Summer Fun For Kids In Asheville, NC

Summer in Asheville, NC, is a great time to get out with the whole family and explore all that the mountains, and town, have to offer. There are lots of options for getting outdoors, and quite a few alternatives for indoor fun if you don't want to get caught in an afternoon thunderstorm. If you're new to town or visiting with kids, here are a few suggestions for ways to explore: 

Around Town:

• WNC Nature Center: The Nature Center is great for all ages - there are animals, there's shade, there's paved walking paths and there are several areas for kids to play and get their energy out, or stop for a snack. Head to the reptile house for an air conditioned break from the heat, and be sure to check the daily schedule for otter feedings and other programming. 
•  Hominy Creek Greenway: If you want to get the kids out in nature but don't want to venture far from town, the Hominy Creek Greenway is a 2/3 mile trail on 12 acres of land that follows Hominy Creek in West Asheville. This easy trail is fully shaded and has several areas for kids to explore and run around, including a beach right on the creek that is a favorite cool-down spot for local families in the summer. Public parking is available at either end of the greenway, on Sand Hill Road and Shelburne Road. Informative signage is placed along the trail, and it's always a good idea to check out the Swim Guide website or app before venturing into any body of water. 
• Carrier Park Playground: When you have kids, finding the best playgrounds becomes a crucial part of any family trip. The playground at Carrier Park in West Asheville is located within in the Velodrome along with basketball courts, a roller hockey rink, volleyball courts and a track for running and cycling. Take the stairs or ramp over the track to get there - the enclosed nature eases the stress of kids running off too far or into busy roads. There is a section for toddlers as well as for bigger kids, and picnic tables for snack or lunch on the go. For families who bike, or kids first learning, the paved paths in Carrier Park are flat and wide, and it's easy to go a short distance, or a loop up to 6 miles through connected parks and greenways.

A bit of a drive, but within 30 minutes:

• Hickory Nut Gap Farm: Enjoy a scenic drive to Fairview, see the animals and stock up on local products in their farm store.
• Never Ending Flower Farm: Pick a bucket of flowers from their gorgeous blooming fields. 
• The Carl Sandburg Home: Bring a picnic and hang out with the property's beloved goats! 

If there's a rainy day:

• Climbax: With one location near Carrier Park and another one downtown, this indoor climbing gym is great for the adventurous and athletic kid, or anyone who wants an introduction to climbing. 
• Asheville Museum of Science: This smalls space is packed with interactive learning and fun for all ages.
• Asheville Retrocade: This old-school style arcade is full of video games that will be nostalgic to parents and a thrill for kids.
• Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company on Merrimon Ave: See first-run movies in a casual setting with a full menu and bar available.