We have always promoted safe and responsible exploration of our mountains and will continue those efforts as we move carefully through this pandemic. We are committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information on what's open in Asheville and Western NC, as well as offer recommendations on how to safely experience everything our region has to offer. Check back daily for updates and please wear a mask!
Governors Cooper's 3 Phase Plan to reopen NC.
Coronavirus: Updates for Asheville and Western NC
Current Status of Asheville & Western NC: Phase 3 effective Oct 2. Read more about Phase 3. Check back for details!
How does Phase 3 impact traveling in and around Asheville?
- Face masks are now required in public spaces. You can purchase these at many stores and even gas stations.
- See our Fall Color Guide for lots to this fall in the mountains.
- As of Oct 2 at 5 PM, bars, nightclubs, theatres, and music venues may open at limited capacities.
- Biltmore is open with very limited capacity for house tours.
- Some spas are open with limited capacity. See our list of Top Spas in and around Asheville for more info.
- Buncombe County Hotels and other lodging are now permitted to operate at full capacity.
- Restaurants are open with reduced capacity for dine-in. Expect long waits, plan ahead, and make reservations. Some only offer take-out. Restaurants must end the sale of alcoholic beverages at 11 PM. This Order will remain in effect through October 23, 2020. For an updated list of restaurants open for Take-Out/Deliver and Dine-In, see AIR's website (Asheville's Independent Restaurant Association).
- Breweries, wineries, and distilleries are open. Non-restaurants bars are NOT permitted to open under phase 2.
- Outdoor attractions like National and State Parks and Forests, Sliding Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway, and more are open with some limitations. See our Outdoors Guide for a complete list with links and details for each.
- Public parks and playgrounds are open.
- Some Guided Tours & Experiences are available with limitations. Check directly with the tour company to get details on each.
- Many locals shops and art galleries are open on a limited basis. See our Shopping Guide and Art & Galleries for more.
Practice the 3 W's
The NC Department of Health and Human Services is asking us to stay strong and continue to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.
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For more general information related to the coronavirus COVID-19, visit the Center for Disease Control’s website and NCDHHS's website.
See More Coronavirus Resources Below
Social Distancing Things to Do in Asheville and Western NC
Many are craving fresh air as cabin fever sets in and a break from coronavirus news becomes necessary. Find hikes, waterfalls, scenic drives and more that allow you to safely enjoy the outdoors while maintaining a safe, social distance.
Top Restaurants in & near Asheville
From casual to sophisticated, there are many restaurants for all tastes, with flavors from around the world. Plus, find many more award-winning chefs throughout the mountains. See our top picks for dining in Asheville.
Asheville Independent Restaurants, Up-To-Date Dining Choices
AIR is a group of 150+ locally owned, independent restaurants in Asheville (one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country). AIR is dedicated to keeping Asheville’s food scene eclectic, authentic, and flavorful. Find a list of current Takeout/Delivery and Dine-In options for Asheville’s Independent Restaurants, updated daily.
County Health Departments in WNC
Amid the rapid spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, here's a list of county health departments in our region with accurate information and resources related to each county.
Want to list your business on this page?Contact us
Governor Cooper's 3 Phase Plan for Reopening North Carolina
Phase 1
- Lift Stay At Home order with strong encouragement for vulnerable populations to continue staying at home
- Allow limited opening of restaurants, bars and other businesses that can follow strict safety protocols (reduced capacity)
- Allow gathering at houses of worship and entertainment venues at reduced capacity
- Increase in the number of people allowed at gatherings
- Open public playgrounds
- Continue rigorous restrictions on nursing homes and congregate living settings
Phase 2 (At least 2-3 weeks after Phase 1)
- Lessen restrictions for vulnerable populations with encouragement to continue practicing physical distancing
- Allow increased capacity at restaurants, bars, other businesses, houses of worship and entertainment venues
- Further increase the number of people allowed at gatherings
- Continue rigorous restrictions on nursing homes and congregate care settings
Phase 3 (At least 4-6 weeks after Phase 2)
- Lessen restrictions for vulnerable populations with encouragement to continue practicing physical distancing
- Allow increased capacity at restaurants, bars, other businesses, houses of worship and entertainment venues
- Further increase the number of people allowed at gatherings
- Continue rigorous restrictions on nursing homes and congregate care settings
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