Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is celebrated for its thriving arts scene, historic landmarks, and breathtaking natural surroundings. The city has made significant strides in accessibility, ensuring visitors with mobility needs can enjoy its top attractions and unique charm.
From the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate to accessible trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville offers something for everyone. Here’s your guide to exploring the best of this inclusive city.
Why Visit Asheville?
With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and inclusive infrastructure, Asheville is a standout destination for wheelchair travelers. Whether you’re marveling at the Biltmore’s grandeur, enjoying the serenity of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or exploring the vibrant downtown arts scene, Asheville ensures a memorable and accessible journey for all.
Top Accessible Attractions
- Biltmore Estate: This iconic mansion offers accessible tours with elevators and ramps throughout the estate. The gardens and conservatory feature wide, paved paths for wheelchair users. The Antler Hill Village & Winery is also fully accessible, including wine-tasting areas. There is also wheelchair rentals available as well as accessible parking and restrooms onsite.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic highway includes accessible overlooks and trails. Highlights include the Price Lake Trail, a wheelchair-friendly path leading to a tranquil lakeshore observation deck, and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern U.S., with paved trails and accessible restrooms. Stop at the Visitor Center to get maps and specific recommendations for accessible sites.
- North Carolina Arboretum: Spanning 434 acres, the arboretum features stunning gardens, exhibits, and paved trails suitable for wheelchairs. The Bonsai Exhibition Garden and Quilt Garden are highlights for visitors seeking both natural beauty and ease of access. Accessible parking, restrooms, and smooth paths.
- Botanical Gardens at Asheville: A peaceful, wheelchair-accessible escape showcasing native plants and flowers. Wide gravel pathways make most areas easy to navigate. Some steeper areas may require assistance, but most trails are manageable with a sturdy wheelchair.
- French Broad River Park: This riverside park features paved walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. The French Broad River Greenway is fully wheelchair-accessible, making it a great spot for a relaxing outing.
- The Asheville Art Museum: This modern museum showcases contemporary and regional art with wide galleries and accessible elevators. Step-free entry and wheelchair-accessible restrooms.
- River Arts District: A vibrant area featuring art studios, galleries, and workshops. Many studios are located in converted warehouses, and most have ramps and wide entrances.
- Lake Julian Park: A tranquil lake offering accessible fishing piers, paved pathways, and picnic shelters. Ideal for families and those seeking outdoor activities in a relaxed setting.
- Pack Square Park: Located in downtown Asheville, this park is fully wheelchair-accessible with smooth pathways and easy access to nearby restaurants and shops. Ideal for attending festivals and events.
- Accessible Waterfalls Near Asheville: Looking Glass Falls is viewable from an accessible roadside parking area, this stunning waterfall is a must-see. Toms Creek Falls features a short, wheelchair-friendly trail leading to a viewing area.
Accessible Private Transportation in Asheville
For convenience and tailored experiences, several local companies offer wheelchair-accessible transportation:
- Asheville Airport Shuttle: Offers accessible airport transfers and custom tours of Asheville’s attractions.
- Loyal Lifts: Provides wheelchair-accessible vans for private hire, perfect for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby areas.
Accessible Accommodations
- The Omni Grove Park Inn: Historic luxury with fully accessible rooms, roll-in showers, and elevators to all floors. Accessible pathways throughout the resort, including dining areas and the spa. Stunning mountain views and proximity to downtown Asheville.
- Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park: Modern amenities with spacious, wheelchair-friendly rooms, roll-in showers, and accessible parking. Located near shopping and dining areas, with easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville: Contemporary accommodations with wide doorways, roll-in showers, and accessible common areas. Close to Asheville’s vibrant downtown, making it perfect for exploring shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: Affordable and accessible, with ADA-compliant rooms, elevators, and breakfast areas. Conveniently located for day trips to the Blue Ridge Parkway or Biltmore Estate.
Dining and Nightlife in Asheville
- Curate: A Spanish tapas restaurant with step-free access and spacious interiors.
- Plant: An upscale vegan eatery with accessible seating and restrooms.
- Wicked Weed Brewing: A popular brewery with wheelchair-friendly entrances and outdoor seating areas.
