Just don't want NNY to automatically add 20 degrees to an usually warm January and expect really warm weather in April. It can be warm and cold in April - and on consecutive days. Last year there was 2 inches of snow overnight during the last week of April - and 7 inches of snow total during the month of April. In either case, the grotto pool at the Grove Park will be a lovely oasis!

Meant "unusually" warm. Sorry.

If you don't mind driving, I'd head up toward Banner Elk and Boone for the day. You will see some of the prettiest mountain country in NC. If it were my trip, I'd make early dinner reservations at the restaurant at the Mast Farm Inn. Truly delightful. Book early so you won't be driving back to Asheville too late.

http://www.mastfarminn.com/index.html

Hendersonville would be a nice place to drive for lunch and more shopping. Here's a link to April events in the area.
http://www.historichendersonville.org/april.htm

You are getting there too late to tour the HGTV Dream Home at Lake Lure (ends on the 7th). I was hoping something good was at the Flat Rock Playhouse.

Anyway, Hendersonville would be a nice place to eat and spend a few hours.

I returned this guide book to its owner over the holidays, but DO consider ordering it for your trip. Here's a link to the review and order info on amazon.com. It's one of the best written guide books I've ever seen - The Underground Asheville Guide Book

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/096...e&n=283155