10 Fun Activities for People who Just Moved to Asheville

Moving to a new place is like hitting the reset button on life – exciting, a little wild, and full of possibilities. You get to reinvent yourself, and the first step is finding new friends and experiences to match your vibe!

Asheville, with its laid-back lifestyle, creative energy, and friendly folks, is the perfect place to do just that. This town begs you to explore its artsy, outdoorsy, and community-driven spirit. Meeting like-minded people and rediscovering yourself in our mountain town is easy and fun!

Whether you’re into picking up new hobbies, exploring local volunteer gigs, or getting your hands messy in an art workshop, Asheville’s got a spot for you. From Meetup groups to dance classes to book clubs, the city offers a little bit of everything.

I’ve pulled together a list of the best activities for anyone new to town who’s ready to create their next chapter in Asheville. So, take a deep breath of that fresh mountain air, get out there, and make this adventure one for the books. Welcome to Asheville – your fresh start begins now!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Join a Book Club

Joining a book club is like making new friends while traveling through pages of exciting adventures. Asheville’s rich literary culture means every bookstore and library is buzzing with book clubs, and with such a wide range of topics, you’re bound to find one that speaks to your soul. Plus, book clubs offer a perfect way to open up and share your inner world with others in a fun and low-key setting.

Kick things off by attending the annual Book Club Fair at Pack Memorial Library in January. It’s a book lover’s paradise where you’ll discover tons of local book clubs, meet fellow readers, and learn about nonprofits supporting literacy in the community. It’s basically the literary equivalent of speed dating!

As for must-join clubs, check out Malaprop’s Bookstore/Café for an iconic Asheville vibe, or dive deep into diverse perspectives with the Black Experience Book Club. If nature-inspired reads are more your thing, the North Carolina Arboretum Adult Education Reads has got you covered.

And if you’re looking for something totally unique, the local chapter of the Silence Book Club might be your jam. Readers gather in silence for the first hour, and then, get this, they blow a conch shell to signal it’s time to chat! You can read whatever you want, but what about the experience? One-of-a-kind!

2. Explore Meetup

Whether you’re into hiking, crafting, creative writing, coding, or want to hang with fellow foodies, Meetup has a group for pretty much everything. It’s like a giant social playground where you can easily find others who share your passions and interests.

Meetup events are casual, welcoming, and perfect for anyone new to town. You’ll find everything from laid-back coffee meetups to wild outdoor adventures. The offer is so vast! I’ve joined yoga classes, hiking groups, iPhone photography classes, and walks with dogs for other single 40+ folks.

If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, why not create your own group? It’s a fun way to build your community and connect with like-minded souls who share your vision. Meetups are a great way to discover what Asheville is made of and what locals love doing. You’ll enjoy the activities and the chance to connect!

3. Become a Volunteer

Volunteering as a newcomer to Asheville is not just a great way to give back – it’s also an awesome way to meet new people, connect with the community, and discover the heart of the city. Asheville’s all about that local love, and with so many nonprofits and community projects, you’ll have endless opportunities to get involved.

There are many organizations doing great work in Asheville, so I suggest you pick a cause dear to your heart and contact the nonprofits that foster it. From helping out at community gardens to working with animal shelters and food banks or supporting local arts and literacy programs, there’s a volunteer gig for every passion; even the entire family can volunteer together. 

Asheville’s warm and welcoming community makes volunteering a great way to forge meaningful friendships and feel more connected to the town. Plus, it’s a fun way to learn more about local culture and values while contributing to a cause you care about.

4. Join the Asheville Newcomers Club

The Asheville Newcomers Club, organized by the Trinity Episcopal Church, hosts several monthly meetings. It’s an excellent chance for women to make friends, learn about the area, and participate in enriching activities.  

Their meetings bring speakers who will discuss diverse topics related to the life and culture of Western North Carolina, while the clubs network with local nonprofits by volunteering and collecting and donating items for the community. 

The interest groups cover various activities, from hiking and walking groups to book clubs, games, gardening, etc. This is a great chance to get involved quickly with a community of fabulous local women who want to make an impact. 

5. Check Out ArtPlay Studio

Discover the magic of creativity at ArtPlay Studio and Gallery in the vibrant River Arts District. This lovely studio is your ticket to exploring the world of art in a fun, supportive atmosphere. Whether you’re a more seasoned artist or a beginner, ArtPlay offers a variety of classes and experiences designed to spark your imagination and nurture your creative spirit.

They offer individual and group workshops and classes, private experiences, art events for families and youth, and a fun art spa. But there’s more! Starting in the spring of 2025, ArtPlay Studio will launch beginner-friendly women’s art retreats. Imagine a space where you can deepen your artistic skills, connect with fellow creatives, and build lasting friendships. 

To get a taste of the creative experiences awaiting you, explore their past classes and workshops and subscribe to their newsletter to receive updates.  

6. Join an Exercise Group

Exercising with friends (or friends to be!) offers numerous benefits that enhance physical and emotional health. Exercising with people you know (or are getting to know) is more fun, and I find it motivates me to stay active because spending time with my friends enhances my mental health.

Asheville has all kinds of exercise groups. You can join gyms and studios and choose from so many options. Highland Brewing, one of my favorites, is a premiere 40-acre property sports facility hosting sand volleyball, golf, and running leagues, tournaments, and clubs. 

Asheville Sports and Social Club offers recreational sports leagues and social events for adults over 21. The club focuses on having fun, socializing, and making new friends. You can choose from kickball, dodgeball, volleyball, and bowling, among other sports, and you’ll be part of the team despite your abilities! 

Do you love riding your bike? Check out Asheville Mountain Haulers and explore the city with a diverse, fun group. Or, if you’re looking to dance your worries away, join Misa for a freeing Soul Power Dance session.

7. Take Time to Explore

I recently met someone who’s lived in North Asheville for four years and has yet to go to West Asheville. She was surprised to hear how cool the area is! Knowing the different zones of the town where you live helps you understand and love it better and deeper. 

There are so many sweet spots! West Asheville, for example, boasts a creative, artistic ambiance with a unique mix of shops, eateries, and colorful murals. Some call it “the real Asheville.” Go to find out why!

Montford is known for its well-preserved historic residences, big porches, and beautiful gardens. Strolling through this neighborhood offers a glimpse into Asheville’s past, with charming, shaded streets. North Asheville is ideal for families, offering a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere with excellent schools, parks, and lively neighborhood eateries and cafés. 

The list goes on, so reserve one afternoon a month to explore a different neighborhood!

8. Become a Certified Pollinator Advocate 

The Asheville Botanical Garden in North Asheville, just a few minutes from downtown, is an awesome spot to find peace without driving far. It has a short, easy trail perfect for kids, a shallow creek, and a cute gift shop. You’ll love it!

In addition, it offers many classes throughout the year designed to deepen one’s relationship with the natural environment. The new 12-class series focused on becoming a Certified Pollinator Advocate was very useful. 

Not only will you learn about pollinators, but you’ll also meet fellow plant enthusiasts who are as fabulous as they are green-thumbed. It’s the perfect combo of learning, nature, and new friendships.

9. Take a Lifelong Learning Class

Lifelong learning classes are essential for keeping our minds sharp and our spirits engaged throughout life. Embracing education as a continuous journey rather than a destination inspires us, keeps us active, and provides an opportunity to connect with others.

Asheville has several places where you can engage with classes. The award-winning Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNC Asheville offers one of the best learning communities. From classes and workshops to community service opportunities to group interest and wellness experiences, you’ll find something exciting to do.

Other great resources are ABTech continuing education, the Mountain Institute for Lifelong Learning, and the North Carolina Arboretum Adult & Continuing Education Classes.

10. Participate in the Most Iconic Experiences

The first thing we did in the first weeks after moving to Asheville was take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at the Folks Art Center. Moving here from another country with two toddlers and no community was a little stressful. Still, the breathtaking vistas and the area’s rich cultural heritage gave me peace, and I felt excited about our new place.

Jumping on a purple bus to join a Lazoom Tour made me realize this place would be fun and irreverent, just like me. Eccentric characters guide these legendary, award-winning comedy tours that so perfectly embody Asheville’s spirit. They continuously grow and expand their offerings. Check out their new guide, Flora Danderdilt, “an excommunicated aristocrat.”

Finally, the Asheville Drum Circle, held regularly in Pritchard Park downtown, is where locals and tourists meet for a fun, spontaneous party, capturing the essence of Asheville’s hospitality and creativity.

Congrats on making the big move to Asheville! We hope you love it here!