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The beautiful and charming town of Hendersonville, NC is just the beatific slice of Americana that makes us hearken back to simpler times, when neighbors nodded in the streets and the local barber knew everyone’s name. Buildings in faded brick and old churches dot the town, greenery abounds, and the city is ringed by homes in the mountains.
While this all sounds heavenly enough to start searching for North Carolina mountain real estate for sale, you should know that Hendersonville isn’t all sleepy Sundays and dogs riding in the beds of pickup trucks. There’s actually a lot to do in and around this historic town. Whether you’re visiting family and friends, you’re looking at retirement living communities, or you simply want a vacation destination that’s off the beaten path, here are a few fun Hendersonville attractions that are sure to appeal to everyone.
Historic Downtown Hendersonville. Take a break from touring adult communities in North Carolina to check out the charming historic downtown area. You’ll find a variety of places to grab a bite, as well as plenty of antique stores, shopping boutiques, art galleries, museums, and more. Stroll the streets to enjoy the greenery and flower-filled planter boxes, or take a load off and breathe in the clean air on one of the many benches lining the street. You can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi in the downtown area.
Depending on what time of year you visit, you might also be greeted by one of many events hosted downtown, from North Carolina’s famous Labor Day weekend Apple Festival, to parades and car shows held throughout the year. The quaint and enchanting downtown area is just one of the many reasons to tour Hendersonville, NC communities.
Henderson Country Curb Market. Nothing infers that small town feel like a local farmer’s market, and Hendersonville delivers with a year-round market that has been in continuous operation since 1924. A truly local slice of life, the vendors must be residents of Henderson county, and every item for sale is locally grown or hand-crafted.
This is a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts, and you’ll find plenty to choose from with a wide variety of delectable produce, baked goods, and jellies, as well as crafts, toys, flowers, and plants. Those interested in making Hendersonville their permanent home can also chat with locals to learn more about the best Hendersonville, NC communities and neighborhoods. Dates and times of operation vary by season.
Pisgah National Forest. Those interested in North Carolina mountain homes for sale might not think to look in a national forest, but you may be surprised to learn that there’s a smattering of homes in this pristine wilderness. Whether you move in permanently or simply visit the area, comprised of over 500,000 acres of land situated along the edge of Western North Carolina’s mountains, you’ll find plenty to love in this gorgeous natural landscape.
Easy accessibility makes Looking Glass Falls a must-see attraction, but you’ll also want to explore abundant hiking trails, visit the Pisgah Forest State Fish Hatchery and the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, and maybe even stay for a few days of camping and fishing in this breathtaking forest.
Western North Carolina Air Museum. It’s been called the Old North State, and is probably most commonly known as the Tar Heel State, but North Carolina has also earned the moniker of First in Flight State, due to the fact that Kitty Hawk, on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, was the site of Orville and Wilbur Wright’s very first controlled, powered aircraft flight.
Whether you’re on vacation or seeking North Carolina mountain real estate for sale, no visit to Hendersonville is complete without a trip to the Western North Carolina Air Museum to view award winning restored and replica antique and vintage airplanes.
Elijah Mountain Gem Mine. The thought of finding hidden treasure brings out the adventurous little kid in all of us, which is why you can’t miss the opportunity to dig through a bucket of stones at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine in search of a few precious gems. This is fun for the whole family, as you make like a 19th century prospector. Whatever you find, you get to keep.
Flat Rock Playhouse. Nearby Flat Rock, just a few minutes’ drive south, is home to the State Theater of North Carolina, which produces dramas, comedies, musicals, and farces annually from February to December to delight residents and visitors alike. This beloved venue has offered entertainment for over sixty years, featuring classic theater, as well as the latest Broadway hits and even world premieres. A night of fun is sure to be had when you see a show at the Flat Rock Playhouse.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. After a long day of perusing North Carolina mountain homes for sale, you’ll want to relax with a cold beer. There’s no better place than Sierra Nevada’s bottling and distribution operation, located just 10 miles from Hendersonville. Reserve a spot on one of their daily tours to learn more about the company, the facility, and their famous brews. Or simply sidle up to the bar at the taproom and order your favorites from 20 brews on tap.