Hendersonville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay and what to eat in the charming town of Hendersonville, North Carolina.


Introduction to Hendersonville

Nestled in the western part of North Carolina’s beautiful Appalachian Mountains, the charming town of Hendersonville offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. This small town is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Hendersonville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Western North Carolina Air Museum

The Western North Carolina Air Museum showcases the history of air travel and offers visitors an impressive display of vintage planes, model jets, and historic photographs. Visitors can also take part in guided tours and other educational programs.

The Mineral & Lapidary Museum of Henderson County

This museum showcases an extensive collection of rare and unusual rocks, minerals, and gems from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy a guided tour and demonstrations of diamond cutting and polishing.

Natural Attractions of Hendersonville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is an iconic landmark that has been featured in several movies and TV shows. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic views, and waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, camping, and picnicking.

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

This historic site offers a glimpse into the life of Carl Sandburg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and biographer. Visitors can explore the Sandburg’s historic home, hiking trails, and beautiful gardens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hendersonville

There are plenty of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts in Hendersonville. The Bearwallow Mountain Trail and the Dupont State Forest Trail are popular hiking and biking destinations.

Best Things to Do in Hendersonville: Activities and Tours

Kayaking, Tubing, and Rafting

Hendersonville is home to several rivers and creeks that offer kayaking, tubing, and rafting opportunities. Some of the popular spots include the Green River, the French Broad River, and the Nantahala River.

A Visit to Appalachian State Park

Appalachian State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities and educational programs. Visitors can take part in ranger-led hikes, wildlife programs, and educational tours of the park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hendersonville

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Hendersonville.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Mineral & Lapidary Museum of Henderson County
Day 2 Explore the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Day 3 Go kayaking on the French Broad River
Day 4 Take a scenic drive to Chimney Rock State Park
Day 5 Go shopping at the Hendersonville Farmers Market
Day 6 Hike the Bearwallow Mountain Trail
Day 7 Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Hendersonville

Must-Try Dishes

Apple Cider Donuts

The Apple Cider Donuts are a local favorite and can be found at several bakeries and restaurants in Hendersonville.

Barbecue

Hendersonville is known for its delicious barbecue. Some of the popular spots to try barbecue include Flat Rock Wood Room, Hubba Hubba Smokehouse, and Blue Ridge BBQ & Brews.

Local Beverages

Craft Beer

Hendersonville has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries serving up a variety of unique and delicious brews. Some of the popular breweries include Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and Bold Rock Hard Cider.

Wine

Hendersonville is home to several vineyards and wineries that offer tastings and tours. Some of the popular ones include Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards and Burntshirt Vineyards.

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

Hendersonville offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include The Charleston Inn, The Mill House Lodge, and The Waverly Inn.

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

Apple Products

Hendersonville is famous for its apples, and there are several markets where visitors can purchase a variety of apple-related products, including apple butter, cider, and pies.

Handmade Crafts

Hendersonville has a thriving arts and crafts scene, and visitors can find a variety of handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Hendersonville

Hendersonville has a rich history and culture, with several festivals and events throughout the year. The North Carolina Apple Festival is a popular event that takes place every September and features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and plenty of delicious apple-related treats.

Best Time to Visit Hendersonville

The best time to visit Hendersonville is in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. The weather is mild, and there are several festivals and events taking place throughout the season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hendersonville

Do:

  • Do take part in outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and biking.
  • Do try the local cuisine, especially the barbecue and apple-related treats.
  • Do explore the town’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the environment in any way.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t forget to tip when dining out or taking a tour.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hendersonville

Hendersonville is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take precautions to stay safe. Always lock cars and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Hendersonville

Hendersonville has several hospitals and medical facilities nearby in case of emergencies. Visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance and bring any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Hendersonville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hendersonville is about a 30-minute drive from Asheville Regional Airport. Visitors can also take a bus from the Greyhound Bus Station in Asheville to Hendersonville.

Airports Near Hendersonville

  • Asheville Regional Airport
  • Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport

Bus Stations Near Hendersonville

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Asheville
  • Hendersonville Transportation Center

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from the airport or bus station.

How to Get Around in Hendersonville

The best way to get around Hendersonville is by car or bike. Visitors can also walk to nearby attractions and restaurants.

Where to Go Next from Hendersonville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Asheville

Asheville is a vibrant city located just a short drive from Hendersonville. The city is known for its arts and culture scene, craft breweries, and outdoor activities.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, camping, and take scenic drives.

Conclusion

Hendersonville is a charming town that offers visitors a chance to unwind, explore nature, and immerse themselves in local history and culture. With its range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine, Hendersonville is a must-see destination for anyone visiting North Carolina.