Asheville
Things to do
Blue Heron Whitewater
Located in Marshall, Blue Heron White water has been voted one of the best in the Asheville area. They offer a variety of packages.
Appalachian Mural Trail
Go on a mural quest, a cultural treasure hunt throughout the historical streets of Asheville!
Sandy Bottom Trail Rides
Scenic trail rides in the North Carolina Mountains.
Max Patch Trail
Easy to moderate hike. Max Patch is a “bald,” the Southern Appalachian name for a hilltop without a single tree.
Pisgah National Forest
Enjoy a scenic ride, have a picnic or go on a hike, the Pisgah National Forest is absolutely stunning all year round. Check out the natural waterslide Sliding Rock.
Mt. Mitchell
At 6,684, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. At its summit you'll find a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding Appalachian landscape, filled with mountains and valleys.
Music Scene
Asheville's music scene is born of age old traditions, nurtured by a spirit of independence and the muse of the mountain landscape.
River Arts District
The River Arts District in Asheville is renowned for the creativity of its hundreds of artists.
Biltmore Estate
George Vanderbilt's 250-room castle is America's Largest Home and a top attraction in Asheville. We have never been inside (because we always bring the dogs), but we enjoy walking around the grounds and beautiful gardens
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Parkway covers a wide range of habitats along the Appalachian Mountains, and some of these habitats are exceptionally rare.
Downtown Asheville
Stroll through a vibrant entertainment hub in the heart of Asheville, brimming with independent shops, farm-fresh eateries, and a remarkably distinctive mountain vibe.
Gray Line Trolley
Offering local Asheville sightseeing tours and private chartered transportation for weddings, groups and other special events.
Food Scene
These are our four favorite restaurants, but there it so much more to Asheville’s food scene. Asheville was recently voted the no 1 spot in Yelp’s newly released top cities for foodies survey. Please contact us if you would like more recommendations.
Curate
Located in downtown Asheville, Curate specializes in tapas and small plate. Very authentic delicious Spanish food. You do need to make a reservation. If you are not able to get a table, we do have the cookbook at the house and you can try out your culinary skills.
Rhubarb
Strong ties with Western North Carolina’s farmers, foragers, and food artisans are the cornerstone for the simple yet elegant Southern fare five-time James Beard Award finalist John Fleer crafts at Rhubarb. You do need to make a reservation
12 Bones Smokehouse
Delicious, authentic barbecue in the River Art District in Asheville. Huge portions and good prices. We usually bring our dogs, so we sit outside, but there is seating inside. They don't take reservations.
Chai Pani Asheville
Indian Street Food plus homestyle platters (thalis). Some of the best Indian food we have had in the US. They don't take reservations, first come first served. Expect a line as it is very popular.
Breweries
Best Bars
The Montford Rooftop Bar
Perched atop the 8-floor of DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown, this rooftop has stellar mountain views from the outdoor terrace or indoor bar. Enjoy the sunset while savoring a cocktail and sampling small bites from the local, seasonal menu
Pillar Rooftop Bar
Atop the Hilton Garden Inn at the corner of Charlotte and College streets, this “garden-to-glass” bar offers signature craft cocktails, regional beers and sustainable wines. Enjoy the southern fusion cuisine, sharing small plates and sipping cocktails with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hemingway's Cuba
Near the Grove Arcade, atop Cambria Downtown Asheville, this rooftop bar has a large outdoor terrace complete with outdoor firepits and cozy couches to soak in the Blue Ridge views. Enjoy a variety of craft cocktails, local brews and wine. The traditional Cuban menu has a great selection of small plates, entrees and desserts to choose from
Thirsty Monk
Recognized as one of the best beer bars in the world, they tap 1,000+ different beers a year. The upstairs bar features American Craft Beers with 20 rotating tap lines. Take the stairs down to the basement level to the Belgian Bar (50 Commerce St.) with 16 Belgian, European and rare beers on draught.