Discover the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina, from Blue Ridge Mountain hikes and local breweries to incredible restaurants, historic attractions, and charming Black Mountain. Plan the perfect mountain getaway with local tips, budget-friendly activities, places to stay, and guided tours.
Asheville is extra special to The Travel Brats because Nat grew up in nearby Black Mountain. This part of Western North Carolina has always offered the best of both worlds: the energy of a vibrant mountain city and the slower pace of small-town life.
Whether you’re hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, discovering a new favorite restaurant, browsing local art studios, or spending an afternoon in Black Mountain, there’s always something new to explore.
Our favorite advice? Don’t limit yourself to downtown Asheville. Venture into the surrounding mountain towns, leave time for spontaneous stops, and experience the region beyond the usual tourist attractions.
Discover Asheville’s fascinating past on a guided tour led by a local historian.
$19-$30
Discover the heart of downtown Asheville on a guided walking tour. Explore its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant local culture. Perfect for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts looking to get to know the city.
$20-$40
Explore Asheville’s rich history and the culture of Western North Carolina on a guided tour. Uncover the city’s Appalachian heritage and learn about its bold vision of becoming the “Paris of America.”
$100-$110
Discover Asheville’s architectural gems, take in its beautiful scenery, and hear the stories that bring its past and present to life. Leave with personalized recommendations to make the most of the rest of your trip.
$60-$85
Enjoy a 3-hour adventure exploring Asheville’s highlights, from the French Broad River and River Arts District to scenic Blue Ridge Mountain overlooks, the iconic Omni Grove Park Inn, historic Montford, Riverside Cemetery, vibrant murals, and so much more. Guests will explore downtown Asheville on easy-to-ride e-bikes, discovering historic landmarks, vibrant murals, fascinating local stories, and the city’s uniquely quirky charm.
$63-$79
Discover Asheville’s renowned craft beer scene on a guided, behind-the-scenes tour of three local breweries or cider houses. Sample local favorites and enjoy a pretzel snack along the way! Best for craft beer lovers
$99
Enjoy a unique brewery-hopping adventure in Asheville, NC, combining a relaxing river float with stops at local bars and breweries. Sip refreshing drinks, take in scenic river views, and experience Asheville’s vibrant craft beer scene along the way
$75-$90
Explore downtown Asheville on a guided food tour featuring six delicious tastings. Discover the city’s rich history and architecture while sampling local favorites, from chargrilled chicken tikka rolls and paninis to authentic Southern cuisine. Perfect for foodies eager to experience Asheville one bite at a time!
$90-$110
Soar above the Blue Ridge Mountains on an exhilarating mountaintop zipline adventure. Take in breathtaking mountain views as you race through the treetops and experience an unforgettable adrenaline rush!
$100-$140
Soar through the treetops on an exciting zipline adventure in Asheville! Perfect for all ages, this family-friendly experience offers fun, thrills, and unforgettable views for kids and adults alike
$79
Discover the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a guided adventure from Asheville! Hike to three stunning waterfalls, explore two protected forests, and take in breathtaking mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway (weather and seasonal access permitting).
$90-$120
Discover the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a guided adventure from Asheville! Hike to three stunning waterfalls, explore two protected forests, and take in breathtaking mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway (weather and seasonal access permitting
$90-$120
Enjoy high-elevation mountain views, seasonal rhododendrons, and scenic trails. Check current access first.
Free
Explore trails and viewpoints at the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Free
A small group hike off the beaten track in Pisgah National Forest. Unique quiet trails with views and spectacular examples of the beauty of the region. Even a waterfall or two if time permits
$100-$114
Visit the natural rock waterslide near Brevard during suitable conditions and seasonal operation.
Free
Take to the skies for breathtaking views of Asheville and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains! This unforgettable helicopter tour offers a unique perspective of iconic sights like the Biltmore Estate, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, and beyond.
$97
Watch the sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains on an open-air Jeep adventure from Asheville. Sip a warm drink at a scenic overlook while discovering the region’s fascinating mountain folklore and local legends.
$106
Explore the vibrant fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Mountains on an open-air Jeep tour near Asheville. Stop at breathtaking scenic overlooks and Graveyard Fields to capture photos and hear fascinating local stories.
$106
Explore Pisgah’s famous “Land of Waterfalls” on a 3-hour guided open-air Jeep tour from Asheville, discovering 2–3 spectacular waterfalls, from well-known favorites to hidden gems
$99
Visit Natalie's hometown for small-town charm, local shops, restaurants, and mountain scenery.
Free
Discover the Vanderbilt mansion, historic interiors, gardens, and grounds at this iconic Asheville attraction.
$110-$400
Browse artist studios and galleries, and look for locally made art and souvenirs. Check current openings.
FreeWhether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a girls’ trip, a family getaway, or an outdoor adventure, Asheville makes it easy to customize your itinerary.
Mix free mountain hikes with a special meal, add a guided food or brewery tour, or spend a day exploring Biltmore Estate. If you have extra time, head east to Black Mountain or plan a day trip toward Brevard.
You don’t need to book every hour of your trip. Choose a few must-do experiences, leave room for exploring, and always check current road, trail, and attraction conditions before heading out.
A popular West Asheville brunch stop for a hearty start to your day.
A Black Mountain local favorite to consider when visiting Natalie's hometown.
Southern-inspired comfort food and casual dining.
A Black Mountain café for breakfast, brunch, and baked goods.
Indian street food-inspired dishes with bold flavors.
Caribbean-inspired dishes and hearty meals with plenty of flavor.
A polished downtown dining option for a date night or special meal.
A popular choice for Southern comfort food and regional favorites.
A satisfying burger stop featuring farm-sourced ingredients.
A casual Black Mountain option for pizza with friends or family.
A Black Mountain option for wood-fired pizza.
Cuban coffee, pressed sandwiches, plantains, and other Cuban favorites in Black Mountain.
A stylish Black Mountain restaurant for creative seasonal American dishes.
French crêpes and Latin-inspired dishes in Black Mountain.
A downtown option for American comfort food, sandwiches, and seafood.
A relaxed spot for pub-style food and craft beer in Black Mountain.
Traditional German comfort food, beer, and classic desserts.
South African-inspired food in a distinctive, rustic setting. This special spot has been featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives."
A major craft brewery with a restaurant and expansive campus in Mills River.
A well-known brewery with a range of craft beer styles.
A popular riverfront brewery to pair with exploring the arts district.
One of Asheville's pioneering craft breweries, with a taproom and event space.
A longtime Asheville brewery specializing in English-inspired ales.
Creative craft beers, including IPAs and stouts.
A relaxed brewery for trying rotating craft beer selections.
A laid-back brewery to pair with exploring the River Arts District.
Experimental beers and inventive flavors for adventurous craft beer fans.
An independent brewery near downtown Black Mountain.
A regional brewery near Black Mountain known for its outdoor setting and live music events.
A small-batch brewery in Black Mountain with a casual, community feel.
Asheville is made for a long weekend! You can spend one day exploring downtown’s restaurants, breweries, and art galleries, another chasing waterfalls and mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and your final morning discovering the charming small-town shops and cafés of nearby Black Mountain. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or an adventure-filled weekend, Asheville offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, local flavor, and mountain-town charm. Our tip? Leave room in your itinerary for a spontaneous hike, a hidden gem, or one more local brewery stop!
A boutique hotel in a renovated historic steel foundry, ideal for travelers who appreciate distinctive design.
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An upscale boutique-style hotel downtown near Asheville's restaurants, shops, and galleries.
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A creative boutique hotel in the River Arts District with colorful artwork and distinctive interiors.
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A modern hotel with a central location for exploring downtown.
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A wide selection of Asheville-area vacation homes and mountain cabins, from cozy escapes to larger luxury properties.
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Cabins and vacation homes around Black Mountain, Montreat, and nearby communities.
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A wooded cabin retreat for couples and families wanting a peaceful setting.
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An iconic historic resort with grand stone architecture, mountain views, and a renowned spa
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An elegant stay on the Biltmore Estate, convenient for visiting the mansion and gardens.
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An upscale downtown boutique property with spacious suites and residential-style amenities.
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A historic boutique hotel near downtown Black Mountain's shops and restaurants.
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A Victorian bed-and-breakfast offering historic character and a cozy atmosphere in Black Mountain.
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A casual, retro-inspired lodging option for exploring Black Mountain and its surroundings.
The best base for first-time visitors who want restaurants, independent shops, breweries, cultural attractions, and plenty to explore on foot.
A charming small-town alternative east of Asheville, with local restaurants, shops, mountain views, and a personal connection to Travel Brat Nat.
A creative area for exploring artist studios, murals, galleries, and Asheville's arts scene. Check current business openings before visiting.
Best for travelers who want cabins, scenic drives, hiking, waterfalls, and outdoor excursions. A car is generally useful for exploring this wider region.
Travel Brat Tip: Don’t try to squeeze every mountain attraction into one day! Build in time for scenic overlooks, spontaneous stops, and a local brewery or coffee shop along the way.
City exploring, food, culture
Hiking, scenic drives, adventure
Small-town charm, local food, relaxed exploration
Nat grew up in Black Mountain, just east of Asheville. Don't miss the chance to explore this charming mountain town while you're in the area.
Travel Brat tip: Don’t assume the weather in downtown Asheville will match conditions in the mountains. Check the forecast for your specific hiking destination before heading out.
Spring and fall are excellent times to visit for milder weather, outdoor activities, and seasonal scenery. Fall foliage timing varies by elevation and year.
Three days is a great starting point. It gives you time to explore downtown, enjoy the mountains, visit Black Mountain, and try some local restaurants. Add extra days for Biltmore or additional outdoor excursions.
Yes. Hiking, scenic overlooks, public parks, and exploring downtown can help keep costs down. Budget for paid attractions, accommodation, dining, parking, and any guided experiences you choose.
Not necessarily if you're staying downtown and focusing on nearby attractions. A car is helpful for visiting Black Mountain, mountain trailheads, waterfalls, and other destinations outside the city.
Explore the Biltmore Estate, visit the River Arts District, join a walking or food tour, discover local restaurants, tour breweries, or browse downtown shops and galleries.
Absolutely. Black Mountain offers a charming downtown, local restaurants, independent shops, and access to the surrounding mountains. It's also a great alternative for travelers who prefer a quieter base.
Popular options include hiking, scenic drives on open sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway, mountain biking, waterfall excursions near Brevard, and guided outdoor tours.
