Things to Do on a Day Trip to Flat Rock, North Carolina

Flat Rock, NC is the perfect place to take a day trip from the larger North Carolina cities nearby. Flat Rock is a village about 30 miles south of Asheville, and it’s even closer to Greenville, Hendersonville, and the border of South Carolina. There are plenty of fun things to do here, so if you only have 24 hours like I did, you’ll want to make the most of your time.

Here are some of the best things to do in Flat Rock, North Carolina!

None of the experiences in this post were sponsored. All opinions are my own.

Pick Apples at Sky Top Orchard

If you come to Flat Rock, you must visit Sky Top Orchard. You can pick a variety of different apples on your own, or buy them pre-picked.

Since we visited in November, the Pick-Your-Own season had ended. No more apples were on the trees, but there were plenty to choose from at the fruit stand.

I know the point of an apple orchard is, obviously, to pick apples. But I was most excited for a different reason: the freshly made apple cider donuts.

I kept hearing great reviews about these fresh donuts, and they didn’t disappoint!

Inside the check-in area is a gift shop where you can buy delicious local jams, jellies, and honey. You can also find other yummy treats such as a frozen apple cider slushy, kettle corn, and of course, the donuts.

Once you’re finished sampling the goodies in the fruit stand area, check out the rest of the orchard. Even if you can’t pick apples, Sky Top provides some beautiful mountain views past the apple trees.

When we visited in the fall, some of the trees still had their gorgeous fall leaves. Even though we couldn’t pick any apples, of course we had to have a photoshoot!

If you visit Sky Top Orchard at other seasons and times of day, there are activities such as hayrides, a bamboo forest to explore, and a pond where you can feed the ducks.

Eat at Honey & Salt

If you’re not too full from eating donuts and apples, Honey & Salt is a great place to eat breakfast, brunch, or lunch. This cute little restaurant provides locally and organically grown foods. They have a variety of pastries and full meal options.

I opted to get the french toast, and it was very good! You can’t see from the picture, but the bread was so thick and soft. I couldn’t finish it all!

Once you’ve finished eating, you can do a bit of shopping at the local boutiques next door. I got some really cute souvenirs and gifts at The Wrinkled Egg and Dogwood shops.

Hike to Famous Waterfalls

North Carolina is known for having beautiful waterfalls, and Flat Rock is only minutes away from some gorgeous waterfall hikes. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and didn’t get to see any waterfalls. Some are easy to get to, and some require a hike. Several of the hikes and waterfalls in the area were recommended to us, and if I get to go back to Flat Rock, I’ll make it a point to see them!

Some of the more famous falls in the area include Triple Falls, High Falls, and Hooker Falls. In fact, Triple Falls was featured in The Hunger Games and The Last of the Mohicans movies.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Flat Rock

If you plan to spend the night in Flat Rock, I highly recommend staying at The Lodge at Flat Rock. This mountain lodge has a very cozy feeling to it. Even in mid-November, it was already decorated for Christmas, which made it feel like we were in a Hallmark movie set in a mountain lodge!

The staff went above and beyond in hospitality. Although I only booked the room 3 hours before our arrival, they had a personalized note with mints waiting on my bed!

We booked a Studio Suite which included 2 double beds and a full kitchen. At the time it was very affordable, but I suggest looking at their current rates if you plan to book a stay.

The rooms were so cozy, and the beds were so comfortable! I also can’t forget to mention the complimentary breakfast. It was very good and had plenty of options to choose from, even with pandemic restrictions.

I can’t say enough good things about The Lodge at Flat Rock, and if I’m ever in the area, I’d love to stay there again!

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Flat Rock is definitely worth a trip if you’re in the area. Even with less than 24 hours, my itinerary was packed, and I didn’t even get to do all the things I wanted to. I highly recommend spending a day or two in this charming mountain town.

And if you’re headed to Asheville, NC, check out my guide to visiting the Biltmore Estate at Christmas time. Whether you’re visiting during the holidays or not, my post has plenty of interesting photos and helpful tips.

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