festival and educational program. The festival presents more than 80 concerts and events each summer, featuring world-renowned guest artists, a full symphony orchestra, and talented young musicians from around the world. The Center also provides a comprehensive music education program, including private lessons, master classes, and workshops. This is a great place to visit in the summer months.
5. Visit a Local Brewery
Take a Tour of the Oskar Blues Brewery and their famous craft beer facility. Visit other local breweries like Brevard Brewing Company and Ecusta Brewing Company. Ecusta Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery that specializes in hand-crafted ales and lagers. Brevard Brewing Company is a production brewery that focuses on creating traditional beer styles. Oskar Blues Brewery is a craft brewery that specializes in hand-crafted ales and lagers. All of these breweries offer a variety of unique beers and styles.
6. Go Fishing
Take in the beautiful scenery while you’re out fishing. Fishing in Brevard is best when done from a boat or kayak as the area has many small coves and inlets that are great for fishing. The rivers that run through the area are full of trout and other fish that can be caught.
7. Visit Looking Glass Falls
Enjoy the beauty of one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Looking Glass Falls is a 60-foot waterfall located in Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina. It is easily accessible and is a popular spot for swimming and taking photographs. It is named for the rainbow-like effect that is seen when the sunlight reflects off of the waterfall.
8. Visit the Cradle of Forestry
Take a step back in time and explore the grounds of the first forestry school. The Cradle of Forestry is a 6,500-acre outdoor museum located in the Pisgah forest. Visitors can explore the Cradle of Forestry’s living history museum, learn about the history of forestry and conservation, and explore a variety of forest trails.
The Cradle of Forestry also offers educational programs, special events, and a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and biking.
9. Visit Sliding Rock
Take a plunge down this natural rock slide. The 60-foot-long slide ends in a 7-foot-deep pool. Enjoy sliding down the rock and then swim in the pool below. Sliding Rock is a popular destination for families and groups looking for a fun and unique outdoor activity. It is open for use from mid-May to mid-October each year.
10. Go Horseback Riding
Enjoy a relaxing ride through the Pisgah National Forest.
11. Visit Dupont State Forest
Explore the trails and waterfalls of this scenic state park. The forest is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Dupont forest is home to several waterfalls, including Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Hooker Falls (seen in the picture below) and the High Falls. It is also known for its beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a popular spot for photographers.
If you’re looking for a place to stay close to Dupont, we recommend The Dupont Yurts.
12. Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway
Spanning 469 miles across the southern and central Appalachians, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers endless exploration of a National Park! Prepare to take the most beautiful photographs of the sunset while you’re up there!
13. Visit the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute
Take a tour of the observatory and learn about the night sky.
14. Go Kayaking or Canoeing
Explore the lakes and rivers of the area while you paddle. Brevard, North Carolina, is home to some of the best kayaking in the Southeast. It is well known for its sparkling mountain rivers and peaceful mountain lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for paddling and exploring. Take a peaceful canoe ride on the French Broad River.
15. Visit the White Squirrel Festival
Take part in this annual celebration of the white squirrels of Brevard, which were discovered in the early 1900s.
During the festival, vendors set up booths, a parade is held, and visitors can take part in activities such as a scavenger hunt, tours of the white squirrel habitat, and a squirrel race. The festival also includes food, music, and other entertainment.
16. Visit the Transylvania Heritage Museum
Learn about the culture and history of the area.
17. Visit the North Carolina Arboretum
Take a stroll through the gardens of this botanical wonderland. The 434-acre garden features 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of trails, and a variety of educational programs.
18. Visit the Brevard College
Take a tour of the campus of this prestigious college.
19. Go Shopping
Enjoy the unique boutiques and shops of downtown Brevard. The historic downtown area, known as the Brevard Main Street District, offers numerous boutique stores and restaurants as well as a variety of antiques, vintage and consignment shops
20. Visit the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Explore the home of the famous poet and writer.
21. Visit Silvermont Mansion and Park
The Silvermont mansion was built in 1916–1917. The house and grounds were donated to Transylvania County in 1972, and serve as a public recreation center.
22. Go Camping
Enjoy the outdoors while you sleep beneath the stars. There are many campgrounds in the area, offering a variety of amenities such as RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, and more. You can find one of our favorite glamping sites under number 11 (listed above).
23. Take a Tour of an Apple Orchard
Explore the history and fruits of an old-fashioned apple orchard. We recommend Granddad’s and Jeter Mountain, but we hear the Orchard at Altapass is worth a visit, too.
24. Take a Tour of Brevard College’s Art Gallery
Enjoy the works of local and international artists. It is dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of the visual arts, showcasing the work of both emerging and established artists from the local area and beyond. The gallery features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, including painting, photography, sculpture, prints, and works on paper
25. Visit the Ecusta Trail
Take a stroll or bike ride through some of the most scenic views in the area. The Ecusta Trail is a 6.2-mile paved rail trail located in Pisgah National Forest. The trail follows the path of the former Ecusta Paper Mill, which was in operation from the late 1800s until 2003, when it closed its doors.
26. Take a Haunted Tour
Explore the dark side of Brevard with a spooky tour. Brevard is home to some of the most unique and haunted places in the entire state. The Transylvania County Historical Society offers a haunted tour of downtown Brevard, NC.
The tour includes stories of the paranormal and haunted places in the area. Visitors may also learn about the town’s history, as well as the unknown secrets of its haunted past.
27. Visit Brevard College’s Planetarium
Learn about the stars and planets at this state-of-the-art facility.
28. Go Mountain Biking
Enjoy the trails of Pisgah National Forest and Dupont State Forest. The area is home to many races and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for all types of riders.
29. Visit the Bracken Mountain Nature Preserve
Explore the trails and wildlife of this 1,500-acre protected area. The Bracken Mountain Nature Preserve offers visitors a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking. There are several trails available, including the Bracken Mountain Trail, which is a 4.5-mile loop. The preserve also offers educational programs and volunteer opportunities.
30. Visit Brevard College’s Nature Center
Learn about the ecology and wildlife of the area.
31. Visit Earth Mountain Bicycle downtown
Take a picture under their famous yarn bike and say hello to their shop dogs.
32. Go Gem mining at Crystal Mountain Gem Mines
When you step into this fun crystal shop, you will be in awe of all they have to offer. From their rocks and fossils to their crystals and gem stones, you’re sure to have a unique experience here! Plus, you and the kids can get your hands dirty and mine for your own gems! This is one of our favorite shops downtown!
33. Shop at OP Taylor’s
OP Taylor’s, located in downtown Brevard, North Carolina, is #1 toy store in the south! This old, three leveled store is over 6,000 square feet of fun and hands-on excitement.
34. Visit Cup and Saucer
Cup and Saucer is a family-owned and operated restaurant located in Brevard, North Carolina. The restaurant has been in operation since 1982, serving breakfast and lunch.
Here you can relax and people watch as you sip on your tea, coffee, or specialty drink and enjoy a pastry. Be sure to visit Cup and Saucer Mercantile, too! That is located behind the coffee shop – entrance is on side alley.
35. Make Pottery at Brevard Clay
Brevard Clay is a family-owned company located in Brevard, NC. The company specializes in making high-quality, hand-crafted pottery, with a focus on traditional, functional designs. Brevard Clay was founded in 1988, and since then, has become a popular destination for pottery lovers.
36. Go Flyfishing
Enjoy a day of flyfishing on the Davidson River or East Fork River. The Davidson River is one of the best trout streams in the Southeast and is known for its large brown and rainbow trout. The Toxaway River is home to smallmouth bass, redeye bass, and rainbow trout as well. The French Broad River is a great spot for fishing for smallmouth bass and trout.
37. Live music
Brevard, NC is home to a vibrant music scene, with local bars and venues hosting live music every night of the week. If you happen to catch Bruce Threlkeld in town, you’ll want to give him a listen!
38. Visit the Farmer’s Market
The Transylvania Farmers Market is a year-round open-air market in Brevard. The market offers locally grown produce, meat, eggs, baked goods, honey, jams, jellies, herbs, crafts, and more. Local vendors also offer various food items like tacos, empanadas, and crepes. The market is a great place to buy fresh, local foods and support the local economy.
39. Get a Bite to Eat Downtown
As you can see, there are many things to do in Brevard NC. When you stroll the charming downtown, you’ll want to stop for a bite to eat or have a quick cup of coffee to get you back on your feet.
There are several restaurants we recommend visiting while here.
Quixote’s fine Mexican cuisine, Rocky’s Grill and Soda shop, Cup and Saucer, Mayberry’s, Sully’s Bagel shop, The Square Root, The Blind Mule, The Falls Landing, Jordan Street Café, Dougans, and Wine Down…just to name a few!
40. Visit Brevard College’s Observatory
Learn about the night sky and see the stars up close.
41. Go Disc Golfing
Enjoy a round of disc golf at one of the area’s courses. The Transylvania County Park and Recreation Department manage two public 18-hole disc golf courses in the area. The courses feature a variety of obstacles and challenges for players of all skill levels.
42. Visit Brevard College’s Arboretum
Explore the gardens and trails of this botanical paradise. The Arboretum contains a variety of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and other plants native to the region. In addition to its educational value, the Arboretum provides a peaceful outdoor space for relaxation and recreation.
43. Visit Brevard College’s Bird Sanctuary
Explore the grounds of this wildlife refuge. The sanctuary is a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts and offers a variety of trails for exploration.
44. Take a Tour of the Pisgah Inn
Enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the inn’s terrace.
45. Visit the Brevard Lumberyard Arts District
Explore the galleries, shops, and restaurants of the area.
46. Go to the Movies
In downtown Brevard, you will find a one-screen movie theater. Co-Ed Cinemas will give you the old school feel from the moment you walk in!
47. Get Breakfast at Morning Social
This awesome restaurant gives you that farm-to-table freshness with an industrial mountain town feel.
48. Stop by 185 King St.
If you’re looking for live entertainment and good food, stop by 185 King St. This small music venue has indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy the music and delicious german-inspired food. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, there’s something on the menu for you to enjoy!, too.
49. Visit a Local Brewery
When in town, be sure to check out a local brewery.
50. Take a Drive to The Pretty Place
Located at the Camp YMCA of Greenville, this outdoor chapel has some of the most stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains!
We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of things to do in Brevard NC. If we missed something, let us know and we’d be glad to add it!
Before you go, here are more posts you’ll enjoy:
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16 Family Campgrounds in NC Mountains
Road Trip Packing List for Families
The Best Waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest