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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Stay right in the heart of downtown Asheville at this... read more

Still Point Wellness Couples Packages
Experience the benefits of a side-by-side world-class massage with someone you love! Choose from a variety of couples massage services and packages for a unique relaxation experience together. Packages include saltwater floats, world-class Esalen® Massages, massage tutorials, and 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

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.

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.

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

This premier luxury cabin and home vacation rental firm has 120+ hand selected properties, ranging from quaint 1 bedroom cabins and lofts for romantic weekends to sprawling 8 bedroom estates for... read more

The Omni Grove Park Inn Dining
Asheville is recognized as having one of the strongest most innovative culinary scenes in the country. At The Omni Grove Park Inn, you will find some of the finest, locally-sourced restaurants in town that will delight the foodie in your family. From restaurants to bars to terraces with breathtaking mountain views, there are so many ways to please your palate at this resort. Find an updated list of dining options on their website. 290 Macon Avenue

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.

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

Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours
See the city’s scenic beauty and historic landmarks atop some of Asheville’s highly acclaimed rooftop bars! This fun guided tour in the heart of the city offers fascinating stories and photos from the city’s past while you sample cocktails (or mocktails) at three rooftop bars. Rooftop sunset tours, too. Tours are rain or shine, with covered and heated areas including fire pits for year-round enjoyment. Van chauffeured transportation!

Still Point Wellness Massage & Float Spa
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.

Whatever your needs, they've got plenty of options with 140 high-end cabin and vacation home rentals curated for the perfect guest experience! Situated in and around Asheville,... read more

Tryon Foothills Wine Country
Visit five wineries in the prime isothermal wine growing area in the beautiful foothills near Columbus and Tryon: Parker-Binns Vineyard, Overmountain Vineyards, Russian Chapel Hills Winery, Mountain Brook Vineyard and Green Creek Winery. It's an easy 45-mile drive from Asheville via I-26 East (near SC line).
Bryson City
Find much to do! Ride the train on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad before you explore their downtown shops and galleries, or paddleboard down the river. Nearby Deep Creek in the Smokies features camping, hiking, trout fishing and the ever-popular tubing. Raft the Nantahala River. And that's just the beginning!

Book Now
Book directly through the Asheville Bed & Breakfast Association to receive the best rates for unique Inns in Asheville and surrounding countryside and mountains. Stays include historic homes on the National Register of Historic Places, quaint cottages, cabins, rustic lodges, and more.

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

Rutherford County Outdoors
The scenic foothills of Rutherford County include the towns of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Rutherfordton, Forest City, and more! Explore the expansive outdoors surrounding these small towns including the Thermal Belt Trail, ziplines, waterfalls, hikes, camping, and more!

Deerpark Restaurant @ Biltmore
This grand Sunday brunch buffet on Biltmore Estate has been a favorite for many years. Located in a converted barn with walls of windows, Deerpark's big menu includes estate-grown greens, berries, eggs, and hand-carved meats. It’s especially popular for special occasions and holidays (including Easter & Mother's Day), so make reservations well in advance. Sunday 10-2. Admission ticket or annual pass required.

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.
Isa’s French Bistro
Chef Peter Crockett has created a brunch menu crafted by the flavors of the Carolinas, featuring dishes such as NC Chicken & French Toast, Bistro Skillet Hash, and Eggs Benedict Du Jour. Enjoy delicious soups, salads, and sandwiches such as the Croissant Madame, French Dip, and Pete’s Burger. Great outdoor dining location. Serving Weekend Brunch each Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM-3 PM. Free Valet Parking at Haywood Park Hotel next door. Downtown at One Battery Park Avenue.

Tryon Foothills Wine Country
Visit five wineries in the prime isothermal wine growing area in the beautiful foothills near Columbus and Tryon: Parker-Binns Vineyard, Overmountain Vineyards, Russian Chapel Hills Winery, Mountain Brook Vineyard and Green Creek Winery. It's an easy 45-mile drive from Asheville via I-26 East (near SC line).

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.

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

Adventure Center of Asheville: Outdoor Family Fun!
Open all year and just five minutes from downtown and 10 minutes from Biltmore, ride 11 zip lines from treetop platforms and adventure towers. Walk three sky bridges 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.

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.

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.

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

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

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Take a scenic train ride on excursions along the Nantahala and Tuckasegee Rivers, over the mountains, across valleys and through tunnels. Choose from a variety of train adventures departing from Bryson City. Many special event train rides including beer, wine and Polar Express.

Lake Junaluska Golf
Play by a beautiful lake in the shadows of the Great Smoky Mountains. The 18-hole course is 5,034 yards and par 68. Green fees start at only $18. Stay a few days with a variety of lodging options, from hotels to cabins. Located near Waynesville and Maggie Valley, a 30-minute drive west of Asheville.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Located on a 50-acre property 12 minutes north of downtown Asheville, this unique venue offers two ceremony sites. Walnut Cove can host up to 150 guests and includes the rental of 10 vintage... read more

Gallery of the Mountains
Located inside the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, this gallery showcases American handmade crafts by more than 100 local and regional artists living in the Southern Appalachians. Discover curated collections of finely crafted jewelry, pottery, home décor, unique gifts, and Asheville-made mementos. 290 Macon Ave.

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

Beech Mountain Ski Resort
As the highest ski and snowboard area in the eastern US, ride 17 slopes on 95 acres. Find runs for every skill levels, with a vertical drop of 830 feet and 80+ inches of annual snow. The Alpine Village has ice skating, brewery and even a mountaintop bar. Snow tubing and terrain park. Ski vacation packages and lessons.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This creekside venue features a handcrafted rustic-yet-modern barn, waterfall, covered bridge and views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The ideal location for a wedding weekend with lodging for... read more

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

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.

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
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

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.

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

Grovewood Gallery
Nationally recognized for its dedication to fine American art and craft, Grovewood Gallery is noted for its charming, old-world setting and rich craft heritage. Located in historic Grovewood Village, the gallery offers two expansive floors of finely crafted furniture, ceramics, jewelry and more, contributed by over 400 artists and craftspeople from across the United States. Free parking on-site. 111 Grovewood Rd.

North Carolina Arboretum
Stroll through a variety of gardens and on peaceful woodland trails, located in Asheville adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don't miss their impressive bonsai garden exhibit and many special events during the year.

Experience luxurious hospitality, fine dining, spa services and outdoor activities on the grounds of Biltmore House, America’s largest home®. Enjoy... read more

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.

Rainbow Falls
(3 miles round-trip, moderate) This majestic 150-ft. waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest can be reached via a hiking trail from Gorges State Park. Enjoy the falls safely on a boulder at its base or at the top. A little upstream is Turtleback Falls, a cool summer swimming hole.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Crabtree Falls
(3 miles round-trip, moderate) This gorgeous 70-ft. waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 339), near Linville Falls, is accessed by a very scenic, loop woodland hiking trail.

Hike Bike Kayak Asheville
Offering hike and kayak tours throughout Western NC lead by certified Blue Ridge and WNC naturalist. Tours include exploring the French Broad River and many lakes around Asheville, scenic hiking with waterfalls, wildflowers, and stunning views. They also do bike rentals. Even snowshoe walking tours! Groups are small- no more than 4 unless a group of 5 or 6 books together.

Estate Escape Package, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate
Escape to Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, a charming haven that puts you in the center of all that Biltmore has to offer including Antler Hill Village and Winery. The package includes breakfast, accommodations, and complimentary parking. Stay dates: Year Round.

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.

Craggy Gardens Hikes
(1.5 to 3 miles, moderate) For one of the best panoramic mountain views in western North Carolina, hike the 3/4-mile Craggy Pinnacle Trail to the observation area. Also hike the Craggy Gardens Trail between the picnic area and visitor center through rhododendron that bloom in June. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 364.

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

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

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.

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

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

Take a trip back in time in a rustic cabin at this secluded eco resort and enjoy a few days away from it all. Pull up a rocker on your screened-in porch. Snuggle by the wood-burning stoves on cool... read more

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.