Summer camp is just for young folks, right? Not anymore! These days, over-60 travelers can enjoy a summer camp-esque experience. Seasoned readers will know that I’m not much of a rough-it kind of girl, but I’ve found glamping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without compromising comfort and convenience. My recent trip to Asheville, NC showed me that summer camp vibes don’t have to mean mosquitoes and uncomfortable lodgings! In fact, Asheville is an amazing place for multigenerational travel—there’s something for everyone! Here’s how I spent my glamping weekend trip with Visit Asheville.
Go on a City Comedy Tour
Start your weekend in Asheville with lots of laughs! LaZoom’s city comedy tour is the perfect mix of hilarious antics and good old sightseeing. The tour guides were so entertaining, and I loved getting a glimpse of all the beautiful neighborhoods. After your tour, grab lunch or dinner at the exquisite Sunset Terrace restaurant.
Take a Jeep Tour in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Do you have a taste for adventure? Try a jeep tour! Asheville Jeep Tours takes groups and solo travelers on a dazzling drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’ll get to see some of the incredible scenery North Carolina has to offer all while hearing about the area’s history from knowledgeable and personable local guides.
Spend a Day at the Biltmore
You can’t visit Asheville without a stop at the marvelous Biltmore. This historic home built by George Vanderbilt is the biggest private home in America and sits on 8,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You should definitely take an audio tour of the house, but beyond that, you can also indulge in a few other activities on the grounds. Here are my favorites:
- Archery—Shooting a bow and arrow is no joke, but it sure did enhance the summer camp vibes. Maybe with some practice I can tone up my arms!
- Horseback Riding—The Biltmore estate is home to some of the most stunning horseback riding trails I’ve ever ridden. The wonderful staff will help you choose a horse to match your skill level and take you on an unforgettable ride.
If you can’t get enough of the Biltmore, you can even spend the night! After dinner at Cedric’s Tavern, check into the luxurious inn on the grounds. It serves as an excellent home base for all of these on-site attractions:
- Land rover experiences
- Sporting clays lessons
- Shotgun sports clinic
- Farmyard visits and tractor rides
- Tandem bike rides
- Craft demonstrations
- Mindfulness walks
- Mandala making
- Kayaking
- Guided raft trips
- Falconry experiences
- Bluebird walks
- Carriage rides
- Morning yoga
- Winery tours
- Red wine and chocolate tastings
Book a Foraging Tour
The best part about traveling is having new experiences. While we often think of these things happening in far-off countries like Namibia or South Korea, you can try something new right here in the U.S! The No Taste Like Home foraging tour is all about discovering abundance and getting back to nature. Our guide was amazing and pointed us to 13 different plants to forage and taste. This activity earns a full five stars from me!
Complete Your Weekend With a Movie
When you need a break from the great outdoors, plan a stop at the Cinemark Bistro. During my stay in Asheville, this theater was showing the new movie Summer Camp, starring Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates, and Alfre Woodard. It was filmed locally in Asheville and is SO much fun. Go see it and you too will be inspired to enjoy a Summer Camp experience.
Stay at the Asheville River Cabins
While you can definitely enjoy Asheville from a traditional hotel, I highly recommend trying out the gorgeous Asheville River Cabins! This lodging makes you feel like you’re a part of the world’s fanciest summer camp. The cabins are close to lots of attractions, shopping, and restaurants, and the views of the French Broad River from your room just cannot be beat! Make sure to pencil in some free time to go hiking in the area.
Know Any Other Glamping Destinations?
Even if you aren’t an outdoorsy person, Asheville simply has to be on your to-visit list! This U.S. destination has something for everyone, including historic properties, hiking, nature, and plenty of good food. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or prefer a quaint getaway, you’re never too old for this convenient, comfortable, summer camp experience! See more of my Asheville trip on Instagram.