Ah, Asheville! This North Carolina mountain city has just the right mix of funky charm, art, food, and views. If Portland, Oregon, had a southern cousin, Asheville would be it.
We started visiting not long after we got married, and one of the most unforgettable memories was catching The Smashing Pumpkins during their two-week residency at The Orange Peel.
That trip was full of vegan food (before we became vegetarians) and endless conversations about how dog-friendly the town was. Years later, we’ve camped nearby, returned with our pups, and enjoyed much of what Asheville has to offer.
So, what exactly does Asheville offer as far as fun adventures and things to do? Let’s get into it!
Asheville Breweries Worth Visiting
We rang in New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in Asheville, and it didn’t take long to realize just how many breweries are tucked around the city. On this trip, we kept it simple with two stops.
New Belgium Brewing
Perched right on the French Broad River, New Belgium has a picture-perfect setup. There’s a big lawn out front, plenty of space for pups to run around, and a balcony that overlooks the water.
The vibe inside feels polished and corporate, but outside it’s laid-back and fun. We grabbed a couple of Voodoo Rangers: an IPA for me, an Imperial for Gerry, and even though the night air was chilly, the beer made up for it.
Zillicoah Beer Company
This one was more our scene. Zillicoah has an industrial, warehouse feel with concrete floors, picnic tables, and the brewing setup in plain view. It’s relaxed, low-key, and welcoming.
We grabbed IPAs, wandered out back, and were greeted by the smell of tacos from Taqueria Munoz parked right outside. Good beer plus a food truck? That’s our happy place.
Touring the Biltmore Estate
Biltmore is often the headliner when people plan a trip to Asheville, and honestly, it’s worth it. The house itself is enormous, but what surprised me most was the acreage, the sheer amount of space and beauty surrounding it.
Since we went during the busy New Year’s holiday, it felt a little like shuffling along in a line, but even with the crowds, it was still impressive. The Downton Abbey exhibit was running when we visited, which added a fun twist with costumes and displays spread between the house, Amherst at Deerpark, and The Biltmore Legacy.
We wrapped up with lunch at the Village Hotel at Biltmore, where a black bean burger and homemade chips hit the spot after a night of IPAs and wine. And yes, chatting with the Biltmore cows ended up being the highlight of the day. Don’t skip them!
Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Tour
If you like your history served with a pint (and maybe a few chills), add the Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Tour to your list.
It’s part ghost tour, part pub crawl, and a unique way to experience the city after dark.
You’ll hear eerie stories from Asheville’s past while sipping local brews in some of the city’s most spirited bars. It’s not just for thrill-seekers. It’s also a fun way to dive into Asheville’s quirky side while exploring its nightlife.
Grove Park Inn and the Sunset Trail
Another spot that deserves a place on your Asheville itinerary is the historic Grove Park Inn.
You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy it. This landmark is worth visiting just for the mountain views alone. Step inside the grand lobby with its massive stone fireplaces, grab a cocktail at the Sunset Terrace, or book a dinner reservation for a night to remember.
If you’d rather stretch your legs, head outside and hike the Sunset Trail that winds through the surrounding area. It’s a dose of history, luxury, and nature all in one stop.
Where to Stay: The Restoration Hotel
When it comes to where we recommend staying in Asheville, The Restoration Hotel is at the top of our list. It’s right in the middle of downtown, so you can walk to just about everything, but it also feels like a retreat once you’re inside.
We loved starting the morning with coffee from The Rise, grabbing casual bites and drinks at The Draftsman, and then heading up to The Observatory rooftop for cocktails with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The rooms are stylish yet cozy, and it really feels like the kind of place that makes your Asheville trip even more special.
Why Asheville Keeps Us Coming Back
Asheville isn’t just about one thing. It’s breweries, historic mansions, mountain views, street art, music, and yes, Dolly Parton murals you’ll find downtown. Every visit feels different, and every trip gives us a reason to plan another.
Whether you’re here for the craft beer, the grandeur of Biltmore, or a spooky night out on a haunted pub tour, Asheville is the kind of place that keeps pulling you back.
