Is Asheville Worth Visiting In 2024
Abby and Sam Price
Is Asheville worth visiting? If you’re looking for a unique and charming city to visit, Asheville, North Carolina should be at the top of your list.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts a thriving arts scene, delicious farm-to-table cuisine, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
We have visited Asheville on many different occasions and each time we leave with countless memories!
If you are wondering “Is Asheville worth visiting?” Keep reading to uncover numerous reasons why this beautiful town in the mountains should definitely be on your list of must visit destinations.
Is Asheville Worth A Visit?
Yes, Asheville is certainly worth a visit. Art lovers will be delighted by the vibrant arts community in Asheville. You can explore the River Arts District and watch artists creating pottery, paintings, and sculptures.
Asheville’s culinary offerings are also not to be missed. From craft breweries to boutique wineries to countless tasty restaurants, there’s something for every taste.
For nature enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville offer miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking vistas.
You can also head to the nearby Pisgah National Forest for camping, fishing, and mountain biking.
Asheville is truly a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, food, or outdoor activities, Asheville is a must-visit destination.
Best Things To Do In Asheville
Below I highlighted the best things to do in Asheville. Having visited the city on numerous occasions, we know the best and most entertaining things to do around town.
1. Grab Brunch
Asheville is a foodie’s paradise, and there’s no better way to start your day than with a delicious brunch.
With numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of tasty breakfast and lunch options, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
Plus, many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the mountains, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
From farm-to-table dishes to classic Southern comfort food, Asheville’s brunch scene has it all.
We recommend checking out Sunny Point Cafe, Biscuit Head, or Early Girl Eatery for delicious brunch experiences that you won’t forget!
So, whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast to fuel your day of exploring or a leisurely brunch with friends, Asheville has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
2. Go Brewery Hopping
Asheville is also known for its thriving craft beer scene, making it the perfect destination for brewery hopping.
With over 30 breweries, Asheville offers a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers to try.
Many of the breweries have outdoor seating areas where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a cold brew while taking in the beautiful mountain views.
Brewery hopping in Asheville is not only a fun way to spend an afternoon, but it also allows you to support local businesses and taste some of the best beer in the country.
We highly recommend that you check out some of our favorite craft beer joints in the area like The Funkatorium, Green Man Brewery, and Burial Beer Company.
So, whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity to do with friends, Asheville’s brewery scene is not to be missed.
3. Be Sure To Stop By The Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Asheville. With its stunning architecture, impressive gardens, and rich history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Estate has 250 rooms, a grand banquet hall, a beautiful library, vibrant gardens, and so much more.
Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Biltmore Estate is not to be missed.
4. Spend Time Outside
Asheville is in a phenomenal location right near Pisgah National Forest as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway.
We highly recommend that you pack your favorite energy bars for hitting the trails and make your way to one of these incredible spots in order to work up a sweat and take in the incredible mountainous views from one of the many awesome hiking trails in the area!
5. Visit The Legendary Asheville Pinball Museum
If you’re a fan of old school pinball games and arcade vibes, you must check out the Asheville Pinball Museum.
They’ve got an incredible selection of over 80 machines that’ll take you back to the pinball era.
It’s the perfect spot to spend some quality time with your loved ones, having fun and reliving good old memories.
6. Explore The Art Scene
Asheville has a thriving art scene with plenty of galleries and studios to explore.
The city is home to many talented artists who showcase their work in various forms, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
With regular art walks and events, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in the Asheville art scene.
Be sure to explore the River Arts District of Asheville for a neighborhood full of countless galleries, studios, and workshops!
7. Spend Time At A Museum
When visiting Asheville, be sure to spend some time at one of the many museums in the area.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for an educational experience, visiting a museum in Asheville is a must do activity.
We highly recommend checking out the Asheville Museum of Science for those interested in the science field.
This is a great museum for experiencing various exhibits and displays.
Plus, they offer several hands on activities and demonstrations to get involved in!
Spending time in a museum is not only the perfect rainy day activity to embark on in Asheville but it is also an excellent activity to do regardless of the weather or season!
Best Time To Visit Asheville
Fall is the perfect time to plan a trip to Asheville. The crisp autumn air provides the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s numerous parks.
The changing colors of the leaves make for a stunning backdrop as you walk through Asheville and take in the surrounding mountainous scenery.
Additionally, there are plenty of fall festivals and events to enjoy specifically during the months of September and October.
Plus, let’s not forget about the seasonal beers that many of Asheville’s breweries offer, such as pumpkin ales and Oktoberfest brews.
Visiting Asheville in the fall is a great way to experience all the city has to offer while enjoying the beauty of the season and the perfect autumn weather.
Best Places To Stay In Asheville
There are countless options to choose from when it comes to picking out accommodations in Asheville.
In order to make your decision a bit easier, check out our guide below for the best three places to stay in Asheville!
- Budget Friendly: Hotel Indigo Asheville Downtown – This is a great budget friendly option for those looking to stay in the middle of downtown Asheville. Plus, it is right near the Asheville Pinball Museum.
- Mid-Range: Foundry Hotel Asheville – This is an excellent mid-range hotel option just down the road from the South Slope Brewing District.
- Luxury: The Inn on Biltmore Estate – For those looking for a truly luxurious experience, be sure to check out the Biltmore Estate for its gorgeous architecture and landscape, fabulous amenities, and incredible gardens.
Things To Know Before Visiting Asheville
Continue diving in below as I outline a few key things you need to know before visiting Asheville!
✅ Check The Weather In Advance
Asheville is known for experiencing all four seasons so be sure to check the weather in advance and pack accordingly so that you have the appropriate clothing for which season you plan on visiting.
✅ Plan To Spend Time In The Great Outdoors
One of the best things about Asheville is its incredible location right near the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Be sure to plan time to hit some hiking trails, go on a scenic drive, or simply take in the views from outdoor seating downtown.
✅ Book in Advance
Asheville is rising in popularity, make sure to book your hotel and restaurant reservations in advance.
FAQs About: Is Asheville Worth Visiting?
Below I have answered a few of the most commonly asked questions about Asheville.
How many days do you need in Asheville?
You can easily spend one perfect day in Asheville. However, you will be super busy trying to check everything off!
In general, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Asheville so that you take in the art scene, eat at several restaurants, visit a museum or two, and spend some time outdoors.
What’s so special about Asheville?
Asheville is a special city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and art.
Its vibrant scene, combined with its stunning natural beauty surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, make it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Why is Asheville a good place to visit?
Asheville is a good place to visit because of its history, culture, art, and mountainous landscape.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying the great outdoors, or simply immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, Asheville has something for everyone.
What are the best months to go to Asheville?
We recommend visiting Asheville during the fall months such as September or October because of the incredible autumn weather, beautiful fall foliage, and awesome outdoor seating that is perfect for beer drinking and eating delicious bites to eat.
Another fabulous time we recommend checking out Asheville is during the holiday season. This mountain town is known for its festive celebrations, gingerbread house competition, and Christmas decor, making it the perfect place for a winter getaway!
Final Thoughts: Is Asheville Worth Visiting?
Asheville is totally worth a visit because it boasts a great mix of history, culture, and nature.
As someone who has visited Asheville on multiple occasions, we keep returning because of its lively arts scene, incredible craft beer scene, along with its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Asheville is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a unique and memorable travel experience.
