Just 40 minutes south of Asheville, North Carolina, is a delightful and unique community known as Brevard. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out on one of the mountains’ most unusual sights: the white squirrel!  

It’s not a special species but just a variation of a gray squirrel, and for whatever reason, a particular population of white-tinged squirrels arrived in this area and has remained over the years. They not only give Brevard a distinction, but they’ve contributed to things like the names of shops and festivals. 

While you’re on your hunt to see this unique critter, be sure to take your time exploring all of the amazing Brevard attractions and sampling all of the delicious Brevard restaurants available to you. If you’re planning a trip to Brevard and you’re not sure what to expect, here’s our complete guide to Brevard’s many events, restaurants, bars, and shops!

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Fun Festival and Events

With only a few thousand year-round residents, Brevard isn’t a huge place. But the population swells temporarily on days when big festivals and events are occurring. Step out to join in on the fun at any of these fun Brevard events!

1. Enjoy White Squirrel Weekend

A little oasis for these unique critters, the white squirrel population in Brevard has given the community something to be proud of. To celebrate Brevard’s local flavors of all kinds, White Squirrel Weekend features delicious local food vendors, local craft beer and wine, as well as a ton of live music. 

Craft and artisan vendors make appearances so that locals and visitors alike can buy gifts, beautify their homes, and so much more. Memorial Day weekend is when it happens, making it easier to turn a day trip into a long weekend. 

The locations are in downtown Brevard, though if you know of favorite shops and restaurants outside of downtown, you can always call and ask if they are participating this year. Expect the music to vary but always to make you tap your toes a little bit. Quite a few of the bands tend to get the crowd dancing, so show up with your boogie shoes on!

2. Bring Art Outdoors at Art is in the Air

En plein air is the French term for painting outside instead of in a studio, and Brevard’s arts community celebrates the amazing scenery available by having a festival in honor of this kind of painting. 

Art is in the Air offers four days of painting, allowing artists around the region to come and create new works of art, which are then sold at the end of the weekend to support the Heart of Brevard business organization, which puts on many events each year. The sale itself is called the Wet Paint Show, reflecting just how recently these paintings were made. 

There is also a Fall Artisan Market with downtown street closures that allow the public to also enjoy themselves out of doors, and there’s a Quick Draw event for newbies who want to try their hand at art outside. While the artists work, enjoy supporting food vendors and local downtown businesses as you get inspired to do your own art!

3. Take a Spooky Stroll at Halloweenfest

Does your planned trip to Brevard happen to fall around Halloween? Check and see if you are going to be around for one of our favorite downtown Brevard events. 

Halloweenfest and the Spooky Stroll combine decorations, music, and of course, costumes and candy to create a festival atmosphere that many local organizations participate in. Many shops offer an open house incentive, like a free gift with a purchase or a discount on an item, and there’s a costume competition and parade during the event. 

There’s also a pet costume parade, a pumpkin carving contest, a hula hoop dance party, a block party, and separate events like a ghost story tour from the Transylvania Heritage Museum. (Fun fact: Brevard is located in Transylvania County, leading the Halloween 5K to be named the Flight of the Vampire!) The Mountain School of Strings holds a Mountain Music Throw Down, and there’s generally more family-friendly and spooky fun than you can shake a stick at. 

4. Enjoy the Holiday Windows Competition and Walking Tour

The downtown business community is called the Heart of Brevard, and they take the idea of making it fun to shop, dine, and relax in downtown Brevard very seriously. Each year, participating businesses get creative and artistic with the same theme as the holiday parade and design elaborate window displays.

The Holiday Windows Competition is done both to draw in customers and to compete for bragging rights and advertising packages in four categories: best use of merchandise, best interpretation of theme, best wow factor, and best use of recycled materials. 

While it’ll be mostly locals who get to take part in the design and assembly process to get these items up and ready to go, anyone can take a tour with the map of participating businesses, patronizing various Brevard shops while also enjoying what is essentially an eclectic pop-up art gallery. It’s a fun way to get into the holiday spirit if your visit to Brevard falls in the early wintertime.

Attractions and Activities

Brevard’s claim to fame is being close to nearly 250 waterfalls and 100,000 acres of public land, perfect for hiking, biking, and other outdoor pastimes. The top Brevard attractions include plenty of mountain biking trails that will offer breathtaking views and lots of challenges.

1. Explore World-Class Mountain Biking

For the longest time, Brevard’s great outdoors scene was a best-kept secret, known to people who were visiting Transylvania County and its neighboring spots anyway. However, people who love mountain biking on singletrack, or trails the width of a single bike, have found that Brevard is a paradise, a place with 200 or more miles of trails all concentrated in a 50-mile-wide circle around Brevard. 

You can find trails in Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest, but if you’re more of a hiker and want a less challenging set of courses, there are many multi-use trails and beginner trails to ramp you up to taking those daring turns and twists on a bike. 

2. Take Up the Fun Sport of Waterfall Hunting

Known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” you’ll have nearly 250 cascades to spot during your trip to Brevard. Finding waterfalls during the winter, spring, and fall offers just a little bit of heaven while you’re out enjoying the natural beauty of a hike around Brevard. In the summer, finding a waterfall can (depending on the safety of the space) also be a place for a little splash into the water to cool off! 

Where to Shop

One of the most pleasant ways to spend an afternoon with a mountain backdrop is doing a little mom-and-pop shopping in Brevard. The best places to eat in Brevard are interspersed between shops, so you can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner in between browsing and finding the perfect gifts, clothes, decor items, and provisions for your next outdoor adventure. 

Learn about just a few unique Brevard shops here, and if you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for in our list, check out this downtown Brevard map for shopping options.

1. Find that Perfect Gift at White Squirrel Shoppe

This is a gift shop you truly won’t find anywhere else. While you’ll find gifts of all kinds at the White Squirrel Shoppe, they weren’t kidding with their name: much of the available options are white-squirrel-themed! Whether you’re shopping for a personal souvenir or want to give someone who loves Brevard a nice memento, you’ll find what you’re looking for at this one-of-a-kind shop. 

From white squirrel socks to ornaments, stuffed animals, historical books, buttons, and magnets, you’ll find Brevard-themed items in addition to a variety of clothing, birdfeeders, calendars, and decorations galore. You never know what will catch your fancy when you stop by the White Squirrel Shoppe.

2. Find Vintage Goods and So Much More at A Blast From the Past

Known for elaborate front window displays, A Blast From the Past is one of those Brevard shops you have to visit over and over because there’s always something new. Much of the shop is vintage and thus one of a kind, meaning that any treasure you find may just have to come home with you because you won’t find it again! 

Expect everything from vintage clothing from all kinds of eras to stained glass lamps, novelty items, souvenirs, and more. Some of the gowns available are actually a great option for a person trying to find a truly unique take on a prom dress, and you’ll find lots of decorations for theme parties or for Halloween. Budget a little time to take in the full glory of this shop – it’s a truly unique destination!

3. Shop Accents and Art at Local Color

Local Color is the spot if you try to “buy local” when you shop in a new place. The owner of Local Color prioritizes putting out local artisan goods and artwork in this store, making it a great source for both beautiful and functional art pieces. 

In addition to the local items, there are fair trade crafts from Nepal, bright clothing, local souvenirs, and jewelry, all in enough variety to find something for everyone and anyone. If you have been wanting to liven up your garden lately, this is a good spot to find unique yard art, as well as handmade soaps, motorcycle gear, and even wind chimes. 

Customers also constantly mention that the owner is friendly, easy to talk to, and happy to help you find what you’re looking for. 

4. Get Ready for Adventure at DD Bullwinkel’s Outdoors

No Brevard shopping trip is really complete without a stop in a gear store like DD Bullwinkel’s Outdoors. Whether you need a top-notch water bottle to hike or a whole ensemble of high-quality camping gear, they’ve got you covered. 

Their shoes come from some of the best outdoors brands, helping you protect your feet and keep your footing on challenging terrain. If you’re doing winter hiking or going outdoors during rain or snow, you’ll be glad you suited up with appropriate outerwear and plenty of water-resistant clothing items to keep you dry and comfortable. 

Want a fun twist on the typical shopping experience in Brevard? Slip over to the DD Bullwinkel’s map room, where there is always local beer on tap. How’s that for a great way to shop?

5. Find Great Deals on Pre-Loved Items at SAFE’s Attic and Interiors

A great side of shopping in Brevard is the chance to go on a hunt, hoping to find the perfect item at the perfect price. Thrift shopping with SAFE does two levels of good: you find an item you need at a great price, while the proceeds benefit a local charity that works to prevent abuse through support and outreach. 

The Attic location focuses on clothes, shoes, electronics, kitchenware, books, and other small items, while the Interiors location focuses on used furniture. If you’ve been meaning to get a new coffee table or want to create a splash at the next party you attend without breaking the bank, these shops turn donations of gently-used items into a great resource for the community and deals for locals and visitors alike. 

Bonus tip: if you want to try out some outdoor clothing as a newbie hiker or camper, you may be able to find some good deals on outerwear and other items for introductory outdoor adventures. 

Where to Eat

For a fairly small town, Brevard locals and visitors eat quite well. You’ll find a wide range of restaurant options and here are some of the best restaurants in Brevard in a variety of different dining styles.

1. Make Classy Brunch Plans at Morning Social

Finding the right spot for brunch is an art form, not a science: you need the best combination of breakfast favorites, a little innovation on the menu, and of course, the option for a brunch cocktail or two. 

At Morning Social, you can sip a screwdriver, mule, or mimosa while you peruse the menu and make your selection. If you need a little pick-me-up, there are coffee drinks, including a Bailey’s Irish Coffee. Then opt for a big Eggs Benny with ham or salmon, herbed goat cheese, spinach, egg, hollandaise, and dill, or go a little lighter and plant-ier with the Quinoa Bowl, covered in miso broth, roasted veggies, avocado, and basil sauce. 

There are burgers, burritos, and of course, pancakes and french toast if you’ve arrived with a sweet tooth in tow. No matter your choice, the folks at Morning Social are here to make sure the ingredients in your breakfast are locally sourced and of the highest quality.

2. Enjoy a Seafood Date Night at The Falls Landing Restaurant

When you’ve got something to celebrate and the guest of honor is a fan of surf and turf, you cannot go wrong with The Falls Landing, one of the best restaurants in Brevard. At lunch, this is a great spot for fried oysters, a taco salad, or a fried shrimp po’ boy, but dinner is the star attraction (there’s a reason they are mostly by-reservation on their busy nights!). 

Pair one of the many stellar wines available with some scallops seared with lemon-thyme honey, or sink your teeth into crab cakes made with housemade mustard sauce. A rack of lamb, filet mignon, ahi tuna tataki, and filet of salmon all await diners on the entrees list, with specials available as well.

You’ll find the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is cordial and considerate, making your night one to remember.

3. Sample Hot Dogs for Every Taste at Corky’s Dawg House

Looking for places to eat in Brevard with a fun and quirky design that is sure to put a smile on every face? What about a restaurant that offers recognizable fan-favorite meal items that will please both your adventurous eater and your pickiest kiddo? Corky’s Dawg House is the perfect spot for a casual and quick-service meal that still gives you a taste of local Brevard style. 

From the Breakfast Dawg covered in bacon, egg, and cheese to a Kielbasa or Veggie Bratwurst, you’ve got all kinds of hot dog options at Corky’s. Not into hot dogs? From burgers and salads to BBQ and sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in your crew.

4. Have a Glass or Two with Your Meal at Wine Down on Main

When it comes to Brevard restaurants, Wine Down is the place to go in downtown when what you really want is a glass of wine. Plus, you’ll be happy to have some tasty snacks or a meal alongside it. 

Rather than having to get a whole wine bottle, you can try a glass of one of 35 or more bottles available by the glass at Wine Down on Main, and there is often live music or special events to keep the atmosphere lively and fun. Sample their delicious charcuterie boards that are made to order with your particular variety of meats and cheeses, as well as other items like bread and olives. 

There are also paninis, flatbreads, a soup of the day, and a hummus plate, letting each visitor choose based on whether they are in a light-snack mood or a full-meal mood. This place is truly a gem among Brevard restaurants. 

5. Done With a Big Hike? Stop By Cedar Mountain Cafe

If you’ve been out exploring the mountains and find yourself near Cedar Mountain rather than Brevard proper, Cedar Mountain Cafe should be your next food break. This simple cafe has wowed visitors from all over because they pack amazing food into their menu, all with good service and excellent preparation. 

Whether you opt for a ribeye steak, fried chicken fingers, chilaquiles, pesto pasta, or any of the other breakfast and lunch options available, you’ll leave satisfied. Many people opt for their breakfast on their way out to do a big day of hiking or biking, but it’s also a great pit stop during the day. They’ve earned their reputation among the hungry outdoor enthusiasts of this region. 

Where to Drink

Don’t miss out on the thriving Brevard live music scene at the various bars and restaurants in town. A great option for the craft-beverage aficionado you have with you in your crew is to stop by a local brewery. Here are some options for both a truly down-home, local experience and a bigger production scale brewery. 

1. Experience Downtown Charm at Brevard Brewing Company

Brevard Brewing started in 2012 and has made its name as a craft microbrewery specializing in lagers. It’s unusual if you’ve long been on the brewery scene, as most breweries focus on fruity sour beers, hoppy IPAs, or thick stouts and porters as their main, high-flavor drinks. 

Instead of that approach, Brevard Brewing attempts to perfect the clean, smooth pilsners that have given them a claim to fame, in addition to a fleet of other options in case you’re just not in a lager mood. Making a really good lager can actually take twice as long as many ales and other complex beers!

2. Belly Up to the Tasty Weasel Taproom at Oskar Blues Brewery

In almost any North Carolina grocery store, you’ll see a pack of Dale’s Pale Ale or Mama’s Little Yella Pils or maybe an Old Chub, a Scottish strong ale well worth a drink. Oskar Blues is a major producer that makes its home in the mountains of NC, and all the visitors and locals in Brevard can benefit from its proximity. 

At their Tasty Weasel Taproom, you can find a bunch of their more rare drinks, including Oskar’s Lager, a Hazy Blues Juicy IPA, Ten Fidy Stout, Add and Subtract American IPA, and so many more. For the less beer-inclined among you, try one of the Wild Basin Boozy Sparkling Waters, a low-calorie, crisp seltzer that packs a little alcohol and a lot of flavor. You can choose from a range of flavors, including strawberry, berry sorbet, grapefruit, black cherry, lemon, and raspberry sorbet.

Check this spot out for outdoor seating with good views, a food truck to keep you full, and a relaxed and fun vibe that brewery visitors tend to enjoy. 

We hope you enjoy your trip to Brevard! What are your favorite things to do in Brevard? Let us know in the comments.

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