Support Us Button Widget

3 new businesses opening in Old Fort this summer

There are plenty of new experiences waiting for you just ~30 minutes outside of Asheville, from mountain biking thrills to THC beverages.

foothills watershed

Prepare to spend your summer by the water in Old Fort.

Photo via Foothills Watershed

Get in the car, we’re going to Old Fort. The neighboring mountain town is known for its scenic trails and booming outdoors scene, and upcoming businesses are adding to the hype.

Here are three spots opening this summer in Old Fort, sure to inspire your next day trip.

Foothills Watershed

Opening this Wednesday, June 18, this family-friendly riverside hang and bike park is ready to ignite your sense of adventure. Wade in the Catawba River, play yard games, pedal through the vast network of trails, and get some serious speed on the pump track.

At Basecamp, the menu will feature twists on your Foothills favorites and Latin-inspired dishes dreamed up by Chef Luis Martinez of Taqueria Rosita. Pro tip: Bring a brew — Watershed is currently BYOB until the in-house brewery is complete.

watershed bike park

Trails cater to beginners and experienced riders alike.

Photo via Foothills Watershed

Modern Alchemist

The folks behind Appalachian Mountain Brewery will soon open a brick-and-mortar location this July on Catawba Avenue for its THC-infused mocktail brand. But no need to worry if THC isn’t your thing — the distillery and restaurant intends to be a place where “everyone can have a social drinking experience in whatever way fits their lifestyle.”

If you want to go ahead and sip on a Modern Alchemist beverage before the location’s opening, pick up a pack at Local 604 Bottle Shop.

Fiasco Media Wunderland Resort Glamping Fire Tent Old Fort

Picture yourself cozied up by the fire.

Photo by Fiasco Media

Wunderland Resort

If you’re looking for a true staycation (or a place to recommend to your outdoorsy out-of-town friends), Wunderland is nearly here for you. The sustainability-focused retreat will begin hosting guests in its glamping pods and RV pads next month (with more bespoke cabins being completed in early July) — but the adventure doesn’t stop there. Embark on guided biking, fishing, and foraging tours and take advantage of the on-site amenities, like the sauna, natural cold plunge pool, and community kitchen.

More from AVLtoday
Let’s uncover the history behind the names of these notable WNC spots.
The opening completes the first phase of the NPS’ Helene recovery work.
Make your voice heard, nominate your favorite local biz and they could win AVLtoday’s Best Competition.
We have your go-to guide for delicious deals all week long.
Thanks to the lobbying efforts of local leaders, politicians, and business owners, the Blue Ridge Parkway didn’t pass us by.
In partnership with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, Buncombe County will acquire Deaverview Mountain, meaning the 343-acre mountaintop tract will be conserved as a public park.
Spirit Halloween will strike South Tunnel Road twice, with stores in neighboring shopping plazas.
At this year’s North Carolina Awards, all recipients have made a valuable impact on WNC. Meet the locals who earned NC’s highest honor.
The City of Asheville has partnered with a UK-based entertainment company to begin initial phases of developing a public-private arts facility.
The shop announced it will reopen this November inside The Wyre in the upper RAD. Did we mention there will be dessert pizza?