Try these attractions if you are traveling with children:
Biltmore Estate- George Washington Vanderbilt II, member of the illustrious Vanderbilt family, built this large estate in the late 19th century. It is the largest private home in America at 175,00 square feet. Today, it is operated as a museum. Visitors can tour the house itself, which boasts 250 rooms with an indoor pool and bowling alley, and the family's art and antique collections. The grounds are host to acres of parkland, forests and gardens, as well as a farm village where guests can learn about how estate workers lived in the 1880s. There is a winery on-site, with available tours and wine tastings.
Asheville Botanical Gardens- Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, the Botanical Gardens focus on the preservation of native plant species. There are over 700 varieties of trees, mosses, wildflowers, mosses and aquatic plants. A half-mile loop of trails leads visitors through the ten acres that comprise the gardens, with ample spots to picnic among the meadows and streams. The best time to go is from April through mid-May, when the wildflowers are in full bloom, although each season offers its own unique display. Tours are available for groups of five or more people, and must be reserved in advance.
The Fun Depot - Unlike many mountain tourist destinations, Asheville is not crowded with amusement type attractions. The most popular place in town for amusements and birthday parties is The Fun Depot. This large warehouse type building plenty to keep the youngsters busy. Attractions include: a multilevel go-cart track, bumper cars, laser tag, indoor mini-golf, batting cages, a soft play area, a climbing wall, and a large arcade area. Boxcar Buddy is the floppy-eared mascot. Sweeten Creek Road (ALT 25) at I-40.Tropical Gardens Mini-Golf - For a more traditional outdoor mini-golf experience, Tropical Gardens Mini Golf lets you wind your way down a steep hill through the Giraffes, elephants, and waterfalls for only $4. The entrance is tucked away on Patton Avenue in West Asheville, between Krispy Kream and Long Johns Silvers.
