Everything to Know About Asheville
Here's how to plan the best possible trip to this city in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Though its popularity continues to grow, one of the best things about Asheville holds true: the vibe in the mountain city is relaxed and casual, where everyone from every walk of life feels welcome and right at home.
When to Go
The temperate weather found in Asheville makes it an ideal destination year-round. Winters are typically mild enough that a round or two of golf is still an option, while the heat of the hottest summer days is brief in the higher altitude. Fall foliage and spring blooms make these two seasons enjoyable, too.
Celebrate
Whether your tastes lean toward flowers, crafts, beer, or music, there are plenty of festivals for which to plan a trip to Asheville. Each spring, Biltmore Blooms takes over the grounds at Biltmore, and in the summer and fall traditional and contemporary crafts are on display at the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands. Dance the days away at the Mountain Dance & Folk Festival, and see what’s on tap at the Brewgrass Festival in the fall.
What to Eat
The natural streams around Asheville are filled with trout, so it may not come as a surprise that many of the restaurants around the city feature dishes such as caviar and smoked dips made with the fresh fish.
Souvenir to Take Home
Browse through the hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, glass, baskets, ironwork, and much more at the Allanstand Craft Shop at the Folk Art Center, and take a piece of Asheville home with you. All of the items found within the shop were made by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild.
- Nat Geo Expeditions
Sustainable Travel Tip
When visiting Asheville, why not depend on your own two legs for getting around? The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly, and to venture farther afield, hop on a bike and start peddling! Before heading out, get the lay of the land on a hop-on, hop-off vintage trolley tour so you know just where you want to go.
Instagram-Worthy View
There are plenty of Instagram-worthy spots in Asheville and the surrounding areas, from sunsets atop the Blue Ridge Parkway, splashing in the French Broad River, or in front of vibrant street art found on buildings. For a bit of whimsy, we suggest seeking out the giant iron in downtown, across from, unsurprisingly, the Flatiron Building.
