Asheville a top autumn destination in North Carolina: See other WNC spots in this report

WorldAtlas has released a list of nine best places to visit in North Carolina this fall – and this time, most items on the list are located in Western N.C., with Asheville included.

WorldAtlas, founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife Chris Woolwine-Moen, publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics and travel.

Writers of the report praise N.C. for “enticing” fall weather and, of course, vibrant foliage throughout the season. Here’s what WorldAtlas says about Asheville, plus the other locations on its list of must-sees.

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Fall activities in Asheville

Of the nine entries, Asheville is easily the least nature-centric on the list — though certainly not without the fall foliage visitors look for. In fact, “leaf peepers,” the designated label for travelers aiming to observe the changing colors in person, are known for being responsible in part for the town’s booming tourist industry.

All the same, WorldAtlas has other praise for Asheville beyond the famous leaves. The report appreciates the town’s arts scene, architecture, museums and galleries.

WorldAtlas also mentions a few of its favorite fall activities and events:

• Eliada Fall Festival and Corn Maze – A festival with a cause, 100% of the proceeds from this fall event go to benefit children, youth and families supported by nonprofit Eliada. Open weekends from Sept. 20 to Oct. 27 this year, the fall festival features a number of festive options such as lawn games, hay rides, food trucks, pumpkins for purchase and more.
• Oktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K in the River Arts District – With a scenic Asheville race route and promised post-run festivities featuring craft brews the city is famous for, the half marathon and 5k is a perfect choice for sporty fall fun. Run through classic locales such as the River Arts District and historic Montford neighborhood, then celebrate with a beverage at Hi-Wire Brewing Beer Garden. This year’s race takes place on Sept. 28.

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Top fall destinations in NC

The full list of best fall destinations from WorldAtlas:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Asheville
• Pisgah National Forest
• Chimney Rock State Park
• Hanging Rock State Park
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
• Forest Heritage Scenic Byway
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Uwharrie National Forest

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Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.