Going Local-Asheville

A few weeks ago,
we headed out on another day trip.
This time, our destination was Asheville,
which is about an hour and a half from our home.
The drive was pleasant, and the view of the looming mountains
made us grateful to be residents of this magnificent state.

Our first stop was Sow True Seeds, right downtown.
Although I had written ahead to let them know we were coming,
our wires got crossed.
We drove up to discover that the storefront
was closed on weekends during the summer.
Bummer.

It didn't stop me from taking a few shots 
of their gorgeous gardens out front.
Can you just imagine the pollinator parties going on here?

Practically around the corner, we found this fascinating place.
Don't let the humble facade fool you.

Inside were scads of untold treasures.

The young artisans demonstrated and narrated each step in the process.
Big K and I could have spent much of the afternoon there,
mesmerized by the magic unfolding before our eyes.

It was nothing less than amazing to see pieces of glass
being transformed into beautiful and functional pieces of art.

Just look at some of the contributions...

Incredible, right?
Big K and I bought a Christmas ornament,
not that we will need a memento to remember our visit.
This place alone is worth a drive from just about anywhere.
Lexington Glassworks' website can be found here.

There was so much to see and so little time.
Next on our agenda was visiting an antique car museum for the boys.
This little gem was a place worthy of spending some time.

Nestled in Historic Grovewood Village,
the car museum was just one of the features of this quaint getaway.

The assortment included vintage automobiles 
from the early 1900s up through the 1950's.
All vehicles are in running order and treated with kid gloves.
The boys were in their sweet spot.

The jewel in the collection 
was this 1922 American LaFrance fire truck.

To our surprise, 
admission was free,
although there is a donation box near the entrance.
We appreciate the time and attention it takes
to provide a place like this for others to enjoy.

The grounds of the village were a delight to stroll.
With artists' studios nearby,
we were able to joyfully witness their creative offerings.

Beautiful gardens surround the village,
and entice one to linger.

The final stop on our Asheville tour
was the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center.

This gorgeous LEED-Certified building houses special events,
visitor information, a theatre, and a retail shop. 

You can find displays describing the history of the Parkway's construction,
as well as artifacts from the project.
What a fantastic homeschooling field trip!

We found a vista not too far away.

The Parkway itself is another day trip we hope to take,

maybe closer to fall, when leaves are turning.

There is so much more to see in Asheville,
so we know we'll return.

Where'd you go on your last day trip?