Every season in Asheville is glorious, everything from the weather to the beautiful landscape, being outdoors on a blanket with your favorite person is always an amazing date. With so many locations to choose from in and around Asheville, pack up your most creative picnic basket, grab the wine (or local beer) and head on out to a romantic spot.
So, here are our picks for 10 perfect picnic spots in Asheville, in no particular order, to help you start planning your outdoorsy interlude:
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
This one is a no brainer! Here in Western North Carolina, we are blessed with miles and miles of a scenic parkway lined with green grass perfectly groomed for a roadside pop-up picnic. We recommend heading all the way up to Devil’s Courthouse or Craggy Gardens, either direction, it doesn’t matter. You’ll be dining with jaw-dropping views and good company.
2. Carrier Park
Carrier Park is a local’s favorite for all things getting outside. Rollerblading, biking, walking, and dogs are all acceptable ways to spend time with your sweetheart while enjoying Carrier Park. Take advantage of the grassy fields which are always ideal for a blanket and picnic.
3. Bill Moore Community Park in Fletcher
Find yourself on the south side of Asheville? Even if you don’t reside in the Fletcher area, this enormous park is worth the drive for a nice long walk followed up by an evening on a blanket or maybe not in that order. You’ll love the easy flowing streams and the vast space while you stroll through true North Carolina beauty.
4. Lake Louise in Weaverville
Lake Louise in Weaverville couldn’t be more perfect, especially for those who love taking photos and posting them to Instagram. The iconic water wheel backdrop is relaxing and fairytale-like. Easy to find, right off the beaten path from Asheville to Weaverville, head north to this glorious spot.
And, stay tuned for Weaverology! What is Weaverology? Weaverology is a self-driven, scavenger hunt and trivia based town campaign being hosted by the Weaverville Business Association and the Town of Weaverville throughout September and October. Oh, and you can win amazing prizes! Play Weaverology!
5. Reed Creek Greenway
Situated alongside the historic Montford neighbor in downtown Asheville, the Reed Creek Greenway is short and sweet! Easy to find, this beautiful little path runs from Montford all the way to UNCA. Grab your picnic basket and a blanket and head downtown for your romantic greenway in town picnic date. Then, while you’re at it, take a stroll through the UNCA Botanical Gardens!
6. Lake Lure
Take the long-winding road all the way to Lake Lure for a weekend lakeside picnic. Even better, make it a surprise! Then, either before or after your picnic, take a walk through the Lake Lure flowering bridge. Also perfect for Instagram worthy shots.
7. Nature Center
Ready to combine your love for animals and your love for your partner? Head to East Asheville to the Nature Center. Set up your picnic on the grassy knoll near the Recreation Park City Pool overlooking the rushing Swannanoa River, then head in to see the fun animal exhibits of the WNC Nature Center. It’s a win-win for you and the cute wild animals!
8. Lake Fontana
Lake Fontana is a full-day trip from Asheville but is oh so worth it! Find the lakeside spots on the way to the dam or skip that and head all the way to the Fontana Dam where you can also walk or drive across the bridge which is part of the Appalachian Trail.
9. Pack Square
Maybe you’ll want to bring the kiddos on this picnic date because you can set up near the kid-popular Splashville, so they can be entertained while you chill with your sweetie.
10. Biltmore Estate
Go back in history on the Biltmore Estate. Whether your a season pass holder or a one time visitor, the Biltmore property is always on our list for picnic spots. Our recommendation? Here are the best spots on the estate:
The sloped lawn in front of Diana*
Bass Pond and surrounding trails
Lagoon and surround trails
So, what are you waiting for? How many times a year do you get out for a spontaneous picnic date with your partner? Make it a best friend date, a family date or a romantic date, the choice is yours. We just guarantee a great time!
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