Planning a romantic getaway to Asheville, North Carolina? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a variety of experiences perfect for couples seeking romance, adventure, and luxury. Whether you’re extending your Valentine’s weekend at an historic spot like our Bed & Breakfast, The Reynolds Mansion, or exploring the city’s vibrant scene, this list of romantic things to do in Asheville highlights must-try activities. From wine tastings to candlelit concerts, artistic exhibitions and affordable spa experiences, these ideas blend scenic beauty, culture, and indulgence for an unforgettable couples’ trip.
1. Visit the Biltmore Estate for a Regal Romance
Wander hand-in-hand through America’s largest home, the Biltmore Estate, with its opulent rooms, stunning gardens, and winery. Take a self-guided tour, stroll the manicured grounds bursting with seasonal blooms, and end with a wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery. It’s one of the top romantic things to do in Asheville for couples craving timeless elegance. Remember, Guests with confirmed reservations at The Reynolds Mansion may purchase discounted tickets to the Biltmore Estate by clicking here. Our confirmation email contains the required discount code.
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2. Attend a Candlelight Classical Concert
Immerse yourselves in the magical glow of thousands of candles at a Candlelight Classical concert in Asheville. These intimate performances feature tributes to artists like The Beatles, Coldplay, Hans Zimmer, Queen vs. ABBA, and Fleetwood Mac. Upcoming 2026 dates include January 17 (Beatles and Coldplay tributes at Asheville Masonic Temple), January 31 (Hans Zimmer and Queen vs. ABBA at Central United Methodist Church), and a special Valentine’s Day event on February 14 at Asheville Masonic Temple. The candlelit ambiance creates a deeply romantic atmosphere, ideal for couples.
3. Enjoy Wine Tastings with Cheese Pairings at Quench Wine Bistro
Just a short walk from The Reynolds Mansion, in Reynolds Village is Quench Wine Bistro serving lunch and a full dinner menu in addition to many other expertly prepared eats and treats. This premier spot offers wine tastings and classes, featuring curated wines selected by John Kerr and provisions by Chef Sam Etheridge. It’s a relaxed, intimate setting perfect for couples to sip, savor, and connect without the downtown hustle—plus, ample free parking makes it hassle-free. Visit their website for up to date menus and to see all offerings and hours. We like to stop by for a great glass of wine, some real hospitality and delicious charcuterie board.
4. Picnic and Watch the Sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pack a romantic picnic and drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking mountain views. Stop at overlooks for a sunset spectacle, perhaps with a basket from Asheville Picnic Company. This free or low-cost activity is one of the best romantic things to do in Asheville for nature-loving couples seeking serenity.
5. Explore the River Arts District
Stroll through Asheville’s vibrant River Arts District, filled with galleries, studios, and murals. Visit spots like 310 Art Gallery, grab craft beer or a meal at local eateries, and let the creative energy spark romance. It’s an artsy date night that’s both inspiring and intimate.
6. In Room Massage at The Reynolds Mansion
Several of our rooms accommodate in room massages. Learn more here and then call us to book your room.
7. Tour the French Broad Chocolate Factory
Just a 7 minute drive from The Reynolds Mansion, is the French Broad Chocolate Factory and Cafe where you can book a tour (around $11 per person). Indulge and sample artisan treats and learn about the process—it’s a sweet, affordable way to bond over indulgences.
8. Hike to a Waterfall and Picnic
Embark on a romantic hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, like to a cascading waterfall, and enjoy a picnic. Trails near Asheville offer scenic spots for couples to connect amid nature’s beauty. We are happy to recommend winter hikes to our guests!
9. Stroll the North Carolina Arboretum and Trolls: A Field Study
Wander the groomed trails and cultivated gardens of the North Carolina Arboretum, just south of Asheville. With botanical displays and peaceful paths, it’s a serene spot for couples to enjoy quiet moments together while also taking in the world famous Trolls: A Field Study until Feb 17th. “Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.” Learn more here.
10. Spa Experiences Under $100: Asheville Salt Cave & Spa and The Sauna House
Less than a 10 minute drive from The Reynolds Mansion are two unique spa experiences that won’t bust the budget but are truly unique:
Asheville Salt Cave & Spa is a 5-star wellness sanctuary offering halotherapy (salt therapy) in a Himalayan-inspired cave, along with Hammam steam baths and therapeutic massages. This indoor oasis promotes respiratory health, skin rejuvenation, and deep relaxation through mineral-rich air and steam, making it an excellent choice for winter when dry air and colds are common.
Why It’s Perfect for Winter Spa Experiences: The salt cave’s ambient lighting and zero-gravity chairs create a tranquil escape from Asheville’s winter weather, while the Hammam steam room provides humid warmth to hydrate and detoxify. It’s especially beneficial for seasonal allergies or stress relief in early 2026. Check out all their experiences on their website: https://ashevillesaltcave.com/.
Hammam steam room sessions start at $50/person, offering a steamy, purifying experience. For added value, January 2026 promos include 20% off a 45-minute therapeutic massage combined with a salt cave session (use code NEWYOU26), bringing combos to around $60-80 after discount. Private options are available
Pro Tip: Book midweek for the lowest rates and combine with nearby indoor activities like the Asheville Art Museum for a full day of winter pampering.
The Sauna House: Contrast Therapy and Sauna Bliss for Ultimate Winter Warmth
Nestled in Asheville’s vibrant scene and also just a 10 minute drive from The Reynolds Mansion is The Sauna House which provides a modern take on Nordic-style bathhouses, emphasizing contrast therapy—a cycle of hot saunas, cold plunges, and relaxation to boost circulation, reduce stress, and invigorate the body during cold months. This indoor haven features Finnish saunas, cedar dry saunas, infrared saunas, cold plunges, heated furniture, cold showers, and private rooms, creating a social yet serene environment for detoxing and chilling.
Why It’s Perfect for Winter Spa Experiences: In the depths of January and February 2026, the alternating hot and cold treatments mimic a luxurious spa ritual, helping to ease muscle tension from winter activities like hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s an energizing way to warm up indoors without braving the elements.
A standard 2-hour bathhouse visit starts at just $40 on weekdays (Monday-Thursday), rising to $50 on weekends—well under $100 per person. Add-ons like private sauna/cold plunge rooms or massages are available, but the basic session delivers full spa-like benefits on a budget.
Pro Tip: Pair this with your extended Valentine’s stay at The Reynolds Mansion for a complete romantic winter retreat in Asheville.