Discover the Charm of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
Explore the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure and discovery in North Carolina's stunning landscapes.
Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center serves as an ideal starting point for tourists eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of this iconic region. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, visitors can gain valuable insights into the natural beauty and outdoor activities that await them along this scenic byway.
A brief summary to Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
- 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, North Carolina, 28803, US
- +1828-298-5330
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check out the seasonal exhibits that highlight different aspects of the park's natural and cultural heritage.
- Don't forget to grab a park map and ask staff for the best scenic overlooks.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the nearby picnic areas after your visit.
- Take advantage of the visitor center's free Wi-Fi to plan your next stop.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, take US-25 N from anywhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Follow the signs for I-26 N/Asheville. Merge onto I-26 N and continue for approximately 10 miles. Take exit 40 for US-74A toward Lake Lure. Continue on US-74A for about 5 miles until you reach the intersection with NC-9 N. Turn left onto NC-9 N and continue for about 4 miles. Then, turn right onto Hemphill Knob Rd. After about a mile, you'll find the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center on your left at 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to Asheville, NC. From the Asheville bus station, you will need to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the Visitor Center, as public transport options are limited. The distance from the bus station to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is roughly 12 miles, and the ride should take about 20-30 minutes, costing approximately $15 to $25 depending on the service.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is a great option. Start on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is accessible via several routes in the area. Follow the Parkway north, enjoying the scenic views. The Visitor Center is approximately 10 miles from the nearest bike-access point on the Parkway. Ensure you have a good map and check the weather as the Parkway can be steep in sections.
Discover more about Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
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