Ringed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, N.C., is a vibrant city pulsing with creativity, nature and a love for all things local. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to call the city your home, here are some great spots to visit that showcase the heart and soul of Asheville.
Downtown Asheville art galleries
Downtown Asheville boasts an array of galleries that reflect the city’s thriving arts scene. Stroll along Broadway and Biltmore Avenue to discover gems like Blue Spiral 1, a cornerstone of Asheville’s art community for over three decades, showcasing contemporary Southeastern artists. Another favorite is American Folk Art & Framing, beloved for its quirky, regional charm.
Haywood Road in West Asheville
Looking for an eclectic vibe? Head to West Asheville’s walkable Haywood Road, lined with funky boutiques, record shops, vintage stores and eateries. Grab a bite at Sunny Point Café (a local staple for brunch) or dig through vinyl at Harvest Records, a longstanding beacon for music lovers.
Biltmore Village and Biltmore Estate
Just south of downtown, Biltmore Village offers cobblestone charm and upscale shops housed in historic cottages. Pair that with a trip to Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately owned home. Whether you’re touring the mansion, strolling the stunning gardens and greenhouse, or sipping wine at the estate’s winery, Biltmore is a magical must-see.
The North Carolina Arboretum
Nature and tranquility reign at the N.C. Arboretum. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s a peaceful escape featuring beautifully manicured gardens, rotating art installations, and scenic hiking and biking trails. The Bonsai Exhibit Garden is a particularly popular draw.
River Arts District
The River Arts District is Asheville’s creative heart, home to former industrial buildings-turned-working studios. Pop into RAD’s Pink Dog Creative or The Wedge Studios to take in a range of artwork, then be sure to fuel up with a cortado at Ultra Coffeebar or a tasty taco at the Grey Eagle Taqueria.
Downtown Asheville’s rooftop bars
For a drink or snack with a view, Asheville’s downtown rooftop bar scene delivers. Enjoy panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains at spots like Capella on 9 in the AC Hotel or Hemingway’s Cuba rooftop patio, part of the Cambria Hotel.
The Sunset Terrace at Grove Park Inn
No evening in Asheville is complete without sunset cocktails at The Omni Grove Park Inn. The historic inn’s iconic stone terrace overlooks rolling mountain ridges and is one of the best spots in town to luxuriate in the area’s spectacular sunsets.
Pack Square
Asheville’s central downtown square is a lively combo of culture, flavor and fun, circled by stellar examples of some of the finest art deco architecture in the country. Explore the Asheville Art Museum, grab decadent truffles or a sipping chocolate flight at French Broad Chocolate Lounge, or enjoy street performers and seasonal festivals in the large green of Pack Square Park.
Blue Ridge Parkway & Folk Art Center
Asheville’s location affords amazing access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a national treasure comprising breathtaking views, popular parks and some of the best hiking trails on the East Coast. Stop at the Folk Art Center, which celebrates Southern Appalachian crafts with live demonstrations and a gallery shop stocked with handmade goods. Then, cruise the Parkway for long-range overlooks and exhilarating trails.
Montford Historic District
Just north of downtown sits the Montford Historic District, a stunning neighborhood rich in charm and diverse architecture. In the summer, don’t miss a free evening performance by the Montford Park Players, Asheville’s resident Shakespeare company. Wrap up your visit with a peaceful stroll through Riverside Cemetery, the final resting place of authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry, among other notable figures.
For more information on real estate that puts you in the heart of Asheville’s action, please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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