Fifteen fun ways to chase away those rainy-day blahs.

There’s always something fun happening at this state-of-the-art facility located in downtown Brevard. Whether you want to find a good book to snuggle up with or take part in one of the regularly scheduled events (story times, music performances, craft classes), the Transylvania County Library is a great place to relax and explore.

If you love art, TCArts is the place for you. Here you’ll find a regular rotation of exhibits by local and regional artists. If you’re inspired to create works of your own, TCArts offers pottery classes and other opportunities to develop your artistic skills.

Check out great holiday performances at Brevard Music Center’s Parker Concert Hall, concerts from the Brevard Philharmonic, and regular live music at 185 King, among others.

This fascinating learning center is dedicated to the history of forest conservation and management in Pisgah National Forest. The Forest Discovery Center is filled with informative and interactive displays, including an old logging train and a helicopter simulator that takes you on a firefighting flight. To find out more about the center, go here.  Operated seasonally, the Forest Discovery Center will reopen for the 2022 season in April.

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This fascinating museum traces the history of those who’ve called Transylvania County home — from its settlement to today.  Full of artifacts, displays, and special exhibits, the Transylvania Heritage Museum is a great stop for those of all ages. From Nov 11 to Jan 15, the museum features the ever-popular A.T.O.M. exhibit, a 1960’s-era holiday extravaganza of aluminum Christmas trees and the gifts that might have been found beneath them: Barbie, bell bottoms and all things Beatlemania.  Click here for the groovy location and times.  

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If you or your traveling companions have energy to burn, Brevard Rock Gym is the place to be. Their inexpensive bouldering pass is a great way to work on your climbing skills while getting a good workout at the same time. Brevard Rock Gym also offers expert training and shoe rentals.

Brevard’s compact downtown is perfect for strolling. From home furnishings to handcrafts —  with there being over 17 art galleries and studios in and around downtown –  you’re certain to find that special something either for yourself or for someone you love. A wonderful selection of downtown eateries provides the perfect place to rest your feet and reenergize your search. The Heart of Brevard also offers a complete downtown shopping and dining guide to get you headed in the right direction.

There’s no easier way to take a walk back in time. Nestled near Pisgah National Forest on NC 280, the Allison-Deaver House provides visitors with a rare glimpse of life in Transylvania County in the 19th century. The oldest portion of this historic structure dates from 1815, making it the oldest standing frame house west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Find hours and helpful visitor information here.

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Joseph Silversteen was Transylvania County’s first industrialist (tanning and lumber). Today, his home, a 33-room Colonial Revival mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, houses a second-floor museum that transports you back in time to the early 1900’s. Find out more here.

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​Who says you can’t hike in the rain? As the English say, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.” So, if you’ve got the gear, brave the elements and take this magical short hike located at the Pisgah Ranger Station/Visitor Center located near the entrance to Pisgah National Forest on US 276. This loop trail winds its way into the forest and features a series of boardwalks and even a swinging cable bridge.  Afterwards, check out the gift shop and Visitor Center with its fascinating displays about the history of Pisgah National Forest.

For those intrepid souls who are undaunted by a little rainy weather, and want to remain downtown, the Sculpture Walk is a great option. It consists of 25 sculptures celebrating regional wildlife and our arts culture created by notable local artists. Pick up Sculpture Walk brochures at our Visitor Center. Bonus tip: Stop by Red Wolf Gallery and ask for Ann DerGara – she’s the artist who was the catalyst for this amazing project and can share all kinds of interesting facts about its history and genesis.

When the skies turn dark, there’s not a moment to spare – strike out for Rockin’ Bowl of Brevard for a fun afternoon. Split your time between bowling, billiards and arcade games. And don’t forget their full-service restaurant and bar with freshly made pizza, burgers, wraps and creative cocktails. Score the inside scoop here.

If your explorations in DuPont State Recreational Forest or Gorges State Park are interrupted by inclement weather, you have two awesome options that are handy for waiting out the weather. Charming Cedar Mountain, just a few miles from the entrance to DuPont, offers drinking and dining options along with inviting retail shops worth checking out. Historic Toxaway is convenient to Gorges State Park and features several dining and refreshment options, along with an array of shops and galleries.

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Thar’s gold in them thar hills…and rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, aquamarines and a whole lot more. At Crystal Mountain Gem Mine, in downtown Brevard, step up to the 58-foot-long indoor water flume and start panning for treasures. Crystal Mountain Gem Mine also boasts a retail shop that features a wide array of precious and semi-precious stones and a staff that can educate you on the specimens they’ve collected from around the globe. At Pisgah Forest Gem Mine, located near the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, the treasures are equally alluring. Although located outside, the outdoor water flume is covered, so you’ll stay nice and dry as you pan for treasures. Transylvania County offers an array of additional gem mines, including Bear Tracks, Log Cabin, Mountain Treasures, and Whitewater Equestrian Center.  For more information, visit:  explorebrevard.com

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