‘Tis the season for holiday travel. Many people in western North Carolina will visit friends and family all over the world. At the same time, others will choose to visit their relatives here in one of the most beautiful places in the country.
For Asheville area residents entertaining guests this Thanksgiving, you’re probably already planning for your traditional turkey dinner, likely followed by naps and football. However, when the turkey slumber wears off, you will eventually have some well-fed, well-rested relatives and kids who need something to do.
You don’t have to plan an elaborate, post-turkey experience for after Thanksgiving dinner, but here are a few tips for what to do on Thanksgiving weekend.
What to Do After the Turkey in Western North Carolina
1) Drive on the Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is itself a national park. It begins near the entrance of Great Smoky National Park just outside of Cherokee, NC, ending near Shenandoah National Park. The Parkway winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of our area. You can access several trailheads and waterfalls in either direction, and you are sure to get some “oohs” and “ahhs” from your out-of-town relatives.
You can get on in Swannanoa and drive a relatively short distance north to the highest elevations on the Parkway. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, is just a short distance from the Parkway.
2) Take a Hike
Winter hiking might not seem appealing at first. However, after you’ve had a plate or three of Thanksgiving food and dessert, a walk in the woods may sound nice. Plus, temperatures can still be quite mild, and with the leaves off the trees, you can see views you might not otherwise get during spring and summer.
A few winter hikes your family or visitors will enjoy include:
- Mount Mitchell
- Crabtree Falls
- DuPont State Forest
- Mount Pisgah
- Rainbow and Turtleback Falls
- Craggy Mountain and Gardens
- Linville Falls
This can be a great way to enjoy our beautiful area and burn some Thanksgiving calories.
3) Go to The Park
We are fortunate to have a number of beautiful, well-maintained parks in our area. Some of the parks you and your family might enjoy on Thanksgiving weekend include:
- Lake Tomahawk Park Black Mountain, NC
- Riverwalk Park Black Mountain, NC
- Charles D Owen Park Swannanoa, NC
- Black Mountain Disc Golf Course Black Mountain, NC
- French Broad River Park Asheville, NC
- Carrier Park Asheville, NC
- River Arts District Asheville, NC
- Lake Louise Park Weaverville, NC
- Richmond Hill Park Asheville, NC
4) Choose a Tree at a Christmas Tree Farm
For many, Thanksgiving weekend is the season for choosing a Christmas Tree. There are numerous Christmas tree farms in the area:
- Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Waynesville, NC
- Mehaffey Tree Farm Waynesville, NC
- Smoky Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Waynesville, NC
- Sandy Hollar Tree Farm Leicester, NC
- Nesbitt Christmas Tree Farm Clyde, NC
- Yeater’s Christmas Tree Farm Burnsville, NC
- Hidden Cove Christmas Tree Farm Marion, NC
5) Book a Party at Black Mountain Adventure Zone
When you know you and the kids have some energy to burn, Black Mountain Adventure Zone’s list of activities is the perfect post-Thanksgiving activity. Book your party now to experience:
GellyBall at Black Mountain Adventure Zone
“Gellyball is a new, lower impact shooting experience for players as young as five and yet still exciting for teens and adults!”
In a variety of gaming settings, players shoot at targets and other players using our battery-powered, automated blasters. The unusual gel-based water orb ammo has a rubber band-like sensation when used. There is no mess to clean up, either.
Laser Tag at Black Mountain Adventure Zone
“Laser tag at BMAZ is not your typical arcade-style activity. Featuring LaserWar technology with multiple games and weapon modes, so every battle is different and exciting.”
VR at Black Mountain Adventure Zone
We are excited to announce the launch of our VR Games and VR Escape Rooms in time for the holiday season!
“Depending on your selected type of event, age group, and the number of players, we currently have 5 VR Games to choose from or 7 VR Escape Rooms. Your BMAZ Host will organize and run the games during your party.
Battle Cage at Black Mountain Adventure Zone
“Battle Cage Sword-Fighting Game at Black Mountain Adventure Zone. Players challenge their buddies to a battle participants will never forget. This sword combat experience will blow you away, from the sound effects to the live score, thanks to the clever belt and blade combination. Plus, while they wait their turn, your viewers can cheer on their favorite contestant from the sidelines.”
If you have questions or you’re ready to finalize your Thanksgiving weekend plans, reach out to the team at BMAZ!