The summer of 2011 has been hot and humid, but the mountains of Western North Carolina offer a somewhat cooler sanctuary from the heat. The city of Asheville, like a jewel in the crown of the emerald forests and cool crystal creeks of these glorious mountains offers many activities that will make your whole family forget about the summer heat completely. Experience the beach of the NC mountain region in fabulous Lake Lure and Chimney Rock (only 20 miles from Asheville). Many visitors to the area prefer the swift cold waters of the Rocky Broad River with massive rocks for basking in the sun over the calm cool waters of nearby Lake Lure with it's sandy beaches.
Other popular ways to cool down include visits to the many local breweries and brew-pubs. One of the newest additions to our lineup of craft breweries is located in the first block of North Lexington Avenue, the Lexington Avenue Brewery offers a standard lineup of naturally brewed delicacies including an ipa, a Belgian pale ale, and my personal favorite, a chocolate stout. Touting an ever changing selection of unique brews, and a 99 foot long bar, the "LAB" has live music on Friday and Saturday nights as well as most Wednesday nights. Check out their website for a schedule of their live music offerings in downtown Asheville.
The music scene in Asheville is always growing as evidenced by the purchase of a building at the north end of downtown in May 2010 by legendary Moog Music, for their new headquarters. The Moog Synthesizer (one of the world's first electronic instruments) was included in the July 2011 Popular Mechanics as one of the 101 gadgets that changed the world. The first Asheville Moogfest will be held in numerous venues in downtown Asheville on the 28th through 30th of October. See the official moogfest website for details and tickets. Don't forget to book your accommodations for Moogfest at one of our lovely downtown condos or vacation homes, some within walking distance to all the festivities.
