Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Friday, June 28, 2024
Teen DJ Spin + Swim Pool Parties
Jun 28 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center’s Outdoor Pool 

June 28 and July 26,

6-9pm .:. Free .:. Ages 12-18

Feel the club vibes at pool parties for local teens featuring food, music, and fun surprises.

Decoda Chamber Music Festival
Jun 28 @ 6:30 pm
NC Arboretum

On Friday, June 28 at 6:30PM, Decoda Faculty joins forces with the 2024 Festival Artists for a
unique side-by-side, outdoor performance of Arboretum, a recent work by Decoda’s own Brad
Balliett. Comprised of instrumental solos layered intricately by the composer, each solo in Arboretum
is inspired by a different kind of tree. Balliett says about the work:
“I’ve always been really into nature since I was a little kid, and my professional path has diverged
away from it,” composer Brad Balliett says. “And recently, I’ve been trying to get back to it and find all
the ways that I can combine these two passions—can I bring some of my love of nature into my life
as a bassoonist and as a composer?”

PacJAM Fest
Jun 28 @ 6:30 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center

Join the Pacolet Junior Appalachian Musicians (PacJAM) for an evening of Live Music, Dance, Food, and Fun! Invited musicians will kick of the celebration with live performances in downtown Tryon, and we will take the party back to the Tryon Fine Arts Center for Open JAM and Sing, and we’ll light up the Amphitheater with square dancing and our famous Cake Walk.

Live Music

Falling Timber, Newfound Gap

-The Plaza – Downtown Tryon

5-7 PM LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN TRYON

Open JAM & Sing

Bring your voice or instrument for an easy jam with Gaye Johnson, Phil Jenkins, & Will Trakas

-TFAC Amphitheater

FREE

Events at the TFAC run from 6:30 – 8:00

Square Dance & Cake Walk

Pete LaBerge to call dances for the whole family. Live music from Bob & Amy Buckingham -TFAC Pavilion

Drinks & Name-Your-Price Hot Dogs Fresh Off the Grill

Comedy at Catawba: Juan Nicolón
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company South Slope

Every Friday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country. This week we have Juan Nicolón from NYC!!

Juan Nicolón is a Stand Up Comedian, Writer and a world famous lover of soup. His comedy has been described as: “Larry David meets Sofia Vergara” – something Juan takes as a very big compliment. He is the winner of The Riot Comedy Festival in Houston, Texas and The Comedy Mob Festival in New York City. He was an on Screen Talent for Univision’s FLAMA, where he created content for millions of latinos living in the United States. His work has been featured in The New Yorker, The New York Times and Time Out New York. You might have seen him recently going viral on Tik Tok with his PowerPoints about soup.

Featuring Tom Luciano

ages 18+
Doors at 6:30, show at 7pm

Journey Through Sat Chit Ananda: Truth, Awareness, Bliss
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
AyurPrana Listening Room

Sat Chit Ananda is a Sanskrit term used in Indian philosophy and spirituality that offers a profound framework for holistic well-being, inner fulfillment, mindfulness, spiritual growth, and harmony with the world around us. It guides individuals towards a life of balance, consciousness, and lasting happiness, which are valuable goals for personal growth and fulfillment.

During this extraordinary webinar, Vasant Lad will seamlessly guide you on a mystical journey, transcending the boundaries of the physical world to the ethereal realm of the metaphysical. Drawing from his lifetime of spiritual practice, he will unveil the art of perceiving the universe through the film of divinity.

Vasant Lad will teach you how to navigate both planes, revealing hidden connections and unveiling the sacred in the ordinary as he gracefully weaves between these dimensions. Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings and experience a profound shift in your perception and prepare to witness the world in a new light, where every moment holds the potential for divine revelation.

Peruvian Night! Food + Music
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Smokin' Onion

Peruvian pop-up with Chef Chuck Gutierrez at the Smokin’ Onion in West Asheville’s pocket shopping center shared with Botiwalla, Bad Manners Coffee and rEvolve Buy+Sell+Trade.
Join us for authentic vegan Peruvian food, music and drinks! Friday, June 28th 7-9pm

RANGER
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm
Gunter Theatre

RANGER is a true tale of war seen through the lens of a Special Operations soldier, Sgt. David Waterhouse, in Iraq and Afghanistan. This first-hand account documents the brutality of combat and the raw nature of killing and death. It’s a journey of innocence lost, and the scars of war etched into the minds of service members. An untold account everyone should hear.

The Ranger Creed states that, “I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster and fight harder than other soldier.”

After the release of RANGER, Further Faster Harder Foundation was created to give veterans a platform to tell their stories and find their purpose and voice again through documentaries, books, art, podcasts, and many other avenues.

Friday, June 28th marks the 19-year anniversary of the largest loss of Special Operations life since the Vietnam War. This event honors the memories of the 19 men who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

We want to welcome everyone to join us in our First Charity Screening and Silent Auction to help give Voices to Vets.

Spartanburg Stand Up Comedy Competition
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm
Eighteen Hundred Drayton Catering & Events

A unique, and fun experience in Spartanburg!

Come join us and our selection of talented Comedians and Judges for an evening of guaranteed laughs!

Reggie Black, our comedic host, and the 1800 Drayton team will be providing a unique and fun experience right here in Spartanburg. You will be a part of the show so come on down and vote for your favorite act!

Doors Open at 7 Show starts at 7:30! Please arrive early to make your food and drink orders!

“My Grandmother’s Eyepatch” | One Woman Show at NC Stage Company
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
NC Stage Company

Catch Asheville native Julia VanderVeen’s hilarious and poignant one woman show, My Grandmother’s Eyepatch, before she takes it to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival next month!

My Grandmother’s Eyepatch celebrates the human experience. All ticket sales will finance Julia’s trip across the pond – so one ticket means a night of entertainment for you and for countless Fringe Festival goers!

The physical comedy of My Grandmother’s Eyepatch will explore the wild stages of grief and attempt to honor Julia’s beloved grandmother who died two decades ago.

Frigid Fringe NYC’s ‘Best solo clown’ winner Julia VanderVeen says: “My grandmother always wanted to be a poet, and she was a poet very late in her life, but I always wondered if she really wanted to raise children or if she did it because it was expected.

“I especially feel connected to my grandmother right now, because I’m an artist in my late 30s, and I’m actively in the process of deciding whether I want to be a mother or not.

“How many female voices have not been heard because they were tired out from the immediate tasks of child-rearing?”

This performance of My Grandmother’s Eyepatch is ONE NIGHT ONLY at NC Stage — Don’t wait to get tickets to this evening of mirth, merriment, and joyful remembrance!

Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Asheville Community Theatre

Prepare yourself for a whirlwind adventure of suspense and comedy with Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps. This fast-paced play is a unique adaptation of the 1935 classic Hitchcock thriller film, infused with a healthy dose of Monty Python-style humor. The story revolves around the central character, Richard Hannay, who inadvertently gets tangled in a mysterious web of spies, murder, and love. Remarkably, the entire riveting narrative unfolds through the talents of just four actors, who collectively portray over 150 characters, masterfully switching roles with lightning speed. Brimming with clever references to Hitchcock’s filmography, wry British humor, and ingeniously crafted theatrical inventiveness, The 39 Steps promises a rollicking evening of entertainment that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.

A talkback with the cast & crew of The 39 Steps will be held following the performances on June 23rd and 30th.

ALMOST, MAINE
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Parkway Playhouse

ALMOST, MAINE

by John Cariani

Directed by Michael Lilly

One night, a place that’s not a place, and six actors collide for this heartwarming play. A collection of vignettes, Almost, Maine shows us a story of falling in and out of love, bearing through life, and the magic of the unknown. Northern lights shine on these nine short plays and show us the beauty of Almost.

Almost, Maine!
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Parkway Playhouse

Written by John Cariani
Directed by Michael Lilly

One night, a place that’s not a place, and six actors collide for this heartwarming play. A collection of vignettes, Almost, Maine shows us a story of falling in and out of love, bearing through life, and the magic of the unknown. Northern lights shine on these nine short plays and show us the beauty of Almost.

Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses Henry IV Parts 1 + 2
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre

The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd  Season: 

Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses

Jason Williams, Artistic Director

5/10/2024 5/24/2024   Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024   Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024   Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024   Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024  Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille

Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.

Tchaikovsky 5
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Brevard Music Center

Brevard Sinfonia
Cosette Justo Valdés, conductor

PYOTR ILYCH TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 5
Other Works TBA

Tickets go on sale to the general public on May 1. To receive early access to tickets for this event, become a donor today! Donor presale begins March 25.

The Shawshank Redemption
Jun 28 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Embark on an unforgettable journey of resilience, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit as the Playhouse proudly presents The Shawshank Redemption. Based on Steven King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, and its subsequent 1994 film adaptation, this captivating story has enthralled audiences around the world. Prepare to be riveted, moved, and inspired by this timeless tale of hope and reclamation as it comes to life on the Playhouse stage!

*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.

David Spade – Joe Dirt Country Bus Tour
Jun 28 @ 8:00 pm
Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

David Spade became a household favorite during his tenure as a cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live”. For his memorable role as Dennis Finch, the wise-cracking, power-hungry assistant on “Just Shoot Me”, Spade received nominations for a 1999 Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and American Comedy
Award. He continues to be a box office draw, touring his stand-up shows nationwide. His most recent stand-up special “Nothing Personal” debuted on Netflix in 2022.

TRIAL BY FIRE (TRIBUTE TO JOURNEY)
Jun 28 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel
Show: 8pm | Doors: 7pm
Ages 18+
Saturday, June 29, 2024
Arts Discounts Page
Jun 29 all-day
online w/ ArtsAVL
BREWERY TOURS
Jun 29 all-day
Sierra Nevada Brewing

Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or we’re on your brewery bucket list, a Mills River tour is for you — so we recommend you reserve a spot! Our interactive tours offer everything from hop handling to nature hikes to — what you really came for — beer sampling.

Space on each tour is limited, and reservations are strongly encouraged. Make yours below. Looking to book a private tour? Fill out the private tour form, and we’ll get it organized. See you soon!

Calling All Artists
Jun 29 all-day
Artists Collective | Spartanburg

Calling All Artists in SC, NC, GA, TN, & VA

Carl Sandburg Home Volunteer Opportunity: Goat Barn Attendant
Jun 29 all-day
Carl Sandburg Home Historic Site
Goat Barn Attendant: Are you interested in helping our park rangers care for the dairy goats at Connemara Farms? These goats require daily care, including feeding, grooming, and cleaning of their stalls. We also share the story of the Sandburg family and their special herd with thousands of visitors each year.
Anyone 18 and older who has 4 hours a week to dedicate to the park is encouraged to apply for this volunteer opportunity. Applications can be found here (https://forms.office.com/g/LzQweWBSma) Attending a virtual orientation, short phone interview, and in-person training are required. Dates for these events will be sent to qualified applicants.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Free Books for Children ages 0-5
Jun 29 all-day
online w/ Literacy Together

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

Fall for Art, Open Studio Tour – 2024 Call for Artists
Jun 29 all-day
Art Place Studios Gallery
THE ART LEAGUE  hosts exhibits of throughout the year at Art Place Gallery, the Henderson County Library and other venues throughout the county.  Some exhibits are open only to members.  Each call will include information on eligibility.  The on-line registration for each call will require that you enter your artwork title, size, and price.  You will need to enter an artwork category and these may vary for each call for artists.  You will also pay on-line via credit card.  Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the registration screens and hit submit.  You will receive a confirmation email.  If you do not receive a confirmation email, you are not registered for the call.

 

About the Art League of Henderson County

The Art League of Henderson County is – like art itself – for everyone, and our membership is open to both artists and art lovers. Since its founding in 1972, members of the Art League have believed in the value of the visual arts to our community. The Art League offers diverse opportunities to enrich the cultural life of Henderson County through public programs and art projects throughout the year.

For artists, the League provides opportunities to exhibit their art and improve their skills. These include workshops, artist open studio tours, lectures and demonstrations.  Program events offer an opportunity for members and visitors to interact and learn.  Small, informal groups gather to share ideas, offer advice, and build camaraderie. Field trips to museums and special exhibits are scheduled to a variety of venues.

Adult classes and workshops, open to the public, are offered in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media. Our experienced instructors are experts in their fields, and limits on class size permit ample individual attention to students.

The annual Fabulous Fakes exhibit in April provides an opportunity for artists to create their own fun versions of master works which are exhibited in a variety of gallery venues. Throughout the year, the Henderson County Library hosts exhibits of member works, often featuring a theme or an art medium.

Every spring, the League’s ArtScape Project hangs a new collection of colorful banners in downtown Hendersonville. ArtScape is supported by sponsors from local businesses, artists, and art lovers.  A brochure is available at the Henderson County Visitor Center and in locations around town. Throughout the year, visitors are invited to take a walking tour of this public showcase for our talented artists.

October provides an opportunity to see artists at work and learn about their inspiration and some of their secrets at the Art League’s Open Studio Weekend Tour.  Brochures and maps are available at the Visitor Center for this popular event.

The Art League of Henderson County continues to be committed to the vital role that the arts play in building a strong, vibrant, and diverse community.

View Open Calls View Exhibit Guidelines
Farm Beginnings® Program: Farmer program applications open
Jun 29 all-day
Organic Growers School

Farm Beginnings® is training the next generation of farmers in the many skills required to start and expand a successful farm business: passion, clear goals, production experience, financial and marketing know-how, and more.

Farm Beginnings® will help you build these skills through one year of farmer-led training, mentoring, and networking. We support individuals in clarifying their goals and strengths, developing agricultural skills, and growing profitable, equitable, and ecologically sound farm businesses.

The OGS Approach

Guided by our commitment to social justice, our programming is led by farmers and mentors active in food, farming, or social justice. By empowering people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, together we can build a more diverse, equitable food system that enriches the environment and creates a thriving food and farming community.

We use a holistic management frame, farmer-led classroom sessions, on-farm tours, mentoring, and an extensive farmer network. The topics of equity and justice in the food systems are woven into the curriculum, including examples of realistic approaches within the scope of your business models.

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

View a sample of the full course schedule here.

Grant Center Swimming Pool
Jun 29 all-day
Grant Center Pool

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Haunted History + Murder MYstery Tour
Jun 29 all-day
Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

Sit back if you dare as we illuminate Asheville’s darkest history with astonishing stories of spirits & spies, ghosts & goblins, hauntings & hoodlums and mountain-made murder & mayhem.

Hear stories of . . .

  The legendary PINK LADY at the Grove Park Inn
  The GHOST of Church Street
  The 1936 UNSOLVED MURDER that shook Asheville
  The CHILD SPIRITS at the haunted hospital
  The architect walled into his own church!
  The KILLING SPREE of 1906
  NAZI AGENTS based in Asheville
  ARSON at hospital that claimed Zelda Fitzgerald

Hey Asheville: City Comedy Tour • Ages 13+ Only
Jun 29 all-day
LaZoom Room Bar & Gorilla

Come enjoy our most popular Asheville tour!

Duration

1 hour and 30 minutes

About

Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties are not permitted on this tour. The Fender Bender Bus is bachelorette/bachelor friendly!

Historical and hysterical, The Hey Asheville tour features outrageously entertaining tour guides, outlandish comedy skits complete with special appearances and loads of Asheville information. You’ll get to see the best of downtown Asheville and the rarely seen but stunningly beautiful Montford neighborhood, not to mention the burgeoning River Arts District! You’ve never had a ride like this. It’s like a vaudeville show on wheels!

Find out what makes Asheville so unique on LaZoom’s City Comedy Tour. It’s the perfect mix of history, comedy, and entertainment. Our guides are trained professional actors working with an original script. It’s like a theatre on wheels! The tour highlights downtown Asheville, historic neighborhoods, the South Slope, and the River Arts District.

Age Restrictions

13 and up. No exceptions.

Stops

10 minute beer & bathroom break at Green Man Brewery

What’s Included

Guided tour of Asheville on a Purple Bus
Funny actors, fun bits
Actual History about Asheville
Green Man Brewery Stop

What’s Not Included

Beer/Wine (Must be purchased from LaZoom or the Brewery Stop)
Cash! You’ll want to tip the guides for changing your life for the better.

Hop-on/Hop-off SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Jun 29 all-day
Asheville Area

There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville!  Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated day tour, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.”

Tour Highlights include  .  .  .  Downtown Asheville  |  Montford Historic District  |  The Grove Park Inn and Grove Park Historic District  |  Thomas Wolfe District  |  Pack Square and Asheville Art Museum  |  Grove Arcade  |  River Arts District  |  Biltmore Village

Hop-On and hear the story of a city rich in architecture, history and the arts  . . .

Hop-Off and experience its eclectic shops and galleries; its world class culinary and craft brew scenes.

Tour Duration:  The complete tour (one loop) lasts approximately 90 to 100 minutes.  There is an additional 15 minute stop at the Asheville Visitor Center.  The Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour ticket is valid for TWO consecutive days.

Departure Points: Join the Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour at any of the 10 stops.  If you’re driving in to join the tour, Stop 1, the Asheville Visitor Center may be your best option.  The Visitor Center, located at 36 Montford Ave. just off I-240 at Exit 4C, offers free parking (on a first come-first served basis) and restrooms. The Asheville Visitor Center is the ONLY place to join the Overview Tour.

LEAF Global Arts Festival: FALL tickets on sale now
Jun 29 all-day
online

Join us for LEAF Global Arts Festival, a family friendly gathering celebrating community, global art and culture, live music, craft, nature, and more. Tickets — at our MOST DISCOUNTED RATE — go on sale Saturday, June 1. (Look for a lineup sneak-peek on June 20 and a full line-up drop on July 18.)

With our October Festival we continue exploring our year-long theme: WORLD CHANGERS. This is about more than just artistic talent; it is a call to action — an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the role we can play in shaping our world. Our chosen artists are not just masters of their craft; they are beacons of hope, tirelessly advocating for a world where justice, peace, and creativity flourish.

And even as we seek to make positive impact as global citizens, we also welcome the spirit of joy, celebration, unity, and family (genetic and found) that makes LEAF such a special gathering. We welcome back those who have been coming to LEAF Festival for years along with those who are embarking on their very first LEAF. We can’t wait to celebrate with YOU!

World Changers: One Story, One Song, One Step at a Time.

DATES FOR 2024
LEAF Global Arts Festival: October 17-20
Lodging and Tickets on sale June 1!

  1. Tickets at each tier are LIMITED! Discount Ticket Pricing ends when ticket # for that tier sells out.
    •Children UNDER 10 free •Adult Tickets: 18+  •Youth Tickets: 10-17
  2. Fall LEAF Festival tickets do not require you to be a member to purchase tickets, except for Weekend PLUS which are reserved for Members to purchase.
  3. To purchase Weekend PLUS tickets, you must be signed in to a current LEAF Membership account. Log in to your LEAF account HERE or via the link in the upper right hand corner of your screen. If you believe are a current member, but your account is experiencing any difficulty, please email [email protected] and we’ll see what the problem is.
  4. WeX — LEAF Work eXchange (formerly volunteer) opportunities are available! WeX Crew applications below! More information on WeX Crew can be found HERE. For additional questions, email [email protected]
  5. See Credit Policy at end of Page. Redeeming credit? Call 828-68-MUSIC (686-8742)
Mile High Swinging Bridge
Jun 29 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

One of the top highlights and memories of visits to Grandfather Mountain nature park is walking across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Since 1952, visitors have “oohed” and “aahed” at the bridge’s 360-degree panoramic views. America’s highest suspension footbridge gives easy access to the spectacular views atop Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak, elevation 5,305 feet.

The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation (hence the name!). To reach the Mile High Swinging Bridge, drive the two-mile, winding scenic road up the mountain to the summit parking area by the Top Shop. Climb 50 stairs adjacent to the parking area or inside the Top Shop to reach the short pathway to the bridge. Also, an elevator in the Top Shop takes you to the third floor for a level walk to the bridge.

Top Shop

Located adjacent to the Bridge, the Top Shop features a gift shop, snacks, restrooms, elevator and second-floor exhibition area. Also get the latest park information and trail maps. Read more.

Accessibility

Inside the Top Shop, an elevator makes the Mile High Swinging Bridge accessible to people with mobility challenges, including those in wheelchairs. From the Top Shop, there is a paved 50-yard path to the bridge. Read more about our accessibility.

Tickets & Hours

Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many other things to do in our nature park. Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park. You do not need a separate reservation for the bridge. It’s open, weather permitting, every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. See hours.

More to Explore

Before or after visiting the Mile High Swinging Bridge, allow time to enjoy other parts of the mountain: wildlife habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, restaurant, hiking trails, roadside overlooks, picnic areas and more. See more Things to Do.

Nearby Hiking Trails

Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mile Bridge Trail takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails, go to our Hiking Guide.

Bridge Tips & Tidbits

  • Does it really swing? Very little — unlike the original one. Today’s bridge is made of steel and reinforced with cables and springs. It has railings on the sides to ensure safety.
  • We suggest you wear rubber-soled shoes and walk with care when crossing the rocks on the far side of the bridge.
  • If heights give you pause, you can still enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views from the ground before you reach the bridge and even from the parking area.
  • Due to periodic extreme weather conditions at the bridge, it closes when there is area lightning, high wind or icy conditions.
  • The official U.S. Weather Service Reporting Station atop the Mile High Swinging Bridge has provided daily weather observations since 1955. The temperature is usually 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in the flatlands you see below. It’s also one of the windiest locations in North Carolina, with a 124-mph record set in winter 2019. Learn more about our weather.
  • Pets are allowed on the bridge if well behaved and on a leash.
  • Photographs and videos to remember your visit are encouraged. Be mindful of sharp drop-offs along the Linville Peak ridge. Drones are not allowed. See our photography policies.
  • The Singing Bridge? When the wind blows, the Mile High Swinging Bridge “sings” in the same way as a harmonica.
  • In April through October, join Grandfather’s expert naturalists by the Bridge for Interpretive Talks about the our unique weather, climate, flora and fauna. Read more.
  • Need driving directions? The address for Grandfather Mountain’s entrance gate is 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646 (click link for Google Maps). There are no shuttles, so you must have your own vehicle to explore our nature park. No RVs longer than 28 feet in length or hinged vehicles are allowed through the Entrance Gate. See detailed directions.
  • To see much more info, see our Plan Your Visit section.

Mile High Swinging Bridge History

Former North Carolina Tourism Director Charles J. Parker coined the name “Mile High Swinging Bridge” at the Bridge’s dedication in 1952. The term “mile high” refers to the structure’s elevation above sea level (5,280 feet). The term “swinging” refers to the fact that suspension bridges are free to sway.

The original 1952 bridge was designed by Charles Hartmann Jr. of Greensboro, N.C. It was fabricated in Greensboro and then reassembled on top of the Mountain. Erecting the bridge took three weeks, a process slowed by inclement weather created by a hurricane off the North Carolina coast. Cost was $15,000. It was dedicated on Sept. 2, 1952 by North Carolina Gov. William B. Umstead.

The bridge was rebuilt in 1999 using the original towers. The cables, floor boards and side rails were all replaced using galvanized steel. One of the main advantages of the modern building materials is that they do not have to be painted. Now, Grandfather Mountain employees will not have to hang out over the gorge to paint the span. It was redesigned by Sutton, Kennerly & Associates Engineering of Asheville, N.C., and rebuilt by Taylor & Murphy Construction Company of Asheville. The cost of rebuilding was $300,000.