Hendersonville North Carolina is a small city by American standards that is home to 13,288 people, according to 2012 census figures. In spite of this, Hendersonville has a long, storied, and rich history that dates back to 1838. The late 19th to early 20th century architecture reflects its historical roots. For instance, Hendersonville City Hall dates back to 1924. In general, there is plenty to see, discover, learn, and not to mention things to do in Hendersonville NC.
Things To Do In Hendersonville NC
Downtown Hendersonville NC
You do not have to go far to come across a historic point of interest because Downtown Hendersonville North Carolina fits this description. In fact, this city’s downtown area gained entry into the National Register of Historic Places in March 1988. It is home to antique stores, restaurants and eateries, museums, and galleries making it a worthwhile stopover for any visitor interested in learning about the history of this part of the country.
Western North Carolina Air Museum
For those interested in learning more about aviation history, a trip to Hendersonville would not be complete without a visit to the Western North Carolina Air Museum. This museum is home to well-restored vintage airplanes. It is usually open to the public from 12pm to 5pm every Wednesday and Sunday. On Saturdays, visitors are allowed in from 10am to 5pm. Take note the admission schedule described above runs from April to October.
Jump Off Rock
Jump Off Rock is a scenic rocky outlook located about five miles away from town. According to native Indian legend, a young maiden climbed and jumped off this rock more than 300 years ago upon learning that her young Indian Chief had died in battle. The same legend says one can see the ghost of this young maiden on the Jump Off Rock on any moonlit night. Besides this legend, Jump Off Rock offers great views of the Pisgah Mountain ranges and Blue Ridge. Admission is free of charge.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
The Sierra Nevada Brewing Company offers guided tours of its facility that is one of the oldest craft breweries in the US. It prides itself in using high quality ingredients and whole cone hops. To make a reservation for a guided tour, visit the brewery’s site at www.sierranevada.com. Visitors can sample as many as 20 beer varieties served on tap at the Sierra Nevada Taproom restaurant.
Jackson Park
Jackson Park covers 212 acres and has walking trails, nine baseball parks, four picnic sites and shelters, playgrounds, and multiple multi-purpose fields. Not to mention a wonderful dog park and a really cool BMX track that can be seen at the end of the aerial view video below. It is also home to diverse wildlife, plant, and bird species.
Fun Things To Do In North Carolina
North Carolina Apple Festival
If you happen to be in Hendersonville during Labor Day Weekend, make a point of attending the North Carolina Apple Festival, which has taken place annually for more than 60 years. In 2015, the festival will take place from 4th to 7th September. This festival is a kaleidoscope of arts, music, food, local farms displaying their wares, and free children’s activities. It culminates in an Apple Parade attended by up to 50,000 people. Worth mentioning is the wide range of apple varieties displayed during this festival. This is in addition to apple sippers, slushies, cider doughnuts, slices, and caramels. For visitors with young kids, this four-day fair will be more like visiting a Disneyland-style apple candy store.
Hike and Camp In North Mills River
If you want to get as close to nature as possible and forget about urban life, head to the North Mills River Campground in Pisgah National Forest. Located 2,200 feet above sea level, this campground is surrounded by cascading waterfalls, mile high mountain peaks, hardwood forests, fishing spots, hiking trails, and mountain biking trails. The campground itself has all the facilities and mod cons visitors need to make their stay comfortable and enjoyable. This includes flush toilets, drinking water, campfire rings, picnic areas, hot showers, tent pads, grills, parking area, and lantern posts.
Vacationing In Hendersonville NC
Hendersonville North Carolina is a quintessential American city that has not succumbed to the concrete jungle look that is so common in major urban centers. Some of the many sites worth visiting in this city include the Western North Carolina Air Museum, Jump Off Rock, Jackson Park, and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. In addition, you will never regret visiting the North Mills River Campground or attending the North Carolina Apple Festival.
With never a worry about lodging accommodations while visiting this picturesque town. There are many wonderful hotels in Hendersonville NC to choose from not to mention bed and breakfasts, and cabin rentals. Cabin rentals are always very popular throughout the year so don’t be surprised if you have to look next door to Asheville cabin rentals for that perfect place to rest. Asheville NC cabin rentals is just a hop skip and a jump away if you have your heart set on staying in a cabin.
Shopping and Other Local Businesses
Just like any other small town in this great nation you can find a local business to fit your needs. Everything from grocery stores, to service stations, to chiropractors that can adjust your back after a long weekend of camping. Not to mention health care providers and local dentists that can provide basic and emergency dental care as well as dental veneers if so desired. So no matter what your emergency is even if it is just forgetting to pack the tooth paste don’t worry we have it all right here!