Artists, Crafters, Musicians & More
Western North Carolina isn’t only one of the most beautiful spots in The United States, our home is also a hub for the arts – whether it’s live music, local galleries, craft shops, the theater, or fun-filled festivals, there’s always something for those who have a passion for artful pursuits. Here are a few hot tickets you might want to add to your mountain agenda.
Some Artful Favorites
Grande Olde Station
This historic train depot turned restaurant and bar is a local favorite that’s just 5 minutes away in Lake Toxaway. On most Friday nights, you’ll find some serious players and pickers in a not-so-serious setting serving up great food and awesome mountain-inspired music.
Biltmore Summer Concerts
Just over 1 hour away in Asheville, you’ll find the spectacular Biltmore Estate. Each summer they host evening concerts under the stars featuring Grammy-award winning acts and chart-toppers of every musical genre. Enjoy a splendid night of music with the fabulous Biltmore Estate as your backdrop!
Flat Rock Playhouse
About 1 hour away this local theater brings you fantastic live performances of Broadway shows, musicals, comedies, dramas. If you’re a fan of the stage, there’s probably a show on the schedule you don’t want to miss.
Mountain Theatre Company
Formerly the Highlands Playhouse, this historic theater about 40 minutes away in Highlands, NC., has been putting on shows for more than 85 years. From classics like Rocky Horror Picture Show to the latest Tony Award-winning sensations, there’s always a great performance on the schedule.
Asheville River Arts District (RAD)
You’ve got to see it to believe it. This industrial area, once busy with bustling mills, has been transformed into Asheville’s art central with more than 250 working artists, not to mention a wildly wonderful array of eateries, breweries, and murals galore. Welcome to RAD, Asheville’s most creative corner.
Brevard Music Center
A smidge over 20 minutes away, the Brevard Music Center welcomes classical music, big brass, ballet, jazz, mountain music, kids’ stuff – you name it. Check out their calendar to see who’s coming during your stay at Mountain Falls.
Art Galleries of Cashiers
The cozy streets of Cashiers (about 20 minutes away) are brimming with artful finds. In fact, this small town is well-known for its eclectic mix of local galleries and craft shops. Some of our favorites, include the Mountain Mist Gallery, featuring works by a number of local artists; Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery, home to paintings, sculpture, jewelry and gift items; and the Whiteside Art Gallery, a family-owned gallery located in a building that was once a Civil War-era church. Heck, just go for a stroll through Cashiers and you’re sure to bump into some artful stuff!
Appalachian Craft Center
Located in Asheville, just over 1 hour away, this center has it all when it comes to mountain crafts – woodwork, glass blowing, pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, not to mention local jams, jellies and more. If you appreciate fantastic handiwork, it’s definitely worth a trip – besides a day in Asheville is always loaded with artful possibilities.
Art Mob Studios & Marketplace
Located in downtown Hendersonville, roughly 55 minutes away, this 5000-square-foot gallery is home to over 85 local artists and craftspeople. In fact, you can see them creating their masterpieces live in their individual studios most days of the week. Ask questions, chat it up, and take home some truly one-of-a-kind finds.