If you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate the summertime with your family, Western North Carolina has everything you need! There are so many things to do in Asheville with kids, from exploring beautiful mountains to cruising along paved bike trails. The magic of the Western North Carolina mountains will leave you and your crew with lasting memories!
To make sure the whole family has a blast, we’ve compiled a list of family-friendly attractions in Asheville, NC, but if you are looking for more, access our free Chimney Rock Vacation Guide! The carefully curated local guide has over 100 recommendations on outdoor recreation, museums, restaurants, kid-friendly activities, and more!
Explore the Guide to Family Fun
These are the Best Things to do in Asheville with Kids of All Ages
Make a Trip to the Pisgah National Forest
A trip to the Pisgah National Forest is one of the best things to do in Asheville with kids. The site is full of incredible natural treasures and brilliant waterfalls. It is a year-round destination with enough outdoor recreation to keep you busy for days. The beloved protected forest is a popular spot for hiking and swimming in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s also the proud home of Sliding Rock!
Enjoy Indoor Family Entertainment at Ashville’s Fun Depot
In preparation for a chance of rain, it is always great to have indoor activities in mind! At Asheville’s Fun Depot, you will find indoor go-karts, arcade games, and kid-friendly foods like pizza. This family entertainment center features laser tag, indoor mini-golf, bumper cars, and wall-climbing. If traveling with toddlers, the indoor playground, Tots Lagoon, is sure to keep them happy and busy!
See the City on Wheels
Biking is one of the best ways to explore Western North Carolina. From the Thermal Belt Rail Trail to the popular Purple Martin Greenway, paved bike paths make for an exciting family activity. Both paths are dotted with shaded canopies, creeks, local plant life, and even a few shops. So, if you need to move your body, and pedal your way through nature, hop on a local bike trail and get ready for an adventure!
Unleash Creativity at KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum
With more than 11,000 square feet and 14 kid-friendly exhibits, KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum will keep your kiddos entertained for hours. The space offers an extensive array of activities that stimulate and develop all five senses. From the brand-new maker space to the bubble-ology station, this world of make-believe is a haven for kids of all ages.
Discover New Thrills at The Adventure Center of Asheville
Located just five minutes from Downtown Asheville, The Adventure Center of Asheville offers incredible outdoor experiences for the whole family! The adventure-filled park boasts 1,200 feet of zip lines that soar over more than 150-year-old oak trees and offer breathtaking skyline views. The fun doesn’t end there! Visitors of all ages can also enjoy the challenging tree-top rope course and exhilarating mountain bike park for added hours of fun.
Spend the Day at Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is full of learning and fun. There are numerous hiking trails here, including one that was specially designed for children! Animal-lovers will adore the Kids Discovery Den, where numerous park animals are housed, like reptiles and amphibians! Located only a few minutes away from The Esmeralda, Chimney Rock State Park is the perfect place to spend a day in the great outdoors. To make the most of your trip, take advantage of our Hickory Nut Gorge Package to save on tickets and lodging!
More Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Your Trip
- Enjoy a kid-friendly tour of Biltmore Estate
- Experience scenic sights on the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Observe diverse wildlife at the WNC Nature Center
- Immerse Yourself in Knowledge at the Asheville Museum of Science
- Explore the world of arcade games at the Asheville Pinball Museum
Stay Close to all the Family-Friendly Attractions at The Esmeralda 
Situated in one of the most incredible canyons, The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant is right in the middle of all the great things to see and do. The comfort and convenience of our inn will make your vacation as easy and stress-free as possible! After a day of enjoying the best kid-friendly activities in Asheville, head over to our on-site, award-winning restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal. Our diverse menu is full of fresh and local cuisine that guarantees to please even the pickiest of eaters!
All our guests enjoy an array of special amenities, including complimentary breakfast and access to our game room, and The Esmeralda Park along the Rocky Broad River! For families planning their next vacation, our cabins are the perfect accommodation. Each cabin features spacious bedrooms, private bathrooms, and unique amenities. The best part? They’re all located just steps away from the main inn, allowing guests additional privacy and seclusion, with all the benefits of a bed & breakfast.
Check our availability today, and book your family vacation to the mountains! We can’t wait to host you at The Esmeralda!