travel guide asheville nc

The PERFECT 3 Days in Asheville Itinerary [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for great ideas on how to spend a long weekend in Asheville? Our 3 day Asheville itinerary has it all!

For travelers in the USA looking for charming cities filled with cool attractions and surrounded by nature, Asheville NC is the perfect place to visit. 

Asheville North Carolina is such an amazing city because it combines culture, art, history, and nature. There are so many mountains, national parks, waterfalls, and hiking trails to see in addition to the landmarks in town.

So if you’re heading to this laid-back city in the mountains and wondering how to spend a weekend in Asheville, this itinerary is designed to help you out. 

Whether you’re road-tripping the US, traveling solo, enjoying a weekend getaway with friends, or looking for a romantic couples vacation, Asheville has plenty of activities to suit your needs. 

If you need inspiration about how to spend 3 days in Asheville NC, read on!

Table of Contents

Botanical Gardens

Asheville museums and landmarks, river arts district, lunch at a brewery, biltmore estate, day 1 evening – relaxing, or more breweries, hike mount mitchell, north carolina arboretum, linville gorge, day 2 evening – enjoy some live music, craggy gardens and craggy pinnacle hike, spas in asheville, best asheville restaurants, when is the best time to visit asheville nc, getting around asheville nc, best hostel in asheville: bon paul & sharky’s, best mid-range hotel in asheville: cambria hotel, best luxury hotel in asheville: the inn on biltmore estate, how to spend 3 days in asheville itinerary.

This 3 days in Asheville itinerary will start with a day of sightseeing in downtown Asheville, plus 2 days of enjoying nature like the Pisgah National Forest, Blue Ridge Parkway, French Broad River, and more.

If you are driving your own car, head straight into Asheville and start exploring. 

If you are arriving at Asheville airport, either pick up a rental car, or take the  local airport bus  into downtown for just $1. 

Once you arrive, it’s time to start exploring!

Check out this list of the 21 best things to do in Asheville for more ideas.

Day 1 in Asheville – Sightseeing in Downtown

Your first day visiting Asheville will focus on the centrally located highlights of the city. 

There are so many cool attractions in downtown Asheville, so spend the day enjoying the heart of the city on foot.

Day 1 Morning – Downtown Asheville NC

Start your 3 days in Asheville by getting acquainted with the city center. You can cover most of the area on foot, though there are local buses to help you get around the longer distances.

For example, the Biltmore Estate is over an hour’s walk from downtown, so catching a local bus will save you some time.  Check the local transit website  to help you plan your bus routes for your weekend in Asheville NC.

The Botanical Gardens open at sunrise, so if you’re feeling ambitious you could head out here to watch the sun come up. Otherwise, meander over here whenever you’re ready.

A peaceful stroll through the plants, flower gardens, and greenery is the perfect way to start the day. Once you’ve had your fill of the  Botanical Gardens , head into the heart of downtown Asheville.

It’s a 30-minute walk from the gardens to downtown or a 4-minute Uber ride. Or take the N1 Local bus route.

• Address:  151 W.T. Weaver Blvd
• Hours:  Sunrise to Sunset
• Cost:  Free

There are a few great museums in Asheville that are worth checking out. You can try to hit them all, or just pick the ones that interest you the most.

The  Asheville Art Museum  has an impressive collection of American art from the 20th and 21st Centuries. The  Asheville Science Museum  has lots of interactive exhibits about the natural world.

Alternatively, the  Asheville Pinball Museum  is a unique place where you can play antique pinball machines and learn about their history.

In addition to museums, downtown Asheville has other notable sights to check out on your self-guided walking tour.

Grove Arcade  is one of the USA’s first shopping malls. This historic site boasts lots of impressive architecture. Just behind Grove Arcade is the  Thomas Wolfe Memorial , another historic landmark that celebrates the life of the famous American writer.

Pack Square Park  is a green space in the city that hosts local events.

All of these museums and attractions are within walking distance of each other, so I recommend just spending a few hours going for a stroll downtown and checking out the attractions that excite you most.

READ NEXT: While you’re putting together your plans for North Carolina, be sure to read our post on the best things to do in Charlotte !

Next up on the first day of your Asheville itinerary is the  River Arts District . From the center of the city, it’s a 25-minute walk to the River Arts District, otherwise, it’s a quick ride on the W2 local bus route.

Once you arrive, enjoy browsing through all the art galleries and meeting some of the local artists. Full of street art, great food, and a creative atmosphere, this neighborhood of Asheville is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s a must when exploring downtown!

After all this walking around and sightseeing, you’ve probably worked up an appetite so it’s time to start thinking about lunch.

Continuing further south along the east coast? Check out this article: The Perfect 3 Days in Atlanta Itinerary

Day 1 Afternoon – Breweries and Biltmore Estate

For lunch on day 1, try out your first Asheville brewery. This city is known for its spectacular breweries and craft beer scene, so you’ll want to try as many as you can!

There are a few of the most popular Asheville breweries right in the River Arts District, including Wedge Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing Company, and Hi-Wire Brewing. Grab a beer (or a few) and enjoy your afternoon.

The River Arts District also has lots of amazing cafes, bakeries, and restaurants if you’re not into the brewery scene.

The next stop on your 3 days in Asheville itinerary is the Biltmore Estate, one of the most famous attractions in the city.

Located in the southern end of the city, it’s a bit out of the way from downtown so either drive your rental car, take an Uber, or ride one of the following local bus routes: S1, S3, S5, S6.

Once you arrive at Biltmore Estate, the former home of George Vanderbilt, spend the rest of the afternoon admiring this stunning mansion and all its 8,000 acres of gardens and amenities. Embark on a Biltmore House Tour to ensure you see it all.

In addition to touring the mansion itself, you can explore the tiny, charming towns of Antler Hill Village or Biltmore Village.

You could also do some wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery, stroll through the Italian Garden, or visit the Observatory. Biltmore Village truly has so much to offer, so enjoy your afternoon here and really soak in all the elegance of “America’s Largest Home”.

Visit the official website  of the historic Biltmore Estate for more information about the hours, attractions, tours, directions, parking, events, and more.

Your weekend in Asheville has been off to an amazing start, so you may want to take it easy on your first night. The next day of this 3 days in Asheville itinerary will take you out into the mountains of western North Carolina for some hiking and exploring nature, so you’ll want to conserve your energy.

Grab some dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants downtown and get a good night’s sleep. You can find so many cuisines in the area, including Japanese, Indian, French, Mexican, and of course, classic American pub fare. Just wander around and find a place that calls to you.

However, if you’re one of those people who loves to live life to the fullest and you want to go out tonight, there are more great breweries near downtown that you can hit up for some food and beers.

Wicked Weed Brewing Pub and White Labs Brewing Company are two of the best options.

Day 2 in Asheville – Pisgah National Forest

One of the most stunning areas of natural beauty near Asheville NC is the Pisgah National Forest. If you’re a real nature lover, this forest is a must-see when you visit Asheville.

Morning and Afternoon – Hiking, Waterfalls, and Natural Scenery

Spend day 2 of your 3 days in Asheville itinerary in the Pisgah National Forest. Though the forest is just outside of Asheville NC, I would recommend renting a car for today because it’s much easier to get around the wilderness with your own vehicle.

This lush forest is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. Because there is so much to see and do in the mountains outside Asheville North Carolina, I’ll provide a few different options that you can choose from.

As you’ll be spending most of the day in nature, I recommend bringing a packed lunch and some snacks to hold you over until dinner.

This activity is only for the really fit and adventurous travelers who love hiking and a challenge.

Mount Mitchell is the highest mountain in the Appalachian Mountains, so climbing it is no easy feat. The  Mount Mitchell Hiking Trail  is 6 miles long and traverses steep, challenging terrain. It can take about 8 hours to hike to the top and back.

However, this is one of the best hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a real treat for those who really love hiking. The trail begins at Black Mountain Campground in Mount Mitchell State Park, about a 1-hour drive northwest of Asheville.

This is a full-day activity for those who want to tackle it. For those of you who prefer less challenging activities in nature during your Asheville vacation, here are some other things to do in Pisgah National Forest.

Heading south from Asheville NC will bring you to even more attractions in the forest, many of which are more mellow than hiking Mount Mitchell.

The North Carolina Arboretum is an incredible collection of gardens, exhibitions, and walking trails that showcase the best plant species of the Appalachian Mountains.

The biodiversity on display here is fascinating. So while you’re exploring the forests outside Asheville, stop in the  NC Arboretum  to learn something new.

• Address:  100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way
• Hours:  8 am – 9 pm (hours vary based on season and exhibition)
• Cost:  Admission is free but there is a $16 parking fee for a standard vehicle

The southern corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains is also home to lots of gorgeous waterfalls. One of the most popular is  Looking Glass Falls . Located right next to the main road, you don’t have to hike far to reach this beautiful waterfall.

Just drive along Highway 276 and park at the parking area for Looking Glass Falls. Just a short walk away is this stunning waterfall!

Sliding Rock  is another amazing place to visit in Pisgah National Forest. It is also located along Highway 276 and is just a short walk from the designated parking lot.

The perfect place for a hot, sunny day,  Sliding Rock  is rightfully named. It is a long, wide, somewhat flat waterfall that tumbles down a smooth, slanted rock. So it’s like a big natural waterslide, and you can spend some time splashing around in the freshwater.

Both of these waterfalls are located about 45 minutes drive south of Asheville.

For more of the USA’s best mountains, check out the best things to do in Denver, Colorado

This area of the Pisgah National Forest is absolutely breathtaking.  Linville Gorge  is a rugged wilderness area full of unique rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic lookouts.

While Mount Mitchell is the most difficult activity, and the waterfalls are easy, peaceful activities, hiking in Linville Gorge is an intermediate activity perfect for those who want to hike and see cool views without taking on anything too strenuous.

There are lots of hikes in this national park to choose from.  Babel Tower Trail, Hawksbill Mountain Trail,  and  Linville Falls Trail  are moderate-level day hikes. The latter is only 2.8 miles and takes you to a waterfall.

Easy, 1-mile hikes include  Pine Gap Trail  and  Cabin Trail , both of which are leisurely and enjoyable.

Chimney Rock  is one of the most famous rock formations in the area. There are a few  Chimney Rock hiking trails  that bring you here, including the Hickory Nut Falls Trail, the Outcroppings Trail, and the Four Seasons Trail.

For a real treat, consider booking a  helicopter tour of Chimney Rock . You can get a bird’s eye view of the sprawling forest, mountains, and unique rock shapes.

Once you’ve done some hikes and seen some waterfalls, drive back into Asheville to continue your weekend trip with a fun night out.

Aside from great restaurants and breweries with outdoor seating, Asheville has lots of amazing options for live music.

Whether you want to head to an actual concert venue and catch a ticketed event, or you just want a casual meal with a live performance in the background, spend your second night in Asheville enjoying the nightlife.

For a more casual setting, head to one of the following restaurants that offer live music:

• Jack of the Wood Celtic pub
• The One Stop Bar and Kitchen at Asheville Music Hall
• Off the Wagon Piano Bar
• Salvage Station
• The Grey Eagle

If you want to enjoy an actual concert, musical, comedy show, or other performance, check out the following venues:

• The Boiler Room
• Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
• Orange Peel
• Isis Music Hall
• Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre
• Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Wherever you decide to go, live music is a super fun way to spend a night during your weekend in Asheville itinerary.

Day 3 in Asheville – Blue Ridge Parkway and More Outdoor Adventures

The last day of your weekend in Asheville NC will be spent soaking in more of the natural beauty. Having a rental car is also a good idea for today because you’ll be tackling the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the USA’s most scenic drives.

Day 3 Morning – Yoga or Kayaking

If you’re feeling a little foggy from last night, you can start the day with a refreshing yet peaceful activity to clear the mind.

Asheville NC has some lovely yoga studios where you can book in for a morning flow.

Hit up Asheville Yoga Center in downtown or West Asheville Yoga for a class.

Or if you want a more unique experience, book a morning yoga tour with Asheville Wellness Tours and do yoga outside on top of a mountain.

This guided tour will take you up into the Blue Ridge Mountains for a quick hike and a yoga session atop the mountain.

READ NEXT: Be sure to plan your trip to Nashville, Tennessee with our Perfect 3-Day Nashville Itinerary !

If yoga isn’t your thing, consider starting your day with a kayaking session.

The French Broad River flows through downtown Asheville North Carolina and is an iconic part of this beautiful city.

To get out on the river, book a tour with local guides . They will provide you with a kayak, lifevest, and any other equipment, and they will take you out on the river for a nice paddle.

Whether you choose to kayak or do yoga, I highly recommend making the most of your last morning in Asheville North Carolina by getting active in nature.

Day 3 Afternoon – Blue Ridge Parkway

After a wholesome morning on the last day of your Asheville trip, head to one of the most scenic drives in North Carolina and the entire USA.

The Blue Ridge Parkway runs for over 400 miles and passes into numerous states on the USA east coast.

From Asheville NC, there are multiple entry points to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you want to drive south, you can find Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 393 off the North Carolina Highway 191 near I-26. If you want to head north, you can find Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 382 off the U.S. Highway 70 east of downtown Asheville.

Wherever you choose to get on, the road is well paved with lots of signage, and there is no entrance fee. The Blue Ridge Parkway  official website  has maps, attractions, and travel tips for your drive.

Craggy Gardens  is a highlight of the Blue Ridge Mountains northeast of Asheville. Between Mileposts 364 and 367, you can easily turn off the parkway to visit this amazing spot.

Full of stunning views, unique gardens and twisted, gnarled trees, there is so much to see here. Take on the short but steep Craggy Pinnacle Hike for the best views.

The Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is full of maps, trail info, and facts about the flora and fauna of the area.

Day 3 Evening – Spa and a Nice Dinner

To celebrate the last night of your weekend getaway in Asheville NC, treat yourself to a spa treatment, a nice dinner, or both!

There are some lovely spas around the city where you can indulge in a massage, skin treatment, or other sorts of holistic remedies.

The  Omni Grove Park Inn  has one of the city’s best spas.  This luxury hotel  is not only one of the nicest places to stay in the city, it also has a stunning subterranean spa facility.

Complete with eucalyptus steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs, and treatments, the Omni Grove Park Inn is the epitome of luxury.

Salt Spa of Asheville  is another amazing spot. With Himalayan salt caves creating a zen atmosphere, they offer massages, salt and sound therapy, and more. Bookings are by appointment Wednesday through Sunday.

Exploring the South? Be sure to check out our perfect 3 days in New Orleans itinerary !

Whether or not you choose to visit a spa, definitely finish off your weekend in Asheville with a nice dinner. This foodie town has so many great restaurants, so be sure to take the time to try at least one.

For amazing food on the last night of your 3 days in Asheville NC, try one of the following restaurants:

• Tupelo Honey  for incredible, authentic  southern cuisine
• Rhubarb  for farm-to-table cuisine
• Storm Rhum Bar  for a delightful late-night menu
• White Duck Taco Shop  for the  city’s best tacos
• Curate  for tapas (they also have a  bodega  for the same amazing food if you can’t get a booking)
• Hemingway’s Cuba  for a rooftop bar with flavorful Cuban food
• Biltmore Winery  for wine tasting and exquisite charcuterie boards

Asheville Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend a weekend in Asheville, let’s cover some of the logistics.

Here is a quick travel guide to help you plan when to visit, how to get around, and where to stay in Asheville North Carolina.

There is really no bad time to spend 3 days in Asheville NC. Located about midway down the US east coast, North Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with pleasantly warm weather most of the year.

Because Asheville is in the mountains, the temperatures do get cooler, particularly in winter. There is a fair bit of rainfall, especially in the humid summer months.

The best time to visit Asheville is the shoulder seasons of spring (March through June) or autumn (September through November). Both of these seasons are warm but not too hot. You’ll enjoy lots of sunny days, with maybe some rain, and the temperatures will be comfortable.

Spring is the best time for wildflower blooms, and the local gardens will be flourishing. Autumn offers the most gorgeous views while hiking as the tree leaves are changing colors. If you’re doing lots of wilderness exploring, spring and autumn have fewer crowds and perfect hiking temperatures.

Though winter is the coldest time of year, the Christmas decorations around town and at the Biltmore Village are charming.

The USA isn’t known for its amazing public transport, but the  bus system in Asheville  is quite extensive. The transport you’ll need during your Asheville weekend getaway depends on your plans.

If you plan on doing lots of hiking and exploring in the mountains, renting a car is definitely the best way to get around. Asheville is a nature lovers’ paradise. I already included lots of outdoor activities in this Asheville itinerary, but there is so much more to see.

In addition to the spots on this itinerary, Asheville is also near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the iconic Grandfather Mountain National Park, the Cherokee National Forest, and more.

Some of the best hikes, waterfalls, and views are out in remote wilderness areas where public transport doesn’t reach. So if your NC weekend trip will include lots of exploring nature, definitely rent a car.

Otherwise, if you just plan on mainly hanging out downtown, you can get away with just walking and taking the local bus. Ubers or Lyfts are also pretty cheap, so if you need a ride back to your hotel after a fun night out, that’s an option.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Asheville NC

If you’re wondering where to stay in Asheville NC, there are options for every budget. Here are some of our top recommendations. 

Bon Paul and Sharky’s Hostel  is the perfect place for budget travelers. At $38 per night for a dorm bed, this hostel has a fun social atmosphere and is significantly cheaper than all the hotels in the city. 

It’s not right in the center of the city, but it is still near lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants and there is public transport to take you where you need to go. 

You can’t get a better downtown location than this! If you’re looking for a convenient hotel with all the best downtown attractions and restaurants within just a few blocks,  Cambria Hotel  is perfect. 

With prices ranging around the $200 mark, and lots of positive guest reviews, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

For absolute luxury in Asheville, stay right on the same property as the famous Biltmore House .

As one of the top Asheville tourist attractions, the Biltmore House is one of the most impressive mansions and properties in North Carolina. 

Stay in their gorgeous inn and enjoy all the amenities on-site, including a fitness center and spa facilities, multiple restaurants, the Biltmore Estate Winery, the landscaped gardens, and more.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Experience Western North Carolina

Biltmore's annual pass sale is live don't miss out.

Asheville is a top travel destination for exploring the outdoors, award-winning cuisine, a vibrant arts scene, and many memorable experiences and places to stay—and we cover it all. 

For 20+ years, RomanticAsheville.com has been a trusted resource and insider’s guide to Asheville and Western North Carolina. We cover 15 counties within a 90-mile radius of the Asheville area for endless exploring.

Our travel guide includes the best hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts for your getaway to Asheville and WNC, with many specials and packages.

Discover top attractions like Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, and historic sites like The Omni Grove Park Inn and Thomas Wolfe’s home. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike the Appalachian Trail, and map out your adventure in national parks like Pisgah National Forest, NC’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many state parks throughout the area. Whether visiting from Atlanta, Florida, or beyond, let us help you explore Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains like you never have before.

Our Food & Drink guide will point you to the best local food, beer, and wine. For things to do, check out area festivals, live music, and popular events. Or get out in nature with waterfalls, hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing in the French Broad River, whitewater rafting, ziplining, camping, and more. Beyond Asheville, uncover hidden gems in WNC’s 40+ unique and friendly small towns, like Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Cherokee.

For a round-up of AVL highlights like the Asheville Art Museum, North Carolina Arboretum, restaurants, theater, music scene, and more, see our Downtown Asheville guide to visit Asheville and discover all Buncombe County has to offer. We also offer guides to the different areas of Asheville, like West Asheville, South Asheville, Biltmore Village, and the River Arts District.

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Courtesy of Stephen Pruitt Photography | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

20 Essential Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

The mountains are calling and you must go. With so many fun things to do in Asheville, you can cherry pick (or wild berry pick) a one-of-a-kind itinerary. You will discover many of Asheville's most memorable experiences in the great outdoors,

• All Things To Do

Biltmore Biltmore

U.S. News Insider Tip: Though the Biltmore house has 43 bathrooms, you can’t use any of them, so be sure to use one of the public restrooms by the Stable Café before your house tour. – Lindsey Grossman

George Vanderbilt’s enormous French Renaissance-style estate has a storied past dating back to 1889. Considered America's largest private home, it took six years to build, with 250 rooms including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and a whopping 65 fireplaces. The estate grounds designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park) cover 8,000 acres and feature nearly 22 miles of trails, gardens, a winery and so much more.

Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway close to vehicles in the winter, which affords you the unique opportunity to experience it by foot. If it’s not too far, park and walk to your hiking destination. – Lindsey Grossman

The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins in Virginia and meanders through about 250 miles of western North Carolina. With a maximum speed of 45 mph, the scenic byway offers drivers numerous opportunities to stop at overlooks, quaint mountain towns , and hiking and biking trails. The parkway is divided by milepost markers that increase as you drive farther south.

Craggy Gardens Craggy Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Late summer means berry season in the mountains. In August, you can hike up to the top of Craggy Gardens and pick your own wild blueberries! (While “supplies” last.) – Lindsey Grossman

One of the best trails for seeing wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway , Craggy Gardens is located at milepost 364. In June, rhododendrons overtake the evergreen foliage, weaving through tunnels of twisty roots and branches, making the trail as stunning as the views from the top.

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Pisgah National Forest Pisgah National Forest free

Offering more than 500,000 acres of land about 30 miles southwest of downtown Asheville, Pisgah National Forest is jam-packed with activities and breathtaking vistas. With hundreds of miles of trails and numerous waterfalls and swimming holes, the forest provides ample opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors.

One of the first national forests in the country, created partially with land that once belonged to the Biltmore Estate , the park is home to the first forestry school in the United States as well as the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Asheville Breweries Asheville Breweries

U.S. News Insider Tip: The hops don’t stop with local breweries. The Whale AVL in West Asheville boasts one of the best beer selections in the world, ranking as one of the country’s top 10 beer bars. – Lindsey Grossman

With more than 50 breweries in the area, Asheville has emerged as the beer capital of the Southeast. Sampling pints from many of the local breweries has become a favorite activity for Asheville residents and visitors alike.

Sliding Rock Sliding Rock free

Waterslide lovers can take their skills to the next level while getting back to nature at Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest . Easily one of the forest's most unique attractions, adventurous visitors can whoosh down 60 feet of sloped, predominantly flat rock that’s powered by 11,000 gallons of water per minute. The slide empties seamlessly into an 8-foot-deep pool below. Many make the trek to Pisgah National Forest to line up and take turns sliding down this fun natural wonder. Adventure Pisgah manages the site during the summer; during the offseason (after Labor Day), it’s an “enjoy at your own risk” attraction and there are no lifeguards. There are two observation platforms where those who don’t want to swim can take in the action. 

Recent visitors who took the plunge at Sliding Rock said they had a blast, and called it a must for every family’s bucket list. While travelers were unanimous in recommending a detour to Sliding Rock, they did warn that the water is cold (even in warmer weather) and you should expect crowds. For fewer lines and easier parking, avoid the peak hours between noon and 4 p.m., visit on a weekday, and bring aqua socks and a rash guard or swim shirt. 

Mount Mitchell State Park Mount Mitchell State Park free

Unsure of where to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway ? For unbeatable views of the mountains, pay a visit to Mount Mitchell State Park. Home to the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River (6,684 feet), it’s one of the parkway’s most popular attractions. Unlike many trails, this summit can be reached by car. A 4.5-mile paved road off the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you to the top, with a short walk to the observation area where you'll be treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery. What's more, visibility from the top goes as far as 85 miles.

Those hiking to the top have 40 miles of trails available that vary in difficulty and intensity. The Balsam Nature Trail is considered moderate, but is less than a mile long. Along this pathway, you'll find a small stream that is actually the highest spring in the eastern United States. To reach the top of Mount Mitchell like they did in the late 1800s and early 1900s, venture down the Old Mitchell Trail, which is 4 miles roundtrip. Or, you could walk the strenuous 2.1-mile Deep Gap Trail, which follows the ridgeline between Mount Mitchell to nearby Mount Craig.

River Arts District River Arts District free

Asheville’s River Arts District (known locally as RAD) started with a few studios in the mid-1980s and has grown to house nearly 300 artists and their creative endeavors. Former industrial and historical buildings – including a tannery and a cotton mill – have been repurposed and renovated as artist studios, shops, restaurants and a newly opened boutique hotel called The Radical. Visitors can stroll around the district to meet artists and enjoy works in various media, including paintings, textiles, ceramics, glass, jewelry and more. It's also a great place to pick up a unique souvenir from your time in the city, or sign up for a class at the North Carolina Glass Center to make your own special keepsake.

Though some visitors found the artwork expensive, they still loved walking around and watching the artists work. Visitors also noted the excellent reuse of a former industrial area, easy-to-find free parking, and Instagram-worthy public mural art.

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Appalachian Trail Appalachian Trail free

Winding its way from Maine to Georgia, the Appalachian Trail (also known as the AT) spans 2,190 miles through 14 states. About 323 of those miles are found in North Carolina, including 226.6 miles along the Tennessee border.

The North Carolina section offers many of the Appalachian Trail's highest peaks, several above 6,000 feet. Hiking enthusiasts can set out on a multiday or weeklong journey (keep in mind that you'll need permits to camp and hike in some areas, especially inside the Great Smoky Mountains).

French Broad River French Broad River free

You don't need to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway to find adventures in Asheville. In fact, the French Broad River, which runs right through town, is filled to the brim with fun and exciting activities. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the French Broad is also one of the only rivers in the world that flows north instead of south (its headwaters begin in Rosman, North Carolina and runs north to Tennessee). 

Popular river activities include tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and more. French Broad Outfitters is a highly rated tour operator that offers self-guided tours and rentals, plus gear for kayaking, tubing, stand-up paddleboarding and canoe. You can also find tube rentals at Zen Tubing , and if you happen to be more interested in stand-up paddleboarding with instruction, Wai Muana offers rentals, tours and lessons. 

The North Carolina Arboretum The North Carolina Arboretum free

Those with green thumbs will want to put the North Carolina Arboretum on their must-see list. Located 10 miles south of downtown Asheville off of Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 393, the arboretum is a 434-acre natural museum within Pisgah National Forest . Visitors can wander through 65 acres of lush gardens, including a world-renowned bonsai collection and more than 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking and walking. If you’re in Asheville over the holidays, don’t miss the arboretum’s spectacular Winter Lights walk-through experience that illuminates the gardens and grounds with more than a million lights.

Recent visitors raved about the bonsai exhibition as well as the walking trails. Kids can take part in a variety of interactive youth activities, such as the ecoEXPLORER citizen science program and TRACK Trail Guide.

Folk Art Center Folk Art Center free

At milepost 382 off the Blue Ridge Parkway , you'll find the Folk Art Center, home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The guild dates back to the 1930s and still represents the artists and craftsmen of Southern Appalachia.

One of the most popular spots off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Folk Art Center displays traditional and contemporary crafts in three galleries, and is home to a bookstore, a parkway information desk, a library and the Allanstand Craft Shop – the oldest craft shop in America. From March to December, the center also features daily craft demonstrations. If you happen to be in Asheville in either July or October, be sure to visit the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands at Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville. This event draws in more than 11,000 visitors each year and features more than 200 artists selling their craft and teaching the public about their artistic skills.

Western North Carolina Nature Center Western North Carolina Nature Center

If you're itching to learn more about the natural world of Appalachia, or simply have kids in tow, make sure that the Western North Carolina Nature Center is on your itinerary. The Nature Center, located just 5 miles southeast of downtown Asheville, is filled with 60 species of animals that are either native to the region or have at one point lived there. Resident animals – most of which cannot live in the wild on their own due to injury or imprinting (meaning they have no fear of humans and no skills to live in the wild) – include black bears, river otters and foxes. And don’t miss the red wolves, the world’s most endangered wolf species.

Both visitors and locals love coming to the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Travelers really enjoyed getting to see the various animals, especially the wolves and red pandas. Others appreciated the shaded paths and friendly staff. Another thing visitors agree on? This place is perfect for kids. In addition to plenty of exciting animals, the nature center also has Montessori-like interactive play areas for kiddos, gem and fossil mining, as well as free daily animal programs.

Scenic Driving Tour of the Blue Ridge Mountains

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Mountaintop Yoga & Meditation Hike in Asheville

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Scenic Helicopter Epic Blue Ridge Explorer

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Lexington Glassworks Lexington Glassworks free

Art lovers should get fired up for a stop at Lexington Glassworks. The gallery and studio prides itself on an open door culture, inviting you to watch these talented glass artists hone their craft. The gallery shows off an impressive display of both functional and decorative pieces that make great souvenirs, from drinkware to ornaments. Remodeling? Consult with Lexington Glassworks’ Lighting Design Studio for stunning custom pendants and other fixtures that will literally light up a room.

Several visitors described Lexington Glassworks as one of their Asheville musts, particularly noting the quality of the glass, friendly staff and the mesmerizing experience of watching the makers at work. One visitor points out that while many places in Asheville are closed on Tuesdays, Lexington Glassworks remains open if you’re planning your trip for midweek. 

LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours

The perfect blend of historical and hysterical, LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours welcome visitors aboard the company’s signature purple buses to drive around downtown and surrounding neighborhoods for a look at the city’s history, beer culture, ghosts and more. Along the way, you’ll meet zany characters and enjoy lots of laughter. LaZoom offers four tour options: the popular 90-minute Asheville City Tour (appropriate for ages 13 and older), a one-hour haunted comedy tour (ages 17 and older), a three-hour brewery tour (ages 21 and older) and a one-hour Kids Comedy Tour that’s suitable for all ages.

Both visitors and locals love these one-of-a-kind tours. Reviewers rave about the funny, witty guides and characters you interact with along the way. Locals call LaZoom a great way to introduce out-of-town guests to Asheville.

Asheville Pinball Museum Asheville Pinball Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Long line at the Pinball Museum? Check out the Amazing Poster Vault with 40 video games right below the museum for only $5, and the attached Lunchbox Hall of Fame with more than 200 classic lunch boxes for just $1. – Lindsey Grossman

The Asheville Pinball Museum offers the perfect activity for all ages, with 35 pinball machines and 35 classic video games to bring out the kid in everyone. A rotating collection of fully operational vintage games date as far back as the 1960s, with machines on display from as far back as the 1930s. Rare games include "Dragon's Lair," an original "Star Wars" cockpit and a 1979 Atari Football game. With sodas, snacks and beer for sale, you can easily kick back for a couple of hours. Up to 65 people are allowed in at a time, so there’s always a game available to play.

Grove Arcade Grove Arcade free

Self-made millionaire E.W. Grove (developer of The Omni Grove Park Inn ) conceived what he called “the most elegant building in America” when he built the Grove Arcade almost 100 years ago, creating the country’s first indoor shopping mall. Throughout its storied history, the architectural marvel served as a military center during World War II, and was home to the National Weather Records Center before a full renovation returned the Grove Arcade to its original vision. Today, the first floor of the Grove Arcade is filled with galleries, restaurants and shopping, with offices and residences on the higher floors. 

Visitors describe the Grove Arcade as a must-see for architecture lovers (who should check out the self-guided architecture tour ), and appreciated the air-conditioned reprieve from the summer heat. Housed inside the Grove Arcade, the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar is a favorite of both tourists and locals.

Asheville Urban Trail Asheville Urban Trail free

Weaving through downtown, the 1.7-mile-long Asheville Urban Trail walks visitors through the cultural and architectural history of the city. Public sculptures that speak to the city’s history mark each of the trail's 30 stops.

The self-guided tour takes you through five time periods, from the Gilded Age to the present Age of Diversity. The trail starts at Pack Square at the intersection of Biltmore Avenue and Patton Avenue and circles around the downtown area, arriving back at the square for the final bronze statue. Set aside two hours to complete the entire trail at once, or discover it in bits and pieces with each visit.

Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour

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Historic Music Scene Walking Tour in Asheville

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3-Hour Guided Walking Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville

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Botanical Gardens at Asheville Botanical Gardens at Asheville free

If you want to connect to nature without driving too far out of town, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Located less than 2 miles north of downtown and neighboring the University of North Carolina at Asheville campus, the gardens sprawl across 10 acres, showing off Southern Appalachia’s incredible biodiversity with more than 500 species of native plants. The main loop trail is about half a mile, with gravelside trails splitting off for those wanting to explore further. Bring a picnic or choose one of several points to access Reed Creek for some rock hopping and splashing around in warmer months. You’ll also find several benches along the trails to rest and take it all in. There’s always something blooming, but the best time to visit is when the wildflowers peak in April and May and again mid-summer through early fall. Kids can learn about the different plant species with one of five investigation passports, which encourage little ones to interact with the garden and hone their observation skills (passports are available at the visitor center).

Garden visitors emphasize the natural, unmanicured feel (this is not a fancy botanical garden with high-maintenance exhibits), so temper your expectations. Reviewers also appreciated the clear signage and knowledgeable staff.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial Thomas Wolfe Memorial

One of the greatest American literary minds of the early 20th century, Thomas Wolfe was inspired by his time in Asheville, and at this historic downtown Asheville home in particular. Built in 1883, the house has changed ownership several times, and was at one time owned by Wolfe’s mother, who ran it as a boarding house. Wolfe pays tribute to his time in this house and in Asheville in his first and most famous novel, “Look Homeward, Angel.” Tour the house to gain a better understanding of how the renowned author’s childhood home influenced his work. The attached visitor center features a gift shop and an exhibit on the life and work of Thomas Wolfe. 

Visitors say the home not only offers unique insights into Thomas Wolfe’s life, but the city of Asheville as well (it’s a North Carolina State Historic Site). Visitors who weren’t as aware of Wolfe before the tour still enjoyed it and got a lot out of the experience.

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How to Plan the Perfect Asheville, North Carolina Getaway

Planning a trip to Asheville, North Carolina? Here's everything you need to know, including the best things to do, when to go, and where to stay.

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Asheville, North Carolina is the very definition of a “breath of fresh air.” The city, tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, delivers southern hospitality in droves. With stellar views, cultural attractions, a long summer season, plentiful accommodations, and multiple breweries to kick back a pint, it’s where every kind of traveler can find their slice of paradise.  Asheville is a destination that perfectly blends a city feel with country roots, a sense of old meets new, and a welcoming feel that envelops every guest in a warm embrace, making it an easy place to fall in love with. Here’s what you need to know to plan the perfect little getaway in Asheville, North Carolina. 

What to Know About Asheville

Asheville has an identity all its own. It’s eclectic and fun, vibrant and creative, and a place where tradition still exists in all the best ways, including the preservation of its historic buildings and through its long-running events like Shindig on the Green , a free concert series celebrating mountain bluegrass music. Come here ready to indulge in plenty of art, including the kind made by man and the kind made by Mother Nature, thanks to the town’s easy access to the mountains. 

When to Go to Asheville

While we’d never say there’s a bad time to go to Asheville, there may be better times than others, depending on your tolerance for cold weather. There are four very clearly defined seasons in Asheville, but its warm season, Weatherspark reported , typically runs from late May through mid-September, when temperatures hit at or around 76°F. The warmest month is July when temperatures hover around 82°F. 

In contrast, its winters are short but biting. Weatherspark added that the cold season usually falls between late November and February, with temperatures rarely going above 54°F.

One benefit of visiting during the colder months is that you’ll usually find thinner crowds. It’s a time when you may be able to find reduced prices on accommodations, shorter lines in local attractions, and reservations at area restaurants more easily accessible. 

That said, there’s a reason summer and fall are so popular here. First, the glorious weather in the summer allows for endless adventure in area attractions, which is then followed by a spectacular fall kaleidoscope of colors with the changing of the leaves. Its prime leaf-peeping season, Explore Asheville explained , is the first week of November, making a late fall visit a must.

Things to Do in Asheville

Explore the blue ridge parkway..

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

You may not be able to drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway on your visit (it does snake through both Virginia and North Carolina for some 469 miles, making it America’s longest linear park ), but you can at least get a taste for it as it passes right through Asheville. Stop at the visitor center at milepost 384 in Asheville and meander through the drive, stopping at as many viewpoints as you’d like to take it all in. There are plenty of trails available for those who want to get out and stretch their legs. Find a host of options organized by mile marker here . 

Soak in the culture at the River Arts District.

The River Arts District is a booming neighborhood absolutely brimming with talent. Several hundred artists show off their goods across the industrial and historical buildings, including painters, ceramicists, jewelry makers, potters, antique dealers, and so much more. The district is worthy of planning an entire day around, and luckily you can, as it’s also home to copious coffee shops, restaurants, and bars, making it possible to nibble all day in between viewings. 

Stop and smell the flowers at The North Carolina Arboretum.

Want even more fresh air? Stop in at the North Carolina Arboretum , a more than 400-acre park located just minutes from town. Here, guests will find a variety of flora and fauna, including a gorgeous Bonsai exhibition, as well as 10 miles of hiking and biking trails that can be used all year long. Don’t miss the garden’s art, culture, and science exhibitions so you can walk away both refreshed and a little more educated than when you started. (Daytime admission is free, however, there is a $16 parking fee.) 

See the Biltmore Estate.

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Thought there weren't any castles in the U.S. ? Think again. The Biltmore Estate is a fairytale home built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt and is still owned by his descendants today. The family maintains the home’s classical charm, its perfectly manicured gardens, and a vineyard, all dotting the 8,000-acre estate. Guests are welcome to come to enjoy it all with various ticketing options , and children under nine can always visit for free. 

Take a brewery tour. 

Asheville is home to a great brewery scene. In fact, according to Explore Asheville , it’s home to “more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the U.S.” There are dozens of breweries worthy of your time, which means it may be best to experience them all on a brewery tour. Asheville Brewery Tours offers several options, including a three-hour downtown walking tour that visits three breweries for three tastes. But if you’re looking for more, you can always book the private tour option and craft a four-brewery tour for you and your friends too. 

See the best craftwork in Appalachia at the Folk Art Center.

Get one more taste of local life at the Folk Art Center . The center is the home of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, which aims to highlight local artisans from Southern Appalachia. At the center, guests can explore three fine galleries and browse the exhibitions or find the right souvenir to take home with them. And, guests visiting from March through December can also take part in a daily craft demonstration to learn something new. 

Hotels in Asheville

The omni grove park inn.

Get a taste for true luxury at The Omni Grove Park Inn , a hotel that prides itself on its “tradition of southern hospitality” that also happens to come with the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests here may never want to leave as this Asheville hotel comes with a stellar subterranean spa, has four different locally sourced restaurants to try, and is home to its own Donald Ross-designed course. 

The Biltmore Estate

Courtesy of The Biltmore Company

Oh, you need even more grandeur? Then book a stay at the aforementioned Biltmore Estate. The Inn at The Biltmore allows guests to live just like the Vanderbilts in three distinct accommodation options; Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, The Inn at Biltmore Estate, and Cottages on Biltmore Estate . While every choice is excellent, the cottages afford a bit more space to spread out with family and friends and come with cozy furnishings that will make you feel right at home. 

Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph Collection

For a more boutique-style stay, check into Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph Collection . The hotel, located next to The Biltmore Estate, comes with equally grand aesthetics, including a common sitting area that resembles a hunting lodge, and rooms boasting large soaking tubs and plush bedding to truly allow guests to relax away their every care. It doesn’t hurt that it also comes with a full-service spa to work out any remaining knots. 

How to Get to Asheville  

Those looking to get as close as possible can fly into the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) with direct flights on Delta, Allegiant, American Airlines, and United, from cities like Atlanta, Denver, Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, and more (Jetblue also flies seasonally to the airport). 

Travelers from further away can also find flights to either Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina or McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee. Both airports are about 125 miles away in either direction. It’s best to rent a car for your stay in Asheville, even if you’re flying into the regional airport, as some attractions are a bit out of town, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal for scenic drives . 

One glimpse of the surrounding Appalachian mountains, which appear straight out of a Bob Ross painting, and it’s easy to see why Asheville is a top destination to visit in the Southeast. But this western North Carolina city is more than scenic. There’s a diverse local art community, an award-winning food scene that celebrates modern Appalachian cuisine, and a memorable hike for every ability. Visitors come all year long to experience the combination of chill mountain-town vibes and a culturally vibrant city. In Asheville, you can really have it all.

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ASHEVILLE, NC, USA-27 JULY 2019: Wall Street in downtown is busy on a summer Sunday, with small crowds at cafe tables, while a man pushes a young woman in a wheel chair.

Photo By Nolichuckyjake/Shutterstock

When’s the best time to go to Asheville?

One of the most visually striking times to visit Asheville is when the leaves start to change, usually in early September. It’s also one of the busiest seasons, along with the December holidays, and lodging prices are at an all-time high. Waiting until late fall, even into early November, affords visitors the opportunity to see the last of the foliage on the Parkway without the tourist crush. Spring break and the summer months can also be busy in Asheville, so if you’re seeking a more relaxed version of the city, go in late April or May.

How to get around Asheville

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is the most convenient airport to downtown, with a growing number of direct flights. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Tennessee are the closest international airports; both are about a two-hour drive from Asheville.

There is Uber in Asheville, but a car is a necessity because the city is spread out. Plus, you’ll want to take advantage of the surrounding mountains while visiting. You can rent a car at the airport or at several national car rental sites around town.

Can’t miss things to do in Asheville

- The Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt in 1895, is on everyone’s list, so it can get crowded. For a more enjoyable visit, book the rooftop tour , which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the estate’s design and construction—and gets you away from the hustle and bustle inside the house.

- Every Friday night during the warmer months (typically April through October), locals gather in the outdoor amphitheater in downtown’s Pritchard Park for a drum circle of epic proportions. Between the music, dancing, and occasional hula-hooping, it’s a great way to experience Asheville. Bring your own drum to get in on the action.

- For a window into North Carolina’s art history, visit the community-based Asheville Art Museum and plan to spend a couple of hours browsing regional crafts and paintings by Black Mountain College artists.

- More contemporary work appears in the River Arts District (or RAD, as locals call it), where an eclectic mix of nearly 300 artist studios and galleries occupy former warehouses and mills along the French Broad River.

- If you want to pair happy hour with sunset views, head straight to Capella on 9 on the rooftop of the AC Hotel Asheville Downtown. It’s the perfect place for a spritz, charcuterie board, and a view of the sun going down over the Blue Ridge Mountains.

- One way to experience Asheville’s long roster of talented chefs and local purveyors all at once is to visit during Chow Chow , an intimate food festival. Expect lots of delicious southern Appalachian food, plus classes, demos, and workshops that foster dialogue about food justice and more.

- You can’t visit Asheville without going on at least one hike. Every local has their opinion about which trail is best , but just pick one that fits your skill level and don’t forget to pack water.

- Shoji Spa , a Japanese-inspired spa with outdoor salt tubs, is a local favorite hidden in the mountains. It feels worlds away from the city but is actually only 10 minutes from downtown and perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking.

- Asheville is one of the country’s best places to witness thermal inversion, a natural phenomenon in which low-lying clouds rest in mountain valleys and undulate like waves. For the ultimate view, get yourself to Looking Glass Rock, the Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Overlook, or the summit of Mount Mitchell early in the morning, just after sunrise. While thermal inversion happens all year long, you’re most likely to see it in the fall, when the nights are cool and the days are warm.

Food and drink to try in Asheville

- There are so many breweries in Asheville, you’ll barely scratch the service in one visit, but start with popular places like Zillicoah Beer Company (on the river), Burial Beer Co. , and Archetype Brewing . If you’re a suds enthusiast, you’ll also want to hit Zebulon Artisan Ales in neighboring Weaverville, which brews historical and forgotten beers.

- For cocktails, head to Eda Rhyne Distilling Company , which uses regional medicinals and ingredients from the mountains around Asheville to create a range of fernet and amaro that reflects the local terroir. The bar inside the distillery serves creative drinks crafted with house spirits.

- Cúrate is a top draw for visitors eager to try the restaurant’s authentic Spanish tapas. It can be tough to get a reservation; alternatively, post up at the vermouth bar or pick up a selection of picnic eats from La Bodega, the restaurant’s sister spot around the corner.

- The doughnuts at Hole Doughnuts are fried to order, taste more like brioche, and are arguably the best version to be found in these parts. Note: The shop closes at 1 p.m. so plan accordingly.

Culture in Asheville

Asheville isn’t just a beer town. Coined the “Paris of the South,” it’s also worth visiting for its rich history and wide variety of architecture, from the château-inspired Biltmore Estate to the Catalan-style Basilica of Saint Lawrence with its elliptical dome. Asheville also served as home to novelist Thomas Wolfe and a vacation destination for F. Scott Fitzgerald, who spent the summers of 1935 and 1936 at the Grove Park Inn .

Local travel tips for Asheville

- To avoid crowds, plan to visit Asheville during the week. And do your best to hit hiking trails and other busy outdoor spots earlier in the day.

- Make dinner reservations in advance as many of the city’s more popular restaurants get booked up quickly.

- Asheville is super dog-friendly, with many hotels welcoming pets. If you plan to travel with your four-legged friend, check out the Dog Welcome Center and book one of its tours, which go to local shops, breweries, and even restaurants that cater to dogs.

- Explore West Asheville for a less touristy approach to shopping and dining. Garden Party (a lifestyle shop with hemp-infused finds), Flora (a dreamy flower, botanical, coffee, and wine shop), Playdate Goods (sustainable children’s clothing and toys), Leo’s House of Thirst (a wine bar with exceptional bites), and Ghan Shan West (Asian-inspired food made with Appalachian ingredients) are a good start. You’ll find more as you wander around.

- New hotels are popping up all over Asheville, but for something a bit more approachable, book a room at one of the city’s bed-and-breakfasts. The Chestnut Street Inn is a favorite for its owners Emilie and Arturo, who will help curate your visit and also offer a rotating local beer on tap.

Local Resources

- Eater Carolinas

- Asheville Trails

- Asheville Bed & Breakfast Association

- East Fork Pottery blog for fun happenings and insider tips

Guide Editor

Essentials by North Carolina–based culinary arts and travel writer Jenn Rice ( @jennricewrites ). Required Eating by travel writer Julie Case ( @foragerinchief ). Best Things to Do by travel and lifestyle journalist Lindsay Tigar ( @lindsaytigar ). Attractions You Can Only Find in Asheville by Asheville-based arts and travel writer Joanne O’Sullivan ( @jkosullivan1 ). Hotels coverage by travel and food writer Devorah Lev-Tov ( @devoltv ). Hiking coverage by travel and science journalist Melanie Haiken . Black Asheville coverage by North Carolina–based historian and writer Cynthia Greenlee ( @cynthiagreenlee ).

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Discover the enchanting beauty of Asheville: A guide to exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains

Embark on an unforgettable getaway in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, and immerse yourself in the warmth and authenticity of this inviting locale. Discover the perfect plan for an experience that captures the true essence of contemporary Appalachia.

This story is brought to you by our partners at Explore Asheville.

When you explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you immediately feel invited into a deeper connection with the world around you. The beauty of Asheville consists of lofty elevations and over 100 species of deciduous trees, providing some of the most breathtakingly vibrant views in the country. Locals welcome you with warm smiles and Southern hospitality. Artists, makers and entrepreneurs have built a city with deep roots and undeniable charm. With a river that literally flows backward, Asheville knows how to go in its own direction.

From the iconic O. Henry’s bar to Malaprop’s Bookstore, there’s a lot of pride in Asheville . And that should come as no surprise, because this North Carolina haven has a lot of LGBTQ + history. Asheville has been a beacon for the queer community for decades and is home to advocacy groups established from the 1960s onward, including Youth OUTright and CLOSER, an initiative that has provided an inclusive space and community at the All Souls Cathedral in historic Biltmore Village for over 30 years.

Asheville proudly honors this legacy and preserves it with initiatives like The Blue Ridge LGBTQ+ Oral History Project, which is a community-based oral history and physical artifacts archive dedicated to preserving LGBTQ+ history of the South. Blue Ridge Pride , which has been promoting equality, safety and quality of life for Western North Carolina’s queer and allied communities, has been held annually for over 10 years. For the current queer voices of Asheville, there’s Authentic Asheville , a camper van travel blog founded by Caroline Whatley and Erin McGrady. Their website offers a wealth of resources and recommendations for an unforgettable getaway.

With the legacy of places like Black Mountain College and Echo Mountain Recording studio, the Asheville area also boasts a rich history of creativity and innovation. Don’t miss out on special events like Chow Chow , the city’s food and culture festival committed to celebrating and enriching the foodways of Southern Appalachia, and AVL Fest , a citywide celebration of music that made a huge splash when it debuted in 2023. There’s also Downtown After 5, a weekly chance to catch local bands and musicians performing for free downtown, April - September. The celebrated Asheville Symphony Orchestra also produces free and budget-friendly events throughout the year, including Symphony in the Park and the biennial Asheville Amadeus Festival, in addition to its ongoing concert series. With so many must-attend events and can’t-miss destinations , we’ve provided an Asheville-approved itinerary to help you make the most of this mountain oasis.

When you enter the rejuvenating city of Asheville, the first thing you’ll want to do is check in to your home away from home. Asheville has no shortage of hotels, motels and rental options to choose from, with a variety of amenities and price points. Standouts include: The Omni Grove Park Inn , which has an incredible history filled with noteworthy guests; The Radical , featuring interiors brought to life by a former Wes Anderson set designer; Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins ; and the queer-owned Bittersweet Cottage & Suite .

Check out this list of lodging options on ExploreAsheville.com.

After settling in, you’re sure to be hungry. The three-month reservation window at Neng Jr.'s is absolutely worth it, as you'll experience a fusion of Filipinx and Southern flavors unmatched anywhere else. For a more low-key option that's good for walk-ins, try Ben's Tune Up , which features snacks, bowls and sandwiches packed with Asian flavors. And right next door is Hi-Wire Brewing , home to Asheville’s new tiki speakeasy, The Tiki Easy Bar .

After dinner, make your way to O. Henry’s . Established in 1976, it's not only the oldest gay bar in Asheville but in the entire state of North Carolina.

Rise up in time to catch the sun shining on the awe-inspiring foliage from one of the many trails in the area. Pisgah National Forest offers the highest peaks in the East, numerous waterfalls and flowing rivers that make for an exhilarating experience in nature. Another great destination to get your steps in while taking in the Asheville views is Biltmore . You could honestly spend a full day here! Known as America’s Largest Home®, you can tour the house and the gardens, wander over 22 miles of stunning trails and enjoy a free wine tasting. If you'd rather get your exercise downtown, check out Asheville by Foot Walking Tours , the definitive tour that will turn you into an Asheville insider as you explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture and diverse culture.

By now you’ve worked up an appetite — it’s time to refuel with some lunch. Cúrate is a tapas bar that won the 2022 James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Hospitality. If you can’t get a reservation, its sister-restaurant, La Bodega , is built for walk-ins and offers rotating dishes-of-the-day for lunch — reminiscent of the sidewalk menu boards of Spain.

Now it's time to relax and restore those tired legs. Shoji Spa & Retreat has an eye-catching treetop deck with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Or stop in at Sauna House , which offers contrast therapy that combines a hot sauna session with a cold immersion to increase blood flow, among other health benefits. Asheville Wellness Tours offers dozens of wellness experiences and retreat packages to choose from, like a Recharge & Renew Mini-Retreat involving tarot, yoga and a massage. Each option comes with specialized enhancements that offer you curated wellness benefits.

After some deep relaxation, it’s time to perk back up for a night exploring. Stop by Rowan Coffee, a cafe that celebrates the work of coffee growers, serving brews that are fresh, vibrant, clean and complex. If tea is more your speed, Dobra Tea is a great place for a pick-me-up. This charming oasis serves responsibly sourced and authentically prepared teas as well as sweet and savory bites. After a warm cup, check out the nearby Center for Craft which amplifies the work of local makers through grants, exhibitions, and mentorship.

For dinner and drinks, make your way to Sovereign Remedies . Their menu features local ingredients in "hyper-seasonal" dishes that provide you with different experiences based on the time of year in which you visit. Just up the street, you can dance the rest of your night away at Asheville Beauty Academy which offers drag shows and DJ'd theme nights every night of the week.

Start this day of shopping and exploring with the anything goes vibe of West Asheville . Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Sunny Point Café (worth the wait for a table). After enjoying the best of Southern breakfast (and hospitality!), it’s time to shop at some of the quintessential Asheville shops — Harvest Records, Firestorm Books, Emote (vintage clothing), Ware (a zero-waste boutique offering skincare and household accessories), Whist (greeting cards and gifts) and Provisions Mercantile (featuring curated gifts, home goods, local artisanal food, apparel and toys, among other products).

Head across the French Broad River to the River Arts District for lunch at 12 Bones Smokehouse — an Obama family favorite — then stroll through the working studios and galleries of nearly 300 artists representing a variety of mediums, including painting, pottery, jewelry, glass, metal, wood and so much more. Swing by Wildflowers Vintage for some retro clothes, and be sure to visit Marquee , an enormous art market filled with antiques and vintage decor.

Back downtown , you can earn more about the area (and enjoy its stunning views) with Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours , or hop on a LaZoom Comedy Tours bus for a mix of sightseeing and gut-busting laughs. You’ll want to pick up gifts for friends at Asheville Bee Charmer and local provisions at Sparky's Bardega.

For dinner, enjoy a glass of wine and a charcuterie board while gazing at passersby at 5 Walnut Wine Bar , or enjoy another James Beard Award–winning culinary experience at Chai Pani, which offers Indian street food at its finest.

End with a nightcap at the quirky Crow & Quill cocktail bar. The door is unmarked, so keep an eye out for the lit lanterns and the “106” over the door.

Regardless of how you choose to enjoy yourself in Asheville, you’ll find the experience you need in a place that will welcome you back time and time again.

To learn more and plan your trip, visit ExploreAsheville.com.

• How This Deeply-Rooted North Carolina City Draws In and Inspires the LGBTQ+ Traveler ›

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A graduate from NYU Tisch, Nic Austin has always connected with the written word and its ability to change minds. He has applied this love for writing to analyzing LGBTQ+ media and how the LGBTQ+ community has been represented on screen. Before working as an Editor at equalpride, Nic Austin was the Editor-in-chief of The Queer Queue and the co-host of both The Queer Queue Podcast and The Queerly News. In his spare time, Nic Austin writes film criticism while enjoying the mountain views of Denver, Colorado.

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Discover the Best of Asheville with Advice from Local Experts

This adventurous North Carolina community has incubated scores of outdoor gear makers. Here’s what they recommend for fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Over the past two decades, Asheville’s reputation as one of the country’s premier adventure hubs has been built on its unique combination of terrain and culture. There just aren’t many communities like this—surrounded by nature but also serving up a deeply rooted arts and food culture. That means it’s as easy to access hiking, biking, fly-fishing, and paddling as it is to sip beer at world-class breweries or savor authentic tacos. Turns out visitors aren’t the only ones who are drawn to this vibrant community. Asheville is also a leading incubator for outdoor gear manufacturers. And who knows better where to use gear than the people who make it? Here’s what some of the area’s homegrown entrepreneurs produce and where they like to use their products.

Eagles Nest Outfitters 

Everyone should have at least one Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) hammock. The ENO journey started 25 years ago when brothers Pete and Paul Pinholster started sewing hammocks in their garage in Florida and selling them out of the back of their van at festivals as a way to escape the 9-to-5 life. They were so successful that they decided to grow their business and moved it to Asheville because of its laid-back vibe and access to the outdoors. More than two decades later, ENO is a thriving brand with a legion of loyal fans who tote their hammocks all over the world.

“I think people like the idea of bringing a hammock with them wherever they go and turning any day into an adventure,” says Pete Pinholster. “You don’t have to train for months or have fancy equipment. It’s a super-accessible way to approach the outdoors.”

Downtime: As for Pinholster’s favorite place to hang his hammock, he likes to keep it close to home. “Lake Powhatan Recreation Area, inside Bent Creek, is a great place to hammock camp for the night, and you have all of Bent Creek’s singletrack to explore on your bike,” he says.

Hellbender Paddleboards 

Danny Daniels started paddleboarding as a way to decompress after work. Roughly 15 years ago, the Asheville-based lawyer started heading straight for the French Broad River after a day in the office and paddling a mellow section through town for an hour-long workout. He was immediately hooked on the sport. “It’s the perfect activity, because you can casually float downstream, or you can turn it upstream and get a core workout,” Daniels says.

But he wasn’t in love with the boards that were on the market. Some were stable but not responsive. Others were maneuverable but not stable. So, in 2020, Daniels decided to design a board that was more suited for his adventures. His friends liked the first prototype and asked him to build them boards too, and Hellbender Paddleboards was born. Today, Hellbender makes four styles of board, including a new fishing-specific model, that you can find on rivers all over the Southeast.

Downtime: With a bevy of rivers within reach, Daniels still likes the French Broad , which runs right along the edge of downtown Asheville. He sticks to the section through town if he’s pressed for time or heads north on the river if he wants an adventure. “That section north of Ledges Whitewater Park is wild. It has nice little waves, and I’ve seen bald eagles,” Daniels says. “You feel like you’re in more wilderness, but it’s still close to town.”

Visitors can get boards and shuttles through French Broad Outfitters .

American Backcountry 

American Backcountry makes T-shirts, but not just any T-shirts. These are really, really great T-shirts that pay homage to public lands. And they’re actually made right here in the United States using a recycled material that takes 500,000 plastic water bottles out of the landfill every year. Frank Hintz started the company in 1993, making shirts specifically for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers but has expanded the business exponentially over the past 30 years. American Backcountry now supplies shirts to 100 national and state parks.

“I’m super stoked to be part of the effort to restore American textile manufacturing,” Hintz says. “And helping to keep plastic out of the landfills is a point of pride, too.”

Downtime: “I’m fond of all things Pisgah National Forest, but I also really like the challenge of West Ridge Trail , which follows the ridgeline of the Seven Sisters in a section of forest managed by Montreat College, outside of Black Mountain,” says Hintz. West Ridge is known for its steep, rocky route that occasionally requires scrambling and is often part of a nine-mile hike that summits 5,408-foot Graybeard Mountain, which delivers views of the Black Mountain Range, including Mount Mitchell, the highest mountain east of the Mississippi.

Adam Masters started selling Bellyaks to the public in 2012, but he built the first prototype back in 2005, after paddling the flooded Cane Creek, near Lake Jocassee, on his belly. The river was too overgrown to paddle sitting up, so he laid flat on his stomach and paddled his kayak with his hands. He fell in love with the hybrid sport and built the prototype that would become the model for the Bellyak in his garage, using vinyl sheeting and a lot of duct tape.

“Paddling a Bellyak gives you freedom,” Masters says. “No straps, no skirts, no being trapped… Taking the natural swimming motion and applying it to a whitewater kayak hull is just incredibly fun and intuitive. It makes easy, familiar rivers completely new again.”

The learning curve on the Bellyak is quick. Masters can have people running whitewater on their first day with the boat. And there’s no better place to paddle the Bellyak than Asheville.

“This town is in the center of a two-hour radius that has some of the best paddling in the East,” Masters says. “There are no shortages of adventures to challenge yourself with here.”

Downtime: If you like to do what locals are passionate about, get yourself to the French Broad River, even if it’s just to hang a hammock in one of Asheville’s city parks along its banks (another suggestion from Pinholster). Like Daniels, Masters loves the variety of water that the French Broad River offers, with mellow stretches through town and high-adventure whitewater north toward the Tennessee border. “I think Section 9 of the French Broad River, from Barnard to Stackhouse, is hands down the best Bellyak river around. The Class III–IV rapids are fun at every level.”

Start Planning

Ready to follow in the footsteps—and paddle strokes—of these local adventure experts? Visiting Asheville is great all year. The temperate climate is perfect for exploring the outdoors all day and enjoying the city’s lively nightlife in the evenings. Find info on activities, guides, lodging, restaurants, events, and more here .

Surrounding the vibrant city center of Asheville, North Carolina, are miles of off-the-beaten-path adventures. Step outside and discover your own pace through natural wonders that draw you in and call you. Start planning your adventures now by visiting ExploreAsheville.com and downloading the Explore Asheville app .

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Plus an idea for a fourth-day outing—because you won't want to leave.

Where to Stay

If you want to be in the thick of it all, the Windsor Boutique Hotel is walking distance to just about every major city attraction—and its thoughtfully renovated suites are an added perk. Just down the block, Elevation Lofts Hotel offers a boutique experience in a historic setting, with amenities including gas fireplaces, full kitchens, in-room laundry, and dining areas. Those after a prime location with a bit of history should check into the Kimpton Hotel Arras , a bank-turned-boutique accommodations conveniently located on Patton Avenue in the heart of downtown.

Alternatively, you can literally vacation like a Vanderbilt by booking a beautifully appointed room or private cottage at Biltmore , just southwest of the city center. The French Renaissance castle-home and 8,000-acre estate once belonged to George and Edith Vanderbilt. Within the gated getaway are meticulously kept gardens, wooded trails, dining and shopping experiences, and even the country's most-visited winery.

If getting out of the city is one of your top priorities as a traveler, Asheville has some incredible ways to ensconce yourself in the great outdoors without totally roughing it. Asheville River Cabins are only 12 miles from downtown, but they feel a world away. You can rent a cabin or luxury trailer with modern amenities (and the French Broad River as your front yard!). If you prefer mountain views over forest scenes, check out AutoCamp , opening in late spring 2024. It boasts incredible vistas from private cabins and decked out travel trailers, less than 20 minutes from the city center.

Day 1: Delve Into Downtown

What to See and Do

A must-see, the Asheville Art Museum is a sprawling reflection of the visual traditions of the Southern Appalachian region. Here, you'll find special exhibitions and permanent collections of 20th- and 21st-century art on display, with the option of guided tours . If you'd like to explore the art-education legacy of Asheville, consider a visit to the Center for Craft which has been at the vanguard of the craft movement for over 25 years. For a more offbeat experience, swing by the Radical Hotel's Afterglow —an espresso bar by day and club by night—or enjoy a walking tour of a different kind at the historic Riverside Cemetery . Stick with the spooky theme on a post-dinner ghost tour with Haunted Asheville or LaZoom Tours .

Where to Eat

Dine where the locals go—like The Med, a beloved old-school diner, and Cucina24 , a cozy brick-oven-adorned space featuring fine Italian-inspired fare. For a twist on soul food, check out Rosetta's Kitchen , a beloved vegetarian and vegan spot that also offers multiple flavors of kombucha (a tasty alternative for the non-alcoholic crowd).

Day 2: Have Some High-End Fun

Even if you're not staying on property at Biltmore, you won't want to miss its popular seasonal attraction Biltmore Blooms . New flowers crop up weekly, so no one trip is the same: On any given day you might stroll past daffodils, azaleas, tulips, or roses among famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted's picturesque landscapes. After taking in spring's bounty, get all dolled up for a night out at the Asheville Symphony for one of their beloved Masterworks concerts or ALT ASO productions.

There are myriad fine-dining experiences to be had—if you're craving traditional live-fire cooking, Asheville Proper 's steaks and classic cocktails can't be beat. For a critically acclaimed locale, try chef Katie Button's lauded Cúrate , which features thoughtfully created Spanish tapas-style plates. Or enjoy a romantic dinner on the patio of Posana , which features imaginative seasonal and sustainable culinary creations and an award-winning wine list.

Day 3: Get Into Nature

Hikers will love the jaw-dropping 360-degree mountain views at Craggy Pinnacle Trail , while thrill-seekers can get their pulses pumping by ziplining through the treetops of a 242-acre wildlife habitat with Navitat Canopy Adventures , or going whitewater rafting with French Broad Adventures (which also offers hot-springs float trips for the less adrenaline-inclined).

Support the community with a visit to Plant , where nationally-recognized Chef Jason Sellers serves up an innovative menu of dishes sourced from the earth. If you want to patronize an area maker after a full day of outdoor activities, you can't beat Asheville Brewing Company 's award-winning craft beer and pub food. Or grab some burgers to go from Baby Bull —an offshoot of Asheville's iconic Bull & Beggar restaurant—to enjoy at your outdoor oasis.

Extend Your Trip

If you're itching to explore a little further past the city limits, stay an extra day or two and check out Black Mountain , a cozy town just 25 minutes east, known as a creative hub. Or you could branch out into nearby Weaverville to shop small businesses on the buzzing Main Street.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, lies a a hippie-haven turned internationally-revered travel destination, Asheville, NC, home to the historic Vanderbilt Estate – the ultra-gorgeous and ultra-famous Biltmore that initially put Asheville on the map. But, over the past 20 years or so, the thriving microbrewery and locavore food scene has made even the most well-traveled rank Asheville at the top of their USA bucket list . And if you haven’t been been to Asheville yet, this guide is all you need to plan the perfect trip to this cozy mountain-town oasis!

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ASHEVILLE, NC

The best (and also most crowded) time to visit Asheville is the autumn, when the picture-perfect fall foliage is at its peak and the leaf peepers can be spotted lining the Blue Ridge Parkway with their selfie sticks. The summer season is almost as popular at the fall, and why wouldn’t it be with average temperatures in the low 70s all summer?! It’s the perfect time to hit the trails or the breweries (patio season, am I right?!). And if you do plan on visiting the Biltmore Estate on your trip, the Christmas season decorations are unparalleled, and easily one of the best travel destinations at Christmastime . Basically what I’m trying to say is, Asheville is great any time of the year!

GETTING TO ASHEVILLE

If you are not within an achievable “road trip” distance, the good news is Asheville does has it’s own airport! however- it is likely to be more expensive due to it being a smaller airport. The closest international airport is Charlotte Douglas, which is about a 1.5 hour drive, and where most people fly into when traveling to Asheville.

WHAT TO DO IN ASHEVILLE

Go hiking .

Asheville is surrounded by protected national forests and there are hikes for all levels! Just east of town lies the Catawba Falls hike, which follows the river to the base of a beautiful moss cover waterfall (a 2.7 mile round trip). For a bit longest excursion, another favorite is Looking Glass Rock , you’ll get panoramic views with a 5.5 mile round trip investment. If you’re up for a challenge and want a great day trip, just 45 minutes out of town is Mount  Mitchell , the highest peak east of the Mississippi. There are also hundreds of trials off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, hop on a piece of the Mountains to Sea trail or the infamous Appalachian trail.

Catawba Falls

Drive Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

The famous road that stretches 469 miles from North Carolina to Virginia, with some of the best views of the Blue Ridge mountains. There are tons of scenic view points where you can pull off and picnic!  In the summer months, make a pit stop at The Orchard at Alta Pass (mile post 328) to pick some apples and enjoy fresh cider (you might even get some lives music).

Explore The Local Wineries

Pleb Urban Winery

Nearly 60 wineries dot the mountains of Western Carolina, many of which are family owned (including the Biltmore Winery, expanded upon below). If you want to stay close to town, check out the Pleb Urban Winery, where they produce more than 20 small-batch wines that are beginning to attract quite a lot of attention from fellow wine snobs. Just 17 miles outside of downtown Asheville, you’ll find Addison Farms Vineyard , where their winery and tasting room have 360-degree mountain views-bring a picnic and sip away! Another newer but not less adored winery is Marked Tree , they just opened a new tasting room downtown called “The Grape”, so you can taste their wines even if you can’t make the trip to the vineyard.

Marked Tree Winery

Visit the Biltmore Estate

Yes the Biltmore can get crowded, and yes it is a bit touristy but it is absolutely still worth visiting. The Biltmore, built by George Vanderbilt in 1889, is the largest privately owned home in the United States (approximately 179,000 square feet). It contains more than 250 rooms, 43 bathrooms, multiple kitchens, an indoor swimming pool, and even a bowling alley! 

The house opens at 9am so get there early to beat the crowds/get the best parking and pay the extra $12 for the audio guided tour, it really does enhance the experience. After touring the house and gardens, head immediately to your FREE, yes FREE wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery (you’ll need your entrance ticket). The Wine Bar at the winery is lovely for lunch, or you can head 5 miles down the road the the European inspired village, Antler Hill, which the Vanderbilts built for their staff. The village has cafes, shops, craft exhibitions and even an outdoor adventure center where you can book horseback riding tours. For lunch in Antler Hill, make sure you check out Corner Kitchen , where they serve up seasonal farm-to-table fare.

Go Brewery Hopping

One of the best “beer cities” in the country, let alone North Carolina, Asheville has an impressive brewery lineup. You could spend a whole day brewery hopping if you so desired, and in fact I highly recommend you leave one day in your schedule for just that. Many of the breweries that began here have now opened multiple locations across NC, like Burial and High Wire. These two breweries take 1st and 2nd place in my book, but Wicked Weed is probably the most well known/recognized. Wicked Weed has a  “Funkatorium” location that is dedicated to the company’s sours and “funkier” brews for beer lovers with a stronger palate. If you’re a saison loved check out Archetype , or Brhamari (which also has an intriguing cocktail menu for any non-beer drinkers).

Take a Spa Day

If you aren’t already staying at the Omni Grove Park Inn, think about at least booking a spa treatment so your can use their world class facilities, which include sauna, contrast pools, eucalyptus infused steam room and aroma therapy rooms.

Another well known spa in Asheville is the Shoji Spa , a Japanese inspired retreat offering salt water soaks, world class massage therapy, and locally sourced spa products. Hop in a cotton robe and enjoy a private salt water tub overlooking the forrest. 

Tour The Sierra Nevada Brewery

This isn’t just a brewery, it’s a whole adult amusement park…perfect for setting up camp and hanging all afternoon with friends. While you can still experience the brewery without the tour, it always makes the beer taste a little better when you appreciate the process a bit more. Choose from a quick 45 minute tour or the “beer geel” 3 hour tour that is a bit more in depth and includes a barrel tasting. Tours do book up so I would recommend booking in advance.

Catch Some Live Music

Rolling Stone named Asheville a “must visit music city”. Know for its underground music scene and pop-up concerts, there are many places to listen to live music in this city. The most well known venue being the Orange Peel , if you’ve ever heard of the band “Rainbow Kitten Surprise”, this venue is where they got their start. Legends like Bob Dylan and the Beastie boys have graced their stage. 

Another top spot is the Grey Eagle , which is a bit smaller and edgier venue, you might not recognize the band up there but you’ll be searching them on Spotify before the night is over. 

Experience Local Farm-To-Table Dining

A foodie hot spot, Asheville’s farm-inspired food scene rivals that of any major city. Deciding where to eat in Asheville will most likely be the toughest decision you’ve made in a while, so I will try to make this easier for you… 

First things first, coffee. 

Looking for the best coffeeshop in Asheville? Start your day with a handcrafted latte at High Five Coffee , or snag that instagram shot you know you want at Double Dee’s , a red double decker bus turned coffee shop.

Double Dees Coffee

Now that you’re properly caffeinated, you’ll be able to make a sound decision about where to brunch.

The best brunch spots in Asheville

If you’ve ever wondered what Biscuit French Toast might taste like, head directly to Early Girl Eatery, a local favorite where they specialize in farm-to-table southern comfort food. For the best savory biscuit you’ve every laid your hands on, accompanied by a “gravy flight”, get in the long line at Biscuit Head. For a more upscale dining experience, try Rhubarb , where you can get craft cocktails along with duck confit hash topped with a poached egg or Posana for th e Lobster Omelette and other gluten free specialties. If you’ll be in town on a Sunday, try to make it to Burial Brewing for their weekly New Orleans Jazz Brunch beginning at noon.

Biscuit Head

The best dinner spots in Asheville

When it comes to where to eat dinner, you really can’t go wrong…  unless of course you fail to make a reservation on a weekend, because at that point there’s nothing I can do to help you. So make those reservations well in advance, and make multiple while you’re at it. Here are a few of the best restaurants for dinner in Asheville:

Curate is one of the restaurants that put the Asheville food scene on the map, from Jame Beard nominated chef Katie Button, this Spanish tapas bar makes you feel like you‘ve transported Madrid or Barcelona – with a Vermouth Bar and Charcuterie station to boot

Curate Bar De Tapas

The perpetually crowded, Chai Pani , serves up cravable traditional Indian food with a twist. They specialize on Chat, an Indian street food but they also have menu items like spied lamb hash on masala fries. 

Cucina 24 combines Italian traditions with ingredients sourced from the nearby farms and forests. The pasta is made fresh in house daily and the wine list is extensive (just the way I like it). If everything on the menu sounds too good and you just can’t choose, go with the “what we’re cooking” option, which is a 5 course tasting menu!

Sovereign Remedies is the perfect spot for interesting yet approachable cocktails, and farm fresh modern plates. If you’re looking for a late night spot, they start churning out ramen and bone marrow tater tots after 10pm!

If you’re looking for something more casual, All Souls Pizza provides the goods. They make their dough with locally grown/milled grains, and use local eggs for their Country Ham and Egg Pie-a fan favorite. 

The best plant-based dinner spot in Asheville

For my plant based easters who want a formal and innovative dining experience, head to Plant. Where everything is vegan, 90% organic, and made from scratch. You’ll see dishes like Tofu Bibimbapa and the aged cashew cheese plate. 

Where to go for the best dessert in Asheville

To top it all off, make your way to the French Broad Chocolate Lounge for dessert, where you’ll find delectable artisan truffles, silky smooth sipping chocolate and THE BEST 3 layer chocolate cake. Or Sunshine Sammies for a build your own ice cream sandwich (vegan and gluten-free options).

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE

If you’re going the hotel route, the best of the best will be The Omni Grove Park Inn , which has hosted 5 U.S.Presidents in the past and their spa is also top of the line. Another great option is the Inn at The Biltmore, where the experience is designed to let you see how the Vanderbilts’s lived, plus you’ll be right next to the Biltmore Winery! And the rooftop bar, Capella on 9, has unbelievable views of the downtown skyline!

The best airbnbs in Asheville

Airbnb’s are a great way to get a more local experience, you could stay right downtown next to all the shops and restaurants or a bit out of town for a more secluded mountain cabin vibe. These are my top choices:

Downtown Living: This airbnb is perfect. Or this one ! 

Modern Mountain Views: Check out this one .

or if a secluded mountain oasis is more your vibe: this one  or this one

Check out these other blog posts!

Where can you travel in 2021? The best places you can travel right now

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How much does a honeymoon in the Maldives really cost?

The Ultimate Tulum Bachelor Party & Guys Trip Guide to Tulum, Mexico

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Asheville NC Travel Guide

Asheville NC is one the coolest cities in the United States, and in particular on the East Coast.    Asheville is literally a city in the mountains and surrounded by tons of beautiful scenery, things to do , and things to do see.  

The city provides a unique mix of trendy and artsy vibe combined with the spirit of adventure and the outdoors.  

There are some amazing, unique and fun things to do in Asheville!  In this guide, we'll tell you all about them and more.  Let's go check out Asheville an all it has to offer!

Updated: 11/17/2022

Cover Photo by: Making Memories Photography

Where is Asheville NC?

Asheville NC is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina , right off of I-40.  The city is literally surrounded by mountain peaks exceeding 5,000 feet in elevation.   The Blue Ridge Parkway even runs through Asheville and some amazing sights and scenery along the Parkway can be seen by riving just a few minutes from the heart of Asheville NC.

What's in Asheville NC?

Asheville is full of unique coffee shops, shopping venues, award winning restaurants, outdoor activities, and of course breweries.

 Did you know that Asheville has more breweries per capita, than any other US City?  Yep, true story!   In fact, at the time this guide was written, Asheville currently has more than 26 breweries in the city alone, and more than 60 more in the Asheville area!

Asheville also has a number of unique hotels, bed and breakfasts and mountain side cabins for you to stay in while exploring the city and surrounding areas.

Of course when thinking of Asheville NC, you can't forgot that it's also home to Biltmore Estate , the largest and most visited private home in the United States.   Biltmore Estate is not only a historic home that you can tour, but also has acres of hiking trails, gardens , horse back riding as well as shopping and fine dining.   Biltmore even has two highly acclaimed hotels you can stay at.

The bottom line? You won't run out of things to do and see when visiting Asheville!

Asheville NC Videos

We not far from Asheville, and visit often.  Here are our videos of Asheville and surrounding areas:

We visit the most haunted location in Asheville NC, the famous Helen's Bridge.  Helen was not what we expected!

Hike on the Appalachian Trail to a 360 degree view mountain top bald.

Visit Crabtree Falls with us, just north of Asheville NC on the Blue Ridge Parkway

We visit the most popular Holiday light display in Asheville.

Hike to the top of this popular and iconic stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for incredible views.

Visit the amazing and beautiful Biltmore Blooms event with as Biltmore Estate

What to do in Asheville NC

As we've mentioned, Asheville is the largest city in Western NC, and one of the largest cities in the Blue Ridge Mountains .  As a result, Asheville is full of things to see and do.  Of course you have your normal to do items, as you would find in most any other large city, but Asheville really delivers on unique things to do in and around the city.

Asheville provides various tours , hiking , museums, historic locations, waterfalls , outdoor adventure, and more.  Here are just some of the great  and unique things to do in Asheville NC when visiting!

Take a Tour!

Asheville offers a number of really cool tours, including beer and brewery tours, Ghost Tours and historic downtown tours .

4 Best Christmas Tree Farms near Asheville NC

6+ best things to do in asheville nc at christmas, top restaurants in asheville nc, best hikes near asheville nc, 17+ best things to do in asheville nc, top waterfalls near asheville nc, biltmore estate visitor’s guide (2024), grove park inn asheville nc, where to stay in asheville nc.

Asheville is full of unique hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, Airbnbs and cabins for you to stay in when visiting.    We love staying in Asheville just for the Bed & Breakfasts, as there are many award winning ones that really pamper you.

We've stayed overnight a few times during our weekend visits, and can highly recommend the Omni Grove Park Inn , A Moment In Time Bed & Breakfast , and The 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House .

Best Hotels and Bed & Breakfasts In Asheville NC

Omni Grove Park Inn

Grand Bohemian Hotel

A Moment in Time Bed & Breakfast

Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park

Lion's Head Bed and Breakfast

Country Inn & Suites, Tunnel Road

See more of the Best Hotels In Asheville NC

Best Cabins In Asheville NC

Asheville is full of beautiful rental cabins for you to enjoy while visiting Asheville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.  Cabin rentals are becoming increasing popular with visitors of all ages, and with services like VRBO and AirBnB, it's super easy to find and book one for your vacation.

Here are a few of our top picks for the best cabins in Asheville NC: 

Pisgah Adventure Cabin

Romantic Hickory Nut Lodge

Mills River Cabin

New Luxury Cabin

Spivey Mountain Cabin

Shadow Ridge Retreat - Pet Friendly

See More of the Best Cabins in Asheville NC

Where to Eat In Asheville NC - Best Restaurants in Asheville

One of the main reasons we visit Asheville NC is for the restaurants.  Asheville has the most variety of restaurant options in Western NC.  There is tons of cultural diversity as well, meaning you can pretty much find any style of food you desire.

We visit Asheville often on our adventures, and often stop and eat there on the way home or while doing some shopping.  We've tried many of the different restaurants and venues, and have a few favorites that we would highly recommend you try out when visiting.

See Our favorite places to eat in Asheville NC

Best Bars near Asheville NC

Being a larger city, not only do you get a wonderful variety of dining options, but there are also some really outstanding bars as well.  Here are our top picks for the Best Bars near Asheville NC:

Antidate at Chemist Spirits

Foggy Mountain Brewpub

The Crow & Quill

Wicked Weed Brewing

The Montford Rooftoop Bar

See more of the Best Bars Near Asheville NC

Larry Deane

About the author

Larry Deane is co-owner of Blue Ridge Mountain Life. He has spent more than 20 years exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and has a deep passion for nature, history, storytelling, and adventure. Along with his wife Jenn, they combined these passions to create Blue Ridge Mountain Life, a travel guide to these stunning mountains they are fortunate to call home. Larry has more than 20 years of experience as a writer and journalist, and has established himself as a leading voice and expert for Blue Ridge Mountains. He is also an avid hiker, photographer, and videographer. He loves sharing his mountain adventures and knowledge with more than 500,000 people per month on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.

Want to learn more?

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March 26, 2019 · Leave a Comment

The Best Things to Do in Asheville NC in 24 Hours

Cities · Mountains · Travel

I’m so excited to share this 24-hour travel guide with you! You know those places that you visit and just fall in love with? Asheville is one of those for me. During my first few years of college I spent my summers working in North Carolina, not too far outside of Asheville. On the days that we had free time, we’d pile into a couple of cars and drive up to Asheville for the day and explore….and eat. (Trust me, you can find all kinds of good food in Asheville.)

A couple of years ago, Stephen and I went to Asheville for our annual anniversary trip and now he loves to visit, too. Luckily, Asheville, NC is only a couple of hours away from Athens, GA, so it’s the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway! We recently did just that: we drove up to Asheville and spent 24 hours hitting a few of our favorite spots and wandering around the city.

So, here’s how we spent our 24 hours in Asheville, NC…

Asheville, NC Travel Guide – Stay

HOTEL INDIGO, DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE For our 24-hour visit, we stayed at the Hotel Indigo right smack in the middle of downtown Asheville. It’s a great location, and just a few minutes’ from all of our favorite local spots. When we travel, we always love to be in a good location where we can walk practically everywhere and Hotel Indigo was the perfect spot for us to be able to do just that. We drove into town on a Saturday and checked in before heading out to find a little lunch.

Our room at Hotel Indigo was the perfect size for our short visit. It was bright & airy, spacious enough to still be functional with a king size bed, desk, and a comfortable chair, and a large bathroom. Oh, and that bed? Talk about comfortable! (I don’t know about Stephen, but I slept like a rock when we got back to the hotel after dinner.)

Asheville, NC Travel Guide – Drink

BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE & CHAMPAGNE BAR When we visited Asheville for our anniversary, we stumbled across Battery Park Book Exchange when it started raining while we were wandering around. We thought that we were ducking into a used bookstore to get out of the rain, but ended up finding one of our favorite spots to just hang out. Battery Park Book Exchange is a used bookstore, but it’s a used bookstore with a bar inside. It’s mainly a champagne & wine bar, but they also have a beer list, light food, a few desserts, and espresso drinks. On the weekends, you’ll find live music playing in the bar area. When we arrived on Saturday afternoon, there was a jazz trio playing. If sitting in a comfy chair and sipping champagne or coffee surrounded by books sounds pretty good…you’ll enjoy Battery Park Book Exchange.

Asheville, NC Travel Guide – Eat

FRENCH BROAD CHOCOLATE LOUNGE I always run into French Broad for a little box of they’re unique chocolate bonbons to take home with me when I visit Asheville. (It may look like there’s a long line outside of French Broad, but they are just regulating how long the line to order is, so that things don’t get too crowded inside. I promise, it’ll move pretty fast!) They also serve more pastries and sweets, coffees, ice cream, and a few different types of drinking chocolate. It’s the perfect spot to get your chocolate fix! There are a number of different chocolate shops in downtown Asheville, but I think that French Broad’s flavors are absolutely the most unique.

GREEN SAGE CAFE If you’re looking for a light, healthy lunch, head to Green Sage Cafe. Their menu covers a wide range, including all different types of breakfast items, smoothies, juices, sandwiches, wraps, rice bowls…I could keep going. We stopped in for a quick, light lunch. Stephen ordered their Jamaican Jerk Chicken Sandwich, while I chose an avocado toast with over-medium egg on top. Oh, and we may have ordered some sweet potato fries, too. We went back to Green Sage a second time for an extra cup of coffee on Sunday morning.

ZAMBRA TAPAS Zambra is another spot that we just happened to stumble upon during our anniversary trip when we were wandering around. We rounded a corner and saw a short line outside the door, asked them about the place, and joined the line at this unique spot. I love tapas-style restaurants, since you can order a few different plates at a time for the table and try out a few different dishes. Zambra is a perfect spot for a dinner date, but make a reservation if you don’t want to wait!

Are making a quick visit to Asheville, North Carolina anytime soon? I definitely recommend checking out the Hotel Indigo ! And you can find a couple more of my Asheville spots here and here !

A big thank you to hotel indigo asheville for hosting us for our 24-hour visit to asheville.

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Casual Style • Attainable Travel • Everyday Life • Yoga • Healthy(ish) Living • Fueled by Coffee

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Guide to Visiting Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC: Things To Do & Tips!

O ne of our favorite getaways from Raleigh is to the opulent Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, also known as America’s largest home!

We love a stately home – they are a great way to gain an insight into the lifestyles of the wealthy and extravagant, as well as showcase some of the finest, classical architecture in the country.

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC is the castle of all castles. This French-chateaux-inspired mansion has 250 rooms and four floors and sits on a property that spans 8,000 acres (that’s 13 square miles – pretty big!)

If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Biltmore Estate from Raleigh, then this guide is for you! We’ve shared some of the best things to do at Biltmore Estate, as well as shared some tips for visiting and where to stay nearby, so you can make the most of your visit.

About Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains region, fairly close to Smoky Mountains National Park and only a 5-minute drive outside of downtown Asheville .

This sprawling estate is the vision of George Washington Vanderbilt , a former railroad tycoon who famously turned $100 into $1,000 million. His construction business made him one of the wealthiest men in the world in his prime, and of course, he built a home to showcase this.

Construction of the estate started in 1889 and was completed in 1895, taking six years to build. It was and still is regarded as America’s largest home.

Shortly after the completion of this French Renaissance château, he met his wife, Edith, who moved into the home and they had one child, Cornelia. 

When George died in 1914, the ownership of the house went to his wife, and then his child. The lineage of the estate has stayed in the Vanderbilt family and is today owned by his great-grandson, Bill Cecil Jr.

What makes the Vanderbilt family unique is that although they were wealthy, they wanted to share what they had with the world, and from the moment the house was built they opened their doors to the community, hosting events throughout the year.

They also provided employment opportunities and gave their workers New York salaries, which uplifted the local community and contributed to the growth of nearby towns.

Biltmore Estate is more than an architectural marvel, but a work of art. It has been a registered National Historic Landmark since 1963.

How many days to see Biltmore Estate?

We recommend you allow at least 2 full days to explore the entire Biltmore Estate. When you purchase an entrance ticket for Biltmore House, you receive free access to the grounds for the following day.

Most people take two days to explore the grounds and house, but nothing is stopping you from staying longer. Ideally, three days would be better, as there are a lot of activities you can do there from clay shooting to craft workshops to Land Rover tours. 

Any more than three days would be pushing it (and weighing heavily on your wallet).

Several people I’ve met have told me they’ll visit Biltmore on a day trip from Raleigh and have a great time. At a minimum three and a half hours drive from Raleigh one way, I personally would not visit on a day trip from Raleigh!

But, I have visited Biltmore in just one day before coming in from Asheville or Lake Lure. On those one-day visits, we tend to only fit in the house, gardens and wine tasting.

Things To Do At Biltmore Estate

1. tour the house.

Of course, the most important thing to do at Biltmore Estate is to explore Biltmore house and gardens. After all, this is what you come to see, right?

You can take a self-guided audio tour , which is included in your ticket price , or you can opt for a guided tour. It’s up to you how you do it, but make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, as it often sells out (and you make a saving by booking in advance).

The audio tour takes about 90-minutes and takes you through the most important rooms in the house (not all 250 are open to the public). 

You’ll see the elegant and spacious banquet hall, entrance hall, winter garden, and breakfast room. You also get to visit George and Edith’s bedroom, which has been decorated in period furnishings and hosts displays of vintage clothing, art, and more.

As you wander through these grand rooms, the audio guide will narrate stories that illustrate the lives of the Vanderbilt family and the people around them.

The basement level is one of the most inspiring sections of the house. Here you can see the kitchen, staff quarters, laundry room, and other areas used by the workers of the house. It’s amazing to think what it would have looked like in the beginning.

After the tour, be sure to stop by the shops in the former Carriage Homes to pick up souvenirs or refreshments before exploring the grounds.

Always check the Biltmore schedule as they often have special exhibitions inside the house. We’ve visited before when they had a special Titanic the movie exhibition with costumes throughout the house and interesting pieces of information and connections between the settings of the movie and Biltmore.

2. Explore the Biltmore Estate Gardens

If you think the house is impressive, wait until you see the backyard! Standing on the verandah at the back of the house, you’ll be met with sprawling scenes of the Pisgah National Forest, which Vanderbilt strived to protect.

As well as wandering through the nature trails of the woodlands, take a couple of hours to wander through the former and informal gardens.

As with the house, Vanderbilt left no expense when it came to designing the gardens . They were designed by America’s foremost landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, and have been divided into several sections.

Be sure to visit the Italian garden, azalea garden, and shrub garden, and see the orchids in the spring garden conservatory. The rose garden is beautiful in the spring and has over 250 varieties of plants.

NOTE: I have just finished the Devil in the White City book which is all about Chicago’s World Fair in 1893. Olmsted was the landscape architect for the fair and they mention Biltmore House several times in the book, as he was working on Biltmore’s garden project at the same time.

3. Enjoy Complimentary Wine-Tasting

Did you know that Biltmore Winery is one of the most visited wineries in the USA? Well, now you do! And the good news is, with your entrance ticket, you get free wine tasting of around 20 handcrafted wines from their vineyard, some of which have won awards.

For the kids, they can have a complimentary grape juice, so they don’t miss out.

While I really enjoyed the wine tasting experience at Biltmore, and highly recommend you do it, Biltmore wine is not something I’d choose to drink outside of the estate. It’s really not too bad, but not my typical style. I would drink it again on my next visit though for sure!

4. Visit Antler Hill Village

Antler Hill Village is a tiny village set up on the estate where all the action is. It’s where you will find places to eat, The Creamery ice cream shop, stores, an Outdoor Adventure Center, and the winery.

When we last visited, there was even live music playing in the grassy area in the village.

Be sure to dine at one of Biltmore’s restaurants, which continue the legacy of Vanderbilt’s farm-to-table ethos and use herbs grown from the estate’s garden.

We ate at Village Social, which was more casual, but we heard good things about Cedric’s Tavern, which is a traditional, English-looking pub. And don’t miss a chance to take the kids to the farmyard at Antler Hill Village to see the chickens and goats.

5. Go For a Hike Around The Deer Park Area

There are nearly 22 miles of hiking trails in the entire Biltmore Estate, so if you want to get out into nature and explore, you have a lot of areas to explore. 

Head into the Deer Park Area and walk along the French Broad River, or traverse through the forests and open meadows. Be sure to visit the Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village for a detailed trail map.

6. Go Horseback Riding

If hiking 22 miles of trails sounds too daunting for you, then consider exploring the nature sites on horseback instead. You can take a 1-hour, western-style guided ride through the woodlands and meadows of the estate, accompanied by an experienced guide.

There is a maximum of 10 people per horseback riding tour, so you can enjoy the quietness and ambiance of the forest without a huge tour group to spoil the atmosphere.

7. See the Chihuly Exhibit (April Only)

When we visited the Biltmore Estate back in 2014, we were lucky to see the work of American artist, David Chihuly.

Due to its popularity, it will be welcomed back this April 2024 for a limited time only and can also be observed intimately at a few formal dinner events.

David Chihuly is famous for his colorful glass sculptures, which will be displayed in front of the mansion as well as in the gardens.

We loved the bright colors and unique shapes of his sculptures, and highly recommend you go to check them out. It really made an already beautiful garden bloom with even more splendor. It made our list of spring break destinations from Raleigh.

8. Have Afternoon Tea at The Dining Room

What better way to experience the elegance and grandeur of this estate than by enjoying a traditional Afternoon Tea? 

Vanderbilt often had a tradition of having afternoon tea with his guests, and the tradition lives on at the Inn on Biltmore Estate Dining Room, where tea is served with fresh-baked scones with clotted cream, honey, and jam.

You will also get a selection of sweet and savory canapés as well as a selection of sandwiches. And you can also have a tea-infused cocktail if you prefer to make it boozy.

NOTE: this is an “elegant attire” activity, and you won’t be allowed in if you rock up in shorts and sandals. Come wearing your best dress shirts and dresses.

9. Stay at The Inn at Biltmore Estate

The Inn at Biltmore Estate is a four-star luxury hotel on the property that continues that exuberant charm from the main mansion.

From the grandeur of the hotel foyer to the magnificent mountain views to the complimentary glasses of champagne on arrival – it’s luxury through and through.

All rooms are decorated in a period style close to Biltmore Mansion’s style, but still feel comfortable and elegant. It’s expensive, but it’s well worth it for a special occasion. You can read more about our stay at The Inn at Biltmore Estate here .

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

The Biltmore Estate is open all year round, though hours of operation vary by season and differ for each shop and restaurant, so it’s best to check the website before visiting . The house is open from 8.30am until around 5.00pm.

As for admission, ticket prices vary depending on the time of year. The price of visiting in the winter starts at $75, and prices in Spring and Summer start at $80. All tickets allow access to explore the magnificent Biltmore House and its sprawling grounds. 

If you are visiting during the Christmas period (Nov 2-Jan 5), prices start at $110. Visiting Biltmore Estate at Christmas to see the lights is a Christmas experience not to miss in NC .

Additional activities such as clay shooting, horseback riding, and other workshops and classes are additional to the ticket price.

Where To Stay When Visiting Biltmore Estate

Of course, there are places to stay on the Biltmore Estate which make a visit much easier. The Inn at Biltmore Estate is the most luxurious hotel on the grounds, as we mentioned earlier, but if you’re looking for something more modern, consider the following:

The Village Hotel

The Village Hotel is a newer hotel on the grounds and is of 3* quality. It has spacious and comfortable rooms, decorated in a more modern flare but still offers the warm hospitality that Biltmore is famous for.

The Cottages

There are also a couple of self-contained cottages on the estate that you can rent if you prefer a little more privacy and more amenities. You will need to book in advance for these though, as there is only a handful.

Hotel Indigo in Asheville

If you don’t want to stay on the grounds, we enjoyed our stay at Hotel Indigo in downtown Asheville . It’s a great location and has comfortable rooms.

Another option is to stay in Lake Lure, which is about an hour’s drive from Biltmore Estate. We love it there and if you’re planning to visit Asheville for 2+ days , consider making a stop by. We have a guide on our ytravelblog.com site on why we love Lake Lure and what to do there.

Tips for Visiting Biltmore Estate

To make the most of your trip, here are some words of advice:

• Get there early to avoid the crowds. Even if you have booked your ticket in advance, you’ll want to enjoy the house and gardens with fewer people. If possible, visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
• Purchase your tickets in advance. Reservations are required for the self-guided visit to Biltmore House and are timed entry, so you do need to book in advance to make sure that tickets are available.
• Get to the house at least 45 minutes before your Biltmore House entry time . It takes time to find a parking space and catch the shuttle bus to the house.
• Note that children under 16 are allowed to enter free for all summer (through Labor Day)! The rest of the year, children under 9 and admitted free.
• If you want to see the Christmas Lights or other special events throughout the year, book way in advance as they are very popular, and tickets sell out quickly. Biltmore Bloom in Spring is another popular event that boasts incredible floral displays.
• You need to drive from location to location in the estate, it’s that big!

Rising Appalachia Share New Music Video & Hometown Travel Guide To Asheville, NC

The life of a touring artist isn’t for the weak. As most fans and musicians are aware, artistic preservation demands a break from time to time to make space for re-centering, writing, and relaxing . With that, it only made sense when globally recognized Americana and world folk ensemble Rising Appalachia announced that they’d be taking a creative sabbatical from the road to work on new music.

With several weeks into their global travel rest, frontwomen sisters Leah Song and Chloe Smith have announced their upcoming album, Folk and Anchor . The project will see the group release an all-new collection of thoughtful reimaginings of cover songs spanning the likes of Bob Dylan, James Blake, Erykah Badu, Beyonce, and beyond. Due out May 17th, Folk and Anchor will showcase the group’s eclectic style, inviting old and new listeners into a rich musical journey.

“We grew up immersed in a musical family, and our songwriting and performance has been deeply influenced by so many Americana genres over the years,” says Leah Song.

“We wanted to create a body of work where all those influences could be showcased under one roof…As folk musicians, we have always been inspired by public music that is not our own. Along with songwriting, we have always played tunes and traditionals from Appalachia, Ireland, and beyond. With this album we were inspired to branch out and do our spin on some different styles of music, ranging from pop to folk to soul. The artists we chose to cover are both contemporary favorites as well as people we grew up listening to and adoring. It has been a treat to sit back in Echo Mountain Studios in Asheville, NC and work on these renditions of beloved songs.”

With a month out from the full album release, Rising Appalachia has released the first single, “The Bones.” Originally recorded by Maren Morris and Hozier, the new single is accompanied by a music video that sees the group harmonizing in their hometown of Asheville, North Carolina .

As Leah and Chloe continue settling into their artistic rest in the mountains of Asheville, they have compiled a personal travel guide to this little Appalachian city. From breweries to mountain hikes, scroll down to see personal recommendations ahead of the group’s Summer Solstice Soiree at Salvage Station on June 8th. Tickets and additional information can be found here .

Best Place To Caffeinate In The Morning: Dobra TeaHouse

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We love Dobra TeaHouse for its ambiance and tucked away coziness. Their tea selection is divine and worldly and the cafe is a perfect place to quietly reflect or work on a project with a warm mug of herbal sweetness. Try the Shakti-tea!

How To Spend A Proper Afternoon in Asheville: Our Favorite Independent Bookstores

We are usually out and about in the woods around these mountains more than in town, foraging or cold plunging or taking in the splendor of birdsong in the green hills. For town we can get lost in Malaprops Bookstore for hours on end in literary bliss, perusing their immaculate selections of fiction novels or how-to books. We are big supporters of independent bookstores. Firestorm is also an amazing one over in West Asheville.

Best Place To Grab A Bite To Eat: Zambra

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Zambra is our go to. Incredible tapas, underground aesthetic, low lit and romantic, great wine selection. We also love Benne on Eagle for its incredible brunch menu.

Best Brewery In The 828: The Wedge

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The Wedge ! Always and forever old school. We love them because they are the original brewery in Asheville. The iron work around the brewery is incredible and the river arts district is steezy and pleasing on the eye for an artist.

Favorite Hiking Trails: Craggy Gardens/Shining Rock

We are sneaky about this and won’t share our favorite so as to keep the trails we love quiet…however…some more well known ones we love are Craggy Gardens during the autumnal season and the hike up to Shining Rock via the Art Loeb trail. There are so many great trails in every direction of this mountain region. What a treasure to spend a day in the woods.

Best Place To See Live Music: Salvage Station

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Salvage Station for outdoor live music…kudos to our sound engineer Scarekrow that runs sound there. It’s right on the river which is a sweet spot to listen to music in town. They have ample parking and it’s an old salvage yard so it’s rustic and charming. We also love the Grey Eagle for more intimate shows. They are a staple of the Asheville music scene and have been for many years, so it’s important to support businesses who have been here for a long time amidst the insane growth of this town. Lastly, the LEAF Festival is a gem of a music and arts event here and we have been going since we were babies.

What Do You Want People To Know About Asheville?

We recommend Asheville city council and residents to help this town grow smart and not fast. With so many people moving to the area, there is a high need for bike lanes, affordable housing, and water management to name a few. There are tons of good people working on these agendas locally so get involved if you love living in this town!

Pre-order or pre-save the band’s new album ahead of its May release here .

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Skyview Golf Tournament

July 9 - 11, 2024 |  asheville, north carolina.

Welcome! Asheville is a vibrant city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina with a thriving arts community, diverse outdoor adventures, numerous historic attractions, and amazing food. Below you'll find special hotel rates for the event and information to help plan your time in Asheville.  As you make hotel reservations, be sure to mention the rate codes listed and use the booking links provided. For full details of hotel amenities, click on the hotel name.

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The  f oundry hotel asheville  | 30% off | group rate code: golf | +1 828-552-8545 | book online  click 'special rates' and enter golf in the group code. , element asheville downtown  | $139 | +1 828-575-5881 | breakfast included | use the booking link to make a reservation. | book online, plan your stay in asheville.

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Southern hospitality: How many WNC towns feature among 12 'most hospitable' in NC?

WorldAtlas has released a list of its 12 most hospitable NC towns – and it may come as no surprise to Asheville residents that many of their choices were located in the western areas of the state.

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.

In this article, 12 cities were chosen for " awe-inspiring surroundings, fascinating attractions, colorful festivals, friendly locals and warm hospitality".

Read about the WNC cities that made the list below.

More: Your guide to things to do in Asheville and across Western North Carolina! April 2024

Which North Carolina towns are the most hospitable?

WorldAtlas cites these 12:

• Bryson City
• Blowing Rock
• Hillsborough
• Hendersonville

Boone, Sylva, Bryson City, Highlands, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Hendersonville are all located in Western North Carolina – over half of the cities on the list of 12.

Read on for info on the WorldAtlas suggestions for what to do in each of these WNC towns – and what makes them each so special.

More: Which new Asheville restaurants, cafes, bars and breweries opened from Jan-March 2024?

Best things to do in Boone

WorldAtlas has high praises for outdoor attractions around Boone, located in Watauga County. They suggest the following locations for tourists and residents alike:

• Natural attractions including Daniel Boone Native Gardens, Grandfather Mountain, Elk Knob State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Hickory Ridge Living History Museum .
• Appalachian State University's Kidd-Brewer Stadium .
• Jones House Cultural Center .

WorldAtlas also suggests watching catching the outdoor Revolutionary War drama "Horn in the West" at the Daniel Boone Amphitheater, an event that occurs every summer.

Best things to do in Sylva

Sylva, in Jackson County, earned its spot for more than just the natural beauty of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here are some specific attractions from Sylva that WorldAtlas writers appreciated:

• Jackson County Court House (currently Jackson County Public Library).
• The Pinnacle, with its view of the entire town and the Scotts Creek Valley.
• History attractions including the American Museum of the House Cat and the nearby Museum of the Cherokee People and Appalachian Women’s Museum .
• Yearly events including Concerts on the Creek, Greening Up The Mountains Festival and the Hook, Line & Drinker Festival .

They also mention Sylva's main street as a whole, praising it for its shops, bookstores, art galleries, craft breweries, boutiques, cafes and farm-to-table restaurants.

More: Word from the Smokies: Spring's grand performance is prime time for birdwatchers

Best things to do in Bryson City

Bryson City, in Swain County, located 65 miles from Asheville, is next on the list. Here are a few of the options WorldAtlas suggests:

• The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad draws more than 200,000 passengers yearly and provides gorgeous views of the Nantahala Valley.
• Outdoor recreation at the Nantahala National Forest including Fontana Lake and the Nantahala River. WorldAtlas specifically suggests guide services from the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• For history lovers, the list includes the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum, Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians and the Swain County Visitor Center & Heritage Museum.
• Finally, WorldAtlas praises the Bistro at the Everett Hotel as a perfect spot for a romantic date night.

Best things to do in Highlands

WorldAtlas first praised Highlands, in Macon County, as a summer refuge for anyone sick of the southern heat and humidity due to its high elevation and cool temperatures. Here are some more of the things that earned Highlands a spot on the list:

• Numerous National Register-listed landmark properties, vintage stores, eateries and inns.
• Performing art venues like the Highlands Cashiers Players, Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center and Instant Theatre Company.
• Fun in the great outdoors with hiking trails to scenic waterfalls such as Bridal Veil Falls, Quarry Falls, Dry Falls and Cullasaja Falls, plus adjacent Cliffside Lake Recreation Area and Harris Lake , which are popular fishing locations for anglers.

More: 5 new food trucks on the move in Asheville in 2024

Best things to do in Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock, in Watauga County, made the list for more than just its namesake rock formation of over 1,500 feet. WorldAtlas also listed the following attractions:

• Tweetsie Railroad theme park
• Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine
• Parks including Julian Price Memorial Park and Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which is located next to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Blowing Rock Art & History Museum
• Yearly events including “Art in the Park,” the Fourth of July festival & parade, Blowing Rock Winterfest, Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show, Blue Ridge Wine & Food Festival, Symphony by the Lake and Christmas in the Park & Lighting of the Town.

More: Best small town in the state is in Western North Carolina, according to Southern Living

Best things to do in Banner Elk

WorldAtlas called Banner Elk, in Avery County, a "mecca for outdoors enthusiasts." WorldAtlas praises Banner Elk for:

• Winter outdoors options including skiing and snowboarding at the Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain ski resorts.
• Water-based recreation, hiking, blueberry-picking and more outdoor options during warm seasons.
• Wineries and award-winning restaurants such as the Artisanal Restaurant and Sorrento’s Bistro.
• The yearly Woolly Worm Festival .

Best things to do in Hendersonville

Hendersonville, in Henderson County, around 22 miles south of Asheville, is the last – but not the least – of the WNC towns listed. Attractions cited by WorldAtlas for the "City of Four Seasons":

• Main Street and Downtown areas which are "chock full" of vintage stores, art galleries, museums, boutiques, breweries, theaters and fine dining establishments.
• WorldAtlas included plenty of options for history and culture fans in Hendersonville including the Henderson County Courthouse, Mineral & Lapidary Museum, Hands-On Children’s Museum, Hendersonville Little Theatre, Western North Carolina Air Museum, Henderson County Heritage Museum and Oakdale Cemetery.
• The Jump Off Rock overlook in Laurel Park five miles west of Hendersonville, with panoramic views of the Pisgah and Blue Ridge Mountains.

More: View Charlotte the pregnant stingray's aquarium home in Hendersonville with Team ECCO

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].

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Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

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Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

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Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

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Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

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Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

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Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

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Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

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Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

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Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

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Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

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Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.