If you’re lucky enough to have Labor Day off, we hope you’re planning to take it real easy, perhaps with an adult beverage in hand + something delicious cooking over coals.
To make the relaxation easy, we’ve got recs for six of the best spots to grill and chill in the Asheville area. And don’t forget to peep our guide to grilling, featuring tips from Luella’s BBQ owner Jeff Miller.
Carrier Park | 220 Amboy Rd.
- Carrier has something for everyone, including basketball + volleyball courts, baseball fields, a giant playground, and the famed “Mellowdrome,” which is perfect for skating or biking. Pssst, should any grilling fiasco occur, there’s also the HomeGround Coffee Bar & Deli and Cascade Lounge across the road.
French Broad River Park | 508 Riverview Dr.
- This spot has a dog park, serene riverside views, and several large pavilions that are perfect for a sizable grilling operation. If you have a hammock, bring it along as well, as there’s a nice selection of trees from which you can suspend.
Lake Julian Park | 406 Overlook Road Ext., Arden
- Chillax and bask in gorgeous views, and enjoy amenities like sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a disc golf course + walking trails. Plus, there’s great fishing spots.
Craggy Gardens Picnic Area | 3676 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Barnardsville
- If you’re down for an adventurous drive and soaring views, this cool, nestled-in-the-forest picnic locale will not disappoint.
Mount Pisgah Picnic Area | Milepost 407.8, Blue Ridge Pkwy, Canton
- The rolling mountain views at this picnic and grilling spot are totally worth the drive along the Parkway and the short walk from the parking lot.
Charles D. Owen Park | 875 Warren Wilson Rd., Swannanoa
- An idyllic spot near the Swannanoa River, with fishing ponds, basketball courts, baseball fields, picnic shelters + walking trails.
Want more options? Find additional parks with grill setups via the City’s Park Finder app. And if you want to make a reservation for a picnic shelter, you can do so here.
