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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Nantahala Outdoor Center
NOC offers French Broad River Rafting Trips just outside of Asheville or take on even more adventure at their 500-acre Nantahala River Campus with rafting, zip lines, treetop adventures, kayaking, mountain biking, and more for the entire family. It’s the Disneyland of the outdoors! Dine at two riverside restaurants. Near Bryson City.
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Nantahala Outdoor Center offers whitewater rafting trips on the French Broad River just outside of Asheville, or just a short drive is 500-acres of family-friendly adventure near Bryson City with over 100 itineraries of river and land-based activities like rafting, kayaking, zip lines, ropes courses, mountain biking, hiking and more. Enjoy riverside dining at two restaurants, shopping at the Outfitter’s Store, and live music all in the Nantahala Gorge.
Isa's French Bistro
Executive Chef Peter Crockett brings culinary finesse to the table, preparing innovative, seasonally-inspired French cuisine with a local twist. Menu favorites include Escargot & Bone Marrow, Steak Tartare, Scallops Au Poivre, Steak Frites, Lamb Chop, Cedar Salmon Niçoise and Duck A L’Orange. Located downtown, the covered sidewalk patio is great for outdoor dining. Friendly bar and large wine selection. Private dining in The Cellar for groups of 8-120. Complimentary Valet Parking at Haywood Park Hotel next door. Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brunch. Sun-Thurs 7 AM-9 PM, Fri/Sat 7 AM-10 PM. 1 Battery Park Avenue.
Bordering Pisgah National Forest and only 10 minutes from Brevard, this unique forest lodging offers modern cabins fully appointed and finely finished with a kitchen, bathroom, living area,... read more
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
Huli Sue’s BBQ
Located in Asheville’s historic Grove Arcade, this mouth-watering BBQ & Grill serves up a Hawaiian spin on Texas BBQ. Dine on island time enjoying Hawaiian flavors, fresh fish, Texas BBQ, signature island cocktails, and big country cakes.
Adventure Center of Asheville, Outdoor Family Fun!
Family adventures for ages 4 and over: Climb our Treetops Adventure Park with over 70 challenge elements with 7 different aerial trails, zip our Kid Zip park (ages 4-10), or Asheville Zipline Canopy Tours (ages 8+), or ride Kolo Bike Park. Open all year and just minutes from downtown Asheville. See our feature.
Forest City, Hometown Holidays
Our top pick for Christmas towns decks out Main Street with a million lights! The lighting ceremony is on Thanksgiving night (just like those Hallmark movies!). Ride horse-drawn carriages down the street on Friday and Saturday nights. Come for lunch and step back in time with hand-patted hamburgers, cherry Cokes, and milkshakes at the old-fashion soda fountain at Smith's Drugs. Plus, see an impressive classic car collection.
Jackson County Top 30
So many things to explore- hikes, waterfalls, river rafting and tubing, biking, kayaking, skiing, WNC Fly Fishing Trail®️, train excursions, heritage sites, and more! Includes the towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, Sylva, Balsam, Cullowhee, Glenville, and Sapphire.
Give the Gift of Nature, The North Carolina Arboretum
Treat the nature lover in your life to the gift of beauty and solace. Gift memberships to The North Carolina Arboretum Society include one year of access to 65 acres of magnificent landscapes and gardens, 10+ miles of forested trails for walking, biking, and hiking, free parking, and more! Gift memberships purchased before December 31st will receive an extra three months.
Dillsboro, Festival of Lights & Luminaries
This event illuminates this mountain artisan village the first two weekends in December. In an era of electronic gadgetry and LED lights, Dillsboro’s celebration is a throwback and has been being named one of the "Top 20" events in the Southeast for the month of December. Adapted from a Scandinavian custom of lighting the way for the Christ child, more than 2,500 candles in white bags line the streets with more than a dozen shops (mostly galleries and artist studios) to explore.
Cool Mountain Getaway Package, The Omni Grove Park Inn
Escape the heat this summer and head to the mountains with a special offer at Asheville's iconic resort! The package includes 15% off flexible rates, deluxe accommodations, breakfast, cool dessert, and overnight valet or garage parking.
Staying at Biltmore offers you the unique experience of waking up on George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre oasis with expansive Blue Ridge Mountain views, trails, gardens, and plenty to explore... read more
This glamorous camping is located inside Lake Powhatan Campground in Pisgah National Forest, just 10 miles from downtown Asheville and Biltmore. Each fully set up campsite includes a large... read more
The 1905 stone-and-shingle home features antiques and contemporary furnishings. Affordable luxury located just one mile from the Biltmore Estate. 1.5 miles from downtown Asheville. 6 rooms,... read more
This premier luxury cabin and home vacation rental firm has 165+ hand selected properties, ranging from quaint 1 bedroom cabins and lofts for romantic weekends to sprawling 9 bedroom estates... read more
Stay right in the heart of downtown Asheville at this... read more
Find a big variety of vacation rentals next door to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Fontana Lake and the Nantahala River Gorge. From one-bedroom romantic hideaways to group lodges, and even... read more
Dillsboro
This artsy village is just a few miles from Sylva. On the banks of the Tuckasegee River. Dillsboro has been a tourist stop since the late 1800s. This artisan village is home to an impressive mix of specialty shops and galleries representing many local artists. Go to many art festivals.
Deep Creek Waterfall Hike
(2.5 miles, moderate) Hike to three waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on this loop trail at Deep Creek, near Bryson City.
BREW-ed Brewery & History Walking Tours
Take the only brewery tour in Asheville led by a certified beer expert! Learn how beer is made and how to taste it. Get special access to Asheville's breweries and learn the stories behind the pints. On the short walks between breweries, your guide will share stories of the early days of Asheville.
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.
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.
Valentine's Week
See our Top 20 Things to Do on Valentine's Day and Week in Asheville and the North Carolina mountains, with a photo tour of romantic getaway ideas.
Each of these luxury cabins near Asheville are located on 92 acres of private and secluded romantic mountain property, and have a four-person hot tub and wood burning fireplace. "Spa... read more
Asheville Picnic Company
Asheville Picnic Company caters to your adventurous spirit! Order one of their specialty picnics while out enjoying the area’s beautiful offerings and they’ll deliver right to you. The souvenir food baskets are curated with you in mind and filled with local favorites, allowing you to truly experience the taste of Asheville while on the go! Explore more with Asheville Picnic in hand!
The Spa at the Inn on Biltmore Estate
Indulge yourself. It will be easy to imagine being a pampered guest of one of America’s most revered hostesses, Edith Vanderbilt. Your revitalizing journey begins the moment you step foot into this luxurious facility, designed to reflect and evoke the elegance of Biltmore. Choose from a wide array of treatments that incorporate the Estate’s natural offerings to create a soothing, rejuvenating and unique experience.
Walk With Me Tours
Offering private and customizable tours of downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village, the River Arts District, and auto tours along the Blue Ridge Parkway with scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They also offer private guided hikes to waterfalls and stunning views. Tours include comfortable transportation, complimentary water, Gatorade, and snacks.
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.
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.
Asheville Urban Photo Tours
Live it up a little in Asheville while your host and photographer guides you on a professional photoshoot while showing off some of the area's most Insta-worthy Urban Murals by local artists! Leave Asheville with a variety of new, high-quality professional photos to remember your trip. A great experience for couples, bachelorette parties, groups, professionals, and locals!
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.
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
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
Shoji Hot Tub Retreat & Spa
Soak away your stress in a private hot tub under a canopy of trees, dip into an invigorating cold plunge and relax in the cedar sauna. After your soak, get a customized massage and a variety of treatments. Located just ten minutes from downtown Asheville.
Bear's Smokehouse Asheville
This smokehouse in Asheville’s South Slope offers award-winning K.C. Style BBQ with signature items like brisket burnt ends, smoked sausage, loaded baked potatoes, and more. They also offer vegan options like tempeh and Impossible Meatloaf and a variety of craft beer to enjoy! Open 7 days a week with online ordering and delivery available. 135 Coxe Ave
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
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.
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.
Rabbit Rabbit
Located in downtown Asheville, this new outdoor music venue is a collaboration between Asheville Brewing Company and the Orange Peel, offering a fun outdoor gathering space for a variety of events. In addition to outdoor concerts, they also have fun regular events like Silent Disco, pop-up markets, trivia, and family-friendly events.
Southern Appalachian Anglers
Take a full-service, guided fly fishing or bass fishing trip near Asheville. You can enjoy the Appalachian Mountains by boating and/or wading in North Carolina's stream-fed lakes and rivers. Professional fishing guides ensure exciting fishing on the best pristine rivers in WNC.
Nestled on the north shore of beautiful Lake Lure by the towering cliffs of Rumbling Bald Mountain, this 3,000+ acre resort has a private beach, two championship golf courses, spa, four... read more
Graveyard Fields
(1-4-mile options, moderate) This very popular spot features two waterfalls in a mile-high valley filled with wildflowers and surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountains' 6,000-ft. peaks. Second Falls is just 1/3-mile from the parking area. The Graveyard Fields Loop is about four miles. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 419.
Waldensian Festival
The charming town of Valdese celebrates the "Glorious Return" of the Waldenses from exile in Switzerland to their native Italy in 1689. Find 170+ vendors' crafts, great food, and top-quality entertainment. Main Street. 9 AM-6 PM. Near Morganton.
Kolo Bike Park at Adventure Center of Asheville
This outdoor playground is open year-round and just five minutes from downtown. Kolo is a sampler pack with 4 miles of trails with challenges, jump line, pump tracks and skills areas for beginner and advanced riders. Bring your own bike or rent one. Combine your ride with a zipline canopy tour or a Treetops Adventure Park climb.
This beautiful outdoor venue and tree grove offers a peaceful woodland forest setting with sweeping views for a scenic wedding ceremony. Two majestic catalpa trees stand in the center of the... read more
Nantahala Outdoor Center Mountain Biking
Rent a mountain bike at NOC’s Tsali Bikes on the Nantahala River! We’re just 10 minutes from Tsali, or ride across the river on our own Flint Ridge Trail. Service and repairs, bike sales.
The Gift of Wellness, Namaste in Nature
Namaste in Nature gift certificates promote health and happiness via the most uniquely Asheville experience that combines yoga + hiking + meditation with the best waterfall and mountain views in Western North Carolina. Ideal for bachelorettes, birthdays, couples, self-care, DIY retreats and beginners.
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
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
3-Mile Waterfall Hike, DuPont State Forest
(3 miles, moderate) Our most popular waterfall hike takes you to Hooker, Triple and High Falls in DuPont State Recreational Forest. Take a picnic! Since it's so beautiful, expect big crowds on nice weekends.
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!
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.
Highland Brewing Co.
(12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville) Visit the pioneers of craft beer in Asheville, brewing since 1994. Stop by their big Tasting Room to sample 15 brews every day of the week, along with live music and many outdoor concerts. Take a 45-minute guided tour of the fascinating brewing and packaging process. Easy parking.
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.
Stay in the heart of the mountains in this elegantly rustic lodge, only yards from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Enjoy the serenity and peace of the mountain woods birds and squirrels, crackling... read more
Hemingway's Cuba
Near the Grove Arcade, atop Cambria Downtown Asheville, this rooftop bar has a large outdoor terrace complete with outdoor firepits and cozy couches to soak in the Blue Ridge views. Enjoy a variety of craft cocktails, local brews and wine. The traditional Cuban menu has a great selection of small plates, entrees and desserts to choose from. 15 Page Avenue
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
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
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
Get married at one of the nation’s most beautiful public gardens. The NC Arboretum’s Green Wedding options include... read more
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.
Looking Glass Falls
Roadside 60-ft. waterfall in Pisgah National Forest along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Enjoy from the parking area or take the steps down for an up-close look. 10 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway.
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.
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.
This charming and historic hotel overlooks Lake Junaluska with panoramic views of the mountains. The recent renovation recaptured the original elegance of this stately inn, which was built in 1921... read more
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.
Hemingway's Cuba
This rooftop restaurant and bar in downtown Asheville pairs Cuban cuisine with Asheville flair. Brunch favorites include Bistec a Caballo, Vaca Frita Hash Con Huevos, Empanadas de Picadillo o Pollo, and their famous El Cubano sándwich. Traditional breakfast dishes such as pancakes, eggs, and omelets also available. Don't forget their Cuban Daiquiri, Brunch Punch, or Bloody Mary. Located on the fourth floor of Cambria Downtown Asheville, adjacent to Grove Arcade, their outdoor terrace has fantastic mountain views. Serving Weekend Brunch from 7 AM -2 PM each Saturday and Sunday. 15 Page Avenue
Asheville Picnic Company
Asheville Picnic Company caters to your adventurous spirit! Order one of their specialty picnics while out enjoying the area’s beautiful offerings and they’ll deliver right to you. The souvenir food baskets are curated with you in mind and filled with local favorites, allowing you to truly experience the taste of Asheville while on the go! Explore more with Asheville Picnic in hand!
Dining at Biltmore
Experience Biltmore's legacy of food and wine inspired by their heritage of fine dining and sustainable agriculture, with the finest ingredients from their pastures and gardens. Dine at the Bistro, Cedric's Tavern, Deerpark Restaurant, Stable Cafe and the Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. Admission ticket or annual pass is required to dine.
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
Blue Ridge at The Omni Grove Park Inn
Feast on a farm-to-table artisanal buffet at this historic resort with mountain views. The Art of Breakfast buffet features two big rooms filled with countless options. Open at 6:30 AM daily. Reservations recommended for the popular Champagne Sunday Brunch 12 Noon-2:30 PM (longer hours for holidays including Easter & Mother's Day). 290 Macon Avenue
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.
Black Wall Street AVL
Visit this marketplace in the River Arts District, which hosts pop-ups from Black-owned businesses 10 AM-2 PM each Saturday. They also host a series of events throughout the week. 8 River Arts Place
Stay right in the heart of downtown Asheville at this historic, boutique hotel. Be pampered in elegantly-appointed, oversized suites. Enjoy champagne at check-in and immerse yourself in Southern... read more
Hendersonville
The largest downtown in western North Carolina outside of Asheville is filled with historic buildings and updated streetscapes with flowers and art. Find many spots for outdoor dining and a big variety of quality shops and galleries along a six-block stretch of Main Street. Don't miss two street festivals, the Garden Jubilee and the huge NC Apple Festival.
Leonardo da Vinci Package, Inn on Biltmore Estate
Stay at Biltmore and see the immersive exhibition, Leonardo Da Vinci! Package includes stay, daily breakfast,1 daytime admission to Biltmore House w/ audio guide, 1 daytime admission to Leonardo Da Vinci, exhibition keepsake, and more. Stay dates: July 13–November 3, 2022
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 luxury inn combines southern elegance with rustic serenity at a beautiful lakeside retreat. Have fun on the lake with a pontoon boat, paddle board or kayak from a local adventure... read more
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.
