Asheville, North Carolina is one of our families’ favorite destinations in the South. After the tragic year they have had, there is no better destination to show your support to in 2025. With incredible mountain views, and unique shopping and restaurants, it’s the perfect blend of nature and city. Sometimes it can be difficult to plan vacations with teens, but Asheville makes it easy. Here is a list of our family’s favorite things to do in Asheville for teens.
Play Pinball at the Asheville Pinball Museum
With vintage vibes and a quirky feel, teenagers will love the Asheville Pinball Museum. With over 50 pinball machines, and classic arcade games, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Asheville with teenagers.
They have a small selection of sodas, beer, and snacks. The staff are always friendly and professional, and they have an incredible selection of both vintage pinball as well as vintage video games. From Donkey Kong and Galaga to Frogger and Burger Time, families can spend hours playing unlimited games.
We recommend getting there before they open if you are visiting on a weekend or holiday. They can get quite busy, but typically the first crew of people will be let in. If not they will put you on a waiting list and call you when they have availability.
Address: 1 Battle Sq Ste 1A Asheville, NC 28801
Enjoy Dessert at French Broad Chocolates
The French Broad Chocolate Lounge is a must-visit spot for teens and adults alike. With an incredible selection of handmade chocolates, truffles, and other treats, it’s the perfect place to indulge in something sweet.
Located right in Pack Square downtown, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff are always friendly and helpful.
On a cool day, relax into their coffee shop-like atmosphere and indulge in a “Liquid Truffle” – their thick and velvety hot chocolate. For the summer months, French Broad Chocolate Lounge is a great place to stop for a milk shake or an ice cream float.
If you are a chocolate lover, their factory offers tours. Be sure to call ahead to ensure availability.
French Broad Chocolate Lounge Menu
Address: 10 S Pack Square, Asheville NC 28801
Find a Read at Malaprop’s Bookstore
Malaprop’s Bookstore is a great place for teens to find their next read. Malaprop’s has the atmosphere of a small book store, but is quite spacious. It is well -stocked with books from all genres, and the staff are always helpful in finding the perfect book.
One of the coolest things in Malaprop’s Bookstore is the paper wrapped mystery books . There is a giant section of wall with blind-date (paper wrapped) books with single-word descriptions written by employees. Teens can choose their own adventure by purchasing one of these books and getting a surprise read.
Malaprop’s Bookstore also features a small coffee bar with pastries. You can snag an espresso or a latte to sip on as you browse.
Address: 55 Haywood St, Asheville NC 28801
Go for a Hike
There are so many incredible hiking trails in and around Asheville. Whether you are looking for a short hike or an all day adventure, there is something for everyone.
Teenagers can manage a longer distance with hiking, but still like to have great rewards and see sites along the way. Some hikes have been closed due to the hurricane, but Black Balsam and Graveyard Fields Loop Trail are two family favorites that are safe and open.
Pisgah National Forest also has several great hikes for teenagers. Black Balsalm Knob and Graveyard Fields are both easier hikes but have great views and rewards along the way.
Check out our dedicated blog post with Waterfall hikes in the Asheville area if you want more ideas for family friendly hikes. You really can’t go wrong by getting outside around Asheville and exploring nature.
If you are new to hiking, and prefer a guide, consider this three waterfall guided hike which is teen friendly and will pick you up at your hotel.
Explore the Biltmore
The Biltmore Estate is a great thing to do in Asheville for teens. Located just outside of Asheville, the estate is the largest privately owned home in the United States. It was built by George Vanderbilt in 1895 and has been open to visitors since 1930.
The first time we visited the Biltmore, we couldn’t believe how expansive is. It is definitely more than just a house tour. Visitors have access to an 8,000 acre estate, which includes impeccable gardens, beautiful trails, and winery, and even an ice cream shop.
The Biltmore Estate is a great destination for teenagers, as there is something for everyone to enjoy. For lovers of nature and the outdoors, there are extensive grounds with lush gardens and breathtaking views. Antler Hill Village on the Biltmore property has guided bike rides, and falconry and archery lessons which are all open to teenagers.
Address: 1 Antler Hill Rd, Asheville, North Carolina 28803
Take a Break at the Coffee Bus
Double D’s Coffee and Desserts is a special place in the heart of downtown Asheville. When you step into the red double decker bus, you are transported to a magical place. The staff is friendly, and the drinks and desserts are divine.
We recommend the Honey Lavender Latte. If you are feeling more indulgent – a warm brownie sundae is the way to go!
There are several tables in front of the bus for guests to enjoy their treats prior to browsing Asheville. Double D’s Coffee is a must see, and is a really unique thing to do in Asheville with teenagers.
Address: 41 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, North Carolina 28801
Raft on the French Broad River
If you are looking for exciting things to do in Asheville for teens, consider taking a rafting trip on the French Broad River. The French Broad is one of the oldest rivers in the world, and it winds its way through some of the most beautiful scenery in Western North Carolina.
The river is perfect for all levels of rafters, from beginners to experienced paddlers. There are several companies that offer guided rafting trips, and they can provide all the necessary gear. Asheville Adventure Company is in town and provides both kayak and rafting experiences.
Some of these experiences have been disrupted due to the storm, but Asheville Adventure Company still offers kayaking, tubing, and white water rafting.
We also recommend Blue Heron Whitewater. We did a float trip with them, and they were professional and knowledgeable. They have half and full day trips that journey through Class III and Class IV rapids. The scenery is beautiful and the rapids are exciting and fun for teens and adults alike.
Address: 35 Little Pine Road, Marshall, North Carolina 28753
Broaden your Palate at Chai Pani
While Indian food might not be one of the first things that comes to mind when visiting Asheville – maybe it should be! Asheville is home to Chai Pani. It is one of the most decorated Indian street food restaurants in the country.
One of the New York Times favorite restaurants in America, it also was recently named Outstanding Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation. Their Chaat menu alone – street vendor shareable nibbles – will open up flavors and foods unlike anything teens and parents have ever tried.
The restaurant is brightly colored, festive, and fun. Be sure to make a reservation in advance if you want to get a table!
32 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 254-4003
Visit Linville Caverns
Linville Caverns is a must-see destination for teens visiting Asheville. They have officially reopened after the hurricane! Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this natural cave system is home to some of the most interesting underground formations in the region.
The Linville Caverns are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations that have been formed over millions of years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cavern. Linville Falls is also close by, and a trip out here makes a great day trip near Asheville with teenagers.
Address: 19929 US-221, Marion, North Carolina 28752
Make Music at the Moogseum
This small but fun museum teaches families about the history Bob Moog and the development of electronic synthesizers. You will come away with a new appreciation about how synthesizers impact the music we listen to today.
Through hands on exhibits, teenagers will enjoy trying the five different types of instruments. There is a lot to look at in this small space. This place is unique, and the type of thing you can only find in Asheville.
If your family is into music, you can also check out this teen friendly Historic Music Scene Walking Tour that visits music related sites around the city, and ends at the Moogseum.
Address: 56 Broadway Street, Asheville, North Carolina 28801
