One of the best ways to spend the day in the Asheville area without spending a lot of money is to visit Hot Springs NC.  It is just north of Asheville (google search Hot Springs Spa NC).

First thing Saturday morning go online to their website and call to book a tub.  They have a tub large enough for 12 adults and many for 5.  I really like tub #5, #9 and the really big tub but cannot remember the number #15 maybe?  Anyway the ladies at the spa are super nice.  A tub for three is about $25 dollars for everyone for a one hour soak!  After you book your tub get your hiking gear and swimwear together, pack a really delicious lunch, get some beer, wine, soda pop or whatever you like into a cooler and hit the road. The directions from Asheville are below.  The drive is beautiful and on the way be sure to stop at the Steady Eddy Coffee and Espresso Shoppe!  Awesome Coffee right on the Laurel river.  You can park along the river and hike a really cool trail, eat lunch, watch the rafters and hang out for a few hours before your tub appointment.  Then head into hot springs about 5 miles from the Steady Eddy.  The spa is on the right.  If you still have time walk over to the rivers edge to the far right of the spa and enjoy a large beach area where you can have a few beers and take in the sun.  Head into the main spa about 15 min before your appointment so you can change and use the bathroom!  Enjoy your soak.  When your done leave the spa and go to the right toward the tiny town of Hot Springs.  The Rock Bottom Pub is on the right!  Enjoy!  Let me know how it went and be sure to bring a bag for wet bathing suits and a change of clean clothes!  Cheers, Eco Mama

Near Asheville use exit 53B to 1-240 west. Go 6 miles on 1-240. Take exit 4A to I-26 (former-Highway 19/23) North toward Weaverville. Go 9 miles, take exit #19 (sign shows Hot Springs). This exit takes you to Highway 25/70 North toward Marshall. Follow Highway 25/70 north about 24 miles to Hot Springs, North Carolina. The campground is located at the entrance to the town just as you cross the bridge that hovers over the French Broad River. The resort-spa & campground are located at the entrance to the town coming from this direction.