Brevard Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Brevard, North Carolina. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Brevard.


Introduction to Brevard

Nestled in the North Carolina Mountains, Brevard is a charming town with plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food. Known for its natural beauty and rich history, Brevard is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Brevard

Whether you’re a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, Brevard has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Brevard:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Transylvania Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the history of Transylvania County, including exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the logging industry.
  • Brevard Music Center: Founded in 1936, this music center hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including opera, orchestra, and jazz concerts.
  • Cradle of Forestry: This historic site was the birthplace of modern forestry in America. Visitors can explore the exhibits, take a guided tour, and hike one of the many trails in the area.

Natural Attractions of Brevard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pisgah National Forest: This 500,000-acre forest offers hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives. Check out Looking Glass Falls or hike to the top of Looking Glass Rock for breathtaking views.
  • Dupont State Recreational Forest: This park features four major waterfalls, more than 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, and several fishing ponds.
  • Sliding Rock: This natural waterslide in Pisgah National Forest is a popular summer destination. Visitors can slide down the 60-foot rock into a 7-foot-deep pool.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brevard

Brevard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes in the area:

  • Art Loeb Trail: This 30-mile trail offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a challenging hike, so be prepared for steep climbs and rock scrambles.
  • Davidson River Trail: This easy, 2.8-mile trail follows the Davidson River through Pisgah National Forest.
  • Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures: This company offers guided mountain bike tours in Pisgah National Forest. Choose from half-day or full-day options.

Best Things to Do in Brevard: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Brevard offers plenty of other activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Brevard:

  • Zipline Adventures: Take a thrilling zipline tour of the Blue Ridge Mountains with The Gorge Zipline.
  • Whitewater Rafting: The Nantahala River, located about an hour from Brevard, offers several whitewater rafting options for all skill levels.
  • Guided Fly Fishing Tours: Head to the Davidson River with a guide from Davidson River Outfitters for a relaxing day of fly fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brevard

If you’re planning to spend a week in Brevard, here’s a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore downtown Brevard, including the Transylvania Heritage Museum and local shops and restaurants.
  • Day 2: Hike to the top of Looking Glass Rock or check out Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest.
  • Day 3: Take a guided mountain bike tour with Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures.
  • Day 4: Visit the Cradle of Forestry and take a guided tour of the historic site.
  • Day 5: Go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River.
  • Day 6: Take a fly fishing tour on the Davidson River.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery with a picnic in Dupont State Recreational Forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Brevard

Brevard is home to several excellent restaurants and breweries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue: Head to Hawg Wild Barbecue for some of the best barbecue in the area.
  • Burgers: The Square Root is known for its delicious burgers, made with local grass-fed beef.
  • Baked Goods: Stop by Bracken Mountain Bakery for fresh-baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Oskar Blues Brewery: This brewery offers a variety of craft beers and live music on weekends.
  • Brevard Brewing Company: Try the German-style lagers and ales at this family-owned brewery.
  • Pisgah Brewing Company: This brewery is located in Black Mountain, about an hour from Brevard, but it’s worth the trip for the award-winning beers and live music.

Where to Stay in Brevard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Brevard has plenty of lodging options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel. Here are some of the best places to stay in Brevard:

  • The Inn at Brevard: This charming bed and breakfast is located in downtown Brevard, within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
  • Pisgah Inn: This rustic inn is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with stunning views of the mountains.
  • Holiday Inn Express: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Pisgah National Forest.

What to Buy in Brevard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir to bring home from your trip to Brevard? Here are some local products to consider:

  • Pottery: Brevard is home to several talented potters, including Matt Jones Pottery and Blue Dragonfly Pottery.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Check out the beautiful handmade jewelry at Cindy’s Dragonfly Gallery.
  • Honey: Pick up a jar of local honey from Dancing Bees Farm.

Local Culture and Customs of Brevard

Brevard is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere. Here are a few customs to keep in mind during your stay:

  • Respect the Outdoors: Brevard is an eco-friendly town, so be sure to pack out any trash and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking and camping.
  • Support Local Businesses: Brevard has a thriving small business community, so be sure to support local shops and restaurants during your stay.
  • Be Polite: Southern hospitality is alive and well in Brevard, so be sure to say please and thank you and hold doors open for others.

Best Time to Visit Brevard

Brevard has a mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring and fall are popular times for hiking and enjoying the beautiful foliage, while summer is great for outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and ziplining. Winter is a quieter time in Brevard but can be a beautiful time to visit, particularly if there’s snow on the ground.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brevard

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Brevard:

Do:

  • Explore Nature: Brevard is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, so be sure to spend time outside.
  • Try Local Foods: Brevard is known for its delicious food and drink scene, so be sure to sample some of the local specialties.
  • Meet the Locals: Brevard is a friendly town, so strike up a conversation with a local and learn more about the area.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Brevard is an eco-friendly town, so be sure to pack out any trash and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking and camping.
  • Overdo It: Brevard offers plenty of outdoor activities, but be sure to take breaks and stay hydrated, particularly during the summer months.
  • Disrespect Local Customs: Brevard is a welcoming town, so be sure to be polite and respectful during your stay.

Safety and Health

Brevard is a safe town with excellent medical facilities, including Transylvania Regional Hospital. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind during your visit:

Safety in Brevard

  • Be Prepared: Whether you’re hiking or biking, be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
  • Watch for Wildlife: Brevard is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears. Be sure to store food properly and never approach wildlife.
  • Stay Alert: Brevard is a safe town, but be sure to keep an eye on your belongings and lock your car doors.

Health in Brevard

  • Altitude Sickness: Brevard is located at a high altitude, so visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy during your first few days in town.
  • Ticks: Lyme disease is present in the area, so be sure to wear insect repellent and check for ticks after spending time outside.
  • COVID-19: As with any travel during the pandemic, be sure to follow local guidelines and take necessary precautions to keep yourself and others safe.

Getting to Brevard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Brevard is located about 30 minutes from Asheville Regional Airport, which offers flights from several major cities. Here are some transportation options for getting to and around Brevard:

Airports Near Brevard

  • Asheville Regional Airport: This airport is located about 30 minutes from Brevard and offers flights from several major cities.

Bus Stations Near Brevard

  • Greyhound Bus Station (Asheville): This station is located about 45 minutes from Brevard and offers bus service to several major cities.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate out of Asheville Regional Airport, making it easy to explore the area on your own.
  • Taxis and Shuttle Services: Several taxi and shuttle services operate in the area, including Asheville Airport Shuttle and Asheville Taxi.

How to Get Around in Brevard

Brevard is a walkable town, with most attractions located within a few miles of each other. However, a car is necessary to explore the surrounding area and nearby national parks.

Where to Go Next from Brevard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your North Carolina adventure, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Asheville: This vibrant city is located about 30 minutes from Brevard and offers a variety of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park is located about 2 hours from Brevard and offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country.
  • Chimney Rock State Park: This park is located about 1.5 hours from Brevard and offers hiking trails, rock formations, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Conclusion

Brevard is a beautiful town with plenty to offer visitors, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Brevard is the perfect destination for your next trip.

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