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Plan Your Trip to Asheville: Best of Asheville Tourism

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By OtherMountainDude

Asheville, North Carolina

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville combines city life with country roots. And the vibrant food scene has become its own draw. This city of fewer than 100,000 people has 11 farmers markets, award-winning cheesemakers, and over 50 breweries. More than a million acres of protected wilderness provide endless hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures. Waterfalls, zip-lining, rafting…the list of activities is endless. Take in the mountain scenery on the Blue Ridge Parkway, soak in the culture and art galleries at the River Arts District, and marvel at the Biltmore Estate’s chateau-style home and iconic grounds. However you fill your days, nights are reserved for bluegrass and barbecue. Ready to explore? Check out our recs below.

Essential Asheville

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How to do Asheville in 2 days

Blue Ridge Mountains, art studios, and craft breweries
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A food crawl in Asheville

A booming craft brewery scene and an all-star restaurant lineup make Asheville a hotspot for food lovers. Even as someone who lives two hours away in Winston-Salem, it's easy for me to zip up the mountain to this boho town. But if you ask me to pick the number one restaurant? Impossible. Instead, here are eight favorites where I often return for mouthwatering meals, warm hospitality, and the eclectic vibe that Asheville is known for.
Nikki Miller-Ka, Winston Salem, NC
  • Red Ginger DimSum & Tapas
    690
    A wave of bamboo steamers on the statement wall nods to the fantastic dim sum served at this popular downtown restaurant. Every time I walk in, I find myself diving into classic Cantonese dishes such as Shanghai soup dumplings, shu mai, and stir-fried string beans (add shrimp for a boost of umami).
  • Tastee Diner
    100
    I always feel trendy snagging a table at this beloved greasy spoon in West Asheville. Revamped and reopened in 2022, Tastee applies high-brow techniques to traditional diner dishes. Picture this: Extra thick-cut smoked bologna sandwiches served on griddled honey buns or belly-busting cheesesteaks served with a 40-ounce King Cobra.
  • Sunny Point Cafe
    2,897
    What this West Asheville brunch spot lacks in size, it makes up for with its big, bold, veggie-forward dishes. Be prepared for a lengthy wait, as reservations are not an option. My go-to is the breakfast sandwich, which is such a large portion, you’ll need a fork and knife to eat it. The toasted croissant is piled high with roasted tomatoes, pepper-crusted bacon, an omelet, and chipotle aioli.
  • Leo's House of Thirst
    0 reviews
    The intimacy of this local watering hole is why it's my favorite place to pregame with friends before dinner downtown. Leo’s is cozy inside—but when the weather is nice, I always sit out on the dog-friendly patio beneath the trees. The menu changes seasonally, if not monthly, with a focus on hyperlocal produce. Tip: Try the weekend-only prix-fixe lunch (the pasta special is always a winner, as is the chicken liver mousse with blackberry jam).
  • RosaBees
    41
    Inspired by a trip to Hawaii, owner and pastry chef Melissa Gray brought aloha spirit home to the River Arts District in 2019. Fill up on savory dishes like Loco Moco topped with a fried egg and mushroom gravy; teriyaki-glazed Spam musubi (a tofu version is available too); and okonomiyaki drizzled with kewpie mayo. Don’t forget to save room for dessert. The Island Hopper trio—cake, pie and butter mochi—is the shining star.
  • Hole Doughnuts
    348
    You can’t miss the baby blue vintage ice cream truck parked outside. The shop itself is equally charming with a mountain cabin aesthetic (think: rustic exposed wood). I have a sweet tooth, so I love the hand-rolled, dipped, glazed, and fried doughnuts, made in the open kitchen. The menu features three core flavor varieties (vanilla, toasted almond sesame, and cinnamon sugar) and a rotating weekly flavor.
  • Chai Pani
    1,155
    Riding high from a recent James Beard Award, this newly minted Asheville institution is now on a national stage. Indian street food is at the heart of the small plates. Order the sloppy jai (a play on the finger-licking sandwich), okra matchstick fries, and rose water-soaked gulab jamun for dessert. Don’t be deterred by the long line snaking down the sidewalk. It’s worth the wait.
  • La Bodega By Cúrate
    39
    Want a quick trip to Spain? La Bodega makes you feel like you’re strolling down Barcelona’s La Rambla and perusing the produce at La Boqueria. As it’s part market part wine bar, you can browse the shelves for imported and Curate-branded products. The croissant bikini bocadillo is irresistible: Serrano ham, sherry mushrooms, caramelized onions, manchego cheese, and a Spanish omelette layered on a toasty, flaky croissant.
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Asheville travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Family-Friendly Attractions

According to forum posts, the WNC Nature Center is a popular choice for families visiting Asheville. It offers interactive exhibits and a chance to see local wildlife in humane enclosures. The NC Arboretum, especially during the Winter Lights event, is also highly recommended for its festive displays and family-oriented activities like s'mores making.

Interactive and Educational Sites

For many users, the Asheville Museum of Science is an excellent indoor option that provides educational fun for children, especially suitable during colder weather. The Asheville Pinball Museum is also a hit with families, providing both entertainment and a touch of nostalgia for adults.

Outdoor Activities

Some travelers suggested outdoor activities such as visiting Carrier Park for its playground and walking trails. The area around Asheville also offers numerous hiking opportunities, which are a great way for families to explore nature together.

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Trail Variety

According to forum posts, Asheville offers a diverse array of hiking trails suitable for different experience levels and preferences. Some travelers have highlighted the variety found on the Blue Ridge Parkway, including ridgeline, canopy, and waterfall hikes.

Specific Recommendations

Travelers have called out specific trails such as the Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail for 360-degree views, and the Black Balsam Knob for expansive mountain vistas. The NC Arboretum and Dupont State Forest are frequently mentioned for their scenic trails and family-friendly routes.

Waterfall Hikes

For those interested in waterfall hikes, forum users recommend exploring the trails around Dupont State Forest which host several picturesque waterfalls. The Twin Falls hike in Pisgah National Forest is another favorite, known for its beautiful dual waterfalls and dog-friendly paths.

Cultural and Scenic Spots

Moreover, hikes near cultural spots like the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway offer a combination of cultural enrichment and outdoor activity.

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Hotel Recommendations

According to forum posts, the Cambria is highly praised for its cleanliness, central location, and friendly staff, making it perfect for exploring downtown Asheville. The Hotel Indigo also receives positive mentions for its nice views and central location, suitable for walking to nearby attractions.

Unique and Luxurious Options

Some travelers have highlighted The Foundry for its unique charm and proximity to art galleries, making it a good choice for art enthusiasts. For those seeking luxury, the Windsor has been noted for its boutique feel and upscale amenities.

General Preferences

Travelers have called out the AC Hotel and Aloft as other viable options, though specific preferences or advantages were not detailed. These hotels are generally well-regarded for their locations and services.

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Weather Considerations

According to forum posts, weather can greatly affect visibility and access on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Travelers have noted that even in clear weather conditions in Asheville, higher elevations like Waterrock Knob can be fogged in, reducing visibility significantly.

Scenic Spots

Some travelers mentioned specific spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offer exceptional views and experiences. Notable mentions include Waterrock Knob, which is praised for its magnificent views, and Graveyard Fields, known for its scenic overlooks. The Pisgah Inn is also highlighted for its amenities and views.

Hiking and Natural Attractions

Forum users have recommended several hiking spots along the Parkway. The Craggy Gardens, Mount Pisgah, and the area around Pisgah Inn offer short hikes with rewarding views. Additionally, travelers have pointed out that Crabtree Falls and Linville Falls are must-see waterfalls accessible from the Parkway.

Visitor Facilities

According to posts, facilities like restrooms and visitor centers are available at various points along the Parkway, such as at the Pisgah Inn and Waterrock Knob visitor center. These spots provide essential amenities and additional information about the area.

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Planning Your Visit

Some travelers suggested purchasing tickets in advance, especially for popular exhibitions like the Chihuly event, to avoid missing out due to capacity limits. It is also recommended to plan for a whole day or even two to thoroughly explore the estate, including the mansion, gardens, and winery.

Exploring the Estate

According to forum posts, utilizing early morning hours for less crowded experiences is advisable. Exploring the gardens first, then moving on to the mansion, can optimize your visit. For a comprehensive experience, using audio guides or booking specialty tours can enhance understanding and enjoyment.

Dining and Accessibility

Travelers have called out the availability of casual dining options within the estate, such as the Stable Cafe and more options at Antler Hill Village. For those needing accessibility support, electric scooter rentals are available in Asheville, and there are designated rest areas within the mansion for guests who cannot manage stairs.

Weather Considerations

For many users, checking weather forecasts close to your visit is crucial, as weather around Asheville can be unpredictable, impacting outdoor activities at the estate.

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Special Occasion Dining Options

According to forum posts, Asheville offers various dining options for special occasions. The Dining Room Restaurant on the Biltmore grounds is recommended for an upscale experience, ideal for anniversaries or celebratory dinners, with advance reservations required. Curate, known for its lively atmosphere and small plates, is also favored for special events, though it can get noisy.

Additional Recommendations

Travelers have called out Limones and Zambra as excellent choices for their ambiance, with Limones offering a blend of lively and intimate settings, and Zambra noted for its cool ambiance and live music. For a unique or romantic setting, the Red Stag Grill in the Grand Bohemian Hotel offers excellent service and a sophisticated atmosphere, though it may stretch the upper end of a budget.

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Popular Choices

According to forum posts, Sierra Nevada and Wicked Weed are frequently recommended by travelers. Sierra Nevada is noted for its beautiful campus and good food, while Wicked Weed is recognized for its extensive beer selection and quality food.

Atmosphere and Specialty

Some travelers have highlighted the importance of atmosphere in their brewery experience. Highland Brewery offers a unique taproom with a large meadow, and Zillicoah is praised for its riverside picnic tables. For those interested in fruit-flavored beers, the Wicked Weed Funkatorium is recommended for its variety of fruit-infused beers.

Additional Offerings

For visitors looking for breweries that also serve other beverages, the Funkatorium and Bhramari are noted for offering tasty cocktails alongside their beer selections. This can be a good choice for groups with varying drink preferences.

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Scenic Drive Recommendations

According to forum posts, one highly recommended scenic drive is the route from Asheville through Leicester to Trust, Hot Springs, and back to Asheville. This route is praised for its panoramic views, especially in late October. Additionally, the drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is consistently mentioned as a must-do for its breathtaking views and numerous points of interest.

Additional Scenic Routes

Some travelers have suggested alternative routes for varied landscapes, such as Asheville to Bent Creek, Cradle of Forestry, and Looking Glass Rock, which offer beautiful forested drives. Another suggested route is Asheville to Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, Bat Cave, and Black Mountain, noted for its great views of Rumbling Bald and Hickory Nut Gorge.

Travel Tips

Travelers have called out the importance of checking road conditions, as some scenic routes may include rough forest service roads not suitable for all vehicles. Moreover, for those seeking sunset views, locations like Craggy Pinnacle and the Omni Grove Park Inn are recommended for their stunning vistas during the evening hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Asheville





If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Asheville between December and February, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between September and November.