Nestled in the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Marshall, North Carolina, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its charming downtown, vibrant arts scene and stunning natural landscapes, Marshall offers an array of things to do for those seeking adventure, culture, and a touch of magic.
My beautiful cousin, Lara, was getting married just outside of Asheville, so my family of 18+ got an amazing AirBnB in Marshall, not far from the venue. We stayed in the Marshall House Inn, a mansion built in 1903 overlooking the town. It ended up being the perfect house for us to all stay in and be together for the weekend. Lots of charm, plenty of space, a game room and fire pit, and a short walk to town to grab a bite to eat or a morning latte.
I spent most of the time in this cute little town exploring every nook and cranny (which wasn’t much), but I loved every minute of it. So, if you are looking for a quiet getaway along the French Broad River in the middle of the mountains of Asheville, Marshall is where you should go! Here’s 10 things to do in Marshall, North Carolina:
1. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Marshall
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Marshall’s historic downtown. The quaint streets are lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Stop by the Madison County Arts Council to admire local art or catch a live performance. Don’t forget to visit the historic courthouse, a beautiful architectural landmark that adds to the town’s vintage charm.
2. Enjoy a Scenic River Walk Along the French Broad
The French Broad River flows gracefully through Marshall, providing a picturesque morning or evening walk setting. The riverwalk offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot by the river while soaking in the natural beauty.
3. Savor Local Flavors at a Farm-to-Table Restaurant
Marshall is home to several delightful farm-to-table restaurants that celebrate local produce and culinary creativity. Treat your taste buds to a delicious latte at Zuma Coffee, a beloved local eatery known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable dishes and drinks. The Main St. Cafe is where we ate EVERY morning. It has super friendly staff and delicious home-cooked meals. The Old Marshall Jail Hotel was a fun place to eat dinner and provided lots of history about the town and the building itself. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a romantic dinner, the fresh, locally sourced ingredients are sure to impress. I heard the Star Diner was fabulous, but unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to eat here. The decor outside was awesome, though!
4. Explore the Arts at Flow Gallery
Art enthusiasts will love visiting Flow Gallery, a local art gallery showcasing the work of regional artists. From paintings and pottery to jewelry and textiles, the gallery features a diverse range of art that reflects the vibrant culture of Marshall. Browse the unique pieces together and maybe even pick out a special piece to commemorate your date.
5. Go Thrifting and Boutique Shopping
You know I love a good thrift – and Marshall did not disappoint. My Sister’s Attic had an amazing bargain deal where you filled a bag of clothes for $5. Of course, I spent a good amount of time filling my bag there. Later in the day, I brought my Mom into the store to do the same, and we filled even more bags. Marshall was also home to a few fun boutique stores featuring local jewelry, handbags, knick-knacks, and metaphysical items that were fun to browse through.
6. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its scenic beauty, and a drive along this iconic route is a romantic experience you won’t forget. Enjoy the winding roads, breathtaking vistas, and the opportunity to stop at various overlooks and trails along the way. Pack a camera and capture the memories of your scenic adventure.
7. Float Down the French Broad River
The day after the wedding, we went on a celebratory float down the French Broad River. Not sure how many miles we did, but it lasted a good 4 hours. We had 42 of us floating down the river in celebration of the newlyweds, and it was so fun and peaceful; I can see why they love living in Asheville and doing this as a weekend activity. You can easily find float rental companies in the area, but honestly, you can easily pick up a $15 float from Wal-Mart and have the same experience if you were to rent their float for $50. So, keep that in mind if you’d like to save a good chunk of change and still have a great time.
8. Unwind with a Massage
After a day of exploring, unwind with a relaxing couples’ massage. Local wellness centers like Hot Springs Resort & Spa offer soothing treatments that will leave you both feeling rejuvenated. A spa day is a perfect way to relax and connect with your partner in a tranquil setting.
9. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery
For a more laid-back date, visit one of the local wineries or breweries. Sample a variety of wines or craft beers and enjoy the cozy ambiance. It’s a great way to relax, chat, and enjoy each other’s company.
10. Take a Scenic Train Ride
Experience the charm of Marshall from a different perspective with a scenic train ride. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers excursions that showcase the beauty of the region. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey through the picturesque landscapes. Sadly, I didn’t get to do this while in Marshall. BUT, the train would go through the town every morning at 2:30am. The first night it woke me up because I wasn’t expecting it, but after a day or two, I wouldn’t even notice it! I suppose it just added to the ambiance that is Marshall.
Marshall, North Carolina, is a town that effortlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for those looking for peace and quiet. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, savoring local cuisine, or immersing yourselves in the arts, you’ll find that Marshall has something special to offer everyone. So, plan your next trip in this enchanting town and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Cheers!