Crafting the Ideal Itinerary for Your Brevard, North Carolina Adventure
Western North Carolina is filled with charming destinations like Asheville, Highlands, Hot Springs, and Waynesville, each offering a rich appreciation for art, music, food, and craft beer, all while embracing the great outdoors. The Appalachian Mountains have created a verdant paradise here, complete with breathtaking views and amazing hikes. Yet, each town and community contributes its unique flair to the culture of Western North Carolina, and Brevard is certainly no exception.
This quaint town, home to just 7,755 residents, is nestled in Transylvania County, known as the “Land of Waterfalls.” With over 250 waterfalls located within a short distance, it attracts travelers from all over. Brevard also boasts Brevard College, the esteemed Brevard Music Center, and a population of uniquely colored squirrels. According to Ursula Wynn, chef and owner of Papa L.E.W. in downtown Brevard, visitors might be surprised to find white squirrels here, possibly even outnumbering the brown and gray ones. These iconic white squirrels are among Brevard’s most distinctive features.
Parker Platt, a lifelong resident of Brevard and the owner of Platt Architecture, Platt Construction, and Platt Home, shared with Dinogo several features—beyond the waterfalls and wildlife—that make his hometown 'an incredibly rich cultural and recreational destination.' He emphasizes that the city’s vibrant local music and art scene, abundant hiking and mountain biking trails, and miles of trout streams distinguish Brevard from other areas in Western North Carolina.
Thinking about visiting Brevard? Keep reading to find out where to stay and what to do, eat, and see, as recommended by local experts.
Visit NCBest Accommodations in Brevard
Embodying its small-town charm, Brevard offers limited hotel and resort options, but you can find glampsites, cabins, vintage motels, and vacation home rentals to enjoy.
Pilot Cove
For those seeking a full home experience, Pilot Cove’s cabins are a great choice. Each treehouse-like cabin includes a complete kitchen and bathroom, plus a washer and dryer. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and modern comforts, all within the Pisgah National Forest.
DuPont Yurts
Glamping is rapidly gaining popularity in mountain towns, including Brevard. At DuPont Yurts, guests can choose from four well-appointed yurts, accommodating groups of up to four or six people, depending on the yurt size.
Best Activities to Enjoy in Brevard
Catch a performance at the Brevard Music Center.
According to Platt, one of the top experiences in Brevard is enjoying a summer evening concert at the open-air Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium at Brevard Music Center. Jason Posnock, the center's president and CEO, concurs, stating that 'music beneath the stars on this stunning mountain campus is pure magic.' You can find details about upcoming shows and concerts on the center’s website.
Explore the French Broad River.
'I highly encourage everyone to discover the French Broad River, the third oldest river in the world,' recommends Jessica Whitmire from Headwaters Outfitters. She suggests activities like tubing, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even snorkeling. 'Oxbow River Snorkeling is a fantastic partner of ours, offering a unique way to explore beneath the water's surface,' she adds.
Photo: Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty ImagesExplore hiking trails and hunt for waterfalls.
Wynn recommends that visitors allocate time for 'a day trip through Pisgah National Forest,' where you'll discover why this area is known as the 'Land of Waterfalls.' Notable spots include Looking Glass Falls, Cove Creek Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and Sliding Rock, which also serves as a natural waterslide.
Check out the museums in Brevard.
On days when outdoor activities aren't feasible, Whitmire suggests visiting two local museums. 'The Transylvania Heritage Museum and The Veterans History Museum of the Carolinas, both conveniently located within walking distance in downtown Brevard, provide insightful opportunities to learn about significant aspects of our history,' she notes.
Top Shopping Spots in Brevard
The Hub and Pisgah Tavern
Renowned for its focus on bikes, outdoor gear, and craft beer, The Hub and Pisgah Tavern is a versatile bike shop. Stop in for bike rentals and repairs, along with outdoor necessities like sleeping bags and hiking boots, then enjoy a refreshing beer or two on the patio.
The Underground Salvage Co.
Time flies while exploring the unique assortment of antiques, reclaimed wood, and delightful surprises at The Underground Salvage Co. Whether you’re redecorating, embarking on an art project, or searching for that perfect piece, you're likely to find something special at this store, warehouse, and lumber yard.
Visit NCFourth Friday Gallery Walks
As the name suggests, the fourth Friday of each month marks a vibrant art walk through Brevard’s galleries and studios, complete with food, wine, and live music. Engage with the artists as you discover your next gallery addition. Check out the full schedule here.
Best Restaurants in Brevard
Visit NCBracken Mountain Bakery
Kickstart your day with a scone (or a croissant) and a steaming cup of coffee at Bracken Mountain Bakery,” recommends Posnock. Everything here is made from scratch, and it’s all, as Posnock puts it, “simply delicious.”
Vescovo
“For special occasions, we love dining at Vescovo on King Street,” shares Whitmire, who praises the restaurant for having “the best scallops and mixed drinks around.” The menu offers a delightful selection of salads, pastas, steaks, seafood, and more.
185 King Street
For a more laid-back experience, Platt suggests “The small bar menu at 185 King Street, combined with excellent beers and seltzers from the adjoining Noblebräu Brewing, is hard to resist.” It also serves as a music venue: “The seriously talented local musicians enhance the food and drink, creating a wonderful evening,” he adds.
Papa L.E.W
In March 2021, Wynn’s Papa L.E.W. made history as the first Black-owned business on Brevard’s Main Street. Two years later, her team continues to serve up delicious wings, burgers (don’t miss the Cowboy or Mac Attack), and must-try chef’s specials.
The Square Root
Housed in a beautifully restored building in downtown Brevard, The Square Root has been a favorite for both locals and visitors for years. Savor dishes like North Carolina mountain trout, fried green tomatoes, and pork pot stickers in an ambiance filled with vibrant artwork, exposed brick, and an art deco bar.
Best Time To Visit Brevard
How to Get There
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is the nearest airport to Brevard, with an 18-mile drive taking approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Regardless of your arrival point, you’re likely to enjoy a scenic journey. 'You can access Brevard via beautiful backroads from Atlanta, Greenville, Knoxville, Charleston, and Charlotte. Consider taking the Blue Ridge Parkway along Highway 215 or 276. Alternatively, there's the direct route from Asheville through the interstate onto Highway 280, but every drive into Brevard is stunning,' shares Whitmire.
How to Get Around
A car is essential for reaching Brevard and discovering the nearby attractions. However, downtown Brevard is very walkable, with most shops and eateries situated within a few blocks.
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