Some images courtsey of: Visit NC
Hendersonville
Hendersonville, NC, is an easygoing, family-friendly getaway. Its walkable downtown is full of charm, with local shops, kid-friendly eateries, and plenty of space to explore at a relaxed pace. Families can enjoy nearby hiking trails, outdoor adventures, and hands-on attractions that make it easy to unplug and spend time together.
It’s a great year-round destination, and this page will showcase some of our favorite things to do in Hendersonville with kids.
Our Best Recommendations: 3-Day Itinerary for Hendersonville
Some people relish planning a trip – they love the research, reading reviews, mapping out driving distances, etc. Others just like to be told where to be and when. If you’re the later then take a peek at our extensive 3-Day Itinerary for Hendersonville.
This is ideal for a fall trip, but substitute the apple orchard for hiking in the spring and summer, and an indoor activity (one of the museums) in the winter!
Day 1: Apple Orchard + Book & Bee + The Gem Mine + Ecusta Market & Cafe
Day 2: Looking Glass Falls + Mikes On Main + Hands On! Children’s Museum & Walking Downtown
Day 3: HenDough Chicken & Dough-nuts on your way out of town!
READ THE POST FOR ALL THE DETAILS!
Best Family Activities & Attractions in Hendersonville, NC
Hendersonville is often overlooked because it sits just 25 miles outside the larger, better-known city of Asheville—but skipping it would be a mistake. Whether you add it to your Asheville itinerary as a day trip or make it your primary destination, a Hendersonville family vacation is well worth your time. With its breweries, apple orchards, scenic trails, rich history, charming shops, and family-friendly restaurants, it’s easy to see why so many families return again and again. Here are some ideas to consider adding to your itinerary.
Best Kid Activities in Hendersonville
Mineral & Lapidary Museum
Western NC Air Museum
Apple Valley Model Railroad Museum
Aquarium & Shark Lab
Ellaberry Llama Farm
Hendo Care Farm
Explore the Outdoors in Hendersonville
Bearwallow Mountain
Black Bear Snow Tubing
Bullington Gardens (free!)
Dupont State Forest
Chimney Rock State Park
Pisgah National Forest
Farms & Orchards in Hendersonville
Hendersonville is home to some of the area’s most popular apple orchards. Find them all here: You-Pick Apple Farms
Singing Flower Farm
Pilot Mountain Pears
Hendersonville’s Small Town Charm
Much of what makes Hendersonville great is its small-town charm, and that is something best experienced by living like a local. The website VisitHendersonvilleNC.ORG offers many suggestions on how to do just that. They’ve made some digital guides on how best to explore the area like a local, including visiting its sweet ice cream shops, renowned artists’ studios, grabbing a drink at a brewery or winery, and exploring the area’s apple orchards.
The CHEERS! Trail
What to expect on this adventure: two dozen tasting experiences, including 11 breweries, eight wineries, three cideries, two distilleries, and a meadery. Double-check websites to ensure they are family-friendly!
The Ice Cream Trail
Not likely that you’ll have to convince your kids that this one is a good idea. You’ll find more than a dozen creameries serving up classic and creative options.
Chase Waterfalls
The trails are abundant, and many of them lead to spectacular waterfalls! This guide will help you determine which is best for family hiking.
Our favorite things to do with kids in Hendersonville
There’s something truly magical about the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Hendersonville, NC, might just be the perfect place to soak it all in. Between crisp mountain air, vibrant fall foliage, charming small-town vibes, and a calendar full of family-friendly fun, it is the ideal getaway for families in the Piedmont Triad. Here are some of our best recommendations for what to do in Hendersonville with kids!
What else to do with kids in the NC mountains
One of our favorite things about living in the Triad is the proximity to the mountains! We have lots of mountain content, so we’ll link it all here in case you’re looking for more inspiration and ideas!
FAQs About Visiting Hendersonville with Kids
Q: What are the best family-friendly attractions in Hendersonville, NC?
A: Popular options include the Hands On! Children’s Museum, Apple Valley Model Railroad Museum, and the Mineral & Lapidary Museum.
Q: Are there outdoor activities for kids in Hendersonville?
A: Yes—Jackson Park, playgrounds, hiking trails, and seasonal apple picking at local orchards offer plenty of outdoor fun.
Q: Can you go apple picking with kids near Hendersonville?
A: Yes, several orchards around Hendersonville offer seasonal apple picking and family-friendly farm activities.
Q: What museums are good for children in Hendersonville?
A: The Hands On! Children’s Museum and Mineral & Lapidary Museum are especially engaging for kids of all ages.
Q: Is Hendersonville, NC, a good place for a day trip with kids?
A: Absolutely—it’s walkable downtown, parks, and interactive attractions make it a great day trip or weekend getaway.
Q: Are there seasonal events for families in Hendersonville?
A: Yes—Hendersonville hosts festivals, apple events, and seasonal activities that are fun for kids and parents alike.
Q: Are there affordable or free kids’ activities in Hendersonville?
A: Yes—many parks, playgrounds, nature trails, and some museums or events are free or low-cost.