Experience Western North Carolina

North Carolina's Western Region

Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful and beloved areas of the country. With numerous State Parks, historic sites and fun adventures for the entire family, it's no wonder visitors come from all corners of the globe to see the sights.

Things to Do

Historic Sites

Western North Carolina offers a variety of fun and educational activities, including two State Historic Sites, the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville and the Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace in Weaverville.

State Parks

There are several state parks found throughout Western North Carolina offering incredible views, hiking trails and other outdoor activities, including Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Mountain Culture

Western North Carolina has a rich cultural history that is celebrated through crafts, festivals and music that can be enjoyed year-round.

Local Breweries

The Asheville area is becoming internationally recognized as a hub for microbreweries. Any fan of craft beer or ciders should plan a trip to sample some of the region’s best flights.

Visit Asheville

Land of the Sky

Sitting high among Appalachian Mountains, Asheville has something for everyone, from historic sites and art galleries to museums and wonderful hiking trails and outdoor opportunities. DNCR's Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a great place to start.

Begin Your Asheville Adventure

North Carolina Western Regional Archives

The Western Regional Archives (WRA) collects, preserves, and makes available for public use historical and evidential materials relating to western North Carolina. The WRA is administered by the State Archives of North Carolina and carries out its archival mission and programs. The holdings consist primarily of private collections and some microfilmed county records.

Visit the Western Regional Archives

Appalachia a Century Ago

Mountain Gateway Museum

Preserving artifacts and other historical materials relating to the history and heritage of North Carolina in a local, regional, national, and international context to assist people in understanding how the past influences the present.

Learn More

Cultural Celebrations

Mountain Culture

Western North Carolina has a proud cultural heritage, producing a unique style of arts, craft and music that is still celebrated and enjoyed today. Various events and festivals are held year-round.

Local Breweries

Home Grown

Whether you’re an IPA loyalist, a wheat beer fanatic or enjoy a sweeter cider, you’re bound to find something you like at one of western North Carolina’s breweries, an area that is becoming internationally recognized as a hub for microbrewers.