If you're like me, you want to see the world.
All of the corners. The unique places, the "must-see" hotspots, and every place in between. And because of this, you realistically won't re-visit the same place twice. Or repeatedly. But sometimes, there is that one place that sticks with you, and you just gotta get back to it.
That place for me is Asheville, North Carolina.
This picturesque city, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is quite the place. While seemingly in the middle of nowhere, this city of nearly 90,000 has something for EVERYONE. It takes the best from a variety of cultures - a slower-pace and friendly environment (Appalachian), combined with a Bohemian-feel and artistic blend of music and art, topped off with an extremely inclusive vibe. There is no one flavor of Asheville. The culture and environment breathes individualism and acceptance of others, which is infectious.
Outdoor Pursuits
As a hiker, I am all about getting outside. Asheville is the place for that. As you explore the downtown area, your horizons and backdrops consist of mountains. However, be prepared to get your hike on in town, too. The rolling hills create a beautiful downtown scene. Your fitbit challenge will be crushed!
Asheville is quite literally surrounded by adventure. The city is squeezed in between three forests: Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Northwest, Pisgah National Forest to the Northeast, and Nantahala National Forest to the Southwest. These forests are full of waterfalls, mountain tops, and scenic drives. The Blue Ridge Parkway is perfect for those wanting adventure from the convenience of their car.
The winding road provides breathtaking views and pull-off spots for that perfect picture. Drive through the clouds and find Mount Mitchell (the highest elevation east of the Mississippi River) - a short drive out of the city. And be sure to check out the quirky places, too! If you're feeling extra adventurous, take the plunge at Sliding Rock, a 60-feet natural slide.
Arts
Art is not lacking in this small mountain city. Walk by beautiful mural pieces en route to downtown. Stop and buy an authentic West African Kalimba from a street vendor along the road.
Hear musical act from street performers, who play instruments from the guitar and dulcimer all the way to people successfully playing a saw. Yes, a saw. Walk through galleries to see local sculptures, paintings, and photography. Like it? Go ahead and buy it as a keepsake. Check out an itinerary for the day here.
Food
Holy wow. Asheville food is outta this world. It's almost worth the trip to just grab a bite and head out after. With Asheville being an inclusive community, there is food for anyone and everyone. From vegan to fine dining to international cuisine, your new favorite meal is mostly likely located here. Here are a couple of places you have to try:
Breakfast - Tupelo Honey
I can say with absolute certainty that this is the best breakfast I've ever had. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, Tupelo Honey offers complimentary warm biscuits while you are waiting on your food. Combine it with, you guessed it, honey, and BOOM. Explosion of flavor. You'll want to eat 25-30 of these things, but hold off - the food is just as good.
Breakfast/Lunch - HomeGrown
Be on the lookout - you may drive right past this homey-looking building without even noticing it. This modest building houses one of the coolest spots in Asheville. You instantly have the comforting feeling of being in a house when eating here. Order a delicious meal off of the giant chalkboard menu. Have a cup of coffee out of a random coffee mug. As you're waiting, browse the various artwork on the walls. If you see something you like, buy it off of the wall. After you order, grab a seat in one of the rooms, or grab a seat at the outdoor patio.
Lunch - White Duck Taco
As you're shopping on the main drag, be sure to stop for a bite at White Duck Taco. These unique and creative gourmet street tacos pack of punch of flavor. You can order a la carte and find the one that fits you best. Or, go on the wild side and get one that you've heard of before. This also allows for a quick bite if you're on the go! White Duck is a must for taco lovers.
Dinner - Farm Burger
Right around the corner from the main drag is Farm Burger. Order up front and find a seat or grab a seat at the bar and grab a menu. You'll find a variety of delicious grass-fed burgers options, as well as vegan burger options (YUM). Oh, and you can't leave Farm Burger without getting the mouth-watering FB Fries.
Beer
Asheville was ranked as one the "Best New Cities For Beer" in 2016 by Fortune Magazine. And it lives up to the name. There are approximately 30 breweries just in the city - making it the 3rd highest brewery-per-population ratio in the country (AVL Today, 2018). Stay in the downtown area, or branch out to West Asheville to grab a cold brew. From blondes to IPAs, this city has you covered.
Shopping
Asheville prides itself on its sense of locale. Everywhere you look, there are local stores. Soaps, clothes, records, books, vintage furniture, a solar charging shop - just about anything you can image. Park your car across from the Grove Arcade and walk through the historic building - hopefully it's during a farmers market! Once you are parked, you can walk nearly anywhere! If you really are in a need for chain shopping, an outlet mall is on the outskirts of town.
The Biltmore.
Yes, I dedicated a whole paragraph to this place. If you've never heard of the Biltmore, google it. This is the closest that you'll see to a royal castle in America. 250 rooms, 43 bathrooms, and a 70-foot high banquet room. I mean, this place is other-wordly. And that is not including the grounds. Before the mansion was built, a literal village was built first for the workers who constructed the mansion over a 6-year period. This village still stands outside of the Biltmore Estate today and serves as restaurants and shops for tourists. Go in the wintertime for a whole different experience, complete with thousands of lights and decorations.
(Photo credit to Biltmore.com)
Asheville, North Carolina is the hidden gem that you have never seen. A new restaurant, hiking spot, or charming neighborhood seems to magically appear each time you visit this smaller mountain town. If you are considering taking a trip and don't know where to start, have no fear - the city website is the best in the business.
If you've been to Asheville before, I would love to know in the comments where your go-to spots are. I'm always trying to learn about new places in this special town.
-MT