Asheville is one of the places to be when you need to stay in Western North Carolina. While you could easily spend a month exploring every trail and brewery in the Blue Ridge, not everyone has this luxury of time. We find that a three-day trip is a great amount of time to learn about the local culture without feeling like you are constantly on a time crunch to experience everything. This guide is designed for those who want to see the city’s “greatest hits” and to experience what makes it a special place to visit on your much-earned vacation.
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Places to Stay in Asheville
Whenever you’re visiting a place for a few days, one of the important things you need to find is a place to stay. Choosing a luxury vacation rental in Asheville provides a comfortable and spacious space for travelers who might be tired from a long flight or drive. Instead of being cramped in a hotel room, you have a full home where you can spread out, kick your feet up, and truly relax from the moment you walk through the door.
At Mighty Tree Properties, we also believe a high-end rental is the best insurance policy for your itinerary. If the weather turns gray or your group simply decides they would rather sleep in, our vacation homes come equipped with amenities that will keep everyone in your group happy and entertained. Between private pools, hot tubs, game rooms with a pool table, and arcade games. You can also take advantage of the many conveniences of a vacation home, from a fully-equipped kitchen, high-speed WiFi that only your group can access, and laundry if you packed light. As you can see, the place you decide to stay in can also be a highlight of your trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Asheville
River Arts District
Since we know most travelers arrive feeling a little tired from the journey, we suggest starting your first afternoon in the River Arts District (RAD). This area is incredibly laid-back and allows you to walk along the French Broad River at your own pace. Here, you can also check out different warehouses that have been converted into vibrant artist studios, where you might see artists creating their handcrafted pieces. It is a great way to get to know the lovely people in the community and learn more about the city while conserving your energy for what’s to come.
Head on to Downtown Asheville
After you have had your fill of art in the River Arts District, it’s time to head over to the heart of the city to explore the historic downtown area. We love recommending the Grove Arcade; it is one of Asheville’s most beautiful architectural gems and is filled with local shops and restaurants you can try. The streets here are very walkable, and you can spend an hour or two just browsing the boutiques or stopping by cafes for a quick coffee break. This part of the trip is all about getting your bearings and enjoying the vibes that define the city center.
A great option when travelling with children and teenagers is to visit the Asheville Pinball Museum. There are about 80 games available for you to play. Note that only 70 players are allowed at a time, and it is on a strictly first-come, first-served basis. At the time of posting, their rates are $17 per person and are free for those who’re just looking to observe.
South Slope Brewing District
For your first dinner in Asheville, make your way to the South Slope Brewery District. This is one of the best parts of the city for food, and if you want to try out Asheville’s famous craft beers. Here, you can find everything from world-class tacos to slow-smoked barbecue, all within a few blocks of each other. It is a lively but casual atmosphere that is perfect for a first night when you want great food and a relaxed environment to toast to the start of your getaway.
Day 2: The Biltmore Estate and Sunset Views
A Visit to the Biltmore Estate
We suggest dedicating your second morning to the Biltmore Estate while your energy is at its peak. This is the “must-see” highlight of any trip in Asheville. The house itself is a marvel of Gilded Age architecture. We highly recommend booking tickets for an early morning entry time so you can explore the grand rooms and the library before the afternoon crowds arrive. Be sure to leave some time to wander through the estate’s beautiful gardens, which are stunning regardless of the season you choose to visit.
Antler Hill Village and Winery
After touring the main house of the Biltmore Estate, take a short drive across the estate to Antler Hill Village. This is a much more relaxed part of the property where you can grab a casual lunch or learn about the farm’s history at the Barn. You can also purchase some souvenirs for your friends and family back home. One of our favorite perks of a Biltmore ticket is the complimentary wine tasting at the on-site winery. It is a great mid-day break where you can sample award-winning local pours and maybe even pick up a bottle to enjoy back at your rental later that evening.
Sunset Above the Skyline
As the day winds down, head back toward the city to experience one of Asheville’s famous mountain sunsets. We think the best way to do this is by heading to one of the downtown rooftop bars. We suggest going to The Montford Rooftop Bar or the Soprana Rooftop Cucina. Trust us when we say, there is nothing quite like watching the sky turn orange behind the Blue Ridge Mountains while you have a cocktail in hand or sharing a meal with friends and family. It provides a stunning 360-degree view of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains. It is a great way to cap off your day before going back to rest.
Day 3: Hiking Trails & Chasing Waterfalls
Spend Time in the Blue Ridge Parkway
It’s your final full day in Asheville, and we recommend heading into the woods to see some of the natural wonders that made Asheville famous. Before going out, you should pack some food and drinks to share with everyone for the trip to the mountains. A great place to see some sights is the Pisgah National Forest. It will take you to Looking Glass Falls, which is one of the famous waterfalls in the city. You don’t even have to hike to see it, but if you are up for an adventure, the nearby Moore Cove Falls offers a gentle trail that lets you walk right behind the curtain of water. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, we suggest driving north to the Craggy Gardens area. The Craggy Pinnacle trail is a relatively short hike that rewards you with some of the best 360-degree views in the entire state. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction, and it is the kind of view that you’d remember forever.
Get Your Well-Earned Dinner
After a full day of exploring some of the nearby trails, you will certainly have worked up an appetite. For an incredible culinary experience, we highly recommend trying Chai Pani, famous for its delicious Indian street food that won a James Beard award. If you are in the mood for something more traditional but equally delicious, Pack’s Tavern is a fantastic alternative. Located right next to Pack Square Park, it offers amazing wood-fired pizzas, big burgers, and over 35 taps of craft beer in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is the perfect way to finish your day before you go to pack your bags for the trip back home.
Before You Go: Local Tips for a Seamless Trip
Bring Hiking Essentials
If you plan to go hiking, we always tell our guests to pack layered clothing. In the mountains, the temperature can drop by 15°F even during summer. Do your feet a favor and bring some hiking shoes. You will be tracking a lot of steps and navigating uneven dirt paths at Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. You can also bring a beanie, lightweight gloves, and a headlamp for emergencies. Lastly, make sure to bring food and water to have the energy needed to complete your quest to conquer Asheville’s trails.
Get a Rental Car
While downtown Asheville is walkable, we recommend renting a car to get around Asheville’s different neighborhoods, various hiking trails, viewing spots, and getting back to the airport.
Parking Space
There are metered parking spaces available on the streets. Several parking garages are also available in the area. We usually recommend parking garages as they are cheaper in the long run and save you the headache of feeding a meter. Plus, as we highlighted, downtown Asheville is walkable, so you don’t have to worry about switching parking spaces.
Honestly, you could spend a couple of weeks here and still not run out of new trails to hike or restaurants to try. But if you only have a few days to spare, this itinerary gives you a fantastic introduction to the city without forcing you to constantly rush around. You will check off the iconic landmarks, discover new hiking trails, and eat some incredible food along the way. Most people leave after a long weekend already planning their next trip back, and we think you will probably do the same. We hope this makes the planning a little easier, and we can’t wait for you to experience this beautiful city for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Asheville, NC
Is the Biltmore Estate worth the price?
Definitely! The ticket includes the house tour, access to the massive gardens, and a wine tasting, making it a great full-day experience.
Do I need a car to get around Asheville?
While downtown is walkable, you will definitely need a car or a ride-share to reach the Biltmore and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
When is the best time to see fall colors?
Peak foliage in Asheville usually happens from mid-October to early November.
Is Asheville a pet-friendly city?
Absolutely, many breweries and even some hiking trails allow leashed pets to join the fun.
Are reservations required for the Biltmore?
Yes, you must book a specific entry time for the house tour well in advance.
Is there a lot of traffic in Asheville?
It can get busy during peak tourist seasons and rush hour, so give yourself extra time if you booked tickets for Biltmore or other scheduled tours.