Parks and Recreation

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30+ kid-friendly activities in and around Asheville
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Asheville has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
December 29, 2025 01:17 PM
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STAFF
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Discover more local parks + recreational programs in 2026
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30+ dog-friendly places in Asheville
Explore these local dog-friendly businesses — everything from breweries and restaurants to where to stay the night.
April 29, 2025
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STAFF
Photo 1: blooming gardens with a fountain at the center, Photo 2: a women painting on an easel in the woods, Photo 3: Tents set up for a festival at the Arboretum, Photo 4: Two people on bikes on a path through the woods
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Step into spring at The North Carolina Arboretum
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24 places to hike in the Asheville area
Check out these 24 hiking trails catering to all skill levels in and around Asheville for outdoor adventures.
March 19, 2025
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STAFF
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Culture
Head outside with a guide to Asheville’s parks
We’re highlighting the 25 best parks that Asheville has to offer — complete with dog parks, sports facilities, and nature trails.
August 28, 2024
 · 
Emily Shea-Owen
Send your nominations for AVLtoday's Best.
City
Spread the local love with AVLtoday’s Best
From coffee shops to event venues, we’re asking for your insight on the top-tier spots Asheville has to offer.
July 29, 2024
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Bella Rainey
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Sports
Tee it up at these Asheville golf courses
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or the next Tiger Woods, these 12+ golf courses in Asheville are sure to make for a good round.
April 11, 2024
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Cat George
Two bikers on a dirt trail ride toward the camera. Two hikers consult a trail map. Two hikers stand in a forest of red and orange trees.
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Choose-your-own-trail adventure at the North Carolina Arboretum
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A rendering of a large community center as seen from above with solar panels on the roof, a basketball court, and a pool.
City
The $8.3 million expansion of the Dr. Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Community Center is complete
And there’s a block party to celebrate.
July 19, 2023
 · 
Sarah Leonhardt
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Parks and Recreation
A rogue peacock has been roaming the Blue Ridge Parkway
Locals have spotted the showy bird on hikes, drives, and in the middle of an engagement shoot.
June 19, 2023
 · 
Laura Hackett
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Cotton Mill Studios reopens 16 months after Helene
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Culture
AVLFest retires as founders launch two new Asheville music festivals
AVL Sounds Fest will follow the same venue-based format as AVLFest, while Asheville Busker Fest will spotlight the sounds of our local street artists.
February 13, 2026
 · 
Grace Powers
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Culture
Experience Italy without leaving Asheville
With the 2026 Winter Olympics well underway, we’re craving an Italian day without having to leave the 828.
February 12, 2026
 · 
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The Asheville skyline with a sunset behind it and heart location markers over various buildings.
Culture
Our readers’ local love stories
For Valentine’s Day, we’re sharing your heartfelt local love stories.
February 12, 2026
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
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Play
20+ concerts to see in Asheville in 2026
Mark your calendars for these shows, from folk to electronic and rock to rap.
February 10, 2026
 · 
Grace Powers
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City
Your guide to voting in the 2026 primary election in Buncombe County
See what’s on the ballot, when + how to vote, and important information for Election Day in the Land of the Sky.
February 9, 2026
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STAFF