Brevard is a great basecamp for exploring Western North Carolina and nearby South Carolina. In under two hours you can reach major attractions — from Asheville’s galleries and the Biltmore to waterfalls, scenic Parkway overlooks, and the lively downtown of Greenville, SC.
Asheville, NC
Asheville is the nearest city for culture, restaurants, breweries, and the Biltmore Estate. It’s a good half-day or full-day trip for dining, gallery hopping, or a house/mansion tour. What to do: Walk downtown, visit the Folk Art Center on the Parkway, tour the Biltmore Estate, eat at local farm-to-table restaurants, and visit breweries.
Hendersonville & Flat Rock
Charming main streets, seasonal apple picking, and historic Flat Rock offer a quieter, classic mountain-town feel. Nice for half-day shopping or a relaxed afternoon. What to do: Browse antique shops, visit a local orchard in season, walk Flat Rock’s historic sites, and enjoy a slower pace than Asheville.
Highlands & Cashiers, NC
These towns offer upscale dining, galleries, and high-elevation trails not far from Brevard — ideal for a scenic drive or a leisurely day exploring waterfalls and viewpoints. What to do: Hike short trails, visit local shops and galleries, and enjoy lakeside views or a longer scenic drive through the mountains.
Greenville, SC
Greenville has a compact, well-designed downtown with restaurants, public art, and an active riverfront. It’s a good city-day option south of Brevard. What to do: Walk Falls Park, hit the Main Street dining scene, visit local museums, and stroll the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Drive time: roughly 45–50 miles / ~1 hour+ depending on route.