Fall Fun for Seniors in Western North Carolina

Fall Fun for Seniors in Western North Carolina

It has been a long, hot summer in western North Carolina. While we get somewhat of a break from the worst of the heat and humidity here in the mountains, it still gets toasty enough to want to stay inside our air-conditioned homes. However, we are excited to say that the worst of it is over, and Fall is on the way. Autumn is one of the most magical times of the year in the Asheville area. The changing leaves out of a magnificent display of colors, while the temperatures are perfect for spending as much time as possible outdoors. For seniors and people who are wheelchair-bound, there are plenty of fun fall activities to enjoy. Here are a few of our favorites.

 

Fall Activities in Western North Carolina for Seniors and the Wheel-Chair Bound

1) Downtown Asheville

There is always the opportunity for fun in downtown Asheville. Some of the best food and shops in the South can be found there. The charming art deco architecture blends perfectly with long-range views of the Blue Ridge and the Great Smoky Mountains. One of the most prominent peaks you can see from downtown is Mount Pisgah. It might be best to go during the week to avoid crowded sidewalks. 

2) Asheville Outdoor Outlets

The Asheville Outlets is a pristine, fairly new outdoor/indoor outlet mall with an abundance of shopping and excellent restaurant options. As the weather cools, the outlets are a great place to do some holiday shopping.

3) Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore is one of the most famous tourist destinations in North Carolina. It is a fun activity any time of the year; however, there is something special about visiting the Biltmore in Fall. With the leaves changing colors and a bit of child in the air, you will love experiencing all of the Estate’s activities, including:

  • Touring the Biltmore House; the largest privately-owned home in the United States
  • Touring the Biltmore Estate Winery
  • Walking or taking your wheelchair on the paved path by the river
  • Shopping in the various shops
  • Eating in one of the many restaurants 
  • Staying in the historic Biltmore Inn

4) Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

A little over an hour from Asheville, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad leaves from Bryson City, traversing through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains to Fontana Lake. The old-timey steam engine makes a stop at the Nantahala Outdoor Center before returning to charming Bryson City. In fall, you are sure to see a magnificent display of leaves. 

5) Chimney Rock State Park

Beautiful views can still be seen from a variety of locations at Chimney Rock. Drive to the upper parking lot, which provides a view that matches Chimney Rock's summit. You can ride up to the Sky Lounge for more breathtaking views when the elevator is accessible.

6) Blue Ridge Parkway

A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway will be rewarding multiple times during the Fall. The leaves will change first around wheel-chair accessible areas like Mount Mitchell and Craggy Gardens. Later, the colors will start to pop in lower elevations like the Haw Creek Valley Overlook and the Folk Art Center. 

7) The River Arts District

The River Arts District, or the RAD, is home to hundreds of amazing art galleries. The city has gone to great lengths to make it more walkable, bikeable, and wheelchair-accessible in recent years. You will enjoy seeing some of the best art in the world. 

8) French Broad River Park

The French Broad River Park provides beautiful views of the largest river in western North Carolina. You can ride along miles of riverside greenway, all the way to Carrier Park. If your children or grandchildren are in town, they will enjoy playing on multiple fun playgrounds. 

9) Western North Carolina Nature Center

River otters, black bears, red wolves, and cougars all live in the Western North Carolina Nature Center. The center is home to approximately 60 species of wildlife. By appreciating, understanding, and supporting the protection of the region's abundant biodiversity, the Nature Center connects people with the unique animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region.

10) The North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum features acres of maintained gardens and groomed walkways with some of the region's most attractive and botanically diverse flora. There are activities for people of all ages at the Arboretum. 

How Seniors and the Wheelchair-Bound Get Around Asheville in Style

You do not have to rely on the complicated schedules of your family and friends or try to arrange taxis and shuttles. Loyal Lifts Transportation helps seniors, the elderly, and people with wheelchairs get around the Asheville area in comfort and luxury. We can transport you around downtown Asheville, to shops, to the airport, to special events, to medical appointments, and much more. Contact Loyal Lifts Transportation to make a pick-up and drop-off appointment if you or a loved one require a safe and reliable mode of transportation in the area.