This Town is North Carolina's BEST Mountain Destination! ⛰️ - Asheville, North Carolina

What Makes Asheville Unique?

Asheville is renowned for its unique arts scene. The River Arts District, located along the French Broad River, is home to dozens of working studios where you can watch artists at work and even purchase unique pieces directly from them. The city is also dotted with galleries, street art, and performance spaces that celebrate a wide range of artistic expressions, from traditional Appalachian crafts to cutting-edge contemporary art.

Asheville's location in the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it a paradise for nature lovers. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, often called "America's Favorite Drive," offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities to see the area's rich biodiversity. Asheville is also a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

The Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned home, is a must-see. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt II in the late 19th century, this sprawling estate includes a magnificent mansion, beautiful gardens, and a winery. Downtown Asheville is also home to many historic buildings, including the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture.

Top Places to Visit in Asheville 🏞️

1. Biltmore Estate 🏰

   • Why Visit: The largest privately-owned home in the United States, Biltmore Estate is a must-see for its opulent architecture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history.

   • Highlights: Tour the mansion, explore the extensive gardens, visit the winery, and enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding and hiking on the estate’s grounds.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway 🛣️

   • Why Visit: Dubbed "America's Favorite Drive," this scenic roadway offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains.

   • Highlights: Perfect for a leisurely drive, hiking, or picnicking, with numerous overlooks and trails along the way.

3. Downtown Asheville 🏙️

   • Why Visit: Downtown Asheville is the heart of the city’s cultural and social life, with an array of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.

   • Highlights: Explore the Asheville Art Museum, enjoy live music at the Orange Peel, and taste local flavors at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants.

4. River Arts District 🎨

   • Why Visit: A vibrant hub for Asheville’s creative community, the River Arts District is home to dozens of artist studios and galleries.

   • Highlights: Watch artists at work, purchase unique pieces of art, and enjoy riverside dining.

5. Pisgah National Forest 🌲

   • Why Visit: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Pisgah National Forest offers miles of trails, waterfalls, and stunning natural landscapes.

   • Highlights: Go hiking, mountain biking, or waterfall chasing; be sure to check out Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock.

Happening in Asheville 🎉

This month, Asheville is bustling with events that capture the essence of the city’s vibrant culture. The Asheville Food & Wine Festival (September 13-15) will delight foodies with tastings and cooking demonstrations from top local chefs. LEAF Downtown AVL (September 21-22) brings music and art to the city center, celebrating local and global talent. Don’t miss Asheville Art in the Park, held on Saturdays in October, where you can shop for unique crafts in Pack Square Park. Additionally, Haunted Asheville Ghost Tours run throughout October, offering a spooky glimpse into the city’s haunted history.

Best Things to Do in Asheville 🎉

1. Explore Craft Breweries 🍻

   • Asheville is often referred to as "Beer City USA" thanks to its numerous craft breweries. Some local favorites include:

     • Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

     • Wicked Weed Brewing

     • New Belgium Brewing

2. Attend a Local Festival 🎶

   • Asheville hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to food to arts. Some notable ones include:

     • LEAF Festival: A celebration of music, arts, and culture.

     • Asheville Wine & Food Festival: Perfect for foodies and wine enthusiasts.

     • Mountain Dance and Folk Festival: Showcasing Appalachian music and dance.

3. Hike the Appalachian Trail 🥾

   • For those who love a challenge, hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail offers a rewarding experience with spectacular views.

4. Visit Local Markets 🛍️

   • Get a taste of local life by visiting Asheville’s vibrant markets, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and more:

     • Asheville City Market

     • WNC Farmers Market

5. Take a Scenic Drive 🚗

   • Beyond the Blue Ridge Parkway, other scenic drives include:

     • Mount Mitchell Scenic Byway

     • Cherohala Skyway

Image of the Day: Blue Ridge Mountains

FAQ

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Asheville? Asheville is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, and the foliage is stunning, especially in the fall when the mountains are ablaze with color.

Q: How do I get around Asheville? Asheville is a walkable city, especially downtown. However, to explore the surrounding areas, like the Blue Ridge Parkway or Pisgah National Forest, renting a car is recommended. There’s also a public bus system (ART), ride-sharing services, and bike rentals available.

Q: What are some must-see attractions in Asheville? Don’t miss the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic drives and hiking, while the River Arts District is perfect for art lovers. Downtown Asheville is full of shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

Q: Is Asheville family-friendly? Absolutely! There are plenty of activities for families, including the Western North Carolina Nature Center, the Asheville Museum of Science, and outdoor adventures in nearby parks and forests.

Q: What is Asheville known for? Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, stunning mountain views, and a booming craft beer industry. It’s often called "Beer City USA" due to its large number of craft breweries.

Q: Are there any outdoor activities in Asheville? Yes! Asheville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike, bike, and explore the trails in Pisgah National Forest, visit waterfalls, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and tubing on the French Broad River.

Q: Where can I find local food and drink? Asheville boasts numerous farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. Check out the Asheville City Market for local produce, or explore the many dining options downtown and in the River Arts District.

Q: What festivals happen in Asheville? Asheville hosts a variety of festivals year-round. Some popular ones include the LEAF Festival, Asheville Wine & Food Festival, and the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival. There’s always something happening, no matter when you visit!