There’s something downright magical about Western North Carolina. The people, the food, the sports. We could write a novel about all the area has to offer, but we'll take it one blog at a time.
First let’s start with the weather. No matter where you hail from, it’s tough to top Western North Carolina. Compared to Florida and elsewhere in the south, WNC is much cooler, less buggy, and a lot less humid. And if you're used to northern climates, say goodbye to frigid winters and hello to Januarys you can actually get out in.
A typical high temp in the summer hovers around 85 degrees, while winter, on cold days, averages 50 degrees. You can get outside, play golf, take a hike, paddle down the river, or embark on a roadtrip in all four seasons. Spring and fall are as beautiful as they are long, and unbeatable, mild summers and winters mean you can enjoy the great outdoors all year round.
Book Passage on the Blue Ridge Parkway
At 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway is known as a National Parkway and America’s longest linear park. Snaking through some of the most dramatic portions of the Appalachian mountains, thrill seekers know they can simply cruise this storied, 2-lane stretch of asphalt where adventure awaits.
Ever golf in the mountains? Take in America’s newest golf trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway Golf Trail. Ever hiked a waterfall? There are literally dozens of them right off the BRP. No matter your poison, passion or palette, America’s best idea for a road is also one of the best parts of living in the western half of the Tar Heel State.
To Your Health!
Not only is Western North Carolina up on the latest health and wellness trends, they’re leading the charge. From yoga centers, spas and health clubs to world-class healthcare and hospitals, people here know how to live well and be well. Access to wellness resources and great health care is an important part of enjoying all the activities this special area offers.
Much Ado About Greenville
Western North Carolina is home to Asheville, Hendersonville, and other interesting communities. But it's also surprisingly close to its southern neighbor. Some are calling Greenville, SC the best kept secret in the south. In the last few decades, investment in the city has skyrocketed. It is now the headquarters for Michelin, a Lockheed Martin aircraft and logistics center, and facilities operated by 3M and Honeywell. Even General Electric has a manufacturing operations center here, which has led to a bit of a renaissance for the community.
Greenville boasts a worthy arts scene, including the Peace Center, which is home to a 2,100-seat concert hall and 400-seat theater. The Greenville County Museum of Art houses Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns among its collections, as well as Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Festivals you won’t want to miss include: Euphoria Greenville; Fall for Greenville; Artisphere; iMAGINE, which champions creative, entrepreneurial and STEM innovation; and the New South Comedy Festival.
But the crown jewel of Greenville remains Falls Park on the Reedy River. In 2004 it was agreed that the town would tear down an unsightly bridge that obstructed views of the waterfall and replace it with Liberty Bridge, a pedestrian suspension marvel that spans "The Reedy." After a $75-million expansion, the park now includes Riverplace: 20 acres of lush, immaculately groomed gardens.
Southern Hospitality
You’ll be glad to know southern hospitality is alive and well in Western North Carolina. You’ll find plenty of the warm, genuine inclusivity you’ve been craving. Southerners roll out the welcome mat—and the sweet tea—to anyone, including those hailing from well north of the Mason Dixon and their southern neighbors. Ya’ll come back now, ya hear!
