Asheville, NC

Travel Guide

Basilica of Saint Lawrence showing heritage architecture, heritage elements and a church or cathedral
Asheville featuring street scenes and a city as well as a small group of people
North Carolina Arboretum showing a park and a bridge
North Carolina Arboretum
Asheville showing street scenes and a city as well as a small group of people

Artists, gourmets and outdoor enthusiasts will all feel right at home in North Carolina’s “Paris of the South.”

Nestled in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville is renowned for its lively arts scene and spectacular offering of outdoor activities. The city is located between the Pisgah and Nantahala national forests. Trek up Mount Pisgah to enjoy the wilderness and gorgeous views. During the fall, the mountainous landscape explodes into a spectrum of colors many visitors plan their visit around the changing leaves.

Often referred to as “Paris of the South,” Asheville is, at its core, an artists’ colony. A creative spirit pervades the lively community, offering a ceaseless stream of exhibits, concerts and plays. The town has enough restaurants and cafés to satisfy even the most devout food connoisseurs. It is also well-known for its beer production, offering over a dozen craft breweries within walking distance of the downtown.

Stroll down Asheville’s River Arts District to understand why it is called the “San Francisco of the East.” Outdoor performances are a daily occurrence. Sidewalks are peppered with local artists vending their wares. Settle down at an outdoor café along the French Broad River to enjoy the scene. Spend a rainy afternoon in Grove Arcade to browse regional crafts, dine at local eateries and hear live music.

Drive a few minutes outside the downtown to the historic Biltmore Estate. Built by George Vanderbilt II at the turn of the 20th century, it has 250 rooms and takes the title as the largest privately owned home in the U.S. The estate offers guided tours, a winery and luxurious accommodation. Plan for an entire afternoon to explore the house, gardens and grounds the visit is well worth it. Pre-book a Christmas tour of the beautifully decorated main building.

Visitors can fly into Asheville Regional Airport, which offers direct flights to destinations throughout the U.S. Located 130 miles (190 kilometers) from Charlotte, Asheville can be accessed by car via Interstates 26 or 40. The drive to and from this western North Carolina town spans the Blue Ridge Parkway and is renowned as being one of the most scenic routes in the U.S.

Where to stay in Asheville

Asheville

Downtown Asheville

4.5/5(969 area reviews)

Travelers to Downtown Asheville praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Grove Arcade and Pack Square.

Downtown Asheville
I search for interesting businesses in the middle of nowhere. Hole is in an isolated area of the go to city of Asheville,NC. Go here for your donuts.

West Asheville

The picture-perfect mountain views and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to West Asheville. A stop by New Belgium Brewing Company or French Broad River might round out your trip.

West Asheville
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Biltmore Village

Adjacent to the Biltmore Estate entrance, this small village boasts the stunning Cathedral of All Souls and a lively commercial district with eclectic shops and restaurants.

Biltmore Village
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South Slope Brewing District

While visiting South Slope Brewing District, you might make a stop by sights like The Orange Peel and Wicked Weed Brewing.

South Slope Brewing District
If you’re in Asheville definitely check out White Labs! They’re a company specializing in yeast and sell to many of the top breweries. They opened a restaurant and their menu is full of all sorts of delicious foods and drinks that are made from...their yeasts! #trovember #asheville #food

East End - Valley Street

While visiting East End - Valley Street, you might make a stop by sights like McCormick Field and Memorial Stadium.

East End - Valley Street
This photo was taken from the window of a room in the Biltmore Village Hotel. The hotel and staff were fantastic and the estate grounds are beautiful. The grounds are huge so make sure you give yourself at least four days if you want to see them all. All the restaurants on the estate are "farm to table" and the winery offers free tastings. #BvSApplication

Historic Montford

5/5(34 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Historic Montford, Riverside Cemetery and Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre are top sights worth seeing.

Historic Montford
Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville by IHG

Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1 Resort Dr, Asheville, NC
$89 nightly
The price is $101 total per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
$101 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3.5-star golf hotel in Asheville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Couldn’t have asked for a better place, clean and conveniently close to all our planned Asheville events"

Reviewed on Aug 7, 2025

Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville by IHG
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa

The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa

4 out of 5
290 Macon Avenue, Asheville, NC
$285 nightly
The price is $322 total per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
$322 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury resort in Asheville. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
"As always, the property was great!"

Reviewed on Aug 7, 2025

The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
Clarion Inn Biltmore Village

Clarion Inn Biltmore Village

2.5 out of 5
234 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC
$71 nightly
The price is $80 total per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
$80 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Asheville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,555 reviews)
Helpful staff, close to Biltmore
"Staff was very friendly and helpful, especially Monica at the front desk. 3 minutes from Biltmore. Breakfast was a step above continental with eggs and sausage."

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Clarion Inn Biltmore Village
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Pines Cottages

The Pines Cottages

3 out of 5
346 Weaverville Road, Asheville, NC
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Asheville. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and concierge services. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9/10 Wonderful! (338 reviews)
Just what we were looking for.
"This is a charming cabin. Quiet, peaceful, and our pup was welcomed. It was nice to have a home feeling while staying here."

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

The Pines Cottages
Kasa Downtown Asheville

Kasa Downtown Asheville

3 out of 5
42 Furman Ave, Asheville, NC
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Asheville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Biltmore Estate and Harrah's Cherokee ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (38 reviews)
Nice stay
"This is a historic apartment building that has been redone. The rooms are very cute, clean and comfortable. The kitchen is tiny, but it worked for our needs. The neighborhood is very walkable."

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Kasa Downtown Asheville
Lovely, serene studio apartment close to downtown and Biltmore Village.

Lovely, serene studio apartment close to downtown and Biltmore Village.

Asheville
Stay at this apartment in Asheville. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Biltmore Estate and The Orange Peel are ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (31 reviews)
"The room was comfortable and communication was great. Wonderful to have so many things available and not have to worry about the little things."

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2025

Lovely, serene studio apartment close to downtown and Biltmore Village.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Asheville

Asheville is served by a public bus network, which connects the whole town and surrounding area as far as the town of Black Mountain to the east. With several hybrid and biodiesel buses, the city is also doing its bit for sustainability. Asheville is also a car-friendly city, and renting one is a great way to get around. The same is true of bicycles, and there are many bike rental shops around town. Visit the Asheville Rides TransitOpens in a new window website.Browse Asheville rental cars.

Best time to visit

Asheville enjoys mild weather throughout spring, summer and fall, making the months of March to October ideal times to visit. In July, average temperatures peak at around 85 F (29 C), while this time of year can also be humid, meaning that spring and fall can be better times to visit. That way you can also enjoy the attractive spring blooms and the beautiful fall colors, and avoid summer crowds.

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