asheville travel guide

The PERFECT 3 Days in Asheville Itinerary [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Botanical Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 in Asheville – Sightseeing in Downtown

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

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

Day 1 Morning – Downtown Asheville NC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 Afternoon – Breweries and Biltmore Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 in Asheville – Pisgah National Forest

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

Morning and Afternoon – Hiking, Waterfalls, and Natural Scenery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 Morning – Yoga or Kayaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 Afternoon – Blue Ridge Parkway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 Evening – Spa and a Nice Dinner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asheville Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Asheville NC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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Experience Western North Carolina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Things to Do in the Asheville Area

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How to Plan the Perfect Asheville, North Carolina Getaway

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

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

What to Know About Asheville

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

When to Go to Asheville

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

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

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

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

Things to Do in Asheville

Explore the blue ridge parkway..

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

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

Soak in the culture at the River Arts District.

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

Stop and smell the flowers at The North Carolina Arboretum.

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

See the Biltmore Estate.

S. Greg Panosian/Getty Images

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

Take a brewery tour. 

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

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

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

Hotels in Asheville

The omni grove park inn.

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

The Biltmore Estate

Courtesy of The Biltmore Company

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

Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph Collection

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

How to Get to Asheville  

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

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

Asheville, NC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Stephen Pruitt Photography | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Why Go To Asheville, NC

Quaint mountain town. Hipster haven. Beer City, USA. College town. Bluegrass mecca. Culinary destination. Try as you might, it's impossible to give Asheville just one label. Located in western North Carolina just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the city is an unexpected gem, where a vibrant arts scene intertwines with Southern traditions and beautiful scenery. It's safe to say, no matter what your interests, Asheville has something to offer you.

While history buffs get lost on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate , epicureans can sample from a culinary smorgasbord and tantalize their taste buds at one of the city's many breweries. Culture hounds can wander through the River Arts District while adventure seekers go full-throttle hiking , biking, zip lining or whitewater rafting in one of the numerous parks and forests. Asheville meshes these personalities together to make something uniquely its own, with an identity that is always evolving, but somehow stays true to its roots.

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• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in North Carolina
• # 5 in Best Fall Vacations
• # 8 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South

See All 8 Rankings

Best of Asheville, NC

Best hotels in asheville, nc.

• # 1 in Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph Collection
• # 2 in The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton
• # 3 in The Inn on Biltmore Estate

Best Things to Do in Asheville, NC

• # 1 in Biltmore
• # 2 in Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway
• # 3 in Craggy Gardens

Popular Tours

Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views

(1057 reviews)

from $ 75.00

Waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tour with Expert Naturalist

(482 reviews)

from $ 95.20

Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour

(1770 reviews)

from $ 26.95

Asheville, NC Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Asheville are from April to June and September to early November, when temperatures hover between the upper 50s and the mid-70s – ideal weather for exploring the blooms in spring and the foliage in the fall. But with a temperate climate that doesn’t see much snow and rarely exceeds 90 degrees, there’s really not a bad time to visit Asheville. During the summer months, even an elevation of more than 2,000 feet can't shield the mountain city from the increased humidity. Luckily, it's not as intense as other parts of the Southeast, making the summer a popular time for travelers to escape the higher temps of nearby cities. Winter brings colder temperatures, but Asheville doesn't see much snowfall, although surrounding mountains could be snowcapped. 

Weather in Asheville, NC

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Pack layers Locals will tell you it’s possible to experience all four seasons in one day. In the spring, you can wake up to sweater weather and end the day twirling in a tank dress at the drum circle.

Appoint a designated driver  All those beer flights will leave you unable to drive. Either select a designated driver in your group or call a taxi, a car service or Uber.

Say hello Residents are known for their Southern hospitality, so don't be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations.

How to Save Money in Asheville, NC

Stop by the visitor center Located in the downtown area, the Asheville Visitor Center offers coupons year-round for popular attractions.

Consider a short-term rental Properties are popping up all over Asheville for about half the price of hotels. Find one close to downtown or immerse yourself in the natural surroundings with a rental that’s close to a good hike or two. The city is also chock full of one-of-a-kind bed-and-breakfasts .

Skip Biltmore  If you've never seen the historic estate, it's worth the money. But don't cough up extra to go again.

What to Eat

Foodies flock to Asheville for its award-winning, elevated Appalachian fare and soulful, slow-smoked barbecue. Over the past decade, chefs from all over the country have flocked to Asheville to stake their claim in the mountain town, with several of the top restaurants receiving recognition from the James Beard Awards and several publications, including Bon Appétit and Food & Wine. While you'll still find Southern staples like Carolina-style barbecue at places like 12 Bones Smokehouse , the culinary inspiration in a city with more than 100 independent restaurants spreads far and wide. You'll likely find locally sourced ingredients and menus that frequently change. 

While there's no shortage of gastronomic offerings, Asheville is also proud of its Beer City USA reputation. Highland Brewing Company became the first city brewery to open its doors back in 1994. Since then, the number of local microbreweries has skyrocketed, and even attracted some big name brands like Sierra Nevada and New Belgium , both of which opened their East Coast brewing headquarters in the Asheville area.

Getting Around Asheville, NC

The best way to get around Asheville is by car. While the downtown area is compact enough for exploring on foot, you'll want your own set of wheels to reach the many nature trails and attractions outside of the city. Asheville also offers an affordable bus system, but arrival and departure times are infrequent. If you're not in the mood to drive, you can always call a taxi, Uber or Lyft. The city is served by the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), servicing major carriers like American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta and offering nonstop flights from several hubs, such as Baltimore, Atlanta, New York and Chicago. The closest major airports are Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) (65 miles south), Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) to the east and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee, to the west (both about 125 miles away).

Home to numerous waterfalls that are popular swimming holes in the summer, Pisgah National Forest spans 500,000 acres. 

Explore More of Asheville, NC

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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# 10 in  Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

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