Exploring Asheville in Summer: A Guide to Adventure, Culture, and Relaxation

Asheville, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a haven for nature lovers and cultural aficionados. This vibrant city promises an enchanting blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a perfect summer destination. Whether you’re soaring above the mountains in a hot air balloon at sunrise or cruising along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville offers countless ways to experience its stunning landscapes and rich heritage.

If you’re ready to have some fun in Asheville, here’s your comprehensive guide.

Let’s start at the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville offers a magnificent drive through the Appalachian Highlands, renowned for its stunning vistas and an array of accessible hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. This scenic route stretches for 469 miles, connecting the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

Several trails off the Blue Ridge Parkway are particularly noteworthy for their beauty and accessibility:

• Craggy Gardens Trail provides a relatively easy hike through a beautifully surreal, gnarled forest of rhododendron and blueberries, leading to an idyllic, grassy mountaintop. This spot is known for its breathtaking panoramic views.
• Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, offers a paved trail to its summit, making it accessible and providing spectacular views across the mountain landscape.
• Linville Falls Trail leads to stunning views of powerful waterfalls and deep gorges, offering several vantage points that are accessible via well-maintained paths.
• Humpback Rocks is another popular destination, with a more challenging trail that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the surrounding valley.

Driving the entire length of the Parkway can take several days, especially if you plan to enjoy various hikes and stops along the way. However, the sections nearest Asheville can be explored in shorter day trips. For a thorough experience, allowing a few hours for travel and exploration would enable you to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy several accessible hikes.

For more detailed information about hikes and planning your visit along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can check resources like the Blue Ridge Parkway official site and Asheville Trails. These sites offer extensive guides on trail details, including difficulty levels and exact locations for starting points.

Beyond just hiking through the mountains, Asheville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of activities, including:

Mountain Biking: Explore secluded backcountry trails for all skill levels.

Fishing:  Try fly-fishing in the cool mountain streams or with the Asheville Fly Fishing Company.

Kayaking, Tubing & Canoeing:  Paddle along the French Broad River or join guided tours with Asheville Adventure Company.

Golfing:  Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at one of Asheville’s picturesque golf courses, offering both challenging play and spectacular mountain views.  There are 11 courses within a 15-mile radius of Asheville, 8 of which are public courses and 3 are private courses.

Rock Climbing:  Experience climbing at local spots.  Get gear and advice from Black Dome Mountain Sports.

Disc Golf: Play at the Richmond Hill Disc Golf Course with a view of the mountains.

Horseback Riding: Take a scenic ride through trails that offer breathtaking views of the Asheville landscape.  Head to the Biltmore Estate Equestrian Center  or for rides through Pisgah National Forest, head out to the park to Saddle Up Trail Rides or Pisgah Forest Stables.

Sunset Yoga on the Mountaintop Hike: About 2 hours before sunset, begin the 2-mile (roundtrip) hike up the mountain to the summit, for a stunning vista and yoga practice for all levels as the sky glows around you.  Mats are provided.  Sunset yoga is offered May-October (weather permitting). To book your Sunset Yoga on the Mountaintop Hike, contact Asheville Wellness Tours at (828) 407-0711 or email Info@AshevilleWellnessTours.com. It’s a unique way to practice self-care, connect with nature, and enjoy the magic of Asheville’s mountains.

FUN FACT: Asheville was once called Morristown after Robert Morris, a politician during the American Revolution, and renamed “Asheville” in 1797 to honor North Carolina Governor Samuel Ashe. The change was part of the incorporation of the city, reflecting a common practice of the time to honor notable state figures in place names.

Cultural Riches and Historical Wonders:

Asheville boasts one of the most extensive collections of Art Deco buildings in the United States outside of Miami. After the 1920s, the city saw a construction boom, and many buildings from this period have been beautifully preserved. A walking tour of downtown will reveal the ornate details of buildings like the City Hall, the Asheville Flatiron Building, and the Grove Arcade. These tours often include insights into the history of Asheville’s development and its architectural heritage.

FUN FACT: There are mysterious tunnels beneath the city streets, which have various legends associated with them.  There are no tours of any tunnels—the actual extent and purpose of these tunnels remain somewhat mysterious. If you’re intrigued, consider joining a local tour or exploring the historical records at the North Carolina Room in Pack Library to learn more about Asheville’s hidden past.

If you love architecture, the Historic Montford neighborhood features a collection of Victorian, Queen Anne, and Arts and Crafts homes along tree-lined streets, making it a picturesque area reflective of Asheville’s diverse architectural history.  You can take a leisurely stroll through Montford or join a guided tour to learn about the history of the area and its notable former residents.

The Biltmore Estate is undoubtedly Asheville’s most famous architectural marvel. Built by George Vanderbilt during the Gilded Age, it is the largest privately-owned home in the United States. The estate encompasses an impressive 8,000-acre compound and is renowned for its stunning French Renaissance architecture. Take a self-guided tour to explore the opulent interiors, which feature original pieces from the Vanderbilt collection. Don’t miss the expansive gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and consider a wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery.

FUN FACT: The Biltmore Estate was designed with several hidden doors and secret passageways. These concealed spaces provided privacy for the Vanderbilts and their guests and allowed servants to move discreetly.

River Arts District

Once industrial buildings on the French Broad River’s banks, the River Arts District (RAD) is now a thriving arts community with studios and galleries that house hundreds of artists. Visit during a Second Saturday event, when studios open their doors to the public. You can watch artists at work, participate in workshops, and purchase unique local art. The area also features excellent restaurants and craft breweries.

While you’re in the RAD, don’t miss the North Carolina Glass Center—a gallery and studio for over 60 resident glass artists.  The Glass Center offers a variety of classes and workshops suitable for all skill levels, from beginner.  You can try a 30-minute workshop where you will create a simple project, such as a glass ornament or a paperweight, providing a hands-on introduction to glassblowing, or if you’re in town a bit longer, multiple week courses covering different techniques in glass art, including glassblowing, flameworking, and cold working are also available. Visitors can also just watch live glassblowing demonstrations to see the complex process of glass making.

Asheville has a lively performing arts scene, with historic venues like the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium and the modern Diana Wortham Theatre at the heart of it.  Check the schedule for live performances ranging from local theater productions and national touring companies to symphony orchestras and other musical performances.

FUN FACT: Asheville hosts the oldest and longest-running folk festival in America.

Asheville hosts a variety of festivals throughout the summer that celebrate everything from music and art to food and beer. Here are some fun ones to plan into your itinerary:

1. Asheville Beer Week
   • When: Usually late May into early June.
   • What: This festival is a must for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring a week of beer-related events, including tastings, dinners, and brewery tours throughout the city. The week culminates in the Beer City Festival, where dozens of local breweries showcase their finest creations.
2. Shindig on the Green
   • When: Typically held on select Saturdays from late June through late August.
   • What: A celebration of Appalachian music and dance, this festival features local folk musicians, dancers, and storytellers performing in downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Park. Concession/food trucks are also available if you haven’t packed a picnic. It’s free to the public and a great way to experience local traditions.
3. Asheville Fringe Arts Festival
   • When: Although traditionally held in January, fringe events can occur throughout the year, including the summer.
   • What: This festival provides artists with opportunities to explore the edges of their work, collaborate across genres, and bring innovative performances to culturally adventurous audiences.
4. Asheville Music Festival
   • When: Dates can vary, typically occurring in the summer.
   • What: Featuring a range of musical genres, this festival includes performances by both local bands and nationally recognized artists, with past events hosting genres from jazz and blues to pop and folk.
5. Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
   • When: Usually held in early August.
   • What: As the nation’s longest-running folk festival, this event showcases the best of traditional and old-time musicians, ballad singers, and mountain dance groups.
6. LEAF Downtown
   • When: Typically takes place in early August.
   • What: This festival brings together global music, art, culture, and community spirit. It’s family-friendly with a focus on cultural diversity and is set against the backdrop of downtown Asheville.
7. Asheville Art in the Park
   • When: Occurs over several weekends in June and October, though summer sessions highlight local and regional artists.
   • What: Artists showcase their work in Pack Square, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to purchase unique artworks directly from the creators.

FUN FACT: Famed author Thomas Wolfe was born here, and his childhood home is now a museum.

Serene Moments and Spa Retreats:

Relaxation is an art form in Asheville. Spend a day unwinding at the Grove Park Inn Spa, known for its comprehensive wellness treatments and serene environment. This subterranean spa with cavernous rock walls, arches, and tunnels, offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, body wraps, and facials. The mineral pools with their therapeutic waterfalls are a highlight, providing a serene escape.

Sensibilities Day Spa is one of Asheville’s first day spas, and offers a unique blend of natural and organic products. The spa provides a variety of services, including massages, facials, nail services, and body treatments, in a calming, nature-inspired environment.

There is also the Asheville Salt Cave.  As a natural salt environment, this spa is designed for relaxation and respiratory health. The microclimate of the salt cave offers a unique spa experience, promoting stress reduction and energy rejuvenation through halotherapy.  They also offer a self-service Turkish Hammam treatment.

Outside of town, following a long winding road into the hills, you will find the Shoji Spa & Lodge.  This tranquil spa offers private outdoor hot tubs, a cedar sauna, a cold plunge, luxury showers, and a variety of massage treatments. It is situated in a peaceful forest setting (with lovely views), making it a perfect getaway for relaxation and rejuvenation.  I went here as part of a girls getaway and we all loved it!   For those looking to extend their visit, Shoji also offers rustic lodging options that allow guests to stay overnight in a serene, wooded environment.

Family Fun and Whimsical Discoveries:

Asheville is wonderfully family-friendly, with activities that cater to both young and old. The Asheville Pinball Museum is a hit among families, offering a playful journey through vintage games and modern pinball classics. Kids and car enthusiasts will enjoy the Estes-Winn car museum at the Grove Park Inn.  For educational fun, the interactive exhibits and outdoor activities at the local science center provide learning opportunities about the region’s ecology and wildlife.  Asheville and the surrounding areas are perfect for families who love the outdoors. You can explore the Western North Carolina Nature Center, which houses a variety of animals and offers educational programs. Chimney Rock Park is great for hiking and offers trails that are manageable for children. Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers scenic train excursions that are perfect for kids who love trains.

For cultural and educational outings, visit the Asheville Art Museum, which features interactive areas like the ArtPLAYce for children. The historic downtown Asheville Urban Trail is another great option, offering a walking tour marked by sculptures and landmarks.

 

FUN FACT: Ashville is known as Beer City, USA, with more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city

Culinary Delights and Local Flavors:

Asheville’s food scene is a paradise for foodies, with an emphasis on farm-to-table dining. During the summer, outdoor dining options are plentiful, but it’s a good idea to make reservations for dinner, especially on weekends or at more popular restaurants.  My family likes to indulge in a meal at Curate, where traditional Spanish dishes are given a local twist, or enjoy the innovative American cuisine at Rhubarb. For a casual morning, brunch at The Times at S&W offers a delightful start to the day with its hearty and delicious coffees and menu options. In the evenings, why not sip cocktails at the atmospheric Sovereign Remedies, a speakeasy-style bar that captures the essence of Asheville’s unique charm?

Breweries are plentiful, but so are the variety of craft cocktails and Bloody Mary varieties. Try what you wish from the abundant options.  Please pace yourself and drink responsibly.

Among the many (many!) options for a delicious meal, here are a few restaurants that show the range of culinary flavors abundant in Asheville:

Cúrate:

• • Cuisine: Authentic Spanish
  • Why Visit?:  This Spanish tapas restaurant, led by Chef Katie Button, a James Beard Award nominee, offers an authentic taste of Spain in the heart of downtown Asheville. The lively atmosphere and meticulously prepared dishes make it a culinary highlight.  Try the Berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), Pimientos de piquillo rellenos (stuffed peppers), and Charcoal Grilled Pork.  Calamari Sandwiches are also very popular.  Cúrate also offers an all-Spanish wine list.

Benne on Eagle

• • Cuisine: Located in The Block, Asheville’s historical Black business district, Benne on Eagle honors African American foodways and offers a modern twist on Appalachian food traditions.
  • Why Visit?: Shrimp and grits and blackened curry trout.

Rhubarb

• • Cuisine: Family-style meals and local, seasonal dishes.
  • Why Visit?: five-time James Beard Award Finalist, Chef John Fleer’s Rhubarb provides a rustic yet refined dining experience with an open kitchen and a focus on local ingredients.  The outdoor patio is also a delight in summer.

Buxton Hall Barbecue:

• • Cuisine: Barbecue smoked over local woods
  • Why Visit?: Award-winning barbecue joint. Must-try: Whole-hog barbecue, cornbread, and banana pudding. Buxton Hall has a strong commitment to quality and tradition, offering a genuine Southern BBQ experience in a rustic warehouse setting with live music.

Chestnut:

• • Cuisine: Southern with ethnic twists
  • Why Visit?: Seasonal menu with local produce and proteins. Excellent service, hearty brunch options, and a cozy ambiance.

Limones:

• • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Why Visit?: Fresh, innovative Mexican cuisine. Try their ceviche, mole, and house-made tortillas. Cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

The Admiral:

• • Cuisine: Eclectic
  • Why Visit?: Hidden gem with a dive bar vibe. Ever-changing menu of inventive small plates and gourmet entrees. Set in a modest, unassuming building, The Admiral transforms into a surprisingly elegant dining spot at night, with an ever-changing menu that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Reservations recommended.

Mayfel’s:

• • Cuisine: Southern breakfast, brunch and lunch
  • Why Visit?: Mayfel’s has a covered front patio and a quaint, almost hidden back patio where they serve Louisiana-style brunch and lunch Friday to Monday. They occasionally offer a pop-up Bloody Mary bar, which you can learn about via their social media.

Red Ginger Dim Sum and Tapas:

• • Cuisine: Dim Sum and Chinese-style tapas.
  • Why Visit?: Red Ginger combines traditional Chinese cuisine with a modern twist, offering a unique, interactive dining experience with tapas-style service.

Sunny Point Café:

• • Cuisine: Upscale comfort food.
  • Why Visit?: Their famous breakfast items. Known for its “spade to spoon” philosophy, Sunny Point Café serves fresh, homegrown dishes. The warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for family dining.

The Scarlet Bee:

• • Cuisine: Mezze platters and herbal-infused cocktails.
  • Why Visit?: The Scarlet Bee emphasizes Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, offering a cozy and intimate dining experience with a focus on shared plates.

Plant:

• • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Why Visit?: Plant offers a sophisticated vegan menu without borders, featuring multicultural influences and a focus on fresh, organic ingredients.

The Times Bar & Coffee Shop:

• • Cuisine: the charm of a craft cocktail bar with the coziness of a coffee shop
  • Why Visit?:  located in the historic S&W Cafeteria building, The Times specializes in both seasonally inspired and classic cocktails, craft coffees featuring Caffe Vita Coffee Roasters and offers rotating local beer and import wine.

Bouchon:

• • Cuisine: French
  • Why Visit?: Michael Baudouin brings his French Farm style to Asheville.  Simple, delicious, and comforting French food and French wines with indoor and outdoor seating for the perfect French environment.  If you can’t make it to Bouchon, try their sister restaurant, RendeVouz, for another delicious farm-to-table French experience.

Sovereign Remedies:

• • Cuisine: Speakeasy
  • Why Visit?: Soft light and candles create an inviting space to enjoy some of the city’s best mixed drinks made with all local and organic ingredients

Twisted Laurel:

• • Cuisine: Mediterranean comfort food
  • Why Visit?: With its plant-filled, twinkle-light glowing, and pet-friendly patio (there’s even a menu of treats for dogs), this spot could not be left off my list of great restaurants in Asheville.  Come for the dog-friendliness but stay for the delicious food. Executive Chef Tom LaFauci’s award-winning, Italian-American-inspired interpretations of casual, creative comfort foods include his housemade pasta and a wide variety of other delicious appetizers, entrées, yummy sandwiches, tasty salads, and stone hearth pizza.

Hemmingway’s Cuba:

• • Cuisine: Cuban comfort food
  • Why Visit?: Located in the Cambria Hotel, Hemingway’s offers one of the best views of the city skyline combined with delicious Cuban comfort food.

RosaBees:

• • Cuisine: Hawaiian
  • Location: River Arts District
  • Why Visit?: RosaBees brings the flavors of the islands to Asheville. Try their Spicy Shrimp Udon and fresh Poke bowls. Don’t miss the Pineapple Butter Mochi for dessert!
  • NOTE: reservations are recommended.

Chai Pani:

• • Cuisine: Casual-Modern Indian Street Food
  • Why Visit?: Helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Meherwan Irani, Chai Pani offers Okra fries, Sloppy Jai, crispy Gobi Manchurian, Pav Bhaji, and butter chicken. The colorful, lively interior adds to the experience.

Nine Mile:

• • Cuisine: Caribbean-inspired pasta dishes
  • Why Visit?: Cozy and vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy flavorful pasta, rice, beans, and zucchini. Fresh salads and attentive service.

Tupelo Honey:

• • Cuisine: Locally-sourced Southern food
  • Why Visit?: Brunch, lunch and dinner with lots of southern fried chicken, and other staples like shrimp & grits and biscuits and gravy, and chicken & waffles (yum!) served up with a twist (and some savory adult beverage options).  Service can be hit or miss depending on the staff that day—just be patient and enjoy the people-watching.  The casual, lively atmosphere adds to the charm.

Insider Tips for Visiting Asheville in the Summer:

1. Start Early to Avoid Crowds: Many of Asheville’s popular attractions, like the Biltmore Estate and the North Carolina Arboretum, can get crowded, especially on weekends. Starting your day early can help you enjoy these spots with fewer people and cooler temperatures.
2. Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Asheville’s weather can be quite variable during the summer, with warm days, cooler evenings and occasional rain showers. It’s important to stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and carry a light rain jacket or an umbrella.
3. Explore the Local Farmers Markets: Summer is a great time to visit Asheville’s farmers markets. The Asheville City Market offers a wide range of local produce, crafts, and foods. It’s a great place to sample local flavors and interact with area farmers and artisans.
4. Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities: Asheville and its surroundings are known for beautiful outdoor spaces. Consider taking a hike in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains or renting a bike to explore the city’s extensive greenway system. Early morning or late afternoon hikes can be particularly pleasant avoiding the midday sun.
5. Book Popular Attractions in Advance: For popular sites like the Biltmore or special events and tours, booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season in summer.
6. Enjoy the Vibrant Nightlife and Cultural Scene: Asheville has a lively music and arts scene. Check out live music events, outdoor concerts, or local playhouses for an evening of entertainment.

INSIDER TIP: Transportation: While downtown Asheville is quite walkable, having a car can be beneficial if you plan to explore the wider area, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby hiking trails. Some areas may have limited public transportation options.
Street Parking is very limited!  Parking in a lot is your best option, or opt for a hotel with on-site parking and leave the car while you explore the downtown area on foot.

Here’s a sample itinerary to use as inspiration for a week in this vibrant city:

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Asheville

• Morning: Arrive in Asheville, check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Brunch at Mayfel’s (1 hour), then explore the River Arts District (2-3 hours).
• Evening: Dinner at Tulepo Honey (1-2 hours) to get my fix of chicken & waffles, followed by a stroll downtown and a visit to a local brewery (2 hours).

Day 2: Biltmore Estate

• Morning: Brunch at First Watch in Biltmore Village (1 hour), then tour the Biltmore House (2-3 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the Biltmore gardens and greenhouse (1-2 hours), then visit Antler Hill Village & Biltmore Winery for a tasting (2 hours). Before leaving the area, visit the Creamery for homemade ice cream, a pastry, or a great cup of coffee with a side of relaxation (1 hour).
• Evening: Consider an early evening spa service and plant-based dinner at Plant, or the extravagant tasting menu at the Red Stag Grill in the Grand Bohemian.

Day 3: Blue Ridge Parkway and Hiking

• Morning: Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway (2 hours); stop for a hike to Catawba Falls (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Picnic lunch (1 hour), continue exploring the Parkway, or visit the North Carolina Arboretum (2 hours).
• Evening: Enjoy Sunset Yoga on the Mountaintop Hike (3 hours) followed by a light dinner.

Day 4: Art and Culture

• Morning: Breakfast at a local café (1 hour), visit the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Lunch (1 hour), then stroll through or attend a workshop or class in the River Arts District (2 hours), or follow the Asheville Urban Trail.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant (1 hour) or attend an event like Shindig on the Green if available (2-3 hours) and enjoy some local food truck options for dinner.

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

• Morning: Early breakfast (1 hour), then go golfing, fly-fishing, horseback riding, paddleboarding, or rafting (3 hours).
• Afternoon: Lunch (1 hour) followed by a relaxing stroll through town.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery (1 hour), followed by a relaxing evening at your accommodation or a night out in downtown Asheville.

Day 6: Leisure and Exploration

• Morning: Brunch at a local spot (1 hour), then leisurely explore downtown Asheville’s shops and galleries (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Lunch (1 hour), visit a local farmer’s market or sign up for the Mountain Mural Tour for a viewing of the vibrant street art throughout the city (2 hours).
• Evening: Dinner at a local favorite (1 hour), followed by a live music performance or theater show (2-3 hours).

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Pack and check out of your accommodation. Have a farewell breakfast at a local café (1 hour).
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing (2 hours), then begin your journey home.

Please note that the times are approximate and can vary based on personal pace and interest. It’s also important to check the opening hours and book reservations where necessary.

 

Accommodations: Asheville offers a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Booking early is wise, especially if you’re visiting during a popular event or festival.

I’m a big fan of B&Bs, and Asheville has a wide selection of them, both downtown and outside of the city center.  There are also many great hotel options.  As with most cities, the closer you are to the downtown area, the higher prices tend to be.  This list is by no way exhaustive, but highlights a few unique options to consider:

Flat Iron Hotel: This distinctive lodging option housed in the iconic Flat Iron Building in the heart of downtown, seamlessly combines historical charm with modern luxury.  The hotel itself is a masterpiece of adaptive reuse, maintaining the historical essence of the original building while introducing contemporary comforts and amenities—and a rooftop bar famous for its craft cocktails and splendid view.

Grand Bohemian Hotel (Marriott Autograph collection): This Tudor-style, pet-welcoming boutique hotel stands out with its opulent, old-world European hunting lodge aesthetics, contemporary touches, modern amenities, and an impressive collection of art right near the entrance to the Biltmore Estate.  The Red Stag Grill combines a chophouse menu with Appalachian-inspired specialties and local ingredients in a rustic-modern lodge atmosphere.  The hotel also houses the Poseidon Spa with a menu of soothing treatments for relaxation.

Omni Grove Park Inn: Famous for its grandiose stone architecture and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic hotel offers a world-class underground spa and a golf course.  The complex offers everything on site, including lovely restaurants (serving breakfast and dinner buffets.  It is also pet and family-friendly.  Did I mention every window offers a delightful view of the surrounding landscapes? While outside of downtown Asheville, The Grove Park Inn is just a 5-minute drive away.  It’s also located close to the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum and has several dining options onsite.  This hotel is particularly family-friendly, offering activities like a Junior Chef program that gives young guests a tote bag (that doubles as a lunch bag) with organic snacks, an activity book, crayons, and a Say Goodnight To Hunger postcard to color and turn into the desk, which contributes to donating a meal to Feeding America.

Hotel Indigo (an IHG hotel): For a more modern twist, Hotel Indigo features floor-to-ceiling windows and vibrant local artwork, encapsulating Asheville’s contemporary spirit. This pet-friendly hotel allows you to spoil your vacationing furry friends (up to 80 lbs) with a pet bed and customized catering.  You’ll enjoy the local artwork in each of the rooms, and the on-site restaurant, oneFIFTYone Boutique Bar & Kitchen, which serves gourmet small plate menus with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced locally.

The Bunn House: If you have a larger group (8 people) and perhaps a special occasion, this exclusive full-house rental is a more intimate option—a garden oasis in the heart of downtown, complete with a terrace and fire pits. It is a meticulously restored historic building with luxury finishes: Frette linens, towels, and robes; hypoallergenic pillows and comforters; and bathrooms with heated floors and Thermasol-Pro steam showers.  Upon request, a private chef or catered meals can also be arranged.

Asheville Glamping: For a unique experience, Asheville Glamping Collective offers luxe domes and cabins with hot tubs.  While Asheville Glamping offers domes suited for couples or families, as well as furnished safari tents, or a private fairy tree house for 2 providing a mix of comfort, romance, and adventure.

The Windsor Boutique Hotel: Located downtown, this hotel offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, making it easy for families to prepare meals. They also provide passes to a nearby YMCA.

For a more budget-friendly stay in Asheville, here are some hotel recommendations that offer a good balance of value and comfort:

• Candlewood Suites – Asheville Downtown, an IHG Hotel: Known for its green roof lounge with mountain views and rooms with full kitchens.
• GLō Best Western Asheville Tunnel Road: Offers modern amenities and is conveniently located on one of Asheville’s main roads.
• Downtown Inn: Provides a central location with easy access to Asheville’s attractions.
• Princess Anne Hotel: Listed on the US Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places, this historic hotel offers a unique charm and personalized service—a unique blend of bed and breakfast hospitality with the privacy of a hotel. Enjoy a gourmet made-to-order breakfast to start your day, and complimentary afternoon wine and hors d’oeurves, perfect for socializing or unwinding after a day of exploring Asheville.  The dining room provides a beautiful setting with views of the city and the hotel’s private garden, which is also open to guests for your use and relaxation.
• Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District: Located near the vibrant River Arts District nestled in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the hotel is just off interstates 26 and 240, providing easy access to downtown Asheville’s eclectic shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and breweries. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, outdoor veranda and fire pit, and an indoor heated pool.  They also offer a complimentary breakfast buffet.  Beyond all this, they have free parking, and a super-convenient free shuttle service ready to bring you to/from downtown Asheville.
• The Beaucatcher, a Boutique Motel: A small downtown option with a cozy atmosphere, recently renovated and pet-friendly. They also offer a complimentary breakfast.
• Brookstone Lodge near Biltmore Village, Ascend Hotel Collection: Close to the Biltmore Estate with a range of amenities, including free breakfast and heated indoor pool, rustic décor, and a stone fireplace.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown: This pet-friendly hotel features a rooftop bar, an indoor pool, and spacious rooms with separate living and sleeping areas. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of eclectic local shops, breweries, dining, and music venues.

TIP: Be sure to check for any hotel deals or discounts that might be available during your travel dates.

Have a fantastic trip to Asheville! 😊