Experience The Best Asheville!
Food Scene
This is a Jamaican-styled cuisine restaurant. You can't go wrong with anything here. Everything is very delicious and while most of the dishes aren't spicy, if you're into spicy foods, they can make it extremely spicy. The spiciest of any restaurants I've yet to go to in Asheville.
The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same things, but the lunch portions are a bit smaller like 70% of the size of the dinner portions but at half the price.
There's several locations for Nine Mile in Asheville.
590 locals recommend
Nine Mile
233 Montford AveThis is a Jamaican-styled cuisine restaurant. You can't go wrong with anything here. Everything is very delicious and while most of the dishes aren't spicy, if you're into spicy foods, they can make it extremely spicy. The spiciest of any restaurants I've yet to go to in Asheville.
The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same things, but the lunch portions are a bit smaller like 70% of the size of the dinner portions but at half the price.
There's several locations for Nine Mile in Asheville.
The restaurant famous for being Obama's favorite during his visits to Asheville. 12 Bones makes really good local Carolina BBQ and it's all made from scratch. All of it, even their sauces, their sides, their cornbread, mac & cheese, it's all made from scratch. If you're looking to eat some authentic local cuisine then this is the place for you. My personal favorite is their beef briskets because I like beef, but their ribs, pulled pork, and chicken are also very good. Their cornbread and mac & cheese is also incredibly good as well.
Most of their menu is less than $10.
331 locals recommend
12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER
5 Foundy StThe restaurant famous for being Obama's favorite during his visits to Asheville. 12 Bones makes really good local Carolina BBQ and it's all made from scratch. All of it, even their sauces, their sides, their cornbread, mac & cheese, it's all made from scratch. If you're looking to eat some authentic local cuisine then this is the place for you. My personal favorite is their beef briskets because I like beef, but their ribs, pulled pork, and chicken are also very good. Their cornbread and mac & cheese is also incredibly good as well.
Most of their menu is less than $10.
Homegrown offers good traditional Western North Carolina cuisine sourced from their own local farm. They have the same menu throughout the entire day so lunch and dinner doesn't matter. Their menu also changes every so often, but some things remain consistent like their buttermilk chicken. A delicious meal would be priced around $10 here.
173 locals recommend
HomeGrown
371 Merrimon AveHomegrown offers good traditional Western North Carolina cuisine sourced from their own local farm. They have the same menu throughout the entire day so lunch and dinner doesn't matter. Their menu also changes every so often, but some things remain consistent like their buttermilk chicken. A delicious meal would be priced around $10 here.
You may have to get a reservation if you're going here on the weekends. Curate is a tapas restaurant so if you're interested in indulging your taste-buds into many different flavors from assorted small dishes this may be the restaurant you're looking for. Curate serves Spanish cuisine with a New-American style fusion. So while it draws mainly from Spanish cuisine it also has the chef's own creative unique take on each dish.
Expect to spend at least $35 per person for dinner here without drinks
518 locals recommend
Cúrate
13 Biltmore AveYou may have to get a reservation if you're going here on the weekends. Curate is a tapas restaurant so if you're interested in indulging your taste-buds into many different flavors from assorted small dishes this may be the restaurant you're looking for. Curate serves Spanish cuisine with a New-American style fusion. So while it draws mainly from Spanish cuisine it also has the chef's own creative unique take on each dish.
Expect to spend at least $35 per person for dinner here without drinks
You may need to get a reservation ahead of time or call ahead to see if they're full during the weekends.
Chestnut is a New-American style restaurant offering foods with new creative twists. Most of their foods are made from scratch and sourced from fresh from local farms. This is a more upscale restaurant and the food as well as the service reflects it. While I typically only go for dinner here, they also serve an amazing brunch.
149 locals recommend
Chestnut
48 Biltmore AveYou may need to get a reservation ahead of time or call ahead to see if they're full during the weekends.
Chestnut is a New-American style restaurant offering foods with new creative twists. Most of their foods are made from scratch and sourced from fresh from local farms. This is a more upscale restaurant and the food as well as the service reflects it. While I typically only go for dinner here, they also serve an amazing brunch.
Mamacita's is the place for burrito lovers. If you're thinking Chipotle, but want it prepared at the quality of a small local owned restaurant then consider going to Mamacita's for your burrito cravings. They offer bowls, salads and other choices as well. Much like Chipotle, but way more delicious and only costs a dollar or two more than Chipotle.
88 locals recommend
Mamacita's Taqueria
77-A Biltmore AveMamacita's is the place for burrito lovers. If you're thinking Chipotle, but want it prepared at the quality of a small local owned restaurant then consider going to Mamacita's for your burrito cravings. They offer bowls, salads and other choices as well. Much like Chipotle, but way more delicious and only costs a dollar or two more than Chipotle.
Winner of Bon Apetit's Best Fried Chicken Sandwich of 2016! https://www.bonappetit.com/story/best-fried-chicken-sandwich-2016
This is my favorite place for bbq and all of the sides are amazing!
149 locals recommend
Buxton Hall Barbecue
32 Banks AveWinner of Bon Apetit's Best Fried Chicken Sandwich of 2016! https://www.bonappetit.com/story/best-fried-chicken-sandwich-2016
This is my favorite place for bbq and all of the sides are amazing!
12+ hour smoked bbq served fastfood fast. Their Brisket Bully is my favorite thing to order there. One of my favorite bbq restaurants here, and is especially nice if you're on a tight schedule and need food fast!
Shorties Drive-thru BBQ
6 Newfound Rd12+ hour smoked bbq served fastfood fast. Their Brisket Bully is my favorite thing to order there. One of my favorite bbq restaurants here, and is especially nice if you're on a tight schedule and need food fast!
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company has been around for as long as I remember and has changed names several times in the past. This is one of the best craft breweries in town, and their food is great as well. You can enjoy $3 movie tickets here on movies that are done being aired at mainstream theaters, but haven't been released on DVD/Blu-Ray/Internet yet.
They make a jalapeno pale ale called the Fire Escape that is one of my favorites. It's slightly spicy with great jalapeno flavor. You should definitely try it if you haven't tried a beer made with jalapeno, it's going to be nothing like you imagine. They also make my favorite IPA here called Shiva and is what they're more famous for.
243 locals recommend
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co
675 Merrimon AveAsheville Pizza & Brewing Company has been around for as long as I remember and has changed names several times in the past. This is one of the best craft breweries in town, and their food is great as well. You can enjoy $3 movie tickets here on movies that are done being aired at mainstream theaters, but haven't been released on DVD/Blu-Ray/Internet yet.
They make a jalapeno pale ale called the Fire Escape that is one of my favorites. It's slightly spicy with great jalapeno flavor. You should definitely try it if you haven't tried a beer made with jalapeno, it's going to be nothing like you imagine. They also make my favorite IPA here called Shiva and is what they're more famous for.
Chef Grush's food stand is always delicious and would never disappoint! This is the place you want to go if you want the best Cajun food Asheville has to offer! Like a food truck, you would have to check out his website at https://grushscajundinogrill.com/events/ to see where he will be!
Grushs Cajun Dino Grill
Chef Grush's food stand is always delicious and would never disappoint! This is the place you want to go if you want the best Cajun food Asheville has to offer! Like a food truck, you would have to check out his website at https://grushscajundinogrill.com/events/ to see where he will be!
One of my favorite fine-dining restaurants serving delicious Old-European styled cuisine! Their menu occasionally changes, and I would recommend going to their website http://www.thebullandbeggar.com/ to see their up to date menu!
Note : They serve amazingly delicious burgers on Mondays for only $13.
159 locals recommend
The Bull and Beggar
37 Paynes WayOne of my favorite fine-dining restaurants serving delicious Old-European styled cuisine! Their menu occasionally changes, and I would recommend going to their website http://www.thebullandbeggar.com/ to see their up to date menu!
Note : They serve amazingly delicious burgers on Mondays for only $13.
Chai Pani is an award winning Indian restaurant and is the best Indian restaurant I've ever been to. It serves food that are inexpensive, delicious, and very unique and unlike anything I've ever had at any other Indian restaurant.
311 locals recommend
Chai Pani Asheville
22 Battery Park AveChai Pani is an award winning Indian restaurant and is the best Indian restaurant I've ever been to. It serves food that are inexpensive, delicious, and very unique and unlike anything I've ever had at any other Indian restaurant.
One of the best fine-dining restaurants in Asheville. Their menu changes pretty often so I would check on their website https://vivianavl.com/
62 locals recommend
Vivian
348 Depot StOne of the best fine-dining restaurants in Asheville. Their menu changes pretty often so I would check on their website https://vivianavl.com/
Brewery - Probably the most well known brewery in Asheville. It's definitely one of the most visit breweries here for beer drinkers
479 locals recommend
Wicked Weed Brewing Pub
91 Biltmore AveBrewery - Probably the most well known brewery in Asheville. It's definitely one of the most visit breweries here for beer drinkers
Do you want the best biscuits you've ever had? Of course you do. This is where you're going to get it. There's several location in Asheville as well!
472 locals recommend
Biscuit Head
733 Haywood RdDo you want the best biscuits you've ever had? Of course you do. This is where you're going to get it. There's several location in Asheville as well!
Delicious international fusion inspired tacos! Buy a few different tacos inspired from different cuisines from across the world. Their duck mole tacos are amazing, and sometimes they'll have pork belly tacos too that I highly recommend.
440 locals recommend
White Duck Taco Shop
388 Riverside DrDelicious international fusion inspired tacos! Buy a few different tacos inspired from different cuisines from across the world. Their duck mole tacos are amazing, and sometimes they'll have pork belly tacos too that I highly recommend.
Frequently changing menu at a restaurant that regularly tops lists as one of the nation’s best vegan restaurants.
176 locals recommend
Plant
165 Merrimon AveFrequently changing menu at a restaurant that regularly tops lists as one of the nation’s best vegan restaurants.
One of my favorite places for lunch with big bold Caribbean flavors! The charcoal chicken, is one of my favorite things to order here!
17 locals recommend
Bomba
North Pack SquareOne of my favorite places for lunch with big bold Caribbean flavors! The charcoal chicken, is one of my favorite things to order here!
The best diner in Asheville. This is great for when you want massive meals where you can take half of it home! Large portions of quality classic diner meals. Significantly better than chain restaurants, and at the same price!
22 locals recommend
Cornerstone
102 Tunnel RdThe best diner in Asheville. This is great for when you want massive meals where you can take half of it home! Large portions of quality classic diner meals. Significantly better than chain restaurants, and at the same price!
Italian restaurant featuring generations of family recipes, house-made pasta, and local ingredients. Their freshly made pasta is amazing and I highly recommend their duck as well.
44 locals recommend
chiesa
152 Montford AveItalian restaurant featuring generations of family recipes, house-made pasta, and local ingredients. Their freshly made pasta is amazing and I highly recommend their duck as well.
Farm Burger Asheville
10 Patton AveLocally sourced grass-fed burgers.
Brewery - Wicked Weed's Funkatorium has a large variety of funky beers and sours. I recommend getting a flight here to try out their different flavors. It is also in the same building as Cultura which is also an amazing restaurant.
169 locals recommend
The Funkatorium
147 Coxe AveBrewery - Wicked Weed's Funkatorium has a large variety of funky beers and sours. I recommend getting a flight here to try out their different flavors. It is also in the same building as Cultura which is also an amazing restaurant.
The best breakfast spot in Asheville. Expect to wait in a line.............
588 locals recommend
Sunny Point Café
626 Haywood RdThe best breakfast spot in Asheville. Expect to wait in a line.............
Tupelo Honey
12 College StReinvisioned Carolina southern comfort foods!
You want some good Cuban food with some drinks and see Asheville from the Downtown rooftops? I think I found the place just for you!
Tip : If you're here for the 4th of July, make a reservation at one of the rooftop bars / restaurants and you'll be able to have comfortable seats with delicious foods and drinks to indulge yourself while you enjoy the fireworks with a rooftop view!
99 locals recommend
Hemingway's Cuba Restaurant & Bar
15 Page AveYou want some good Cuban food with some drinks and see Asheville from the Downtown rooftops? I think I found the place just for you!
Tip : If you're here for the 4th of July, make a reservation at one of the rooftop bars / restaurants and you'll be able to have comfortable seats with delicious foods and drinks to indulge yourself while you enjoy the fireworks with a rooftop view!
This restaurant is great for leisurely hanging out and eating tapas / appetizers while having a few drinks and then have a savory ramen. I like ordering the deluxe ramen with chili oil x2
There are 2 locations. One in West Asheville, and one in Downtown.
49 locals recommend
Itto Ramen Bar & Tapas
630 Haywood RdThis restaurant is great for leisurely hanging out and eating tapas / appetizers while having a few drinks and then have a savory ramen. I like ordering the deluxe ramen with chili oil x2
There are 2 locations. One in West Asheville, and one in Downtown.
Brewery - Burial Beer Co began its life in summer 2013 as a one-barrel system that grew to a ten-barrel in just over a year. It is now fed from a production facility, barrelhouse and taproom brewery. Their tap list and to go offerings reflect the evolution of their inspirations with new releases weekly. For those who are looking for something other than beer, their wine list is intentionally curated.
331 locals recommend
Burial Beer Co
40 Collier AveBrewery - Burial Beer Co began its life in summer 2013 as a one-barrel system that grew to a ten-barrel in just over a year. It is now fed from a production facility, barrelhouse and taproom brewery. Their tap list and to go offerings reflect the evolution of their inspirations with new releases weekly. For those who are looking for something other than beer, their wine list is intentionally curated.
New American fine-dining restaurant. I have never been disappointed here and their menu is frequently changing. As with most fine-dining in Asheville, go check out their latest menu on their website before deciding!
58 locals recommend
The Market Place
20 Wall StNew American fine-dining restaurant. I have never been disappointed here and their menu is frequently changing. As with most fine-dining in Asheville, go check out their latest menu on their website before deciding!
Gypsy Queen serves delicious Lebanese street food and operates a food truck as well. Their restaurant also includes a mini market inside which has Middle-Eastern groceries.
61 locals recommend
Gypsy Queen Market, Deli & Food Truck
807 Patton AveGypsy Queen serves delicious Lebanese street food and operates a food truck as well. Their restaurant also includes a mini market inside which has Middle-Eastern groceries.
One of the most frequently recommend restaurants in Asheville by food magazines and food blogs! Taqueria Munoz serves the most authentic flavor packed Mexican food you can find here.
34 locals recommend
Taqueria Muñoz
1438 Patton AveOne of the most frequently recommend restaurants in Asheville by food magazines and food blogs! Taqueria Munoz serves the most authentic flavor packed Mexican food you can find here.
Delicious restaurant with Hawaiian inspired meals, desserts, as well as cocktails. I've liked everything I've had here!
41 locals recommend
RosaBees
27 Foundy StDelicious restaurant with Hawaiian inspired meals, desserts, as well as cocktails. I've liked everything I've had here!
Parks & Nature
The Asheville Botanical Gardens has a short trail loop that can be completed in about 30 minute walk. It hosts over 600 different species of plantlife native to the Appalachian area.
The garden is completely free, and has a small parking lot at the entrance. They are closed at night.
194 locals recommend
Botanical Gardens at Asheville
151 W T. Weaver BoulevardThe Asheville Botanical Gardens has a short trail loop that can be completed in about 30 minute walk. It hosts over 600 different species of plantlife native to the Appalachian area.
The garden is completely free, and has a small parking lot at the entrance. They are closed at night.
The Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary is an oasis of wildlife with stunning views on the east side of the lake. Here you can find hundreds of different species of avian wildlife as well as many other creatures that live in that special habitat.
The great thing is, you can walk around the entire lake in about 30 to 40 minutes. It is completely free and you can enjoy a lakeside stroll while you're at it.
41 locals recommend
Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary
1056 Merrimon AvenueThe Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary is an oasis of wildlife with stunning views on the east side of the lake. Here you can find hundreds of different species of avian wildlife as well as many other creatures that live in that special habitat.
The great thing is, you can walk around the entire lake in about 30 to 40 minutes. It is completely free and you can enjoy a lakeside stroll while you're at it.
The North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region.
582 locals recommend
The North Carolina Arboretum
100 Frederick Law Olmsted WayThe North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region.
The Woodfin Riverside Park is a free park with river access. You can bring your tubes or kayaks to enter or exit the river from here. There is also areas for BBQ as well.
15 locals recommend
Woodfin Riverside Park
1598 Riverside DrThe Woodfin Riverside Park is a free park with river access. You can bring your tubes or kayaks to enter or exit the river from here. There is also areas for BBQ as well.
A short, easy-to-access hike through a rhododendron thicket brings you to the pinnacle and 360˚views, glorious sunsets or morning mist on the mountains. This close-to-Asheville hike includes a sampler of mountain scenery: long-range views, twisted laurel and dramatic rock formations.
143 locals recommend
Craggy Pinnacle Hike
3641 Blue Ridge PkwyA short, easy-to-access hike through a rhododendron thicket brings you to the pinnacle and 360˚views, glorious sunsets or morning mist on the mountains. This close-to-Asheville hike includes a sampler of mountain scenery: long-range views, twisted laurel and dramatic rock formations.
This 70-foot waterfall near Asheville cascades across an overhanging cliff, creating a rare treat of walking behind the ribbon falls. While the water flow is usually on the low side (except after a big rain like photo above), it's a beautiful setting and an easy hike in the Big Ivy area of Pisgah National Forest about 33 miles from downtown Asheville in northern Buncombe County. The last 9 miles is winding super scenic drive through the forest with 10 roadside cascades along the way, including Walker Falls.
32 locals recommend
Douglas Falls
This 70-foot waterfall near Asheville cascades across an overhanging cliff, creating a rare treat of walking behind the ribbon falls. While the water flow is usually on the low side (except after a big rain like photo above), it's a beautiful setting and an easy hike in the Big Ivy area of Pisgah National Forest about 33 miles from downtown Asheville in northern Buncombe County. The last 9 miles is winding super scenic drive through the forest with 10 roadside cascades along the way, including Walker Falls.
Two of the more difficult hiking trails start at Walker Knob Overlook. Big Butt Trail and Little Butt Trail. These are more some of the more difficult hikes. The Little Butt hike is known for its gorgeous scenic views of the Black Mountains and Mount Mitchell. The Little Butt Trail is about 5 miles roundtrip, Big Butt Trail is 6 miles roundtrip, and if you continue on to NC-197, that is 12 miles roundtrip
This high elevation (5,000+ feet), roller coaster hike along the mountain ridges is perfect on a hot summer's day since temperatures run 10-20 degrees cooler than in the city of Asheville, just 20 miles away.
Walker Knob Overlook
59700 Blue Ridge PkwyTwo of the more difficult hiking trails start at Walker Knob Overlook. Big Butt Trail and Little Butt Trail. These are more some of the more difficult hikes. The Little Butt hike is known for its gorgeous scenic views of the Black Mountains and Mount Mitchell. The Little Butt Trail is about 5 miles roundtrip, Big Butt Trail is 6 miles roundtrip, and if you continue on to NC-197, that is 12 miles roundtrip
This high elevation (5,000+ feet), roller coaster hike along the mountain ridges is perfect on a hot summer's day since temperatures run 10-20 degrees cooler than in the city of Asheville, just 20 miles away.
Catawba Falls Hiking Trail is relatively close to downtown Asheville (just 25 miles away) and offers stunning beauty thanks to a series of cascades that, together, are 100 feet tall. The U.S. Forest Service recently has made the easy-to-moderate trail even more enjoyable by adding two new footbridges so that you no longer have to rock hop across the river to enjoy the falls. The hike is just three miles round trip.
37 locals recommend
Catawba Falls Trailhead
3074 Catawba River RdCatawba Falls Hiking Trail is relatively close to downtown Asheville (just 25 miles away) and offers stunning beauty thanks to a series of cascades that, together, are 100 feet tall. The U.S. Forest Service recently has made the easy-to-moderate trail even more enjoyable by adding two new footbridges so that you no longer have to rock hop across the river to enjoy the falls. The hike is just three miles round trip.
When you think of views from the Blue Ridge Parkway, chances are these are the kinds of views that come to mind: the unimpeded, long-range vistas from Black Balsam Knob. Surrounded by wilderness, this tree-free ‘bald’ is an easy, family-friendly hike, ideal for picnicking or blueberry picking.
Appalachian “balds” such as Black Balsam and nearby Sam Knob and Tennent Mountain are unique in that they are covered with grass and low-growing vegetation rather than alpine forests, which would be more common at such a high altitude (Black Balsam is at an elevation of 6,214 feet).
169 locals recommend
Black Balsam Knob
Art Loeb TrailWhen you think of views from the Blue Ridge Parkway, chances are these are the kinds of views that come to mind: the unimpeded, long-range vistas from Black Balsam Knob. Surrounded by wilderness, this tree-free ‘bald’ is an easy, family-friendly hike, ideal for picnicking or blueberry picking.
Appalachian “balds” such as Black Balsam and nearby Sam Knob and Tennent Mountain are unique in that they are covered with grass and low-growing vegetation rather than alpine forests, which would be more common at such a high altitude (Black Balsam is at an elevation of 6,214 feet).
Fans of The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans were introduced to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest on the silver screen. Hikers can easily take in the view, too, with this easy, scenic stroll through the woods. With plenty of exposed rock around the falls, this is a great picnic spot.
109 locals recommend
Bridal Veil Falls
Fans of The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans were introduced to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest on the silver screen. Hikers can easily take in the view, too, with this easy, scenic stroll through the woods. With plenty of exposed rock around the falls, this is a great picnic spot.
Grandfather Mountain is a place of amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty that towers 5,946 feet above northwest North Carolina. A unit of the United Nations’ Southern Appalachian Man and Biosphere Reserve, the mountain is estimated to be 300 million years old – with certain rock formations dating back 1.2 billion years.
It also has the The Mile High Swinging Bridge, America’s highest suspension footbridge, that swings slightly between two mountain tops. It was built to give visitors easy access to the breathtaking view from Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak.
717 locals recommend
Grandfather Mountain
2050 Blowing Rock HwyGrandfather Mountain is a place of amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty that towers 5,946 feet above northwest North Carolina. A unit of the United Nations’ Southern Appalachian Man and Biosphere Reserve, the mountain is estimated to be 300 million years old – with certain rock formations dating back 1.2 billion years.
It also has the The Mile High Swinging Bridge, America’s highest suspension footbridge, that swings slightly between two mountain tops. It was built to give visitors easy access to the breathtaking view from Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak.
Ride down a well-worn slab of rock that has been providing summertime entertainment long before water slides became standard fare. Sliding Rock is a 60 foot natural water slide that ends in a 8 foot deep pool of water. There are 2 observation platforms, and is staffed during the season. This is a heavily used recreation area, come early.
384 locals recommend
Sliding Rock
Ride down a well-worn slab of rock that has been providing summertime entertainment long before water slides became standard fare. Sliding Rock is a 60 foot natural water slide that ends in a 8 foot deep pool of water. There are 2 observation platforms, and is staffed during the season. This is a heavily used recreation area, come early.
Entertainment & Activities
Float down the French Broad River and be lazy with a beer! Or bring some kids along to just relax as you drift down the river!
164 locals recommend
Zen Tubing
608 Riverside DrFloat down the French Broad River and be lazy with a beer! Or bring some kids along to just relax as you drift down the river!
Great adventures for those who love the outdoors. There's Rafting, Ziplines, Canyoneering, and Climbing here!
109 locals recommend
French Broad Adventures
12 Good Adventures LnGreat adventures for those who love the outdoors. There's Rafting, Ziplines, Canyoneering, and Climbing here!
Hit the slopes and do some skiing, snowboarding or snowtubing here at Wolf Ridge. You can rent your equipment or bring your own, and they have instructors as well.
153 locals recommend
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
578 Valley View CirHit the slopes and do some skiing, snowboarding or snowtubing here at Wolf Ridge. You can rent your equipment or bring your own, and they have instructors as well.
Take a tour of Downtown Asheville while drinking all the local craft brews on the Amazing Pubcycle!
52 locals recommend
Amazing Pubcycle
37 Biltmore AveTake a tour of Downtown Asheville while drinking all the local craft brews on the Amazing Pubcycle!
Pritchard Park is a Tree-lined city-center park where you can find people hanging out and taking a break from walking through downtown. You can find people playing chess here, and street performers putting on a show.
There is a very popular drum circle event here on Friday nights where people play drums and dance in the park. Anyone is welcome to participate in the dancing, playing the drums, or just hanging out and watching it all play out.
73 locals recommend
Pritchard Park
67 Patton AvePritchard Park is a Tree-lined city-center park where you can find people hanging out and taking a break from walking through downtown. You can find people playing chess here, and street performers putting on a show.
There is a very popular drum circle event here on Friday nights where people play drums and dance in the park. Anyone is welcome to participate in the dancing, playing the drums, or just hanging out and watching it all play out.
Float down the French Broad River and be lazy with a beer! Or bring some kids along to just relax as you drift down the river!
10 locals recommend
Sky Tubing
284 Lyman StFloat down the French Broad River and be lazy with a beer! Or bring some kids along to just relax as you drift down the river!
Navitat’s Mountaintop Tour – a totally unprecedented mountaintop adventure – will take you soaring higher, faster, and longer than ever before! Huge side-by-side ziplines and jaw-dropping speeds make this an experience unlike any other. Nowhere else will you find ziplines this high, fast and long fully integrated into a spectacular natural setting.
Suitable for first-timers and experienced thrill-seekers alike and guaranteed to be a truly unforgettable adventure. There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!
279 locals recommend
Navitat Canopy Adventures
242 Poverty Branch RdNavitat’s Mountaintop Tour – a totally unprecedented mountaintop adventure – will take you soaring higher, faster, and longer than ever before! Huge side-by-side ziplines and jaw-dropping speeds make this an experience unlike any other. Nowhere else will you find ziplines this high, fast and long fully integrated into a spectacular natural setting.
Suitable for first-timers and experienced thrill-seekers alike and guaranteed to be a truly unforgettable adventure. There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Great For Kids!! Family Adventure Destination open all year for ages 4 & over, minutes from Downtown Asheville with Asheville Canopy Ziplines, KidZip, Treetops Adventure Park, Kolo Bike Park and Mountain Bike Rentals. Asheville Treetops Adventure Park, an exciting Asheville attraction, is an aerial challenge course in the trees that has over 77 unique climbing, rolling, walking, jumping, swinging, and rappelling challenges anchored to over 30 trees and towering poles tucked into a wooded park for ages 4 and over. These challenge elements are divided into 7 different aerial adventure trails ranging from beginner to challenging levels. There are several elements that are representative of the activities you can do in North Carolina including a sky kayak, a parkway tunnel, a snowboard in the sky, swinging hula hoops, bumper boats and a zip hang glider, all in the trees that make this a “Truly Asheville Adventure.”
65 locals recommend
Adventure Center of Asheville
85 Expo DrGreat For Kids!! Family Adventure Destination open all year for ages 4 & over, minutes from Downtown Asheville with Asheville Canopy Ziplines, KidZip, Treetops Adventure Park, Kolo Bike Park and Mountain Bike Rentals. Asheville Treetops Adventure Park, an exciting Asheville attraction, is an aerial challenge course in the trees that has over 77 unique climbing, rolling, walking, jumping, swinging, and rappelling challenges anchored to over 30 trees and towering poles tucked into a wooded park for ages 4 and over. These challenge elements are divided into 7 different aerial adventure trails ranging from beginner to challenging levels. There are several elements that are representative of the activities you can do in North Carolina including a sky kayak, a parkway tunnel, a snowboard in the sky, swinging hula hoops, bumper boats and a zip hang glider, all in the trees that make this a “Truly Asheville Adventure.”
Great For Kids! Explore the amazing work of nature on the "inside" of a mountain. North Carolina's only show caverns features stalactite and stalagmite formations, an underground stream with native trout, hibernating bats, amazing mineral colors, the Bottomless Pool, and total darkness. The guided tour educates you on caverns ecosystems, geological history, and local history of the area.
317 locals recommend
Linville Caverns, Inc.
19929 U.S. 221Great For Kids! Explore the amazing work of nature on the "inside" of a mountain. North Carolina's only show caverns features stalactite and stalagmite formations, an underground stream with native trout, hibernating bats, amazing mineral colors, the Bottomless Pool, and total darkness. The guided tour educates you on caverns ecosystems, geological history, and local history of the area.
Take a walking tour of a goat farm and get an in depth look at how the first Grade "A" certified NC goat dairy farm operates. Round Mountain Creamery is a 28 acre goat dairy and farmstead nestled in the lush forests of Black Mountain, North Carolina. A knowledgeable guide will teach you the ins and outs of how they produce milk and cheeses. You will also be able to walk around and meet their goats. At the end of the tour you'll get to sample some of their cheeses.
Round Mountain Creamery
2203 Old Fort RdTake a walking tour of a goat farm and get an in depth look at how the first Grade "A" certified NC goat dairy farm operates. Round Mountain Creamery is a 28 acre goat dairy and farmstead nestled in the lush forests of Black Mountain, North Carolina. A knowledgeable guide will teach you the ins and outs of how they produce milk and cheeses. You will also be able to walk around and meet their goats. At the end of the tour you'll get to sample some of their cheeses.
Get a massage at the Asheville Salt Cave! Hidden away in Asheville is a surprising man-made salt cave, a peaceful retreat for therapeutic rest and healing. Some 20 tons of natural crystal salt from Poland creates an enriched micro-climate that enhances relaxation, rehabilitation, and balance. It's the only salt therapy center in the United States made of all-natural materials. The 9-foot tall cave is made of only salt, wood, and water - complete with twinkling stars overhead.
56 locals recommend
Asheville Salt Cave | Massage & Salt Spa Therapy
16 North Liberty StreetGet a massage at the Asheville Salt Cave! Hidden away in Asheville is a surprising man-made salt cave, a peaceful retreat for therapeutic rest and healing. Some 20 tons of natural crystal salt from Poland creates an enriched micro-climate that enhances relaxation, rehabilitation, and balance. It's the only salt therapy center in the United States made of all-natural materials. The 9-foot tall cave is made of only salt, wood, and water - complete with twinkling stars overhead.
Experience sensory deprivation and deep relaxation at Asheville's premier Salt Water Floatation and Esalen® Massage spa. Allow everyday stress and tension to gently melt away during a world-class Esalen® Massage, set your mind and body free with a restorative Salt Water Float (also known as sensory deprivation), detoxify and destress with a Far Infrared sauna session, or explore how thoughts manifest in the body with Somatic Psychology.
25 locals recommend
Still Point Wellness
946 Central AveExperience sensory deprivation and deep relaxation at Asheville's premier Salt Water Floatation and Esalen® Massage spa. Allow everyday stress and tension to gently melt away during a world-class Esalen® Massage, set your mind and body free with a restorative Salt Water Float (also known as sensory deprivation), detoxify and destress with a Far Infrared sauna session, or explore how thoughts manifest in the body with Somatic Psychology.
Wander through field and forest with expert guides, foraging mushrooms, wild fruits and more. Enjoy a cooking demo, tasting, and, after the tour, a free appetizer featuring your finds at one of Asheville’s top restaurants.
No Place Like Home
W Oakview RdWander through field and forest with expert guides, foraging mushrooms, wild fruits and more. Enjoy a cooking demo, tasting, and, after the tour, a free appetizer featuring your finds at one of Asheville’s top restaurants.
Sightseeing
Craggy Gardens is along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a very short hike. This direction of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most scenic and there are many overlooks where you can park for great views along the way. It takes about 30-40 minutes to drive there, and there is about a 30 minute hike at Craggy Gardens itself! On clear summer nights it's also a great place to go stargazing at!
224 locals recommend
Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
364 Blue Ridge PkwyCraggy Gardens is along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a very short hike. This direction of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most scenic and there are many overlooks where you can park for great views along the way. It takes about 30-40 minutes to drive there, and there is about a 30 minute hike at Craggy Gardens itself! On clear summer nights it's also a great place to go stargazing at!
Mount Mitchell’s dramatic summit is the highest point east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet and was the inspiration for one of the nation’s first state parks. From its easily accessible observation deck, the spruce-fir forest of Mount Mitchell State Park leads the eye to unmatched views.
114 locals recommend
Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell’s dramatic summit is the highest point east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet and was the inspiration for one of the nation’s first state parks. From its easily accessible observation deck, the spruce-fir forest of Mount Mitchell State Park leads the eye to unmatched views.
Chimney Rock, the 535-million-year-old monolith for which the Park is named, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. From its top, you’ll soak in the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. For the adventure-seekers, you can hike to the top of this towering 315-foot rock formation via the Outcroppings trail. Looking for a less intense journey? A state-of-the-art elevator is also available to get you closer to the top of the Chimney, leaving just 44-steps to the breath-taking view. At an elevation of 2,280 feet above sea level, this mountaintop experience will take your breath away. The climb is well worth the effort!
184 locals recommend
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
431 Main StreetChimney Rock, the 535-million-year-old monolith for which the Park is named, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. From its top, you’ll soak in the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. For the adventure-seekers, you can hike to the top of this towering 315-foot rock formation via the Outcroppings trail. Looking for a less intense journey? A state-of-the-art elevator is also available to get you closer to the top of the Chimney, leaving just 44-steps to the breath-taking view. At an elevation of 2,280 feet above sea level, this mountaintop experience will take your breath away. The climb is well worth the effort!
Craggy Dome Overlook
3641 Blue Ridge PkwyAn Overlook with amazing views
Arts & Culture
"The luxurious family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt is a marvel of elegance and charm, as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. Faithfully preserved and filled with original furnishings and masterpieces of art, no other residence in America offers a more authentic and inspiring view of Gilded Age life while suggesting that the Vanderbilts and their guests are still at home."
Visit this boujee largest private mansion museum!
1485 locals recommend
Biltmore
1 Lodge St"The luxurious family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt is a marvel of elegance and charm, as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. Faithfully preserved and filled with original furnishings and masterpieces of art, no other residence in America offers a more authentic and inspiring view of Gilded Age life while suggesting that the Vanderbilts and their guests are still at home."
Visit this boujee largest private mansion museum!
The Asheville Art Museum invites you to explore our outstanding Collection of American art of the 20th and 21st centuries and to discover the richness of Western North Carolina’s unique artistic history.
158 locals recommend
Asheville Art Museum
2 S Pack SquareThe Asheville Art Museum invites you to explore our outstanding Collection of American art of the 20th and 21st centuries and to discover the richness of Western North Carolina’s unique artistic history.
The Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) is a great destination to take kids. It is Western North Carolina’s home for experiential science learning, discovery, and exploration. AMOS strives to spark the imagination and foster lifelong curiosity.
74 locals recommend
Asheville Museum of Science
43 Patton AveThe Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) is a great destination to take kids. It is Western North Carolina’s home for experiential science learning, discovery, and exploration. AMOS strives to spark the imagination and foster lifelong curiosity.
Asheville's Kress Emporium showcases the work of over 80 regional artists and crafts people along with a wide selection of fine antiques and collectibles. Built in 1928, the historic Kress Building is an outstanding architectural landmark with its rich ceramic tile and neoclassic motifs.
46 locals recommend
Kress Emporium
19 Patton AveAsheville's Kress Emporium showcases the work of over 80 regional artists and crafts people along with a wide selection of fine antiques and collectibles. Built in 1928, the historic Kress Building is an outstanding architectural landmark with its rich ceramic tile and neoclassic motifs.
Since 1946, Asheville Community Theatre has been delighting audiences with high quality entertainment, making it the oldest continuously operating theatre in Asheville and one of the oldest community theatres in the nation! In the 70th season, they offer classic and contemporary comedies, musicals and dramas in both the 399 seat Heston Mainstage Auditorium and the 49 seat black box theatre
36 locals recommend
Asheville Community Theatre
35 E Walnut StSince 1946, Asheville Community Theatre has been delighting audiences with high quality entertainment, making it the oldest continuously operating theatre in Asheville and one of the oldest community theatres in the nation! In the 70th season, they offer classic and contemporary comedies, musicals and dramas in both the 399 seat Heston Mainstage Auditorium and the 49 seat black box theatre
Shopping
Tops For Shoes is a local family-owned business that has often boasted that they have the largest shoe selection in any retail store in this country. I don't know how true that is, but they do have a massive selection for those who like to all kinds of shoes.
59 locals recommend
Tops for Shoes
27 N Lexington AveTops For Shoes is a local family-owned business that has often boasted that they have the largest shoe selection in any retail store in this country. I don't know how true that is, but they do have a massive selection for those who like to all kinds of shoes.
Asheville Outlets is great for discount shoppers! The Dillards Outlet here is quite large and sells a very large variety of clothing and shoes at significant discount. These aren't outlet-line clothing that are made specifically for outlets either. They are a hub for unsold products from their stores across the region.
209 locals recommend
Asheville Outlets
800 Brevard RdAsheville Outlets is great for discount shoppers! The Dillards Outlet here is quite large and sells a very large variety of clothing and shoes at significant discount. These aren't outlet-line clothing that are made specifically for outlets either. They are a hub for unsold products from their stores across the region.
This local farmer's market is perfect for buying fresh produce, especially in bulk! The local honey here is amazing as well. You can also buy ramps here during ramps season.
85 locals recommend
WNC Farmers Market
570 Brevard RdThis local farmer's market is perfect for buying fresh produce, especially in bulk! The local honey here is amazing as well. You can also buy ramps here during ramps season.
My favorite local butchery! A lot of their meats are dry-aged and their sausages are always delicious! Great for buying meats to prepare a meal you want to show off with!
18 locals recommend
The Chop Shop Butchery
100 Charlotte StMy favorite local butchery! A lot of their meats are dry-aged and their sausages are always delicious! Great for buying meats to prepare a meal you want to show off with!
The largest mall in Western North Carolina. It has many of the basic mall brands, but don't expect it to be comparable from a mall of a large city.
85 locals recommend
Asheville Mall
3 S Tunnel RdThe largest mall in Western North Carolina. It has many of the basic mall brands, but don't expect it to be comparable from a mall of a large city.
From local boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and other small businesses. The Grove Arcade is like a mini mall full of local businesses
203 locals recommend
Grove Arcade
1 Page AveFrom local boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and other small businesses. The Grove Arcade is like a mini mall full of local businesses
Neighborhoods
Downtown Asheville is quite a unique place where most of the events are happening in Asheville. It is very eventful and packed full of mostly small local businesses. From live music at bars or concerts at the Orange Peel, Downtown Asheville is busy and eventful from day to night especially during the summer and weekends. This is also where the finer restaurants and many of Asheville's popular craft breweries are congregated. Many locals like to go downtown to meet up on nights off and visit the different breweries and restaurants while walking around.
339 locals recommend
Downtown
Downtown Asheville is quite a unique place where most of the events are happening in Asheville. It is very eventful and packed full of mostly small local businesses. From live music at bars or concerts at the Orange Peel, Downtown Asheville is busy and eventful from day to night especially during the summer and weekends. This is also where the finer restaurants and many of Asheville's popular craft breweries are congregated. Many locals like to go downtown to meet up on nights off and visit the different breweries and restaurants while walking around.
The River Arts District is a newly developed area for Asheville and has become a booming hub for Asheville artists. Prior to becoming the popular center for arts the River Arts District used to full of old factories and warehouses that were left abandoned. This eventually attracted graffiti artists from all over the city where they created large beautiful graffiti drawings all over the area. Now, it has become a focal point for artists as the entire district has been redeveloped for artists to open up art galleries to showcase their work.
700 locals recommend
River Arts District
3 River Arts PlThe River Arts District is a newly developed area for Asheville and has become a booming hub for Asheville artists. Prior to becoming the popular center for arts the River Arts District used to full of old factories and warehouses that were left abandoned. This eventually attracted graffiti artists from all over the city where they created large beautiful graffiti drawings all over the area. Now, it has become a focal point for artists as the entire district has been redeveloped for artists to open up art galleries to showcase their work.