After packing, then picking up Lesley and family, I drive then to the airport for their flight and I have time before my flight to explore. It’s a short drive to Stacy and Rich’s house to make a plan. We decide to drive to Asheville and see what is happening there since the fall flooding. First stop, Visitor Center to hear some ideas and grab a map.

Fortunately for downtown Asheville, the damage was along the French Broad River in the River Arts District. We did not go there on this visit since we learned that many artists have relocated their works to different galleries in the downtown area. We did stop at one of the galleries being used as an “Outpost” for the artists flooded out. The upper section of the River Arts District is open according to their website.

River Arts District Artists

A famous landmark in the downtown area is the Basilica St. Lawrence built in the early 1900’s. It was open from 3- 5 PM today but we did not have enough time to visit. On the list for next time along with the River Arts District.

Always hungry, our main stop is lunch and a beer at Wicked Weed Restaurant and Bar.

Next, walk off the beer and burger along Biltmore Avenue. We stroll by interesting shops, galleries and go into Mast General Store. A fun place to look around; they are trying to be a store of a little bit of everything!

The Asheville Art Museum looks interesting for another trip.

Another iconic building in downtown is the first ‘skyscraper’ built on the tombstone shop of Thomas More’s father. History is always interesting!

The architecture of the government buildings always tend to be impressive in every city. A nice park is located in the foreground with lots of rules!

What would a city be without a Kress Building still in operations and well cared for as well.

Finally a few sculptures we came across in our short walk up Biltmore and one of many lovely murals. Many things to still discover in Asheville.

Now to end the North Carolina trip blogs – some quirky Easter sights. Emme and Ila colored plastic eggs with me. And while leaving Asheville, we see a nun, riding a bicycle, probably heading to the Basilica?! Look closely for the quirkiness!

North Carolina is a wonderful ‘get away’ location with a lot to do and see. Definitely coming back here. Thanks to Stacy and Rich for a couple of fun days hiking and exploring.