Blue Ridge Parkway Headquarters & Visitor Center Milepost 384
The Blue Ridge Parkway Headquarters and visitor center is located near Asheville North Carolina at milepost 384. Travelers can pick up free parkway maps, Blue Ridge Parkway outdoor guides, and tourist related brochures on hotels, tours, bed and breakfasts, art galleries, restaurants, and attractions. At this visitor center all aspects of the Blue Ridge Parkway are discussed such as construction, history, environmental concerns, ecosystems, and tourism. Some of the Blue Ridge Parkway exhibit displays include North Carolina minerals, and Parkway automobile touring. The visitor center houses a 70-seat theater, information and orientation services, and a retail shop offering books, apparel, CDs, DVDs, collectibles, souvenirs, and children’s items. It is also the site of numerous special events. Call 828-298-5330, ext. 303, for information on upcoming events here.
The film is called, “The Blue Ridge Parkway—America’s Favorite Journey”, a 24-minute film shown in high definition surround sound, uses breathtaking aerial photography and the story of a father-daughter motorcycle trip to introduce visitors to the natural and cultural heritage of the mountains and the history of the construction of the Parkway. It features craft artisans and traditional musicians from the region.
The building itself reflects the cutting edge of energy-saving technology. The LEED-certified structure incorporates active heating and cooling, radiant floor heating, a “green” roof, and other energy efficient features.
Exhibits focus on the history and heritage of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Western North Carolina. The visitor center also houses interactive kiosks which provide information on places to visit.
Hiking Trails
A 1.2 mile loop trail starts from the parking lot of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center and joins the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This is a moderate 45-minute hike, great for stretching legs after a road trip.
Contact Info
Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
Parkway Milepost 384
195 Hemphill Knob Road
Asheville, NC 28803
(828) 298-5330
Hours of Operation
Hours of operation are from 9 am to 5 pm daily, year-round.
The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
