asheville travel blog

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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 Off the Eaten Path’s Asheville Travel Guide highlights where to stay, what to eat and drink, and what to do in Asheville, North Carolina.

Planning a day trip, weekend trip or just looking for other things to do, places to visit, and where to eat across North Carolina? Check out Off the Eaten Path’s North Carolina Travel Guide, which features weekend itineraries, travel and restaurant recommendations across the Tarheel State. 

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Asheville, North Carolina needs no introduction.

(But just in case North Carolina’s most popular mountain destination does, here’s a short one.)

Known for its booming brewery scene (Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city), creative culinary options (with several nationally recognized restaurants and a heavy focus on local sourcing), thriving arts and culture, outdoor adventures, deep history, vibrant spirit, and Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop, Asheville has become a top tourist destination in the Southeast.

Just about 2 hours from Charlotte, Asheville is the perfect place for a day trip, quick weekend getaway or week-long relaxing retreat, making it one of the most popular travel spots for Charlotteans.

(Not from Charlotte? No problem! Asheville is easily accessible by two major interstates, I-40 and I-26, and there are many direct flights from major U.S. cities to the Asheville Regional Airport. Flying into Charlotte, Greensboro, or Raleigh, renting a car and road tripping to Asheville is also a great option.)

This Asheville Travel Guide highlights all the must sees, must dos, must eats and must drinks in Asheville, NC!

PIN THIS ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE TO SAVE IT FOR LATER!

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: POINTS OF INTEREST IN ASHEVILLE, NC (THE DON’T MISS OF ASHEVILLE!)

Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway . The 469 mile thoroughfare between Shenendoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks is one of the most scenic routes in America, tracing the ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Parkway runs right next to Asheville offering beautiful hikes, roadside picnic spots, and panoramic vistas. (If you’re looking for hiking recommendations, check out some of our favorite Asheville hikes !)

Sip on a local beer. Put back a pint (or two, or a few) of local beer from one of Asheville’s 40+ local breweries and cideries.

Boasting more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city, each of Asheville’s breweries has its unique atmosphere, personality and brews.

Visit Biltmore Estate. Imagine what it would be like to live in the lap of luxury while visiting Biltmore Estate.

Built in 1895, the Biltmore is the largest privately-owned estate in the United States; your admission lets you tour the home as well as enjoy the grounds which includes gardens, restaurants and a winery.

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: PLACES TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE, NC

Ho tels in Asheville, NC

Cabins in Asheville, NC

Bed and Breakfasts in Asheville, NC

Glamping in Asheville, NC

Tent Camping in NC

AirBNB in Asheville, NC

VRBO in Asheville, NC

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: WHERE TO EAT IN ASHEVILLE, NC

The Admiral

Asheville Sandwich Co.

Biscuit Head

Buxton Hall BBQ

Early Girl Eatery

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

The Grove Park Inn

The Market Place

Sunny Point Cafe

White Duck Taco Shop

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: BREWERIES IN ASHEVILLE, NC

This is a list of the Asheville breweries we’ve personally visited. Click here to learn more about the Asheville beer scene and see even more breweries ! 

Asheville Brewing Company

Burial Beer Co.

Funkatorium

Green Man Brewery

Highland Brewing Company

Hi-Wire Brewing

New Belgium Brewery

One World Brewing

Pisgah Brewing

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

Wedge Brewing

Wicked Weed Brewing

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: THINGS TO DO IN ASHEVILLE, NC

Biltmore Estate

Sunset Terrace at The Grove Park Inn

The Grove Park Inn Day Spa

Walk around and explore downtown

Hang out in West Asheville

Stroll the studios in the River Arts District

Sip on local beers

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Hike (our favorite Asheville area hikes include Mount Pisgah, Graveyard Fields, Craggy Gardens, Black Balsam Knob and Tennet Mountain, Mount Mitchell)

The North Carolina Arboretum

Tube or kayak the French Broad River

ASHEVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE: TRAVEL ITINERARIES

Our Honeymoon in Asheville (Part 1)

Our Honeymoon in Asheville (Part 2)

Our Honeymoon in Asheville (Part 3)

A Weekend In Asheville

Five Romantic Asheville Hikes

Asheville Brews

Asheville Chews

Christmas at the Biltmore

A Night at The Grove Park Inn

Western North Carolina Farm Tour

Five Foodie Day Trips from Charlotte

Best Restaurants in Hendersonville

Things to Do in Bryson City, NC

How to Spend Three Days in Asheville: A 2023 Itinerary

Asheville’s reputation has exploded over the last few years.

This hipster enclave in North Carolina offers up a delightful mix of great restaurants, bustling craft breweries, and a vibrant arts and music scene, all in the foreground of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Asheville is what some call ‘Mountain South’; a combination of welcoming Southern hospitality and rugged mountain charm. The town is also a place of transients, so there’s a wide range of diverse and eclectic locals to hang out with. Here, you’re just as likely to start up a conversation with somebody originally from Michigan or Maryland than one born and raised in North Carolina.

And that shouldn’t be a surprise. People move here simply because Asheville is cool; because they’re excited to be a part of such a welcoming community. This helps Asheville retains its weird and wonderful charm, and we wouldn’t be surprised if you ended up considering a move here, too. It has a way of capturing your heart.

So let’s talk about all that Asheville has to offer. Whether you’re on a romantic weekend escape or planning a mid-week visit there’s sure to be something that will take your interest. 

The town of Asheville itself has a total of 26 breweries, which provides visitors and locals alike with a bevy of options. Head further out and you’ll come across another 34. Likewise, eating out in Asheville is always a treat. International cuisine is well-represented along with classic Southern and local North Carolinian fare. 

Beyond tofu tacos and farm-fresh meals, Asheville is a gateway town to the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway swings by the town, bringing the promise of exceptional views and easy access to some of the best hiking on the east coast. We’ve shared some recommendations below, including a trek to the summit of Mt Pisgah. But if you find yourself with plenty of time, the options are endless, including the timeless Max Patch, a simple 50-minute drive away. 

Before we dive into our 3-day Asheville itinerary, it’s worth thinking about how you plan on getting around town. Asheville itself is very walkable. In fact, on foot is one of the best ways to explore. Simply wandering around town from the French Broad River to Biltmore Avenue will be one of the highlights of your trip. However with so much to see beyond the town and such cheap parking within, a car is a great option to help you make the most out of your Asheville adventure. 

Now let’s get down to business and dive into the best activities, restaurants, and bars to visit on your three-day trip to fabulous Asheville!

How Many Days to Spend in Asheville

2 days in Asheville is enough to catch a glimpse of this unique and historic city.

With 3 days, you can tack on a short day trip to some of the state and national parks nearby to enjoy hiking and fresh air. With 3 days in Asheville, you can do a bit of sightseeing, get out in the mountains, soak up the city’s vibrant culture, and so much more.One day at the  Biltmore  estate. One day just wandering around: downtown Ashville,  Biltmore Village , Grove Park Inn, art district etc; And one day drove the  Blue Ridge Parkway  and did some short hikes. 3 days in Asheville, NC is truly the perfect amount of time. Breweries, the Biltmore, and gorgeous trails, what more could you ask for when it comes to a weekend in Asheville itinerary?

Day 1: Explore the Quirks of Asheville

Asheville is all about the weird, wonderful, and wacky. When you pair that with delicious food and a phenomenal craft beer scene, it isn’t hard to see why Asheville is becoming such a hot place to visit. 

Once you’ve dropped your bags, there’s no time to waste. With 72 hours to spend in Asheville, it is time to start exploring, and we recommend beginning in the River Arts District, otherwise known as RAD.

For over four decades, artists have been reenergizing a slew of run-down industrial buildings, transforming Asheville into the artist haven we know today. Now, the buildings that line much of the French Broad River have become a part of what’s known as the River Arts District.

Here, you’ll find works from over 200 local artists, featuring exhibits, crafts, and galleries, with each spot having something different to offer. A simple walk through the district will be enough to uncover a colorful culture of art and collaboration. 

Next, make your way to the Asheville Pinball Museum .

If you were ever in doubt about Asheville’s ability to embrace all things eclectic, then wonder no more. At this epic museum, you can explore both classic and modern pinball machines — there are over 70 of them in the space, ready for you to play. Take a moment to unleash your inner child and embrace the dose of nostalgia. For $15, you’ll have unlimited access to as many machines as you wish to play.

If the weather outside isn’t flash, this is a great option for a rainy day activity.

Street performing is a common part of life in Asheville, so as you continue to explore, you will no doubt come across a variety of interesting — and sometimes mystifying — performances. Asheville loves live music and the quality of street performances in the town is some of the best in the country. If you stick around and enjoy the show, make sure to support those local artists. 

Speaking of public performances, if you’re escaping to Asheville for the weekend, today may very well be Friday. If that’s the case you must head to Pritchard Park for Asheville’s weekly drum circle. Join those ending their workweek with a community-sized bang at 5pm.

Dozens of players descend upon the amphitheater in the park and play in harmony as though they’ve been training all week. The drum circle grows throughout the night as others dance and enjoy the evening. There’s perhaps no better way to sum up the beauty of Asheville, than by experiencing this weekly concert.

Where to Eat

Asheville has a reputation for being a foodie haven, and honestly: you really can’t go wrong. But a trip to Black Bird restaurant is sure to give your tastebuds a workout and introduce you to classic North Carolinian fare. Featuring delicious farm-to-table options, fresh catch of the day from coastal Carolina, and, of course, plenty of local craft brews, Black Bird ticks all of the boxes.

For a late afternoon snack, French Broad Chocolates awaits your arrival. A bean-to-bar chocolate maker, French Broad Chocolates is located right in the downtown area and they make everything on-site! Packed with delicious desserts, confectionery, and homemade ice cream, the options are endless. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.

For dinner, make your way to Curate for authentic Spanish cuisine. The name Curate comes from the Spanish language meaning, ‘cure yourself’. Curate is all about great food and the curing effects of sharing time and tasty dishes with friends and family. What better way to spend your first evening in Asheville than by enjoying Curate’s zesty tapas, charcuterie, and paella de verudas. 

Day 2: It’s Time for an Adventure

By now, we know that Asheville is all about quirks, beautiful buildings, and vibrant artwork. But standing proud behind the downtown streets are the towering Appalachian Mountains and the brilliant Blue Ridge Parkway.  

With excellent weather for the majority of the year — Asheville enjoys pleasant temperatures from March to October — there is no excuse not to get out and enjoy the town’s excellent local hiking. 

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Scenic Byway that runs for 469 miles (755km) and a great section is just minutes away from Asheville. Expect numerous overlooks with dramatic long-range views. Have a great playlist ready in order to take this day trip to the next level.

There are tons of hikes to choose from along the parkway, none more famous than the Appalachian Trail. But if you don’t feel like hiking all the way to Maine, you can settle for the beautiful Mt Pisgah trail. The 2.4 mile (3.9km) out-and-back hike comes with a watchtower at the summit. The uninhibited views are worth every step of the hike.

On the return journey, make sure to stop by Sliding Rock: part-waterfall, part-natural waterslide. Sliding Rock costs just $4 per person and with the cold mountain water waiting for you, is best visited on a warm day. If you’re there when summer’s in full-force, this 60ft rock slide will have you racing towards the swimming hole for a great way to rest your weary hiking legs. Seriously — it’s so much fun! And not as dangerous as it sounds.

Where to Eat 

Before setting out on your outdoor adventures one of the best places in Asheville to fuel up is the Biscuit Head . Here you will find classic southern cuisine that is as delicious as you would expect. 

Their famous dish is their biscuits and gravy. But these are no run-of-the-mill biscuits, in fact, you are spoiled with the variety of toppings to choose from. There is a butter and jam bar with dozens of flavors to sample so you can get your morning meal just right. Alternatively, grab a savory option, with a topping of yummy fried green tomatoes.

For dinner, you can’t pass up White Duck Taco . Stop by this Asheville institution on the way back from your journey into the mountains. White Duck Taco has two locations, however, the one to go to is located on the French Broad River. It isn’t hard to see why it’s so popular, with a gorgeous backdrop and the late afternoon sun poking through the canopy, White Duck Taco often has a line out the door. 

But don’t let the sight push you back to your car, as the line moves super quick. Choosing a taco is the real challenge. White Duck Taco takes influences and flavors from around the world. So you’re just as likely to try a Banh Mi Tofu taco as you are the classic Spicy Buffalo Chicken. 

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert to delight your tastebuds as you watch the sun’s last rays bounce off the glistening river. 

If you aren’t ready to call it in, make your way to the Double Crown for great live music, beer, apps, and a great selection of bourbons. On nights without live music, the Double Crown runs a popular karaoke night, which is, of course, when a bourbon or two will really come in handy. 

Day 3: Kickback and Relax

After a big day in the mountains, why not spend your last day in Asheville relaxing and seeing the sights? A visit to the Biltmore Estate is a must-do for every first-timer in Asheville. Built in the late 1880s by George Vanderbilt, this stunning property continues to wow visitors well into the 21st century.

Upon arrival, the striking architecture may feel familiar to some visitors. If your mind is throwing up images of Macaulay Culkin, you’re on the right track: the Biltmore was used in the filming of Richie Rich.

But that’s not why people tend to visit. It is after all, the largest privately-owned house in the country. Spend your morning exploring the manicured gardens, the home, and even seeing some farm animals. Finish off with a glass of wine at the Biltmore Estate Winery .

Now that you have a taste for the finer things in life, it’s time to make your way to the North Carolina Arboretum . The spectacular 434-acre natural garden is sure to put your mind at ease as you stroll around the colorful trails. Here you can switch off and take in the scenery or spend your time learning about the many natural wonders that call the Arboretum home. 

The main attractions include the Blue Ridge Court and the Heritage Garden which harks back to the old days of homesteads in the Appalachian Mountains. 

The best way to get around the Arboretum is to hike or bike. There are numerous trails to choose from, including the Bent Creek Trail which is dog-friendly. 

When you have had your fixed of gorgeous landscapes, change things up by roaming the Grove Arcade . Head back to downtown Asheville for a taste of Art Deco architecture. The Grove Arcade is home to a collection of unique and independent stores, perfect for that last-minute souvenir. 

Finish up with a visit to the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar . Put your feet up with a selection of books a glass of champagne and toast to a great 3-day adventure in Asheville.

Alternatively…

Continue where you left off on day 2, but instead of hiking mountains sample delicious handmade cheese on the Western North Carolina Cheese Trail . Now the good news is if your feet are tired, this trail involves no walking. Rather, you can drive to each location and try an amazing variety of cheeses. The cheese trail stretches all around the west half of the state, but many locations are only a short drive from Asheville. These include Three Graces Dairy and the Spinning Cider Creamery . Both operate as farm-to-table farmsteads, producing delicious aged and rind cheeses. 

Also on the trail are a variety of wineries. End your adventures on the Western North Carolina Cheese Trail with a visit to the Pleb Urban Winery . From there, follow the walking trail along the French Broad River as you make your way towards the River Arts District. 

There is no shortage of breakfast options for your final day in Asheville, including the exceptional Early Girl Eatery . But make sure to keep some room in the belly for a late morning treat. Double D’s Coffee and Desserts is a funky cafe set within the confines of a red double-decker bus. This popular Asheville attraction slings some of the best coffee in town along with a variety of tasty bakery items. For sweet tooth travelers, switch up the black coffee with a Double Decker White Mocha or the Kick In The Bum, the perfect energizer to end your Asheville adventure with a bang.

To finish up your Asheville trip by wandering down to arguably the best brewery in town, Wicked Weed Brewing . We have saved this one for last for a reason and Wicked Weed is well worth the wait. Kick back with your traveling party and make the most of the sprawling outdoor patio. Order from their expansive selection of craft beers, with everything from barrel-aged sour ales to hoppy lagers before enjoying the dazzling fire pit. For the proper beer connoisseur, a visit to the on-site Funkatorium is a must.  

Where to Stay in Asheville

With plenty of options for places to stay in Asheville, narrowing down your options can be tricky. Fortunately, there are some truly remarkable options for every type of budget.

Budget: Bon Paul and Sharky’s Hostel ($38 per night for a dorm/$80 for a private double): There’s just one hostel in Asheville, but fortunately, it’s a great one! Bon Paul and Sharky’s is cozy, quiet, and comfortable, in a super-safe area, with restaurants and cafes within a walkable distance. The bathrooms are spotless and the staff are excellent at giving advice and recommendations for making the most of your stay. If you’re on a tight budget, this is a no-brainer for Asheville.

Mid-range: The Hilton Garden Inn Asheville South ($172 per night for a queen room): This Garden Inn is perfectly located for exploring both Biltmore Estate and Asheville itself, with immaculately clean rooms, friendly staff, and cloud-like beds. It’s been freshly remodelled, too, so it feels as though you’re one of the very first guests to step inside. All in all, this is a great option for Asheville.

Luxury: The Inn on Biltmore Estate ($520 per night for a deluxe king room): If you’re looking for a truly iconic Asheville experience, celebrating a special occasion, or looking to tick something off your bucket list, you have to stay at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. Yep, you’ll be staying within Biltmore Estate itself. How incredible is that? Everything here is incredible, from the luxurious rooms, the spectacular views over the mountains, and the professional staff. Seriously, if you’re looking to splurge, this has to be what you go for.

What to Know Before You Go

The best time of year to visit Asheville: The weather tends to be reasonably temperate in Asheville, so any time of year feels like a good time to visit. Still, if we had to narrow it down, I’d recommend the shoulder season: March to May, and September to October. At this time of year, temperatures range between 60 and the mid-70s, and you’ll either be marvelling at all the spring blossoms or snapping photos of the fall foliage.

If you’re going to be planning a trip in winter, note that the Blue Ridge Parkway occasionally closes when snow or ice make driving conditions dangerous.

Check out the Visitor Centre: They often have coupons for attractions in town, so if you make sure you visit when you first arrive, you may find yourself snapping up a bargain.

The best way to get around Asheville is by car: If you’re only going to be exploring the downtown area, you’ll be absolutely fine exploring on foot, but most accommodation is a few miles out of town, and if you want to explore the nature trails and Biltmore Estate, you’ll want some transport to help you out.

Of course, Uber and taxis are around in Asheville, so if you’re not able to drive yourself, that’s absolutely an option. Plus, there’s no need to worry about a designated driver while brewery-hopping across town, which makes for an added bonus.

Travel insurance: If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to the U.S. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the alternatives, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

Final Thoughts

Three days in Asheville is enough to scratch the surface of this amazing town. You’ll visit beautiful gardens, roam mountains, and jump between breweries and renowned restaurants. Asheville has something for everyone.

Not only is it a great place to reunite with friends, or simply get away from the big city, but it also has a romantic streak for couples seeking time by themselves, and the town welcomes families with open arms. Even breweries have a knack for showing kid-friendly films in the early afternoons. 

However you choose to spend your 3 days in Asheville, there’s no doubt you will be itching to come back for more.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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3 DIFFERENT WAYS TO SPREND 36 HOURS IN ASHEVILLE, NC

Post Summary: Three different itineraries for spending 36 hours in Asheville, NC. An itinerary for the foodies, the nature lovers, and the art/history buffs.

I can’t lie to you; trying to plan an itinerary for 36 hours in Asheville, NC, is hard. Asheville is bursting at the seams with fun and adventurous things to do. We spent over a month in Asheville  exploring every nook and cranny, and we still left feeling like there was more we could have done. 

Its abundance of activities, incredible food scene, and stunning landscape are why everyone is clamoring to visit Asheville these days. Heck, we’re even considering if we want to move to Asheville!  

Not to fear, though. We’ve come up with the perfect 36-hour itinerary for Asheville, NC.

Because there is so much to do in this great city,  I’ve broken the full day into three best of Asheville itineraries – one for nature lovers, the foodie crowd, and the art and culture crew. For your weekend in Asheville, mix and match or follow it exactly as planned. Whatever you choose, I guarantee you’ll be wishing you had more than 36 hours in Asheville!

*This 36-hour Asheville post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we truly think are helpful.

HOW TO GET TO ASHEVILLE, NC

Asheville has one airport, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), used by Allegiant, American, Delta, Elite, Spirit, and United. Since we have points with Southwest, we flew into Raleigh airport and picked up a rental car to make the four-hour drive. Other cities that are closer to Asheville are Greenville, SC (1.5 Hours), Knoxville, TN (2 hours), and Charlotte, NC (2 hours).

While downtown Asheville is walkable, you will need transportation if you opt to do activities like a hike in Pisgah National Forest or a drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway.

I recommend renting a car for your weekend in Asheville. You can rent a car and search for the best deals through  Rentalcars.com .

Uber and Lyft are also readily available in the city if you choose to go without a rental car.

Parking in downtown Asheville is available through meters and parking garages and is generally not too hard to find. Check out this site for the most comprehensive rundown of parking in Asheville.

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE, NC

Because we travel with a toddler, we always choose to stay in a home rental through VRBO.  There are dozens of affordable and stylish VRBOs in Downtown Asheville. If you have a car, you might consider staying in the historic Montford District, the closest neighborhood outside of Downtown Asheville. We stayed there and loved being tucked away from the central hub but still being close enough to access everything quickly.

Here are a few highly reviewed home rental options in Asheville.

• Asheville Urban Nest: Chic two-bedroom apartment located in Downtown Asheville. Amazing walkability!
• Downtown Apartment : Luxurious one-bedroom apartment in Downtown Asheville. Excellent walkability.
• One Bedroom Condo : One-bedroom condo located a short drive from Downtown Asheville. Clean, simple, and more affordable.

If none of these strike your fancy, you can browse VRBO rentals here.   You could opt for a cabin in the woods, a chic downtown apartment, a cottage in the Montford District, a trendy West Asheville apartment…there are so many options to choose from!

While we didn’t personally stay in a hotel, we have heard good things about the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn , the Haywood Park Hotel ,  and the Black Walnut B&B Inn .  

**You can check here for reviews and the best prices for Asheville hotels.**

TIP: You’ll want to book your accommodations as soon as possible, especially if you are visiting in the Summer or the Fall, Asheville’s most visited time of the year. Affordable accommodations will be booked up, and you will most likely have to pay more if you wait till the last minute. 

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ASHEVILLE

Asheville is a year-round destination that can be enjoyed all year. Peak tourist season is from summer to fall. The fall foliage is stunning, and thousands of”leaf peepers” flock to Asheville to see the Blue Ridge Parkway in all its colorful delight. We visited in the fall, and while there were a lot of people, it never felt overwhelming.

Summers are hot and humid…but it’s also the best time to paddleboard or tube the river !

If heat and crowds turn you off, then the best time to visit is in the spring when prices will be lower, the temperature is pleasant, and the wild rhododendrons will be in bloom.

Winters are mild in Asheville, with a few inches of snowfall. Prices are at their lowest (except during the winter holidays), and crowds are minimal.

36 HOURS: ASHEVILLE CITY GUIDE

Day 1: explore asheville.

I’ve started this weekend in Asheville itinerary with the first day being your half-day. Feel free to switch it around to suit your arrival time. This 1/2 day is all about taking the time to explore Asheville and its most popular neighborhoods: Downtown Asheville and West Asheville.

Lunch at Tupelo Honey Start your 1/2 day with some food at the original Tupelo Honey. What began in 2002 has now become a popular chain that continues to expand every year.  Even though chain restaurants aren’t exactly the feel of downtown Asheville, there’s a reason it has grown so much- it’s delicious! Visit the place where it all began and nosh on some amazing southern cuisine.

Tupelo Honey 12 College St, Asheville, NC 28801 Check website for updated hours

Explore Downtown Now is the time to take in the epicenter of Asheville. With nary a chain store in sight ( except for Urban Outfitters, which I don’t understand -what’s that about Asheville? ), stroll through Lexington Avenue to see the clothing shops, cafes, bookstores, vintage apparel, and enough art boutiques to take up an entire 1/2 day of exploring. If you want more structure to your stroll through downtown, you can opt to do the Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile walking trail with 30 landmarks to explain downtown Asheville’s history and architecture. You can get a map of the walk at Pack Place on Asheville’s Pack Square, or you can view a map here. 

Other highlights of downtown include:

• T he French Broad Chocolate Company -A dessert cafe offering handcrafted chocolate. It’s a chocolate lovers paradise.
• Grove Arcade –  A preserved art deco historic building that houses locally-owned shops and restaurants, including the perennial favorite, the Battery Park Book Exchange.
• Woolworth Walk –  An art gallery housed in an old Woolworth building. A good choice if you aren’t able to visit the River Arts Center District.
• Asheville Pinball Museum –  For the young at heart, this all-you-can-play arcade features classic pinball machines and a full bar.

Explore West Asheville Now it’s time to switch it up and take a short stroll around the hipster neighborhood of West Asheville. West Asheville’s central hub is on Hayword Street and includes quirky shops and dive bars like Fleetwoods, a bar-vintage shop-wedding chapel-music venue.

Dinner at Jargon End the night at the highly-rated restaurant Jargon. Offering an eclectic mix, including southern-inspired dishes, Jargon is housed in a cozy historic building.

Jargon 715 Haywood Road, Asheville NC Sunday – Thursday, 5 pm – 9 pm, Friday – Saturday, 5 pm – 10 pm

Day 2: Explore Outside of Asheville

Now that you’ve seen downtown Asheville and West Asheville, it’s time to dive deeper into what this great city has to offer. Here’s where you can choose the foodie itinerary, a nature itinerary, or an arts and culture itinerary.   You can follow it to the letter or mix and match as you like.

THE FOODIE ITINERARY

If you have chosen this itinerary, you are my people! I live to eat. I travel to eat. I wake up to eat.  Asheville is one of the premier dining destinations in the US.  This town prides itself on its fresh, farm-to-table, inventive cuisine.

Breakfa st at Biscuit Head Put all your diet concerns away when you enter Biscuit Head. And then add more gravy. Biscuit Head is one of the top choices for the best breakfast in Asheville, and it’s easy to see why.  The star of the show is hands down their mouthwatering biscuits. And yes, they do have gluten-free biscuits.

Biscuit Head West Asheville Location 733 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Hours: Monday-Sunday, 8 am-2 pm

Wild Foraging Tour (3 hours) After breakfast, go on a wild foraging tour with No Taste Like Home.   They offer forage-to-table tours that include an easy hike through the forest to forage for edibles that you can then take to partnered restaurants that will whip up a free appetizer with your findings.  The guide will lead you around, helping you to learn how to identify and find wild edibles like greens, berries, mushrooms, flowers, roots, nuts, and more.

Local Food Outing (3 hours) Another great option is to visit a U-Pick farm in the surrounding areas around Asheville. We visited the family-run farm, Justus Orchard , in the Fall and LOVED spending a half-day picking apples and salivating over apple cider donuts. North Carolina is one of the biggest producers of apples in the country, so apple picking feels like a right of passage if you’re visiting in the autumn season.

** READ OUR GUIDE ABOUT APPLE PICKING IN ASHEVILLE **

You can also tour the local artisanal chocolate company French Broad Chocolate Company, where you will learn about the process of making chocolate and, of course, delight in ample chocolate tastings. If chocolate isn’t your speed, visit Looking Glass Creamery to taste homemade cheese and caramel, as well as tour the working farm.

Lunch at 12 Bones Smokehouse Get your southern barbecue time in at the joint that the Obamas helped to make famous. A more inventive spot, they play around with flavors and don’t claim to be purists when it comes to barbecue.

12 Bones Smokehouse 5 Foundy Street, Suite 10, Asheville, NC 2880 Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30 am – 4:30 pm

Brewery Tour (3 hours) Asheville has more microbreweries per capita than anywhere else in the US. It’s safe to say that Asheville is the reigning champion of the US’s craft brewery scene.   So if you’re coming to Asheville, you have to try some beer. A walking brewery tour, like this highly rated one , where you can sample a few different breweries, is a great way to see a little bit of everything.

You can also park yourself at one brewery and chill for a few hours. Two tasty options are Wedge Brewing Company and New Belgium Brewing Company.

Dinner If you did the foraging tour, end your day at one of the partnered restaurants and feast on your free appetizer. If you opted out of the foraging tour, check out one of these top-rated restaurants in downtown Asheville.

$ $ Rhubarb – Contemporary Appalachian Cuisine Curate – Spanish Tapas Ukiah – Japanese Smokehouse

$ Farm Burger Asheville – Hip locally sourced grass-fed burgers.

NATURE LOVERS ITINERARY

This is a jam-packed itinerary of nature activities centered around one area, the scenic Pisgah National Forest. I have included two hikes to suit two preferences, a longer one (Looking Glass Rock) and a short one (Moore Cove Falls). It’s probably best you choose one of the hikes based on how much you want to do. If traveling with young kids, I would cut out Looking Glass Rock Hike.

FYI: All of the activities in Pisgah Forest are about 50 minutes to an hour away, so you will need a car to get there.

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery Start your day out early with a hearty breakfast at Early Girl Eatery in downtown Asheville. Fuel up for a long day out in nature, and afterward, take a five-minute walk to The Gourmet Chip Company to pick up sandwiches and chips to go so you’re adequately prepared for your day of hiking and nature activities.

Early Girl Eatery 8 Wall Street, Asheville NC Monday – Sunday 8 am -9 pm

Gourmet Chip Company 43 1/2 Broadway St, Asheville Sunday-Thursday 11 am-6 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-7 pm

13 STUNNING PHOTOS OF ASHEVILLE’S NATURAL BEAUTY

Looking Glass Rock Hike (4-5 hours) Start with a  moderately difficult 6.5-mile hike that rewards you with small waterfalls, rhododendrons, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Looking Glass Falls (30 minutes to 1 hour) Western North Carolina is jam-packed with waterfalls. You could spend an entire month trying to visit all the known and unknown waterfalls peppering the mountains of North Carolina. An accessible waterfall to check out is the 60-foot-tall Looking Glass Falls. You can park and see it from the road or take the 3-minute walk down the steps for a closer look. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, swimming or wading is allowed near the waterfall.

Moore Cove Falls (1 -2 hours) Close to Looking Glass is Moore Cove, another spectacular waterfall that is particularly fun because you can walk behind the waterfall.  A relatively easy 1.5 miles, this hike is an excellent option for families or people who don’t want an arduous climb. There are a few steep steps during the walk. After passing the falls, the trail continues up to reach another small waterfall. Due to it being quite slippery and steep, it is highly advised that only experienced hikers continue along that path.

Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest (1-2 hours) Afterward, take a short drive to visit the 60-foot natural water slide called Sliding Rock. It’s easily accessible (there are stairs to get there) from the parking lot and is a popular activity for locals and tourists. 

Be forewarned…the water is chilly. 50-60 degrees chilly. We visited in October when it was even colder, but it was so worth it! One of my favorite memories of our time in Asheville. We summoned up the courage, and once we did, the rest of the onlookers decided to go for it as well. We even saw very young children (by their parents’ side) taking a plunge into the frigid water.

The slide is officially open from April to October and costs $3 per person. If visiting in the offseason, the slide will be open during daylight hours; however, there will be no staff, lifeguards, or accessible restrooms.

**If you want a more low-key nature-based itinerary or it’s too cold to do a full hiking day, another option is to start your day at the North Carolina Arboretum, a short 20-minute drive from Downtown Asheville. The NC Arboretum offers beautiful gardens and lush hiking paths that more than satisfy the desire to connect with nature. The arboretum is located right next to the entrance to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, so afterward, you can jump on and take a scenic drive, stopping as you like to take in the views or to take a short walk. Stop at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center for tips and suggestions on what to do. If you’re visiting in the fall, The Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-do activity for the technicolor display of autumn colors.

Dinner at 9 Mile We tried as many restaurants as we could while we were there, and 9 Mile’s Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a modern twist stands out as one of our top meals in Asheville. There are three locations, with the original location residing in the Historic Montford District. They don’t take reservations, and it gets very crowded at night, so your best bet is to get there right when it opens and have an early dinner. Or be willing to wait!

9 Mile Hours: Monday – Sunday, 4 pm -9 pm

ART AND HISTORY ITINERARY

Asheville is dubbed the “Paris of the South,” no doubt in part for its fierce commitment to staying true to what makes it Asheville but also because of its longstanding history of being a haven for the creatively inclined. This itinerary will satisfy anyone looking to dive deeper into Asheville’s rich culture.

Breakfast at Ultra Coffeebar Grab a simple breakfast and lavender honey latte at Ultra Coffeebar, a hip cafe and coffee bar in the River Arts District of Asheville.

Ultra Coffeebar 242 Clingman Ave, Asheville NC Monday-Friday 7 am–5 pm, Saturday & Sunday 8 am–5 pm

River Arts District (RAD)(2 HOURS) Spend a couple of hours strolling through the world-class River Arts District of Asheville. What once housed industrial buildings and empty warehouses along the French Broad River is now home to over 200 artists in 22 buildings. While Downtown Asheville offers a lot in the way of restaurants and tours, the River Arts District exposes you to the heart and soul of Asheville and what makes it so unique – its high value and esteem for the creative life.

While visiting the River Arts District, you can see artists at work, take a class, buy some unique art (almost all galleries offer to ship), and enjoy a day spent taking in the local arts. Check out their website to find maps, a calendar of events, and to see if your trip coincides with the monthly second Saturday, where there is a free trolley and special demonstrations.

Tip: Bring comfortable shoes! You will be walking a lot.

Lunch at White Duck Taco Located within the RAD is Asheville fan favorite, White Duck Taco Shop. Serving affordable creative tacos like Thai Peanut Chicken and Jerk Chicken, a visit to Asheville isn’t complete without a stop here.

White Duck Taco 388 Riverside Drive, Asheville NC Mon-Thur 11:30 am – 9 pm, Fri-Sun 11:30 am – 9 pm

Biltmore Estate (3-4 hours) The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned home in the US. Built in the 1800s for George Vanderbilt, the son of esteemed railroad and shipping tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt, the entire estate sits on 8000 acres, and the home is a massive 178,926 square feet. It’s basically a castle. The house is a spectacular display of a Gilded Age mansion with an impressive array of 16th-century tapestries and artwork from Vanderbilt’s many travels.

Most people who visit the Biltmore Estate spend all day there to make the most use of the steep ticket costs ($70-$100) depending on the time of year and because there are enough activities to spend an entire day there.

However, since this itinerary is only for 36 hours in Asheville, I customized the itinerary to include the highlights of the Estate, which are walking through the home and touring the gardens . I also put the Biltmore Estate in the afternoon rather than the morning to avoid the Biltmore Estate’s big crowds. The Biltmore is the number one tourist activity in Asheville, and depending on what time of the year you go, you may not be able to avoid crowds. Your best bet is to go early in the morning or in the late afternoon.

READ OUR GUIDE ON VISITING THE BILTMORE ESTATE WITH KIDS

Dinner For Dinner, you can check out Antler Village, which is included with your ticket fee and is within the Biltmore Estate. It’s a small quaint village with a winery, jungle gym set, petting zoo, ice cream shop, artisanal shops, and a handful of high-quality restaurants.

Or you can leave the Biltmore Estate and visit the super cute and delicious Corner Kitchen in Biltmore Village just outside of the estate. Corner Kitchen is located in a Victorian home that once housed employees of the Biltmore Estate. They serve farm-to-table southern-inspired fare and craft drinks. I personally think Corner Kitchen is better than anything in Antler Village

Corner Kitchen 3 Boston Way, Asheville NC Mon-Sun 9:30 am – 2:30 pm, 5 pm till closing

What should I do if I have 3 days in Asheville?

If you’re planning a long weekend in Asheville and looking for more fun activities, you could add on a day trip outside of the city. We visited Great Smoky Mountain NP, one of the best National Parks on the East Coast.  It’s free and offers some of the best hiking around.

There’s also the small and charming mountain town of Black Mountain- and the best part: It’s only 20 minutes away!

Lastly, if you’re a fan of history and writing, you can visit the Carl Sandburg Home and Historic Site.  It’s a serene spot with hiking trails and tours.

You can also browse through Viator to see fun guided tours being offered while you’re there. They change seasonally and will vary between haunted walking tours and guided waterfall tours.

Check here to see what tours are available now.

Enjoy your time in Asheville! Let us know if you use our itinerary for how to spend 36 hours in Asheville, NC. Also, spread the love and pin it on Pinterest using the button below.

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READ NEXT: Should You Visit The Biltmore With Kids ? When + Where + How To Go Apple Picking Near Asheville 10 Of The Best Airbnbs in Asheville Are We Moving to Asheville ? Should You?

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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11 comments.

I LOVE the Nature Itinerary. The sliding rock sounds so fun! I will be adding these hikes to my list 🙂 Thanks for the great guide!

Glad you like it! The sliding rock is one of my FAVORITE things to do in Asheville. I hope you get to do it one day.

Asheville is one of my favorite places! :] Such an awesome place to visit (I’m with you on it being hard to stuff everything there is to do in just 36 hours). White Duck Taco is actually responsible for my no longer being able to eat duck anymore (their logo looks just like my pet duck, haha). I’ve been to all the waterfalls you mentioned–they were beautiful! <3

Oh my gosh, that’s so funny! What a quirky story about white duck taco and your pet duck. Also, I love that you had a pet duck!

I love that you included itineraries for different interests like nature and history. Ashville is such a beautiful place. I can’t wait to start traveling again.

I haven’t spent time in this part of the US yet, so its great to get inspiration like this! Never heard of Asheville before, but its on my list now. The nature looks amazing!

Asheville is a fantastic place to visit! It’s perfect for anyone who loves nature. I hope you can make it out there one day.

OMG! you had me at Foodie tour! We were supposed to have vacations in North Caroline last summer, but the hurricane passed Norfolk 3 days before we leave Canada, therefore, we had to reroute our itinerary.

Really Asheville is a beautiful place, thanks for your guidance.

Thank you for some much guidance, we will only have about 30 hours on our stop in Asheville so really helpful to get an idea of everything we can fit in 🙂 Safe travels!

I was about to visit Asheville NC, this article helped me a lot about the city. Thank you!

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The Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Asheville Itinerary

Planning a long weekend in Asheville itinerary? You’re in for a fantastic experience!

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, the beautiful city of Asheville, NC is one of the best weekend getaways on the East Coast, packing everything from world-class cuisine to mountain views to waterfall hikes to nearly 40 breweries into a city of just 90,000.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

… And that doesn’t even mention the most famous of all the attractions in Asheville: the stunning Biltmore Estate.

With so much to do, though, it’s safe to say that making the most of 3 days in Asheville requires some careful planning.

Here’s how to make the most of an Asheville weekend getaway!

Table of Contents

The Perfect 3 Day Weekend in Asheville Itinerary

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Day 1: Waterfalls, Downtown + River Arts District

Start your morning with a classic asheville breakfast..

What better way to kick off an Asheville weekend getaway than with some of the delicious, farm-to-table southern food that the city is known for?

Asheville is packed with popular breakfast places, but Tupelo Honey and Sunny Point Cafe (where you can walk their garden while you wait for your food!) are among the best.

Both get incredibly busy, so be prepared!

Tupelo Honey takes reservations, so if you’re planning to eat there, consider calling ahead.

Chase waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest.

Located just outside of Asheville, the Pisgah National Forest is a magical place filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, and even the Cradle of Forestry–the first forestry school in the USA.

With the exception of Mt. Pisgah, whose trailhead is about 25 minutes from Looking Glass Falls, the stops outlined here are all very close together, so you won’t drive much between them!

You can mix-and-match these stops depending on the weather and your timeline.

Looking Glass Falls

Located right on the side of the road, Looking Glass Falls is one of the top Asheville attractions in part because it’s one of the easiest waterfalls to access–but it also happens to be absolutely stunning!

You can see the waterfall from above, but for the best view, climb down the short staircase to get closer.

The trail is less than half a mile round-trip, so it’s not much of a time commitment.

Moore Cove Falls

Located just a mile up the road from Looking Glass Falls, this 1.5-mile round trip hike is easy and peaceful, with creeks running along the trail.

Moore Cove Falls itself is a 50-foot stunner, and one of the few waterfalls in the area that you can walk behind!

Sliding Rock

Natural swimming holes are one thing, but have you ever experienced a natural waterslide?

That’s what you’ll find at Sliding Rock, a 60-foot, gently sloping waterfall over a boulder that will send you plunging into the pool below.

The water is very cold, so this is best saved for Asheville weekend getaways that take place during the hot summer months.

Sliding Rock costs $4/person to visit, and National Park passes are not accepted.

Cradle of Forestry

The area surrounding Asheville is considered to be the birthplace of forestry in America–and you can discover the profession’s history and roots at the Cradle Discovery Center, located just a few minutes north of Sliding Rock!

At 3.2 miles round-trip, summiting Mount Pisgah doesn’t take too much hiking–and the resulting views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are well worth the effort.

Alternative to Pisgah National Forest: Chimney Rock State Park.

Looking for something a bit different?

Chimney Rock boasts one of the most popular views near Asheville!

While the state park does have some beautiful hiking trails, the Chimney Rock itself can be accessed by elevator–perfect for those who want the view without a hike.

Head back to Asheville to explore the River Arts District.

Breweries, galleries, and eye-catching street art rule the roost in Asheville’s popular River Arts District!

This warehouse-district-turned-trendy-locale isn’t quite as dense as you might expect before seeing it, but it’s full of nooks and crannies to explore, including Asheville coffee shops , art galleries, and, of course, breweries.

Wedge Brewery, one of the most popular Asheville breweries, is a great starting point, but be sure to spread the love a bit!

The River Arts District also has excellent access to the French Broad River!

Here, you’ll find a hiking/biking path that is a great place to relax between stops (if you want to get an even better view of the river during your weekend in Asheville, consider adding in a kayaking tou r !).

If it’s Friday, check out the Pritchard Park Drum Circle.

From roughly 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Friday nights from roughly April to October (note the double use of “roughly” here–this is a very casual event), Asheville hosts a public drum circle in Pritchard Park.

It’s quite the experience, so if your 3 days in Asheville happen to coincide with a Friday night, be sure to add the Pritchard Park Drum Circle to your itinerary!

… or take a ghost tour.

Haunted hotels, a spooky bridge, and the tragic death of Zelda Fitzgerald are just a few things you’ll learn about on an Asheville ghost tour .

Whether you’re a true believer, curious about Asheville’s darker legends, or simply love a good spooky story, a ghost tour is a fantastic way to learn more about the city!

Book your Asheville ghost tour today!

Day 2: The Biltmore Estate

Built in the late 19th century by George Vanderbilt (grandson of railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt), the Biltmore Estate is the largest privately-owned home in the USA (yes, the Vanderbilts still own it), one of the most popular Asheville attractions, and an unforgettable place to visit.

If you’ve seen Downton Abbey, the Biltmore Estate is essentially an American Downton Abbey, complete with all the fanciful notions and bizarre details of the Gilded Age pseudo-aristocracy.

It’s also quite expensive to visit (expect to pay $70+ per person for a day at the Biltmore, though there are ways to slightly manage the costs), so it’s best to make the most of your time there and enjoy the property!

These Biltmore attractions aren’t listed in any particular order, as you’ll need to book a specific time for your house tour and plan the rest of the day around it.

That being said, here’s what you can expect to do during a day at the Biltmore.

Biltmore House Tour

The crowning attraction of visiting the Biltmore Estate is the house tour, which takes you through some of the public (the library, oh my!), and private (bedrooms of the family and guests) sections of the home’s “upstairs” before heading down to the basement.

The basement is the most interesting section in my opinion, covering places like the indoor swimming pool, kitchens, some servant quarters, and of course that famous bowling alley.

While guided in-person tours are very expensive, it’s absolutely worth getting the audio guide.

The tour isn’t signposted, so without an audioguide, you’ll miss the vast majority of the context.

Biltmore Gardens + Conservatory

The Biltmore’s gardens are beautiful, of course, but the Conservatory really steals the show.

Don’t miss a chance to wander through it!

Antler Hill Village + Biltmore Winery

Antler Hill Village, which lies a short drive away from Biltmore House, is home to the Biltmore Winery, a historic barn and livestock area, several restaurants, and a charming walkable “village”.

(Also note that the “short drive” away from Biltmore House is assuming there’s light traffic. At peak times, the Biltmore recommends planning to spend 45 minutes getting from Antler Hill Village to a Biltmore House tour, so plan accordingly!).

This is also where you’ll be able to take advantage of the free wine tasting that is included in your Biltmore ticket!

Biltmore Estate Dining Options

When spending a full day exploring the Biltmore Estate, it’s easiest to plan on having lunch on-site.

With 15 dining options ranging from four-star dining to an ice cream shop, there’s plenty to choose from!

We personally had lunch at Stable Cafe, which is housed in the home’s original stables and serves Carolina-style barbecue (if you loved pink lemonade as a kid, don’t skip the blackberry lemonade on the menu!).

It’s also located right by the entrance to Biltmore House, which was incredibly convenient because we didn’t have to move our car in between lunch and our house tour.

The food was solid, and the prices, while more expensive than an average restaurant, were more affordable than, say, eating at a theme park.

Many sit-down restaurants at Biltmore Estate take reservations, including Stable Cafe–definitely consider planning ahead if you intend to eat at a popular time.

Day 3: Blue Ridge Parkway + Downtown Asheville

Drive a portion of the blue ridge parkway..

The stunning Blue Ridge Parkway is widely considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the USA–and a portion of it lays just outside of Asheville!

Managed by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs for 469 miles through North Carolina and Virginia.

While you won’t be able to see most of it during your long weekend in Asheville, you can enjoy plenty of scenic views and a few of the parkway’s iconic tunnels.

We recommend starting by making your way to the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, taking the time to stop at viewpoints like the Lane Pinnacle Overlook along the way.

Hike to Craggy Pinnacle.

If you’re driving the Blue Ridge Parkway north from Asheville, just past the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, you’ll see a tunnel.

And just after exiting the tunnel, on your left, you’ll see a parking lot for the Craggy Pinnacle Trail–the next stop on your Asheville itinerary.

This short trail only clocks in at 0.7 miles each way, but the reward is staggering: 360-degree views of the mountains, as far as the eye can see.

The climb is fairly easy (you only gain 252 feet in elevation), and the trail is mostly shaded.

If you happen to visit during rhododendron season in June, all the better!

Be sure to keep the weather in mind, as well: it’s frequently 15-20 degrees colder at Craggy Pinnacle than in downtown Asheville.

Optional: Stop by the North Carolina Arboretum or hike to Catawba Falls.

Depending on how long you choose to spend on the Blue Ridge Parkway–you can always continue further north after hiking to Craggy Pinnacle to sample more viewpoints–you may have room for an afternoon stop!

If so, garden lovers may want to consider visiting the stunning North Carolina Arboretum, while hikers can potentially check another waterfall off of their list.

The 3-mile round-trip Catawba Falls hike delivers visitors to one of the most popular waterfalls near Asheville for fairly limited effort–the only catch is that as the trailhead is about a 40-minute drive from downtown Asheville, it may be hard to squeeze into your schedule.

Explore downtown Asheville, including the Grove Arcade.

No 3 day Asheville itinerary is complete without carving out time to enjoy Asheville’s downtown center with its lively boutiques, celebrated restaurants, and many Art Deco buildings.

Pritchard Park–more of a central square than a park, really–is a great starting point.

As for architecture, none of Asheville’s Art Deco architecture is as popular as the beautiful Grove Arcade (though I personally also have a soft spot for the magnificent S&W building located just across the street from Pritchard Park).

Be sure to duck inside the Grove Arcade to truly appreciate its splendor!

Grab a glass of bubbly at the Battery Park Book Exchange + Champagne Bar.

Technically located in the Grove Arcade, though you’ll need to use an exterior entrance, the Battery Park Book Exchange + Champagne Bar is easily one of the most popular places to visit in Asheville for bibliophiles like us.

The store itself is beautiful and has a fantastic selection of local books–if you’re remotely curious about the history and culture of Western North Carolina, don’t leave without browsing the shelves.

An enormous selling point to the store, though, is the fact that it has a champagne bar inside!

Once upon a time, you could wander the stacks with your glass of bubbly, however, it’s no longer allowed.

No worries, though–balancing a plate of charcuterie and champagne flutes on a tiny table surrounded by books is still a lovely experience (just be sure not to ruin your appetite before dinner).

Close out your weekend in Asheville with a fantastic meal.

Asheville is widely celebrated for its food scene, and there’s no way to properly see Asheville in 3 days without splurging on at least one magnificent meal.

Extremely popular places like Curate, a widely celebrated tapas bar, often book out weeks in advance, so consider planning ahead if you have your heart set on a particular place!

Asheville’s chefs have collected an impressive slew of awards , though, so don’t worry too much if you’ve missed the boat for a particular place–there’s no shortage of amazing food in Asheville.

We personally spent an evening at Benne on Eagle and absolutely loved the braised short rib!

Assuming you are hoping to stay inside the center of Asheville itself (as opposed to renting a nearby cabin, for instance), you’ll find the most convenient hotels in the downtown area, and the best historic bed and breakfasts in the nearby Montford Historic District (which, depending on exactly where you stay, is within walking distance of downtown).

Here are 3 well-reviewed and popular properties in Asheville to consider–including the Asheville bed and breakfast that we adored!

Four Points By Sheraton — For an affordable hotel option that doesn’t skimp on location, the popular Four Points By Sheraton is an excellent choice.

Located within walking distance of Asheville’s downtown attractions and a quick drive away from the Biltmore, Four Points By Sheraton gets great reviews and during the summer months, features an outdoor pool.

Check rates & book your stay at the Four Points Sheraton!

The Applewood Manor — We absolutely adored this bed and breakfast in the Montford Historic District!

In addition to a gorgeous property, spacious room, and beautiful interior, we loved chatting with the co-owner, Robin over the delicious breakfasts she made each morning.

Located within walking distance of downtown via a greenbelt trail, The Applewood Manor feels like it’s in a peaceful, quiet location–but it’s still in a perfect location to make the most of 3 days in Asheville.

Check rates & book your stay at The Applewood Manor!

Omni Grove Park Inn — Widely considered the most luxurious hotel in Asheville, the Omni Grove Park Inn is located a couple of miles outside of downtown Asheville–but with stunning views, four on-site restaurants, and a fantastic spa, you won’t be sorry to lay your head here during an Asheville weekend getaway.

Built in 1913, this historic hotel gets fantastic reviews, is an Asheville vacation destination unto itself, and is the perfect luxury retreat in Asheville, NC.

Check rates & book your stay at the Omni Grove Park Inn!

While Asheville’s downtown core is fairly compact and walkable, spending a weekend in Asheville is going to necessitate quite a bit of driving.

Many of the most popular Asheville attractions, such as Looking Glass Falls, Craggy Pinnacle, Chimney Rock, and more, lie 30+ minutes worth of driving outside the city center.

As a result, having a car is an absolute necessity for spending a weekend in Asheville.

If you’re planning to rent a car for your 3 days in Asheville, the best company to rent from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

We recommend searching for your rental car through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip.

Shop rental cars for your trip to Asheville today!

With more than a 3 day Asheville itinerary to work with, you absolutely won’t run out of things to do in Asheville –especially if you consider yourself a foodie or a lover of the outdoors.

The surrounding area is packed with hikes, waterfalls, state parks, and more, all of which are begging to be explored–consider starting with Chimney Rock State Park, Mount Mitchell State Park, and the DuPont State Recreational Forest.

Within Asheville, visiting Biltmore Village, sampling a few more restaurants, and enjoying a drink with a fantastic sunset view over the mountains at the Omni Grove Park Inn are also all excellent ideas.

Nearby small towns like Brevard, Maggie Valley, Waynesville, and Black Mountain all make excellent day trips from Asheville if there’s room in your itinerary.

Food lovers may want to consider working their way through the Western North Carolina Cheese Trail –we have this one personally earmarked for our next Asheville vacation.

And, of course, there’s the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park to explore!

Planning a 3 day Asheville itinerary may look a bit different depending on which season you visit, but on top of the many other things to recommend it, Asheville, North Carolina also bears the distinction of being a four-season destination!

During spring, you can expect wildflowers, exceptionally strong waterfalls, and cool temperatures.

In the summer, many mountain hikes are at their best, and spots like Sliding Rock are ready to help you cool off.

In the fall, foliage steals the show: the Blue Ridge Parkway is often considered one of the best places to experience fall foliage in the country, making it one of the most popular times to plan a weekend getaway in Asheville.

During winter, the Biltmore’s Christmas decor offers extra beauty to an already incredible destination, and–if you’re so inclined–you can even day trip to nearby ski slopes, like Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley.

Regardless of when you plan your 3 day weekend in Asheville, you’re bound to have an unforgettable trip.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

13 thoughts on “The Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Asheville Itinerary”

This was so detailed, I am having a wedding here and this gives me so many ideas to show our families.

So glad it helped, Amanda! And congratulations! 🙂

Thank you!! This was so helpful in planning our trip and what to see while we are there !

Happy travels!

Happy travels to you too!

Hi Kate – thanks for the write-up. Any recommendations for the Western side of the Smoky’s? Planning on splitting time between the Asheville area and the Gatlinburg area

So glad it was helpful!

Sadly we haven’t spent much time in the Gatlinburg area yet–our past trips to the Smokies have all been focused on the NC side, mostly staying in Maggie Valley. We’d love to get over to Gatlinburg eventually, though!

This is so helpful! We’re just starting to plan our 4th of July trip, so these tips are excellent.

Thanks, Kerry! Happy to help. 🙂

Thanks Kate for getting me all excited about visiting Ashville. I had no idea where to start except for visiting the Biltmore Estates. This gives me so many ideas, I’m afraid 6 days won’t be enough. We are planning on visiting in late September or early October. So I have my work cut out for me. Thanks again.

Happy to help, Rick! Enjoy the area–it definitely has enough options that you’ll want to keep coming back. 🙂

You failed to mention that the Asheville Airport is absolute garbage, and it would be much better to fly in to Charlotte and have a nice little scenic drive up to Asheville. Everything else was pretty good though.

Went to the Biltmore today. You no longer have to make reservations for the wine tasting.

Thanks for letting us know it has changed! We’ll get that updated. 🙂

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Discovering the Best Things to Do in Asheville, NC

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on June 10, 2023

Welcome to Asheville, North Carolina! This charming and eclectic city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains is becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in the Southeast United States. With a vibrant art scene, amazing food, and stunning natural landscapes, Asheville is perfect for your next road trip getaway. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Asheville, from visiting the Biltmore Estate to exploring the local food scene.

Get ready to discover Asheville’s gems!

1. Visiting The Biltmore

Discover Asheville’s crown jewel, The Biltmore – America’s largest home! Built by George Vanderbilt, this awe-inspiring 8,000-acre estate and landmark flaunts 250 rooms, beautiful gardens, and state-of-the-art amenities.

Take a guided tour of the house, with many to choose from, wander through the grounds and gardens, and embrace seasonal events. Tours run between $50-$100.

You can read about where I stayed in Asheville in this Omni Grove Park Inn post.

From winter holiday light displays to wine festivals and summer concerts on the estate, there’s something for everyone at The Biltmore.

With docent-led tours and plenty of photo opportunities, The Biltmore Estate is a must-see attraction. And it’s not just a house – it’s like its own town! Plan your visit and pay at the gate to enter the property boundaries.

2. Exploring Antler Hill Village

Discover Antler Hill Village , just a quick stroll from the famous Biltmore House. This charming location, which Vanderbilt refried to as “fine high ridge”, is filled with activities for everyone, including restaurants, a winery, a museum, and plenty of outdoor fun like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. I got lucky to catch the Downton Abbey: The Exhibition when I was there.

Make sure to check out the winery for a tasting and don’t miss the guided evening tour with candlelight and live music. If you’re hungry, head to Cedric’s Tavern for delicious appetizers like Tavern Pimento Cheese and Ham & White Cheddar Fondue, or grab some ice cream at Creamery.

Across the sprawling Biltmore estate, visitors can be found picnicking, playing with their dogs, sunbathing, and enjoying all that this little slice of heaven has to offer.

3. Eating at Biscuit Head and White Duck Taco

Attention all foodies! Asheville is a top food destination, and I had the pleasure of enjoying a handful of 10/10 meals; Biscuit Head and White Duck Taco.

Biscuit Head is a must-visit spot for the best Southern-style breakfast and brunch. Indulge in their Southern Scramble with pimento cheese, caramelized onions, and tomato, served with a side of pimento cheese grits and a mouth-watering second-to-none biscuit.

Tip : Try their gravy flight for the ultimate dipping experience!

For lunch, head to White Duck Taco – a local favorite for creative street tacos, queso dip, refried beans, and killer sangria, red and white. Come hungry and leave satisfied at any of their three locations.

4. Catching Sunset and Dinner at Terrace Restaurant 

Experience the best of Asheville’s sunset views at the Sunset Terrace Restaurant, housed within the impressive Omni Grove Park Inn . Don’t miss out on a chance to secure a terrace table early, so you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic skyline view.

At the Omni Grove Park Inn’s Sunset Terrace, you’ll be treated to exquisite, chef-inspired dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Why not start with our famous Poached Asparagus, served with English peas, mushrooms, and a sherry emulsion, recommended by our friendly waitress and adored by many?

If you’re lucky, you might catch the featured Miyazaki beef ribeye, known for its mouthwatering tenderness. Finally, save room for our indulgent Smore’s dessert creation.

5. Best of Asheville: Staying at the Historic Omni Grove Park Inn

Experience the ultimate Asheville getaway at the Omni Grove Park Inn. This prestigious property, with a rich history dating back to 1913 and fairytale stone fireplaces and intimate seating groups, offers unparalleled charm and luxury. You could honestly check in the hotel and not leave for a week or more, just enjoying the entertainment and amenities offered here.

Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, it boasts mesmerizing views and a stunning golf course. Indulge in award-winning dining, unwind at the full-service world-class spa, or enjoy leisurely activities at the sports complex. It’s no wonder Omni Grove Park Inn is one of the nation’s most fabulous resorts.

From the fairytale stone entrance and romantic fireplaces to the intimate lobby seating, you’ll be captivated. Choose from a range of room types and prices to suit your budget.

Explore the hotel’s two wings of shops and restaurants, indulge in the world-class spa, and discover endless things to do. With Sunset Terrace offering the most coveted sunset views in Asheville, you might never want to leave this idyllic retreat and ultimate getaway.

6. Photographing Asheville’s Murals

Asheville is a top destination for art lovers, and one of the best ways to experience the city’s culture is by taking a self-guided tour of its stunning murals. From locally inspired figures to abstract works of art and historical events, you’ll find something for every taste and interest.

The River Arts District (RAD) is a creative hub along the French Broad River and a must-visit spot for the best selection of murals. You’ll be amazed by the quality and diversity of the pieces. Don’t forget to bring your camera and share your favorites on social media!

Street art tours are completely free! So, hop to your feet and get ready to explore some of Asheville’s most impressive works of art. You won’t want to miss the fantastic Dolly Parton wall, the life-like fox, chicken alley, and stay weird silo.

7. Enjoy Shopping and Eating Gourmet Chocolates

Discover the ultimate shopping experience in Asheville at the Grove Arcade , Asheville’s first indoor mall, where you’ll find some of the city’s finest local businesses and a few eateries. With its potted ferns and plants, and glass ceiling panels that let in natural sunlight, this sophisticated setting has been a staple in Asheville since 1929.

It’s worth a visit just to take pictures and wander through.

Next, venture into the two-story Mast General Store , where you’ll find outdoor clothing, retro candies, gear, toys, jewelry, apparel, knick-knacks, and home goods in a 150+ year-old department store.

And for chocolate lovers, make sure to stop by the Uber-hip French Broad Chocolate Lounge for some of the world’s best chocolate drinks, handmade artisanal chocolates, cookies, wine, and pastries.

Treat yourself to my weakness, an Affogato, espresso poured over ice cream, for the perfect caffeinated and cool sweet treat. And don’t forget to tour the French Broad chocolate factory!

For more unique finds, explore the popular points of interest downtown, including the Asheville Art Museum and Asheville Museum of Science, along with several galleries and top-notch restaurants. Stroll along Haywood and Market Streets, or Lexington Avenue for a chance to browse some of the city’s coolest shops.

Historic Biltmore Village is the premier shopping district, featuring Chico’s, Monkee’s, Palm Village (A Lily Pulitzer signature store), and lululemon, among others. And make sure to stop in The Olde World Christmas Shoppe for incredible Christmas decorations that will fill you with holiday cheer.

The Best Things to Do in Asheville Awaits You

Asheville, NC, is a true gem, and a road trip destination you’ll never forget. From the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the city’s vibrant art scene and top-notch culinary experiences, there’s truly something for everyone.

Whether you’re with friends, family, or taking a solo trip, you will always find so much to do and discover in Asheville. As you plan your next vacation, keep this travel guide in mind and get ready to discover the best of Asheville, North Carolina, in style.

Happy travels!

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Check out more of our North Carolina posts:

Things to Do in the Outer Banks

Visiting Johnston County

Tips for Visiting Charlotte Motor Speedway

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

The Ultimate Weekend In Asheville Itinerary

June 28, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for the ultimate guide for planning your next weekend in Asheville then look no further. Asheville is one of our favorite mountain towns to explore in North Carolina. It has a really unique and eclectic mix of art, history, and natural beauty.

Planning your trip to Asheville last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Asheville in advance to ensure availability! The longer your wait, the more difficult it gets. ESPECIALLY during Fall Foliage! Here are our top picks for Asheville:

Top Places To Stay In Asheville:

• The Residences At Biltmore (Sells out quickly! Luxury stay)
• GLō Best Western Asheville (Affordable option)
• Cambria Hotel (Amazing downtown location)
• Kimpton – Hotel Arras (Free bikes, downtown location)

Top Experiences And Tours In Asheville:

• Asheville Ghost Walking Tour (Our pick! Free cancellation)
• Waterfall Hiking Tour From Asheville (See 3 waterfalls)
• Electric Bike Brewery Crawl (Great way to see the city)
• Downtown Guided Bike Tour (Likely to sell out!)
• Asheville Guided Segway Tour (Super fun!)

In Asheville you can find yourself admiring street art at one minute and hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway the next. That is one of the things that makes Asheville so one-of-a-kind. There is something for every type of traveler coming to visit Asheville. It attracts a wide variety of visitors every year and is one of the most visited cities along the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Whether you are looking for art and culture, a thriving food scene, boutique breweries, or mountain vistas, there is something for you to do during your 3 days in Asheville. It’s a beautiful city to visit year round and there is always something happening. So, lets take a look at the ultimate weekend in Asheville itinerary.

Getting To Asheville

It is fairly easy to get to Asheville. If you are traveling from out of state, the easiest option is to fly in. Asheville has it’s own airport and there are several major airports that have direct flights to Asheville. As far as airports go, Asheville is one of the calmest. Despite the amount of travelers that flock to the area, it never feels too busy or crowded, which is something out of state visitors love.

If you don’t want to fly into Asheville, or you’re adding Asheville to another trip, like Tennessee, there are a few other airports you can fly into. Other options for getting to Asheville include driving or even taking the train. It is very easy to get to Asheville and there are plenty of options available.

Getting Around During Your Asheville Weekend Getaway

If you plan on driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or going to the Biltmore Estate, you’ll want to have a car at your disposal. Both are near Asheville, but you’ll have more flexibility to see what you want and for how long if you have your own vehicle. For those that fly into Asheville, you can easily rent one at the airport. Parking in Asheville is pretty easy as well.

For getting around the rest of the time, Asheville is a pretty walkable city. If you can’t or don’t want to walk too far, you can use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to get around. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but we have seen that you may be able to use a rideshare app to get to the Biltmore Estate. But you probably won’t want to do that to drive the parkway.

Day 1: Explore Downtown Asheville

Spend your first day on your Asheville itinerary exploring the most popular part of the city. The Downtown district of Asheville is incredibly popular and full of fun things to do . On your first day, you’ll hit all the highlights, so you’ll leave your weekend in Asheville knowing you saw everything.

Stop 1: Walk The Urban Trail

If you want to see Asheville in your own unique way, walk the Urban Trail. It takes about two hours to walk the trail at a more leisurely pace. There are several stopping points along this completely self-guided tour. All of the stops relate in some way to Asheville history.

Whether that is spots where famous artists and authors once lived and worked, famous architecture in Asheville, or just generally interesting spots in the city. It is one of the best ways to feel like you’ve seen all the most important bits of the city on your Asheville weekend getaway.

If you’d like to walk the Urban Trail, but want a knowledgeable tour guide, consider the Insider Guided Walking Tour . You’ll see all of the best spots in Asheville, but with a trained guide showing you around. You’ll be able to ask them questions and get a more in-depth tour than the one you might have done on your own.

Stop 2: Admire Some Street Art

This is really something you can do the entire time you’re walking around downtown Asheville, but there are several more notable murals that you may want to stop at. Asheville is a city with tons of street art on the side of buildings just waiting to be found.

There are more than 15 murals that you can find around the city. They are a really cool spot for a photo. The murals feature famous icons like Dolly Parton, famous quotes, or just beautiful paintings. While you are walking around the city, keep your eye open for some great Asheville street art.

Stop 3: Explore The River Arts District

After walking the streets of downtown Asheville, head to the area that is now considered the River Arts District. The River Arts District was once the industrial area of Asheville. Often referred to as the RAD, the River Arts District is along the French Broad River.

The buildings that were once abandoned warehouses and mills is now home to one of the best art scenes in the South. They have been transformed into artists studios and galleries as well as restaurants and distilleries and breweries. The RAD is also a great place to find a super cool and unique souvenir to take home.

Stop 4: Asheville Art Museum

After lunch, head to the Asheville Art Museum. The Asheville Art Museum has a large collection of American artwork that dates from the 20th and 21st centuries. It is a fairly extensive collection and you can easily spend a good bit of time strolling through the exhibits. One of the main focuses of the museum is to largely feature local artists.

In particular, the museum has a large collection of works from professors and students of the Black Mountain College. The Black Mountain College was open from 1933 to 1957 and was a major art institute in the area. The Asheville Art Museum has the largest collection of Black Mountain artists. It also has a growing collection of Native artwork from Indigenous peoples from the Cherokee Nation.

Stop 5: Stop At A House Museum

There are a few House Museums in Asheville. The two most prominent are the Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site and the Smith-McDowell House Museum. At the Smith-McDowell House you’ll get to step inside a restored Victorian home that looks much like it would have at the time the Smith-McDowell family lived there.

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site is a house museum that is in the boyhood home of famous author Thomas Wolfe. Wolfe immortalized his family home and hometown of Asheville in a few of his novels. The home has been restored to look like it would have when Wolfe was a child. It’s a cool and interesting addition to any Asheville itinerary.

Stop 6: The Asheville Museum of Science

The Asheville Museum of Science is a fairly small science museum in downtown Asheville. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in experience. This is a perfect stop if you are spending your weekend in Asheville with some kiddos.

The museum is very hands-on. So kids get to experience science, not just see it. There is an interactive STEM lab, a hall of minerals, and more. The kids will also be able to get up close to fossils, dinosaur skeletons, and there is even a ‘Toddler’s Nest’ for the very young travelers in your group.

Stop 7: Games And Dinner At The Asheville Pinball Museum

End your first day at the Asheville Pinball Museum. This is a fun activity for any age, but it’s especially fun for adults. For a flat fee you can have pizza and drinks while you get to play over 35 vintage pinball machines. They also have a selection of vintage gaming systems.

You can stay as long as you want and it really is a great time. After a day of walking and exploring the city, pizza, drinks, and some pinball is a fun way to end the day. The Pinball Museum is pretty popular, so you can ‘check into’ the museum a few hours ahead of when you actually plan to visit if you are worried that the wait to enter will be too long.

Day 2: Drive The Blue Ridge Parkway

For Day 2 on your Asheville itinerary, make sure you plan ahead a little bit. You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of gas in your car. Since you’ll be spending the day on the Blue Ridge Parkway , pack snacks, plenty of water, and a picnic lunch. In order to see everything on this part of the itinerary, make sure you get an earlier start. You can’t spend a weekend in Asheville without driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Stop 1: Mount Pisgah And Pisgah National Forest

Just outside of Asheville you can head on to the Blue Ridge Parkway around Mount Pisgah and the Pisgah National Forest. Once you’re on the parkway, your first stop is Milepost 408.6 for the Mount Pisgah park parking area. There you’ll find several trail heads you can take to explore the Pisgah National Forest. A little up the parkway, at Milepost 407.6 you’ll find the Mount Pisgah Overlook and trail head.

Stop 2: North Carolina Arboretum

From Mount Pisgah, continue North on the parkway. The North Carolina Arboretum is just off of the parkway, across from Milepost 393. There are over 430 acres of gardens and trails for you to explore. It is free to enter the arboretum and you’ll find plenty to do there. The best time to visit the arboretum to see the flowers and plants blooming is from April – October, but it’s a beautiful place to visit all year round.

Stop 3: The Folk Art Center

Your next stop is the Folk Art Center at Milepost 382. The Folk Art Center is a space where you can find works from over 900 artists in several galleries and shops. This is the main gallery for the center, however you’ll find smaller galleries at different stops along the parkway. But this is where you can find everything.

The Folk Art Center is the most popular stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway every year. So you can expect it to be crowded, but it’s worth it. Not only are there galleries and shops, there are also artists studios. Depending on when you visit the center, you may be able to see an artist at work in one of the studios.

Stop 4: Craggy Gardens

After admiring all the art at the Folk Art Center, continue heading North on the parkway. Your next stop is Craggy Gardens at Milepost 364.6. The Craggy Gardens are another popular stop on the parkway. The best time to see the main attraction of the gardens, the pink and purple Catawba Rhododendron blooms, is in June.

However, the gardens are beautiful all year long. The area will definitely be the most crowded in June and July though. So keep that in mind when you are planning your drive. A little farther up the parkway, at Milepost 364.2 there is a trail that takes you through the gardens. You’ll see some stunning views along the hike.

Stop 5: Mount Mitchell Overlook

Next stop at Milepost 349.9 which is the Mount Mitchell Overlook. Mount Mitchell is the highest peak East of the Mississippi and was one of the first State Parks in the United States. From the overlook you’ll be able to get a view of the famous tall peak. If you want to visit the Mount Mitchell State Park, you’ll need to take a detour of the highway.

It is only about 5 miles away from the parkway and the Mount Mitchell Overlook. But if you’re interested in getting a better look or hiking Mount Mitchell, the State Park is a great detour from this Asheville itinerary. At the park you’ll find hiking trails, a nature center, and a museum.

Stop 6: Crabtree Falls

One of the prettiest waterfalls near Asheville is the Crabtree Falls, at Milepost 339.5. To see the falls, you’ll need to hike three miles on an in-and-back trail to get to this impressive waterfall. The waterfall is fairly wide and 70 feet tall.

The nearby bridge that crosses over the creek offers great views of the waterfall. One of the best times to hike the falls is during the spring. It will be a bit muddy from all the rain, but the hike to the falls is surrounded by beautiful wildflowers.

Stop 7: Museum Of North Carolina Minerals

Another fun stop on your drive of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Museum of North Carolina Minerals. You can find this cute museum at Milepost 331. It is housed in a small stone building on the side of the the parkway. The museum is a favorite Asheville itinerary stop for kids.

Inside you’ll find an interactive museum about the rocks and minerals that can be found all throughout North Carolina. There is a particular focus on minerals that are found within the area’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Its a great stop to stretch your legs, learn more about the ecology of the area, and more.

Stop 8: Linville Falls

Your next stop is another popular waterfall near Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 316.4. The Linville Falls are one of the most photographed waterfalls on the parkway and are a frequently visited. There are two falls that run into a gorge, the Upper and Lower Falls. The hike to the Lower Falls is much easier and is also the most popular.

You can continue on to a view of the Upper Falls and the gorge, but that is a more strenuous hike. At the visitor area for the falls there is a parking lot, but it quickly gets filled up. So you may need to park on the side of the parkway and walk a short distance to the visitor center and trail head. Keep that in mind as you approach this stop.

Stop 9: Grandfather Mountain Overlook

The second to last stop for your second day of your 3 days in Asheville is the Grandfather Mountain Overlook. Grandfather Mountain is one of the most iconic mountain peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you want to hike on Grandfather Mountain, you’ll need to head off the parkway to the private Grand Father Mountain park.

But at Milepost 306.6 you’ll find the Grand Father Mountain Overlook that shows the peak of the mountain. Its always a pretty view, no matter the weather. Grandfather Mountain Overlook is just a few miles from your last stop, so feel free to take your time admiring the view.

Stop 10: The Linn Cove Viaduct

You can’t drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and not see the Linn Cove Viaduct. That is why Milepost 304.4 is our last stop on the parkway. The Linn Cove Viaduct is probably the most photographed area of the Blue Ridge Parkway because of it’s unique design and engineering.

There are a few places you can pull over near the viaduct to get different views of the part of the road. There is also a visitors center where you can find a hiking trail that snakes under the viaduct and information on how it was built. After you’ve seen this iconic piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway, head back to Asheville. You can continue to stop at different overlooks, but if you drive without stopping, it’s a little over an hour back to the city.

Day 3: The Biltmore And More

For your last day in Asheville you’ll see the Biltmore Estate and spend a little more time exploring all Asheville has to offer. There is a lot to do and see at the Biltmore, so we highly suggest getting an early start to the day if you want to make sure you have plenty of time at every stop.

Stop 1: The Biltmore

The Biltmore Estate is a large privately owned estate that was built by George Vanderbilt, yes, those Vanderbilt’s, in the late 1800s. The massive home is full of original furniture, art, and tapestries. It is a beautifully designed home both inside and out and you can take tours throughout almost every level of the house.

You will see a grand dining room, a massive private library, the original bedrooms, and more. On the lower floors there is of course the kitchens, but there is also a bowling alley, indoor pool, and a Halloween Room. It is a really unique piece of Asheville history that you absolutely will want to see at least once.

On the grounds directly around the home, you’ll find a few shops, casual dining and cafes, and extensive gardens. There is also a conservatory full of exotic and tropical plants as well as hiking trails. It’s an absolute must-see on any weekend in Asheville.

Stop 2: Antler Hill Village

After touring the estate and the surrounding gardens, head down the hill the to the Antler Hill Village. If you were going to skip anything at the estate, it should be the Antler Hill Village. It has restaurants, the estate’s winery and wine sampling room, and a few shops. While it is cool, it’s the most ‘touristy’ area of the estate, so if that’s not really your thing, feel free to skip it.

The one thing we do suggest see at the Antler Hill Village is the Biltmore Legacy Museum. There are frequently exhibits being displayed in the main estate house that relate in some way. In the past they have done an exhibit with costumes from Downton Abbey and famous period fashions from Hollywood and pop culture. The Biltmore Legacy Museum is where the exhibits extend further and there is usually some really interesting stuff to check out in there.

Stop 3: The Biltmore Village

Directly off the grounds of the estate, across the street, is the Biltmore Village. The Biltmore Village was originally built as homes for the servants who worked the estate. Now it is shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The buildings are all original and have been restored and cared for.

It’s a really unique shopping experience and it feels like you’re walking down a cobblestone street in Europe. If you haven’t picked up a souvenir yet, this is a good place to do it. You’ll want something to remember your weekend in Asheville. There is a little bit of everything here. It’s also another great place to stop for a quick bite to eat.

Stop 4: Asheville Brewery Tour

Asheville is becoming known for it’s many breweries. So you should absolutely add a brewery tour to your weekend in Asheville plans. You can do a self guided tour yourself, or you can do a fun guided one like the Electric Bike Brewery Crawl . The guided tour lasts about four hours and takes you to some of the most popular Asheville breweries.

If you decide to do a self guided tour, you’ll have a bit more flexibility. The city also offers a few options for planning your own brewery crawl. If you spend most of the morning at the Biltmore, a self guided crawl might be a better option for you. That way you can make it as short or as long as you need or want to.

Stop 5: Pack Square Park

Walk off your drinks in Pack Square Park. Pack Square Park is a community park that began construction in 1901. It is a popular part of the city as it is around some of the most popular and iconic architectural landmarks in Asheville.

Depending on when you visit for your weekend in Asheville, you may find a live performance taking place in the park. There is a permanent stage and in the warmer months, you’ll frequently find live entertainment. The park is a beautiful place to wander before heading to dinner.

Stop 6: Dinner At Omni Grove Park Inn

Omni Grove Park Inn is one of the most popular resorts in the United States, and it’s in Asheville. It is a very pricey resort that was built in 1913, shortly after Asheville started to become a popular mountain resort town. The inn has had ten presidents, countless famous actors and actresses, athletes, writers, and artists stay in it’s opulent Arts and Crafts style rooms.

If you want to experience a bit of the glamorous and historic Omni Grove Park Inn before you head home, we suggest a reservation at one of the many restaurants. There are bars, terrace restaurants, and even casual dining options in the hotel. So while it will still be a bit pricey, you can find a restaurant at this famous Asheville hotel that best fits your price range. It’s a really nice way to end your weekend in Asheville.

Where To Stay For A Weekend In Asheville

Asheville studio cottage.

The Asheville Studio Cottage is a super cuter Asheville VRBO. It’s a great option for a couple looking to make their trip to Asheville a more romantic one. It’s a studio, so the bedroom, living room, and kitchen are all in one space. It is just a mile north of the downtown area and centrally located.

Click here to check rates on VRBO.com

Aloft Asheville Downtown

The Aloft Asheville Downtown is a fun modern hotel in the heart of downtown Asheville near the River Arts District. You’ll be within walking distance to the Art Museum, several breweries, and Pack Square. It’s a really fun hotel that is perfectly located. Don’t forget to check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Asheville!

Click here to check rates on Hotels.com

Luxury Downtown Loft

The Luxury Downtown Loft is a one-bedroom loft apartment at the historic S&W building in downtown Asheville. The Art Deco building has been beautifully restored and inside you’ll find a gorgeous Asheville VRBO. There is one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room.

The Beaufort House Inn

The Beaufort House Inn is a classic Bed and Breakfast in Asheville . It is about 1/2 a mile from downtown Asheville on a beautiful 1.5 acres of land. The home was built in 1894 and is a stunning and quiet place to stay in Asheville. You’ll be close to some of the best attractions in Asheville and get to stay in a historic home.

Where to Eat During Your 3 Days In Asheville

There are tons of tasty restaurants in downtown Asheville . From southern comfort food, delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine, and eclectic fusion restaurants there is something for everyone. Asheville is a city made for foodies and you’ll find some super unique eateries around the city. Here are some of our personal favorites!

Early Girl Eatery

For an amazing breakfast you’ll want to stop by the Early Girl Eatery. It is a great little restaurant that serves classic southern comfort food daily from 8 am to 8 pm. It has been open for 20 years, so it is a staple for visitors and locals traveling to Asheville. From classics like omelets and coffee to biscuit French toast, it’s a super tasty place for breakfast in Asheville!

Mellow Mushroom

If you are in the mood for pizza, head to Mellow Mushroom. Mellow Mushroom is a popular pizza restaurant in North Carolina and is known for it’s ‘hippie atmosphere’ and fun menu. You can completely customize any pizza or choose from one of the house favorite recipes. If you’re not in the mood for pizza, they also have wings, sandwiches, and even burgers. Mellow Mushroom is a great casual dining option in Asheville.

Limones Restaurant

Asheville has some really interesting fusion restaurants. One of those is Limones Restaurant. Limones is run by Chef Hugo who mixes classic Mexican cuisine with French and Californian influences. It is a super unique dining experience in Asheville. You can find menu options like Lobster Mac and Cheese, Lamb Ragout Chile Relleno, and Vanilla and Orange Flan. If you want to try something different while you’re visiting Asheville, Limones Restaurant is a great option.

Tupelo Honey Cafe

Tupelo Honey Café is one of the best restaurants in Asheville, especially if you are in the mood for southern food. The ingredients are locally sourced and very high quality, yet you’ll find it’s all very affordable. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can really stop by anytime and get a delicious meal. They have biscuit sandwiches, fried chicken, and so much more. Tupelo Honey Café is a must-eat restaurant during your weekend in Asheville.

There are so many fun and interesting things you can do during a weekend in Asheville. It is a great city in the mountains that has a little something for every type of traveler. We hope this Asheville itinerary has inspired you to visit this beautiful mountain city and explore all it has to offer.

Asheville Insider Guide: Top Things to do in Asheville, NC

Last Updated: April 8, 2021

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Asheville, North Carolina is a mountainous city with an abundance of beautiful sights, fun activities, and hidden gems to enjoy.

The city prides itself on its friendly/creative community, and offers both incredible natural landscapes and amazing Southern cuisine.

Here is an insider’s guide on top things to do in Asheville, alongside where to stay, what to eat and everything else you need to know.

This Asheville guide features advice from Amy, an avid travel blogger and photographer at Two Drifters .

Having lived in Asheville with her husband for two years (after getting married there!), she knows all the not-to-miss spots and Asheville’s top hidden gems.

Read on and take note on how to plan an awesome Asheville visit!

Basic Facts About Asheville, NC

The best time to visit Asheville: Summer and Fall! While Asheville has a gorgeous climate year round, these seasons are filled with festivals and various events.

Asheville is perfect for… Young travelers, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The best way to get around Asheville: Buses are great ( check out maps/schedules here ), but the city is really lovely to explore on foot. You can also use Uber here.

Currency: USD; all shops normally accept credit and debit cards.

Cool Asheville events and festivals to look out for: Asheville has many festivals and events to experience year-round. Apple Festivals, music festivals, and so much more. Check out this Asheville event calendar for up to date events, and even things to do in Asheville this weekend.

If you only have one day in Asheville, you absolutely cannot miss… Exploring the downtown area and all its quirky shops.

  A post shared by Travel Couple ♥ Amy & Nathan (@twodriftersxo) on Mar 2, 2016 at 1:26pm PST

Top things to do in Asheville, North Carolina (The Touristy Must-Dos)

Let’s start with the best things to do in Asheville that everyone knows about, but are well worth doing!

The Biltmore Estate

This is America’s largest private home, which is a majestic mansion situated on gorgeous rolling hills.

Apart from the incredible scenery and architecture, there are many activities to take advantage of around the building’s 8,000-acre backyard, including outdoor concerts, wine tastings, and trips over kayak, horseback, bike, Segway, Land Rover, and even paddleboarding (book a tour here!) .

Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway

This road through the mountains is peppered with stunning vistas.

It is one of the most amazing places to take a drive through in Asheville regardless of the season.

Not keen on driving? You can book tours as well, including themed ones like photography.

Go tubing on the river

Visit Deep Creek in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for this incredibly fun experience.

Rentals are offered by several companies, and there are also campground and picnic areas nearby.

  A post shared by Travel Couple ♥ Amy & Nathan (@twodriftersxo) on Mar 3, 2016 at 1:04pm PST

Explore downtown Asheville

The downtown area of Asheville is filled with art galleries, talented buskers and street performers, and a wide array of shops and restaurants. It is worth coming here many times, since there is always something new to see.

Tour Asheville’s breweries

The craft beer scene here is amazing. In fact, Asheville is known for having the most breweries per capita in the US.

Here’s a cool tour that takes you to breweries around downtown Asheville.

Hidden Gems in Asheville & What to Do Off the Beaten Path

From Asheville secret places to offbeat attractions most visitors miss, here are some cool off the beaten path things to do in Asheville that you must add to your list.

The River Arts District

This hip part of Asheville is filled with local artists displaying their amazing work. The perfect place to get a taste of the city’s talent. PS: You can also go paddle boarding on the French Broad River. Here’s a tour that you can book!

Go chasing waterfalls

Asheville and its surrounding areas have tons and tons of refreshing waterfalls to discover. Go find them all! Check out this cool hiking tour that takes you waterfall chasing around Blue Ridge Parkway.  

It’s also a great idea to find an Asheville RV rental and do it in style.

The WNC Nature Center

Get educated on local wildlife in an intimate, well-kept animal center.

With over 60 species on 40 acres of Southern Appalachian habitat, the WNC houses rich biodiversity.

Hit the spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn

The spa at this stunning hotel is a true luxury and Asheville hidden gem! Look no further to find utter relaxation.

Rooftop bars

Great cocktails and a view over Asheville, need I say more?

There are various rooftop bars to choose from in the city, such as The Pillar, the Social Lounge, and the SkyBar. Chilling at one of these is definitely one of top fun things to do in Asheville.

What to eat in Asheville, NC

Short on time? There’s a lot of food Asheville is known for. Make sure you don’t miss these epic eats, (and the best Asheville restaurants to try them in).

Biscuits and gravy:  Hit up Biscuit Head to experience this must-have!

Pimento grilled cheese:  Try this scrumptious, savory treat served at the Tupelo Honey Cafe.

Burgers:  Order one from Farm Burger (with a side of sweet potato hush puppies).

Best restaurants in Asheville, NC to try

There are plenty of amazing restaurants in Asheville, NC to experience. Here are some of the best places to eat in Asheville, according to Amy:

Address: 13 Biltmore Ave This hip locale is set in a former 1927 bus depot, and offers elevated small plates, cured meats, sherries, and wine. Try their amazing Spanish tapas!

Biscuit Head:

Address: 417 Biltmore Ave, Ste 4F A perfect place to try a fresh, affordable take on Southern home cooking! Known for their tasty biscuits and gravy. As an added bonus, this eatery aims to keep their carbon footprint at a minimum, focusing on zero trace strategies. They have a second location in West Asheville.

Luella’s BBQ:

Address: 501 Merrimon Ave A well-priced restaurant specializing in authentic Southern BBQ. Known as the home of “hand-pulled perfection”, all of their delicious options are made from scratch. Come try their smoked, seasoned meats and famous homemade sauce! They also have another location in South Asheville.

White Duck Taco:

Address: 12 Biltmore Avenue Mainly cooked with American made products, their real world menu is constantly being revised to offer new options. Stop by to try their fantastic gourmet tacos. Their other location can be found in the River Arts District.

Laughing Seed Cafe:

Address: 40 Wall St An excellent vegetarian place with an international flair. Their tasty cuisine stems from organic, local, and farm-to-table sources. Their extensive menu has many vegan and gluten-free options to choose from!

If you’re still hungry, check out this list of cheap/affordable Asheville NC restaurants.

Best coffee shops to try in Asheville, NC

Looking for the best coffee in Asheville? Check these places out:

High Five Coffee

Address: 190 Broadway #102 A coffee house based on sustainable farming practices, as well as perfected brewing methods for coffee, espressos, and other tasty concoctions. They also serve both sweet and savory treats, and feature local beers on tap.

Trade & Lore

Address: 37 Wall St A charming coffee shop with a chic, vintage-y feel. They focus on providing local products, and offer an array of drinks (including beer and wine) and pastries. Trade & Lore also works with local non profits and hosts many cool events.

World Coffee

Address: 18 Battery Park Ave Located on the bottom floor of a 1920′s skyscraper, this place is uniquely adorned with artifacts from all over the world. World Coffee holds a full bar on two different floors and balcony seating areas from which to enjoy the live music. Come and try their delicious drinks, snacks, and meals!

If you’re still buzzing for caffeine, here’s a bigger list of the best coffee spots in Asheville.

Asheville Nightlife: Where to go out!

Looking for the best bars in Asheville? Here are some spots to hit up on your next trip.

Wicked Weed

Address: 91 Biltmore Ave Housing an upstairs restaurant, downstairs tasting room, bottle shop, and original 15 barrel brewery, this is the spot to hit up for any occasion. Their dog-friendly patio and street level cocktail area also give access to live music from nearby buskers.

Lexington Avenue Brewery (LAB)

Address: 39 N Lexington Ave An open air setting pub with a cool vibe. The LAB has a wide selection of beer and lots of great food, including vegan and gluten-free options.

Sovereign Remedies

Address: 29 N Market St #105 A spacious locale with large windows, lots of plants, and an outdoor patio. Apart from having a diverse collection of beer, wine, and mixed drinks, Sovereign Remedies also provides bar food with the highest commitment to local, organic meats.

Best Neighbourhoods in Asheville to Stay

West Asheville: offers a young, hip setting, and holds many great AirBnb options. There are also friendly hostels in the area.

Click here to browse the best deals on West Asheville hotels.

Where to stay in Asheville, North Carolina

BUDGET: Bon Paul & Sharkys Hostel

Address: 816 Haywood Rd

A budget, small, and pet-friendly operation that prides itself on a communal atmosphere. An awesome place to make friends while enjoying a beer on the porch, or chatting over a communal cookout and bonfire. They hold the options of booking cottages, private rooms, dorm rooms, and camping spots. Free breakfast, WiFi, guest computer access, and bikes to borrow.

Browse availability and deals on Hostelworld.

MID-RANGE: Sheraton Four Points

Address: 22 Woodfin St

A mid-range hotel that, while having the convenience of a city location, is still nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. This is a pet-friendly establishment that offers free WiFi, parking, an outdoor pool, a sundeck, and fitness centre. There is also an in-house restaurant for breakfast and dinner.

Browse availability and deals on  Booking.com

LUXURY: Omni Grove Park Inn

Address: 290 Macon Ave

The ideal place for a luxurious stay in Asheville. Pick from an array of resort rooms with beautiful views, and indulge in the onsite spa, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, golf and tennis courts, and plenty of surrounding restaurants. Free WiFi and access to computers. Pets are also welcome.

Browse availability and deals on Booking.com

Where to get the best views of Asheville, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway: offers the perfect spot to catch breathtaking views (especially during sunset or sunrise!) Alternately, park at the top of parking garages for other stunning, free views of the city.

Best places to go shopping in Asheville, NC

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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.

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Nic Austin is passionate about providing a platform in media for the LGBTQ+ community. He strives to tell stories about his community through the leading LGBTQ+ publications in the country. His mission is to amplify marginalized LGBTQ+ voices through partnerships with prominent brands and leaders in our community.

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.

AshevilleExplorer

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14 Reasons Why I’m Smitten with Asheville, North Carolina

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I’ve been wanting to go to Asheville, North Carolina, for quite a long time. I’d heard that it was a beautiful town with a cool arts scene nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains. And I’d heard that it was a little drop of blue in a sea of red — or “the blueberry in the tomato soup,” as one local told me — a liberal enclave within a strongly conservative region, not unlike Austin, Texas.

The Obamas took a weekend getaway to Asheville in 2010; in 2013, President Obama said he had thought about retiring there . That further intrigued me — I had to get to this town.

Earlier this year, the team at Explore Asheville  invited me to come visit for a few days and I happily accepted. When planning my itinerary, I told them I wanted it to be local, local, local . I wanted to focus on cool small businesses. I wanted to eat local food. I wanted to spend my money close to the ground. I wanted to see how nature integrated into the city.

I knew I’d have a great time — but I underestimated just how much I would enjoy this city.

Here are the reasons why I fell so hard for Asheville.

Table of Contents

Image courtesy of Asheville Farm to Table Tours.

1. Because Asheville has the most amazing people .

I want to get that out of the way first — Asheville is home to some of the nicest people I have ever met, anywhere. And that goes for the U.S. and abroad.

These days I don’t usually like to say things like that these days — even though I’ve written posts on that topic in the past. Truthfully, most places are filled with 98% nice people with a few jerks thrown in.

But Asheville is special. People aren’t just polite or welcoming — it’s a genuine, honest, open kindness on the level of which I’ve never seen elsewhere. And it’s not necessarily southern hospitality. While I appreciate it, as a native New Englander I sometimes find southern hospitality a bit much — almost insincere.

“Asheville is different — it’s ‘mountain south,'” a local told me. Hmm. Mountain south. All of the kindness but none of the cloying sweetness. I could definitely get on board with that.

The crazy thing is that Asheville is a city of transplants — I met people from Chicago, California, Florida, Michigan, New Orleans, elsewhere in North Carolina. And they all ended up in Asheville because they saw something special in the city.

I find it uncanny but wonderful that in a city of transplants, everyone seems to have such a sunny personality.

2. Because it’s got quirks in all the right places.

Asheville has a population of roughly 87,000, making it more like a large town than a small city, but it runs high in the weirdness department.

On Friday nights from April through October, Asheville erupts into a drum circle. From 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM, people bang on the drums like mad as an audience dances to the beats. Feel free to join in the dancing — or even the drumming.

On Biltmore Street, you’ll fine a “Before I Die” chalkboard with spaces to write out your life goals. It made me smile that most of them were people saying who they wanted to marry.

In Asheville, it’s totally normal to see a dude juggling while balancing on a board, dog on his head. (Also, how great is that dog’s smile?)

Impromptu van sales down by the River Arts District? Also totally normal.

Lavender lemon soda? Absolutely! I rarely drink soda, but I loved this stuff. The Waynesville Soda Jerks are headquartered not too far from Asheville and have other soda flavors like strawberry rhubarb, apple rosemary, and blueberry basil. You can buy them in downtown Asheville at The Rhu .

And a surprising amount of Art Deco architecture is in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We all know Miami is the top Art Deco city in the United States, but who would have guessed Asheville would be a runner-up? This is at the Grove Arcade , a collection of shops downtown. It reminded me of the arcades of Melbourne, Australia.

One of the shops at the arcade is the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar , which is exactly what it sounds like. Used books. Champagne. A place to chill out.

Considering how much I adore books and champagne , you’d think I’d move in and never leave — but I actually liked another bookstore better. Stay tuned.

3. Because it’s got a literal CHEESE TRAIL.

Asheville is home to several spots on the Western North Carolina Cheese Trail , a new collection of creameries scattered throughout the region.

You know my feelings on cheese.

I got to experience a stop on the trail on a tour with Asheville Farm to Table Tours . These tours seek to educate visitors on how food is grown at the source and used to supply businesses and feed people throughout Asheville.

We started with a visit to Looking Glass Creamery  where we learned about several of the kinds of cheeses that are made here and were served the prettiest cheese board I’ve ever seen. I mean, let’s take a closer look:

Yes. Without a doubt, the loveliest cheese plate I’ve ever seen.

In addition to cheese, they also served blindingly hot mustard, an indulgent dulce de leche spread, and strawberry basil “fruit paste,” a term I hadn’t heard before. Their fruit paste was like a thick preserves, but it’s usually even thicker than that — almost like a brick of fruit!

4. Because the farm stands run on an honor system.

Want to buy some produce? Just pick out what you’d like and put some money in the box!

And not just that — they’ve modernized for the present day. You can also pay via Paypal. How amazing is that?!

Our second stop on the tour was Flying Cloud Farm , which was home to fresh produce, flowers, and an adorable puppy keeping watch.

And what better way to finish your day of farm-hopping with a chance to ogle baby goats and pigs at Hickory Nut Gap Farm ? We had a lunch with sandwiches made with home-cured capicola and a salad made with astoundingly fresh feta and topped with purple flowers.

A day out at these beautiful farms, getting to know the farmers and the pride they take in the work they do, was a perfect introduction to the food scene in Asheville.

5. Because I went on a blind date with a book.

I always like to check out independent bookstores on my travels, and Malaprop’s in Asheville is one of my new favorites. The best feature? You can go on a blind date with a book.

Favorite books of Malaprop’s employees are wrapped up in brown paper and labeled with words that describe them. You choose a book based on the words. They can’t be unwrapped before purchase, nor can they be returned.

I wanted something from a local author, so I picked up a book labeled, “Clear-sighted, graceful, illuminating, tender, mesmerizing, chilling, local!” I also grabbed a volume of Hafiz poetry from their Persian Poetry section. (Yes, a small local bookstore has a Persian poetry section. I love it.)

I couldn’t wait to tear off the wrapping as soon as I bought it.

The book was  A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash, a native of western North Carolina. The Richmond Times-Dispatch said, “Reads as if Cormac McCarthy decided to rewrite Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird .” Well, I’ve never been a big To Kill a Mockingbird fan, and I’m still scarred years after reading McCarthy’s The Road , so it’s fair to say I never would have chosen this on my own.

I look forward to reading it!

6. Because I had some of the best Spanish tapas of my life.

Asheville’s culinary scene has really picked up in the past several years, and one of the standouts is Cúrate Tapas Bar (pronounced Kyuh-RAH-tay), a Spanish tapas restaurant.

I expected the food to be decent but not extraordinary. Was I ever wrong. This was my first meal in Asheville and it remained the best, as well as the best tapas I have ever had outside Spain.

Jamon ibérico, because of course.

Crostini with morcilla blood sausage.

Cold almond and garlic soup with crab and flower petals.

Also served: pork and mushrooms, two different plates that were tasty on their own but positively sang when consumed together.

Here’s a hint for you — it’s not listed on the menu, but get the fried eggplant with rosemary ice cream for dessert. It may not sound like a traditional dessert, but trust me, you’ll be smitten.

And just in case, a gin and tonic meringue: tonic-flavored snow, gin-soaked berries, and torched meringue.

Cúrate blew my mind and I would leap tall buildings to have that same meal all over again. They’re also famous for their vermouth selection and I discovered how much I love white vermouth with a twist of lemon.

7. Because it’s a city of cool, welcoming artists.

After all you’ve read, would you be surprised to hear that Asheville is a major arts destination as well? Asheville is home to more than 200 artists, many of whom are clustered in the River Arts District , a little more than a mile from downtown.

You can walk around and explore the neighborhood on your own, but I recommend taking a two-hour Asheville Art Studio Tour . Led by John Miguel Almaguer , an accomplished glass artist who even apprenticed in Murano in Venice (!!), this tour took us to visit four studios in the neighborhood.

John has more personality in a fingernail than most people I’ve ever met. The man isn’t just a visual artist — he has the most wonderful presence. You’ll love him.

Here’s John posing with one of his works at his studio, the North Carolina Glass Center . (Also, I told him he totally reminded me of Bruno Mars. Maybe it was the hat.)

Stephen St. Claire, along with his wife Joy, create masterpieces of oil paint, metal leaf, and resin at St. Claire Art . He’s still tweaking his method, Stephen told us.

Daniel McClendon creates bright, primitive, abstract paintings inspired by all kinds of animals. I showed him my quokka selfies from Western Australia and suggested he visit WA to be inspired by the quokka for a future subject!

Andrea Kulisch at Studio A creates traditional Ukrainian eggs — and puts a modern spin on them as well with polka dots, trees, and even unicorns! Andrea is of Ukrainian heritage and I encouraged her to go to Ukraine and experience the country for herself.

I know I keep going on about how friendly everyone is in Asheville, but I was so impressed at how each of the artists talked to our group like they were telling their stories for the first time ever, not like they’d done the spiel a million times.

8. Because I got to frolic at the Richie Rich house.

If there’s any one attraction you should visit in Asheville, it’s the Biltmore Estate . This massive French-style chateau was built by George Vanderbilt in 1889 and it’s since become one of the symbols of Asheville.

As soon as I saw the mansion, I knew it looked familiar — but how? Then the answer came from a follower on Snapchat — it was the Richie Rich house! Of course it was! I used to watch that movie all the time when I was a kid!

Seriously, how is this place in North Carolina?!

The inside is spectacular — I can only imagine how beautiful it is decorated for Christmas.

George Vanderbilt was an avid reader — he averaged 81 books per year, which puts me to shame — so there’s currently a display of costumes from literary movies like Anna Karenina and Finding Neverland . Above is Uma Thurman’s peacock costume from The Golden Bowl .

If you want to see even more of the mansion, the rooftop tour is pretty cool. I can’t believe those gargoyles!

The Biltmore is such a cool place, and there are plenty more grounds to discover, including a winery and some gardens. And if you’re looking for the ultimate Asheville selfie, throw on your favorite red dress and pose in front of the building!

9. Because I found a brewery that was just right for me.

Asheville is home to more breweries per capita than any city in the United States — so if you love beer, you need to come here at least once in your life.

I like beer, but I’m not a hardcore beer fan — I’ll go to breweries in the company of my beer-loving dad and sister, but not on my own. Still, I liked the look of the Wedge Brewing Company , down in the River Arts District, and decided to give it a whirl on my way back from the Biltmore Estate. I couldn’t go to Asheville and not hit up a brewery.

Like everywhere else in Asheville, the Wedge is casual and welcoming. And it’s a family-friendly brewery, with games for kids and space for them to run around during the day. (It becomes adults-only after 8:00 PM.)

I tried four beers and especially liked their Hefeweizen and porter. But it was so nice to just sit outside in the shade, enjoying a few beer samples, and watching the freight trains go by. Chill breweries are the best breweries.

You can read more about Asheville’s beer scene here on Explore Asheville.

10. Because Southern cuisine is the sweetest of cuisines.

Blackbird is one of the signature restaurants in Asheville, and if you’re looking for something southern with a twist, this is a place to visit. I adore southern food and go for it whenever I can, but it’s always best at the source.

I started with a local peach and brie salad. Peach and brie is a heavenly combination — how have I never had that in my life?

Next up was trout with a peanut romesco and zucchini watercress salad. Owner Jesson Gil told me that he considered this dish his “death row meal.” It was fabulous — and also light, which is great considering how much heavy food you’ll be eating in Asheville.

Of course I had to order their award-winning coconut cake. (“Don’t worry, I’ll bring you a box,” my waitress told me. “Just how big is this cake?!” I thought. The answer? Pretty damn big, and yes, I did use the box.)

OH MY GOD, THIS CAKE. SERIOUSLY, THIS CAKE. It is so decadent.

11. Because creative small businesses thrive here.

One of my favorite shops I visited was the Asheville Bee Charmer , a beautiful store devoted to honey and related products.

Owners Kim and Jill came to Asheville from Chicago and envisioned their business out of “a passion for honey, a curiosity for bees, a love of cooking, and a yearning for connection to community.”

“What do you wish people knew about honey?” I asked Kim. “That honey is not just one basic product,” she told me. “There are 350 kinds of honey. Tasting honey is like tasting wine.”

And I tasted a lot of honey. Dark buckwheat honey that could substitute molasses. Chai infused honey that would be fantastic in green tea. And I even tried ghost pepper honey, which was certainly hot but not nearly as bad as I feared.

Since moving into my apartment, I’ve tried to pick up something for my home on most of my trips. In Asheville everyone recommended I check out Horse & Hero , a store filled with prints, cards, and creations by local artists.

This is a cool store, and you can find original art for fairly cheap. I picked up a print that reads  LOVE IS OVER TAKING ME  upward and downward.

Biscuit Head came highly recommended by my friend Amy , a former Ashevillian. In my experience, one recommendation trumps several recommendations, so I had to go. What are they famous for? BISCUIT AND GRAVY FLIGHTS. (Not the best picture, but I was so hungry I dove in and forgot to photograph it first. I apologize for what I did when I was hungry.)

You get to choose three kinds of gravy with your biscuits. I chose fried chicken, sweet potato coconut, and espresso red bean. Sweet potato coconut was simply outstanding. They also have several gluten-free varieties, which is nice, because biscuits and gravy are normally an extremely glutenous dish.

And this has to be the coolest — a red double-decker London bus turned into a coffeeshop! It’s technically called Double D’s Coffee and Desserts , but most people in Asheville just call it the double-decker bus.

The bus doesn’t drive anywhere, but it’s parked in a lovely little lot where you can sit outside at a picnic table underneath an umbrella.

12. Because local food can be innovated into something new and different.

For my last dinner in Asheville, I ate at Rhubarb . Rhubarb specializes in local ingredients but with very sophisticated twists, and it was the restaurant I found most akin to a high-end restaurant in a city like New York.

I go crazy for charcuterie in any form, but Rhubarb’s offering took it to the next level. Look at all those various meats packed into gel! Including headcheese! A lot of people might blanche at this plate, but I was in heaven.

Ever had goat cheese burrata before? I had not. (The goat cheese is in the center; mozzarella still forms the outside.) It was served with pickled strawberries, stewed rhubarb, and crispy shallots.

The pickled beets and cucumbers were perfect counterparts, but the highlight was the pickled ramps! Ramps grow wild in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Rhubarb is the only place besides The Spotted Pig in New York that I’ve seen serve gnudi — it’s like gnocchi, only made with ricotta instead of potato.

I have to say that no meal delighted me more intellectually than the spread I enjoyed at Rhubarb.

13. Because the cocktail scene is loads of fun.

Asheville might be most famous for beer, but I’m a cocktail girl — and there are plenty of places to enjoy cocktails around the city.

I stayed at the Hyatt Place in downtown Asheville and they’re known for their rooftop bar, The Montford . I ordered a Last Word cocktail made with Bombay gin, green chartreuse, maraschino, and lime. You should go for the view, especially during sunset.

For the cool factor, there are two spots I recommend you check out: Top of the Monk , where they serve each cocktail with a key to a tiny mailbox (what’s inside is a surprise!), and the Crow and Quill , a Victorian gothic lounge that looks like something Edgar Allen Poe dreamed up. (The door is unmarked; go by its address. Also, ask for a cocktail infused with tobacco smoke — it’s quite a show.)

But the absolute best cocktails, in my opinion, were made at Sovereign Remedies . I had the most fabulous gin cocktail — light and citrusy and delicate, the perfect beverage on a hot summer night. I never go to bars alone, but I did in Asheville for research purposes — and I actually made a friend! A cool girl who works in the hospitality industry in Asheville who was also enjoying a cocktail solo.

“It doesn’t look like it, but I’m at work right now,” she said, holding her glass up to toast.

I raised my glass in return. “So am I.” We burst out laughing.

I might have returned for a second night in a row.

14. Because there is SO much more I want to do!!

A weekend is not enough time to experience the best of Asheville. I think something like five days would be perfect.

At one point I gazed over the French Broad river and saw people floating along in tubes and thought, “I want to be there.”

I didn’t get to do too much outdoorsy stuff, and I definitely want to go rafting and do some hikes to waterfalls. Here’s a guide to hiking in Asheville.

I want to visit the Sierra Nevada Brewery , which is a LEED-certified building and a beacon of environmental sustainability in architecture.

Oh yeah, and I need to hit up the French Broad Chocolate Lounge for dessert. I was fed such amazing desserts this weekend that I couldn’t justify going!

But most of all, I want to get into the mountains during the foliage season. The best foliage in Asheville is in mid-October, by the way.

Looking for more? Here’s a list of 50 things to do in Asheville .

This all sounds good — but did anything negative happen?

No, not really! Part of that was because the Explore Asheville team and I planned the trip to be closely tailored to my interests and what I thought you, dear reader, would enjoy reading the most.

I will say one thing, though — remember how I said that in most places, 98% of people are awesome? Well, I did meet part of the 2% as well. I was photographing a street with my wide-angle lens and a saxophonist who thought I was photographing him yelled, “You know it’s rude to take a photo of a musician and not give him a dollar!”

Oh ho ho . You’re talking to the girl who constantly yells at her friends, If a street musician made you stop in your tracks, you owe him a dollar!

Yeah. I wanted to say that. But you always think up your best comebacks a few seconds too late. (“Dude. I just gave a dollar to that guy juggling on a board with a dog on his head. You were literally playing Old McDonald Had a Farm .”) Anyway, long story short, he wouldn’t stop yelling at me and people were staring. So I gave him a dollar while grumbling, “This is just to prove I’m not a jerk.”

You guys know I always write about the bad experiences along with the good ones. And if that’s as bad as it got for me in Asheville, well, it was a pretty awesome weekend.

Where to Stay in Asheville

Where’s the best place to stay in Asheville? It’s a small enough city that there are plenty of central options! Here are the top rated central stays at each price tier:

Luxury: Bunn House: A Boutique Hotel Mid-range: Hyatt Place Budget: The Beaucatcher: A Boutique Motel Find deals on Asheville hotels here.

The Takeaway

Asheville is one of my new favorite U.S. getaways. And I feel like it would be great for all kinds of travelers — solo travelers, couples, groups of friends, families. But there are a few types of people who I think would especially enjoy Asheville:

Couples where one partner loves the city and the other loves the outdoors. I know a lot of couples like that and Asheville is the best of both worlds.

People into local, farm-to-table cuisine. There are so many options to get into local fare here.

Art lovers and collectors who like to chat with artists. I found the art scene here to be very open and friendly.

Beer fans. I mean, if you’re into beer, this is the place to come.

And even if you don’t fit any of that criteria, keep Asheville in mind. If you’re looking for a nice destination in the US that isn’t too overdone, where you can eat great food and visit cool businesses and spend time with some of the friendliest people in the world, I bet you’ll enjoy Asheville for sure.

Essential Info: In Asheville I stayed at the Hyatt Place and highly recommend it. It’s modern with artistic twists (they also bought some local Asheville glass art, I noticed!). My room was huge and had beautiful views of the mountains. Rates from $161. There’s an indoor pool. The hotel offers valet parking or self-parking at the same price: $16 per day. I had hoped I could do Asheville without renting a car, but I soon learned it was best to have a car. If you’re visiting the Biltmore Estate, you absolutely need a car, unless you’re booking a tour that picks you up and drops you off at your accommodation. Plus, the airport is about a 14.5-mile, 20-minute drive from downtown. Other than that, you can get by walking and using Lyft. Admission to the Biltmore Estate starts at $75 for adults. You can get a $10 discount by booking seven days in advance. Kids age 16 and under are free through Labor Day. Asheville Farm to Table Tours start at $89 per person, start in the morning, and include a late lunch. My tour was in Fairview County, but the specific itinerary can vary each day. See more tours here. Asheville Art Studio Tours last two hours and cost $32 per person. I never travel anywhere without travel insurance — it could save your life (or finances). For this trip to Asheville, I used World Nomads and highly recommend them.

Many thanks to Explore Asheville for hosting my stay in the city and helping me plan an itinerary filled with things I loved. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you been to Asheville? Does it look like your kind of city? Share away!

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Our Top 10 List: A Guide for the Perfect Asheville Spring Getaway

Favorite Recipe for Goat Cheese and Grits

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Try This in Asheville in 2024

Our Favorite Tacos in Asheville

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What To Do on Tuesday in Asheville

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Las Mejores Excursiones de Primavera en Asheville, N.C.

• March 21, 2024 by Jason Tarr -->

Con la llegada de la primavera, las montañas se tiñen de verde y la nueva estación trae consigo un estallido de color a los senderos de Asheville y sus alrededores. Cientos de tipos de flores silvestres aparecen en los senderos que conducen a paisajes impresionantes e imponentes cascadas. Estos senderos están entre los favoritos locales para ver las mejores floraciones

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Ultimate Guide: Where to Watch Super Bowl LVIII in Asheville, NC

• February 2, 2024 by David Thompson -->

There are a lot of big questions entering Sunday’s Super Bowl LVIII contest in Las Vegas featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Fransico 49ers (6:30 p.m. ET on CBS and Nickelodeon). Will Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes become only the fifth quarterback to win his third Super Bowl? Will Usher be the best halftime show ever? And most importantly, will we get a postgame confetti kiss

The country's top new songwriters to compete in Asheville at Citizen Vinyl

• October 24, 2023 by David Thompson -->

Asheville will play host to a premier songwriting showcase on Saturday, Nov. 18 as eight finalists from across the country compete and perform for a chance to record a free album at Citizen Studios. NewSong Music Performance & Songwriting Competition will be held at Citizen Vinyl with artists from North Carolina, Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Tennessee and Massachusetts performing original music

The Ultimate Guide to the 2023 Asheville Championship Basketball Tournament

• October 5, 2023 -->

Welcome basketball fans to the third edition of the Asheville Championship... and to our beautiful mountain town! Get an exciting first look at some potential bracket busters in March while making the most of a quick Asheville vacation with our guide on where to stay and what to do, see and eat in Asheville between games. Schedule, Teams and How to Attend Harrah's Cherokee

Where to Get Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Fix in Asheville

• September 13, 2023 by Emilie Soffe -->

In Asheville, fall's arrival is heralded by some telltale signs: crisp mountain breezes, chunky knit sweaters, and leaves ablaze in vibrant hues. And, of course—Pumpkin. Spice. Everything.  This warming spice blend makes its way into our world every September, turning our coffee cups into cozy, cinnamon-scented cauldrons of caffeine. And while the traditional pumpkin spice

Asheville coffee shops , coffee , asheville coffee houses , coffee houses , asheville fall , fall , fall 2023 , autumn

8 Unique Ways to See Fall Color in Asheville

• September 11, 2023 by David Thompson -->

The autumnal bliss that overtakes Asheville throughout the fall months is not something to be missed. There’s nothing like a mid-October drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway or a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so check out these great spots for some scenic splendor.  But, with one of the longest and most vibrant fall color seasons in the nation, there are so many different

How To Spend Halloween in Asheville

• September 8, 2023 -->

photo by: ezekiel_coppersmith With the crisp arrival of autumn, Asheville also welcomes a magical time of secrets, surprises, and a hint of the supernatural. Experience the thrill of spooky season in the Asheville area—from late-night drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to delicious fall treats, special seasonal events and more—with our guide below. Haunted Tours and

5 Things to Do on Labor Day in Asheville, N.C.

• August 31, 2023 by David Thompson -->

Whether it’s taking in nine innings of baseball or enjoying a stunning late-summer hike amidst the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, Labor Day weekend in Asheville opens up endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Here are five ways to enjoy the holiday weekend and take advantage of that extra day off! Last Chance to See the Asheville Tourists The 2023 minor league baseball

Asheville's Food Truck Guide: Culinary Delights on Four Wheels

• August 25, 2023 -->

Asheville, tucked away in the nourishing atmosphere of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. But beyond its thriving restaurants and eateries, there's a hidden treasure trove of flavors rolling through the city streets: food trucks. These mobile kitchens offer a delectable array of culinary creations that range from savory to sweet, traditional to exotic. Join

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The Ultimate Guide to Late Night Asheville

• August 23, 2023 by David Thompson -->

The perfect day in Asheville doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down. There are a myriad of late night adventures in Asheville: dance parties, drag shows, dive bars, karaoke, live music, craft cocktails and delicious eats that can be experienced after dark. Here’s your ultimate guide for an unforgettable night in a city that never sleeps. Or, at least likes to stay up

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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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dobra Tea in Asheville, NC (@dobrateanc)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by zambra (@zambra.asheville)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rising Appalachia (@risingappalachia)

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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As Asheville explores more cottage-style homes, legacy neighborhoods express concerns

ASHEVILLE - One suggested solution to fixing the area's housing shortage, aside from funding for more affordable housing, is to relax zoning laws to allow for varied development across the city. Now, a proposal to amend city development laws may do just that.

Under the proposed changes, developers could build new homes on previously undeveloped lots. But the proposal for more cottage-style and smaller, infill housing built alongside single-family homes in Asheville raised concerns among some residents and city commission members.

During the April 3 city of Asheville Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, commissioners postponed voting on the Unified Development Ordinance text amendments, expressing equity concerns and questioning some of the language and specific measurements included in the ordinances.

The amendments are the first phase of the Middle Housing Initiative, a series of sweeping zoning text amendments proposed as a result of Asheville's Middle Missing Housing Study.

Missing middle housing are housing types that have been largely missing from the residential market over the last 70 years, such as: duplexes, cottage courts, triplexes, fourplexes, multiplexes and townhomes.

The first phase includes updates to primarily "backyard housing policy," city urban planner Vaidila Satvika said during the meeting.

The updates would reduce the amount of open space and height requirements for cottages, allow additional dwelling units on parcels with homes of three or fewer units and allow development on more flag lots and backyard lots.

Flag lots are undeveloped lots adjacent to or behind single-family homes.

The second phase would address a variety of development standards and would allow duplexes in all zoning districts. The third phase would update current residential zoning districts.

Satvika believes the second and third phase of the plan would need "a lot more engagement" with the public about proposed changes.

Legacy neighborhoods express concerns

The amendments come as a result of the Missing Middle Housing Study, which found that smaller developments could help address rising housing costs.

However, displacement from new development is a concern for many.

Sophie Dixon, president of the Shiloh community association, said the addition of more units could further disrupt the neighborhood, which has already seen the historical impacts of urban renewal.

"We feel that Shiloh, and the legacy neighborhoods, were put in the opportunity zone and we've got a target on our backs," Dixon said.

"I always throw out that every time we get something that 'looks good' we end up with something like urban renewal," she continued.

Areas of Emma and Shiloh were included as areas of "high vulnerability" for displacement as a result of infill development on the final Missing Middle Housing report developed by consultants from the California-based Opticos Design and Oregon-based Cascadia Partners.

Andrea Golden, a member of the Emma Community and co-director of PODER Emma, said new development as a result of the proposal could end up displacing those in the primarily Latino neighborhood.

"There are other and many areas of our city and our county that don't face the same displacement factors that our neighborhoods face," Golden said, encouraging the commission to look at other areas of Asheville and Buncombe that are more stable.

"We're asking for a equity lens to be used when thinking about changes to our neighborhoods," she continued.

PZC Presentation - Middle Housing Initiative Phase 1 by willhofmann2 on Scribd

Commissioner looks for answers, push amendments to next meeting

As a result of concerns over the proposed amendments, the city has suggested the development of an overlay district, which would only bring backyard housing options for some neighborhoods throughout the city.

The overlay, while popular among the commission, would require more time to develop

Commissioner Susan Bean suggested the implementation of an overlay district, which would restrict the proposal from impacting legacy and vulnerable neighborhoods. The district would allow those communities to consider the possible impacts from the proposal, while honoring the history of neighborhoods impacted by past development practices like urban renewal, Bean said.

Commission Chair Kim Levi, along with several other commissioners, asked to revisit some elements of the proposal during a future meeting.

Levi also mentioned recent concerns about density from a 95-unit Haw Creek housing project, which has seen significant neighborhood response due to its size.

Shiloh was already at that project's density of 3-5 units per acre a decade ago, Levi said. The neighborhood is already at the future land use density established by the 2018 Living Asheville Comprehensive Plan and the Middle Housing Initiative could add more infill development.

The text amendments were unanimously continued by the commission to the May 1 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.

More: Asheville takes 1st look at new affordable housing plan: What comes next?

More: 'Missing middle': New study pursues more townhomes, duplexes, multiplexes in Asheville

Will Hofmann is the Growth and Development Reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Got a tip? Email him at [email protected].   Please help support this type of journalism with a  subscription  to the Citizen Times .

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Asheville considers more cottage homes, neighborhoods express concerns

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