Customizable Private Day Trips out of Asheville

Explore Asheville’s Nearby Small Towns with a Private Day Trip

A private day trip out of Asheville offers an intimate and flexible way to experience the charming outskirts of North Carolina’s vibrant city. Priced at $400 per group for up to five people, this tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours and features pickup service and a mobile ticket for convenience. The guide, Jacque, specializes in creating tailored experiences, making this tour ideal for families or small groups seeking a personalized escape from Asheville’s busy city center.

This curated journey takes you beyond Asheville’s lively downtown into lesser-known towns with rich history, scenic sights, and local culture. While the itinerary is customizable, the tour typically highlights stops in Saluda, Pearson’s Falls, Flat Rock, and Hendersonville. The flexibility allows for a leisurely exploration at your pace, making it a worthwhile choice for those who appreciate a private, curated experience. A notable strength is the tour’s focus on local treasures, parks, and small-town charm, although it does require traveling on curvy roads, which is something to consider for sensitive travelers.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to five guests
• Cost of $400 per group, lasting about 5 to 6 hours
• Visit four scenic stops: Saluda, Pearson’s Falls, Flat Rock, and Hendersonville
• Includes transportation, parking, fuel, and bottled water
• Tour departs from Asheville Visitor Center with flexible scheduling
• Weather-dependent stops for outdoor attractions like Pearson’s Falls

The Starting Point at Asheville Visitor Center

The tour begins at the Asheville Visitor Center on Montford Ave, providing a central and easy-to-find meeting location. From here, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle whisks your group to each destination. The tour is designed for small groups of up to five people, ensuring a personalized experience, and features parking fees and fuel surcharges included in the price.

The pickup service adds a layer of comfort, eliminating worries about transportation logistics. The availability is typically confirmed within 48 hours after booking, and the tour operates most Saturdays, starting at 8:30 am.

Discover Saluda: A Mountain Town with Historic Charm

The journey proceeds southeast of Asheville for approximately 35 minutes to Saluda, a town with a population of just 700. Saluda’s Main street offers a walkable corridor lined with long-standing restaurants, unique shops, and the old train depot museum. Many of Saluda’s historic buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, emphasizing its preserved charm.

A highlight here is the Paces General Store, established in 1899 and featured on Our Vanishing Americana. This old-fashioned hardware and general store captures the town’s nostalgic feel. Visitors enjoy exploring at their own pace, soaking in the quaint mountain atmosphere that has drawn travelers since 1878.

Pearson’s Falls: Scenic Waterfall and Botanical Preserve

The tour typically includes a 30-minute stop at Pearson’s Falls, a spectacular 90-foot waterfall located within a botanical preserve. Over 310 species of plants and wildflowers surround the trail, which stretches just a quarter-mile. The leisurely walk provides plenty of chances for photos and appreciating nature’s beauty.

It’s worth noting that the outdoor stop is weather-dependent; if conditions are unfavorable or guests prefer not to walk, the stop can be replaced with an alternative activity. The admission is free, making this a relaxing and budget-friendly highlight.

Flat Rock: Artistic and Cultural Highlights

Next, the tour drives to Flat Rock, a village known for its Southern folk art, antiques, and an award-winning bakery. Here, visitors can explore local galleries and browse vintage treasures, jewelry, and women’s clothing. The village also boasts the oldest Episcopal church in Western North Carolina, built in 1836, which is open to the public most days.

A significant cultural point is the Carl Sandburg historic estate, where visitors learn about the poet’s legacy. The combination of visual arts, history, and local craftsmanship makes Flat Rock a vibrant stop that balances cultural exploration with relaxed shopping.

Hendersonville: Vibrant Downtown and Scenic Attractions

The final stop is Hendersonville, home to the second largest downtown in western North Carolina. With over 100 shops and 25 restaurants, the area offers a lively atmosphere suited for strolling. The landscaped Main Street hosts a variety of local boutiques, galleries, and public parks.

Beyond shopping, Hendersonville offers free museums, including a unique pinball museum, and nearby attractions such as orchards, farms, wineries, and breweries. The tour allows for a two-hour exploration of this bustling town, providing options for lunch or further browsing before heading back to Asheville.

Practical Details and Considerations

This private tour includes bottled water and all transportation costs, with parking and fuel charges covered. The duration of 5 to 6 hours balances sightseeing with comfortable pacing. Since the tour involves some driving on curvy roads, travelers prone to motion sickness should plan accordingly or request a route that minimizes winding roads.

The tour is designed for ages 12 and up, making it suitable for families with older children or small groups seeking a personalized day trip. The full cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The ability to customize the itinerary stands out as a key strength, allowing your group to prioritize stops or skip certain attractions. The focus on small towns and scenic nature spots gives a more relaxed, intimate experience compared to larger group tours. Plus, the personal guide with local knowledge ensures a tailored and informative visit emphasizing authentic local sights.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals to those seeking a personalized exploration of the Asheville area’s outskirts, particularly small-town charm and scenic nature. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who prefer a flexible schedule and wish to avoid crowded, commercialized attractions. The ability to customize stops makes it especially attractive to travelers with specific interests in arts, history, or local culture.

Final Thoughts on the Asheville Private Day Trip

This customizable private tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and small-town charm. Priced at $400 for a group of up to five, it provides a personalized experience with the convenience of door-to-door pickup and included transportation. The stops at Saluda, Pearson’s Falls, Flat Rock, and Hendersonville showcase the diversity of attractions just outside Asheville.

While the journey involves some winding roads, the flexibility and attention to personal interests make this tour a strong choice for those wanting to see more of North Carolina’s scenic and historic treasures in a comfortable and intimate setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, the tour is designed for guests age 12 and up.

Can I customize the stops or add more destinations?
Yes, the tour is customizable, allowing you to tailor the stops to your interests.

What is included in the price?
The private transportation, parking fees, fuel surcharge, and bottled water are included. Lunch is not covered.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is 5 to 6 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from the Asheville Visitor Center and ends back at the same location.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, and if visiting Pearson’s Falls, be prepared for outdoor walking and weather conditions.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour involves some walking, especially at Pearson’s Falls, so consider mobility levels.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to motion sickness?
Travel on curvy roads is common, so medication or route preferences should be discussed in advance.

Will I need to pay additional fees?
No, all included costs are covered in the $400 price, except for meals, which are not included.