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Visit our favorite quirky things to do and see in western North Carolina that helps to "Keep Asheville Weird". 

Quirky Places

Judaculla Rock

See petroglyphs created by Cherokee Indians 1,500 years ago on a boulder near Sylva and Western Carolina University. The small outdoor park is open every day.

Biltmore Industries Tour

Take a guided tour of historic Biltmore Industries at Grovewood Village and time-warp back to closing day in 1981 as you see untouched rooms with looms loaded with wool. April-November. Also,…

American Museum of the House Cat

See a fascinating collection of 10,000+ cat-related curiosities, including many rare and fascinating antiques, collected by "CatMan2" for the past 20 years. One of the few museums in the country…

St. Jude's Chapel of Hope

Stop for a peek inside this tiny chapel in Madison County in the tiny town of Trust along a scenic drive.

Smallest Post Office in USA

See the country's smallest post office, located roadside near Cashiers and open every day. Fun photo spot! Also see nearby Zachary-Tolbert House.

LaZoom Tours

Take the most fun city tour ever in a bright purple bus full of laughter! Through captivating stories, comedy skits, and an enthralling musical soundscape, experience Asheville's history, current…

Road to Nowhere Hike

(3.2 miles, moderate) This loop hike in the Smokies includes a 1,200-ft. tunnel at the end of Bryson City's Lakeview Drive, known locally as the "Road to Nowhere." Lakeshore Trail starts here too…

Quirky Festivals & Events

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WNC Bigfoot Festival

A quirky festival that celebrates the legendary Sasquatch, held in downtown Marion 36 miles east of Asheville. In addition to Bigfoot-themed items and local crafts, talk with…

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Hillbilly Jam

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Head to Maggie Valley to celebrate mountain country living with music, crafts, big car show, moonshine and TV celebrities. 

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Woolly Worm Festival

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Celebrate the coming of the snow season with woolly worm races, live entertainment and lots of food and craft vendors in downtown Banner Elk during peak fall color. Highly popular!

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Aluminum Tree & Ornament Museum (ATOM) Exhibit, Brevard

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This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard features dozens of vintage aluminum Christmas trees and more than 400 Shiny Brite ornaments and tree toppers inside the Transylvania Heritage Museum. A fun trip back in time! Open Thurs. through Sat., 12 pm - 4 pm. Free admission.

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Mardi Gras Parade

Asheville's family-friendly Mardi Gras parade rolls through South Slope on Sunday, February 15. The parade "steps off" at 3:05 PM. All are welcome to dress for theme and participate. Or just the…

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Livermush Festival

Enjoy livermush sandwiches from food trucks and local restaurants while enjoying live music, hog calling, an eating contest, and more in downtown Marion. Make sure to cast your vote on…

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Coon Dog Day Festival

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Saluda (about 35 miles south of Asheville) hosts this fun, quirky street festival to celebrate the Coon Dog. This loyal pet was used for many years for hunting and known for its unique bark and an…

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