Create your customized trip itinerary with this handy planner! Either enter a search term in the box or select a category and see additional options to search. Click "Save to Trip" to add to your list. At any time, click the "View Saved Trips" button below to see your list of favorites. Enjoy!
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Roan Mountain Appalachian Trail
(1 to 7 miles, moderate hike) Famous for its spectacular natural gardens of Catawba rhododendrons, Roan Mountain shelters a rich diversity of life, from spruce-fir forests to vast grassy balds. It is not one mountain, but a high ridge about five miles long, the highest point being 6,286 ft. Hike the ridge on the Appalachian Trail for sweeping views all along the way.
Elope along the banks of the Swannanoa River or surrounded by the Craggy and High Windy Mountain ranges, just 15 minutes from Asheville. Choose from a variety of elopement options for up to 20... read more
NC Stage
See professional theatre in an intimate setting in downtown Asheville. In addition to their own season of great plays, they host other local theatres, dancers and musicians. Tickets from $16/person! See our NC Stage feature.
Navitat Canopy Adventures
Experience the zipline canopy tour USA Today called “one of the best in the nation!” Just 20 minutes from Asheville, Navitat has two very different courses with the longest zip line at 3,600 ft. long.
Located in West Asheville, this historic Art Deco style music hall can host a variety of events from intimate rehearsal dinners to large weddings. Their name gives a nod to the building's... read more
Hawksbill Mountain
(1.5 miles round-trip, moderate) Enjoy spectacular mountaintop views overlooking Linville Gorge. We love to hike this and nearby Table Rock on the same day! Take a picnic.
The Horse Shoe Farm is an 85+ acre riverfront estate located minutes from downtown Asheville, Hendersonville, and the airport. Offering high-end nightly accommodations, the Farm is perfect for... read more
Chimney Rock Park Hikes
(1 to 4 miles, easy to strenuous) Hike a variety of trails with spectacular views of Hickory Nut Gorge or a 400-foot waterfall. Often overlooked, the challenging Four Seasons Trail begins near the Meadows and takes you through a beautiful deciduous forest and boulder fields.
Located on a secluded property on Town Mountain, five miles from downtown Asheville and one mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway, this richly appointed, newly renovated luxury cabin features views... read more
Jack of the Wood
This lively British Isles-style pub features Irish food items such as bangers and mash, Irish stew, fish and chips along with 18 rotating taps and one cask tap. Sample brews while local musicians fiddle away on Irish reels or picking olde-time mountain music. 95 Patton Avenue, downtown Asheville
This intimate and romantic AAA Four Diamond inn near downtown Asheville offers two elegant options for the couple looking to elope or have a small wedding experience. Packages... read more
Linville Falls
Perhaps the most photographed waterfall in NC, Linville Falls is along the Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 316). A moderate hike of 1.6 miles round-trip offers four overlooks, add another 1.5-mile hike for two more vistas. Second parking area in National Forest. Also see Dugger Creek Falls here.
Asheville Salt Cave & Spa
Experience a unique oasis in Asheville, a salt-enriched microclimate that allows the body and mind to gain relaxation and balance. The power of salt therapy has been known for centuries. Plus, get a hot salt stone massage and other spa treatments. Read more in our full-page feature on the Salt Cave.
Located in the Montford Area Historic District of Asheville just a short walk to the heart of downtown, this boutique-style B&B sits on a knoll surrounded by an acre of giant wild cherries,... read more
Pillar Rooftop Bar
Atop the Hilton Garden Inn at the corner of Charlotte and College streets, this “garden-to-glass” bar offers signature craft cocktails, regional beers and sustainable wines. Enjoy the southern fusion cuisine, sharing small plates and sipping cocktails with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Easy walk from Pack Square Park. 309 College Street
High Falls, DuPont State Forest
This 150-ft. waterfall is in the middle of an amazing 10,000-acre nature sanctuary. One of the most impressive NC waterfalls, it is an easy hike from the parking area (1.2 miles roundtrip). Walk or bike to additional waterfalls nearby. Very popular, so expect crowds especially on weekends.
Ideally located in the quiet, eclectic neighborhood of Kenilworth, Sweet Biscuit Inn is less than 3/4 mile from Biltmore, only 1-1/2 miles from the heart of downtown Asheville, less than 2 miles... read more
Bouchon
A longtime French bistro with comfort food using local ingredients. A romantic, intimate and charming setting. Enjoy fresh mussels prepared multiple ways, Escargot, Burgundy’s signature stew Boeuf Bourguignon and their famous fries. Dine al fresco along bricked walkways. Pair hand-selected French wines. 62 Lexington Avenue.
Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian
This award-winning Italian restaurant is known for its excellent service and authentic family atmosphere. The menu features “Old School” Italian classics like chicken parmesan, lasagna, penne bolognese, assorted seafood, and more. Vegan and gluten-free options available. 641 Merrimon Ave
Navitat Canopy Adventures
Just 22 minutes from Asheville, Navitat Canopy Adventures is a world-class eco-adventure with huge ziplines traversing a secluded 242-acre mountain cove with 1,200 ft of elevation change. Fly above the treetops on zip lines up to 350 ft high, from 360 ft to 3,600 ft long and at speeds up to 65 mph! Rappel, walk suspended sky bridges and see panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Mt. LeConte & Alum Cave
(11 miles round-trip, strenuous) The Alum Cave Trail is the most-hiked in the Great Smoky Mountains. You'll see why, with interesting geological features and stunning views. To reach the 6,593-ft. summit of Mount LeConte (third highest peak in the Smokies), you'll climb 2,853 ft. in elevation in 5.5 miles.
This beautiful outdoor venue and tree grove offers a peaceful setting with sweeping views for a scenic wedding ceremony. Two majestic catalpa trees stand in the center of the ceremony space,... read more
Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian
This award-winning italian restaurant is known for their excellent service and authentic family atmosphere. The menu features “Old School” Italian classics like chicken parmesan, lasagna, penne bolognese, assorted seafood and more. Vegan and gluten-free options available.
This one-stop-shop makes destination wedding planning easy with all-inclusive packages for elopements and micro weddings in Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Packages include everything you... read more
Grove Arcade
Stroll through this beautiful historic "mall" in downtown Asheville with high quality specialty shops and local restaurants. See local art and craft at the outdoor market.
Kids in Parks: Educational Trails in the Blue Ridge
Kids in Parks is a growing network of trails with free activity guides for children and families. Together, you'll engage with the outdoors by identifying trees and birds, viewing the forest from the perspective of animals and searching for natural features. Children can record their adventures online and receive prizes.
Hemingway's Cuba
You don't have to travel to Havana to enjoy a night in Cuba; just go to Hemingway’s Cuba! Menu favorites include Empanadas, Tostones Board, Ropa Vieja and Vaca Frita or enjoy a classic Cuban Sandwich. Or sip on a Cuban Daiquiri and gaze out over Downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains from their amazing rooftop. 15 Page Avenue, 4th Floor
Downtown Asheville Festival of the Arts
See 100+ regional, local and national artists and craft artisans with fine jewelry, a big variety of art and hand-crafted apparel and decor. Downtown Asheville (80 Court Plaza). Free admission. 10 AM-5 PM.
Jackson County Ale Trail
For a more laid back, small town beer adventure, head to three cool towns near Asheville: Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers - home to six breweries with taprooms and restaurants.
Tupelo Honey - South Asheville
Located near Biltmore Estate, they have become a neighborhood favorite Southern food restaurant in South Asheville - with responsibly sourced ingredients and craft cocktails. Lunch, dinner and weekend brunch will make you say, “Shoo Mercy, that was good!” 1829 Hendersonville Road.
Dry Falls
This spectacular 75-ft. waterfall has two great features: it's roadside and you can walk behind it! It's located in the Nantahala National Forest along US Highway 64 near Highlands.
Gift Local Honey, Killer Bees Honey
Sweeten the holidays with Killer Bees Honey. Their Western NC mountain-top apiaries are surrounded by 512,000 acres of National Forest, producing raw, organic honey of unmatched flavor, quality, and purity. The only honey that’s 100% toxin-free & unadulterated. Discover honey baskets, stocking stuffers & more.
DuPont State Forest Waterfalls
(1 to 7 miles roundtrip, easy to moderate) This state forest has many miles of hiking trails. While there are quite a few waterfalls in DuPont, you can see three of the most impressive, Hooker Falls, Triple Falls and High Falls with a moderate 3-mile hike. And a 4.4-mile roundtrip hike takes you to Bridal Veil Falls. See three of the biggest falls on a 7-mile waterfall hike.
Outdoor Gear Made in the NC Mountains
Find outdoor gear companies that manufacture and operate here in the Blue Ridge Mountains! These companies support the local economy by providing jobs and by sponsoring outdoor industry events, competitions, and professional outdoor athletes in the NC Mountains.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival
Celebrate Black liberation in Downtown Asheville with live music and performances, kids showdown, food trucks, art vendors, and more! Free admission. 11 AM-10 PM in Pack Square Park. 1 Court Plaza
Give the Best View, Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours
Grab a gift certificate to Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours for three hours, three bars, sample cocktails or mocktails, and a driver! Enjoy an all-access pass to what makes Asheville unique—stunning views, history, and amazing food and drinks. 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice winner.
This downtown Asheville venue in the Historic Broadway Arts Building offers an elegant setting for traditional to modern decor. Chef Kim Lloyd and the exceptional staff personally guide, from the... read more
Momentum Art Gallery
See spectacular contemporary art from artists in western North Carolina and throughout the United States - browsing is welcome in this downtown gallery. 52 Broadway.
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.
Black Balsam Knob
(1-10 miles, moderate) For sweeping 360-degree views, hike across these bald mountaintops. Almost entirely devoid of trees above 6,000 ft., the summit is more reminiscent of New England than North Carolina. Black Balsam Knob is part of the 30-mile Art Loeb Trail, so you can hike as far as you want. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 420.
Adventure Center of Asheville: Outdoor Family Fun!
Open all year and just five minutes from downtown and 10 minutes from Biltmore, ride 9 zip lines from treetop platforms and adventure towers. Walk on the sky bridge amidst 150-year old trees. Along the way, learn about the history of Asheville and the forest. After warming up on some shorter zips, enjoy a 1,200-ft. side-by-side zipline with panoramic views of the city and mountains.
Large luxurious cabins perched atop Wolf Ridge have 70-mile views and sleep up to 10 people each. Last minute discounts and plenty of free activities around Asheville. Adjacent to ski resort.... read more
Isis Restaurant & Music Hall
This historic theatre turned restaurant and music hall brings a creative flair and fusion of flavors to the food scene of West Asheville. The eclectic menu pairs many locally sourced ingredients, a touch of Asian flair and a creative nod to the Appalachians.
Still Point Wellness, Asheville
Their unique combination of world-class services, including Salt Water Floatation (sensory deprivation), Esalen Massage®, Cranial Sacral Therapy and Somatic (body) Psychology, is designed to encourage effortless relaxation and an opportunity to reconnect to your body’s wisdom.
Get married on the beach or indoors with spectacular Lake Lure and mountain views of the Hickory Nut Gorge. Find many amenities, including golf, swimming, spa, boating, hiking, biking and more.... read more
With peace of mind from IHG Way of Clean enhanced cleaning measures, you can relax and enjoy everything this boutique hotel in Downtown Asheville has to offer. Inspired by the vibrant local area,... read more
Find the charm of a B&B with the privacy of a hotel at this historic inn, located less than a mile from downtown in the Grove Park neighborhood. Many amenities include the made-to-order... read more
Wai Mauna SUP Tours
Enjoy a variety of private guided paddleboard tours on the French Broad River in Asheville and Brevard! They also offer paddleboard rentals, river shuttles, and paddleboard delivery to any lake home in Western North Carolina. The season runs from April- October 31.
Brevard Music Center Summer Festival
Choose from 80 public concerts, staged operas and musicals during a seven week period (mid June through early August) at their campus in Brevard, 32 miles from downtown.
Weddings deserve a beautiful and unique location. Choose from a variety of luxury vacation homes with unique locations for a personalized wedding experience. With an abundance of settings... read more
Beautiful turn-of-the-century banquet hall overlooking Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville. High ceilings, exposed-wood trusses and brick walls create a wonderful atmosphere for your event.... read more
Lexington Glassworks
Watch glassblowers at work and see their amazing creations on display in their working studio in downtown Asheville. Their taproom features local beer in hand-blown glasses! Open 7 days. 81 South Lexington Avenue.
Canopy Ridge Farm Outdoor Adventure Park, Lake Lure
Soar through Hickory Nut Gorge over a forest canopy, hillsides and more as you tour 60 acres of Blue Ridge foothills. Guided zipline tours are 1.5 hrs with 6 lines, featuring a 1000 ft long ZipZilla line. Ages 4 & up can zip. Rent a GoPro and capture your adventure! Convenient location to nearby Lake Lure.
Looking Glass Rock
(6.5 miles roundtrip, strenuous) For 180+ degree views from a rock face, hike to the top of this iconic summit in the Pisgah National Forest. You'll hike the "backside" of the mountain, gaining 1,700 feet in elevation and a gradual climb almost the entire way.
This luxury, picturesque boutique resort is perched on the shores of pristine Lake Toxaway surrounded by National Forests. Amenities include a spa, gourmet dining, lake cruise, golf, tennis, and... read more
Greystone Inn Golf, Lake Toxaway
Stay at the luxury Greystone Inn to be able to play the private Lake Toxaway Country Club 18-hole championship golf course. It gets high reviews for its plush fairways and perfectly manicured Bentgrass greens. Master course architect Kris Spence finessed the course across beautiful mountain terrain with 6,418 yards of fairways and Augusta-style approaches that demand pinpoint accuracy. After a round, unwind at the inn with gourmet cuisine, in the spa or on a lake cruise.
Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this downtown stay is within steps of restaurants, retail stores, art galleries, craft breweries, and more! Conveniently located right off Highway... read more
Isis Restaurant & Music Hall, West Asheville
This iconic concert venue, bar, and eatery is located in the heart of West Asheville. The Art Deco style building retains its original name when this historic cinema was built in the 1930s. Today, with two indoor stages, multiple bars, and an outdoor stage and patio, Isis Restaurant and Music Hall is one of the hottest spots in the city for live music.
This unique event barn and the surrounding fields, located on a 500-acre conservation easement, offer a pristine setting perfect for a formal or casual wedding ceremony and reception year-round.... read more
Experience luxurious hospitality, fine dining, spa services and outdoor activities on the grounds of Biltmore House, America’s largest home®. Enjoy... read more
Max Patch on Appalachian Trail
(1.4 or 2.4 miles, moderate) Hike a section of the famous Appalachian National Scenic Trail (or AT) near Hot Springs. What a picnic spot, with 360-degree mountain views! The 1.4-mile short loop crosses the summit. The 2.4-mile loop circles the mountain for outstanding views from all the sides. Or extend your hike in either direction of the AT.
Located on Biltmore Avenue between Biltmore and downtown Asheville, this hotel offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites designed to create a true... read more
Choose a one-, two- or three-bedroom cabin. Enjoy gardens, fountains, and recreation areas, all surrounded by natural forest land. Each cabin has its own private hot tub, wood-burning fireplace... read more
Jettie Rae's Oyster House, Asheville
Inspired by a shared seafood heritage from Maine to New Orleans, this oyster house offers a wide range of dishes, with a focus on specialty oysters and the freshest seafood products from the Eastern Coast. Also enjoy cold beer, and cocktails! Plenty of space to spread out with dining area, bar, and fully covered patio. 143 Charlotte Street
The Blackbird
Cooking grounded in the traditions and ingredients of the Carolinas with modern southern seasonal farm-to-table menus, fresh catches from the coast of the Carolinas, as well as local microbrews, prestigious wines, and inventive cocktails. Weekend brunch starts at 9 AM. 47 Biltmore Avenue, downtown.
Beer Exploration
With 25 craft breweries in the North Carolina mountains near Asheville, where to begin? Use our Beer Guide to plan your strategy. You can walk to many breweries in downtown Asheville, especially in the South Slope Brewing District. Two recent big additions include Sierra Nevada and New Belgium.
The Montford Rooftop Bar
Perched atop the 8-floor of DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown, this rooftop has stellar mountain views from the outdoor terrace or indoor bar. Enjoy the sunset while savoring a cocktail and sampling small bites from the local, seasonal menu. Open daily at 4 PM with free valet parking. 199 Haywood Street
Hood Huggers
Hood Tours are intimate, interactive tours focusing on the resiliency and ingenuity of African Americans in Asheville. Learn about this powerful story on walking and driving tours, visiting neighborhoods with active green spaces, art, and grassroots initiatives.
Situated on more than 12 acres of rolling hills with beautiful mountain views, this 1885 Queen Anne Victorian Mansion has wraparound porches and very spacious guestrooms, all with sitting areas.... read more
Grovewood Village
Explore this fantastic historic art & crafts campus in Asheville with Grovewood Gallery, working artist studios, a sculpture garden, Golden Fleece restaurant, two museums and historic factory tours. 111 Grovewood Rd (adjacent to the Omni Grove Park Inn). Free parking.
Gift a Cozy Getaway, Buffalo Creek Vacations
Give the gift of a Buffalo Creek Vacation with a gift certificate. Recipients can choose to sleep in a caboose or a luxury log cabin on a bison ranch. Located 30 miles west of Asheville, with hot tubs, game rooms, fire pits, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Offering high-end photography services for weddings, elopements, and more, Simon Anthony brings an unparalleled sense of comfort and enjoyment to his photo sessions, while capturing the purest and... read more
Baba Nahm, Downtown Asheville
This Mediterranean eatery in downtown Asheville offers a Middle Eastern-inspired menu of Israeli street food with easy grab & go convenience. They offer gluten-free options and the entire menu is free of chemicals and preservatives. Try the chicken shawarma and bring home some Gozleme flatbread!
Flat Rock Playhouse
North Carolina's State Theatre in Flat Rock presents the best of Broadway musicals, comedy and drama from May through December. Located 29 miles south of Asheville near Hendersonville.
Farmland offers panoramic views of the mountains along the Swannanoa River in one of the most scenic valleys in the region. On-site housing for up to 84 guests, with all-inclusive wedding... read more
This 1905 luxury vacation home rental and event space offers expansive grounds and meticulous historic renovations, all within walking distance of vibrant downtown Asheville. Perfectly situated... read more
The magnificent Queen Anne mansion provides guests with a glimpse back in time. Lavish interior woodwork, period antiques and Victorian décor are found throughout. Just a few blocks from Biltmore... read more
Situated on a mountaintop overlooking Asheville, the Main Hall features 86 feet of windows facing west toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. Adjacent to a waterfall, the glass-enclosed Pavilion has 360... read more
The Gift of Adventure, Navitat
Navitat Holiday Adventure Packages make a thrilling gift. The Adventure Seeker ($100 + tax) includes a $99.95 Navitat Adventure gift certificate, $20 Gift Shop certificate, and Navitat sticker. The Dynamic Duo ($210 + tax) includes two $99.95 Navitat Adventure gift certificates, $30 Gift Shop certificate, and Navitat sticker.
Asheville Emporium
This eclectic gift shop downtown on Wall Street features a variety of hand-crafted gifts, art, Asheville souvenirs and more by local makers, craftspeople and artists. Find t-shirts, magnets, stickers, buttons, shot glasses, plus a DIY photo booth!
