When you combine easy access to spectacular natural beauty, small-town vibes, a thriving arts and cultural community, and just a little bit of quirkiness, you get Asheville. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this North Carolina town is the perfect mix of funky, eclectic personality and awe-inspiring experiences.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered. Check out our list of some of the city’s most well-known sights and a handful of spots that are a little more off-the-beaten-path.
The big must-see spots:
While they may be obvious choices, these well-known spots are favorites for a reason. Here’s our highlight reel of Asheville staples:
The Biltmore: If you want to spend a day feeling like a Vanderbilt, this sprawling 8,000-acre estate includes gardens, restaurants, tours, and even its own winery.
River Arts District: Also known simply as the RAD, this sprawling arts community is home to plenty of galleries, shops, music venues, and more and is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Looking for something a little quieter? Don’t miss one of the most famous drives in America. Here, the scenery is breathtaking year-round, but particularly in autumn.
New Belgium Brewing: Famous for its Fat Tire Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, their Asheville tap room is along the French Broad River and offers free 90-minute tours.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park: Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Asheville, Great Smoky is renowned for its mountainous beauty – so much so that it’s America’s most-visited national park!
The lesser-known hidden gems:
If you’re looking for something a little less popular, there’s plenty of options to choose from. Here are just a few of the places we recommend. Keep in mind Asheville is the perfect size for wandering around to discover your own list of favorite spots, too.
Asheville Pinball Museum: While this one does show up on lists of popular places in Asheville, it’s often overlooked. Don’t make that mistake. This is more than just a nostalgic exhibit – it’s also a functioning arcade with 40 vintage machines and 40 classic video games waiting for you to hit the start button.
Emerald Village: Quite literally, find your own hidden gems! A favorite activity of Blue Ridge Mountain visitors for years, take a shot at finding something precious to take home as a souvenir and learn about the region’s history while you’re at it.
Malaprops Bookstore: If books and coffee are one of your favorite combinations, don’t miss this locally loved indie spot and its cozy atmosphere. With an on-site café, you can find the perfect spot to get lost in the pages of a new read.
Citizen Vinyl: Inside the historic Citizen-Times building, you’ll find Citizen Vinyl – a hybrid record press, recording studio, boutique and café. It’s not every day you can have the chance to watch records be made, sip craft cocktails, and shop used records all in one place.
Grandfather Mountain: If you love scenic views and aren’t afraid of heights, tackle the highest suspension footbridge in America. While there, you can also enjoy other activities the park offers like wildlife exhibits and hiking trails.
No matter if you’re looking for Asheville’s ultimate bucket-list items or something a little less mainstream, there are plenty of incredible experiences to be found in this eclectic mountain town. Craft your perfect itinerary today with nonstop flights and low fares. Get To Going.