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Known for its vibrant arts scene and nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family.
When planning your trip to Asheville, check out Explore Asheville and Trip Advisor for events, activities, and restaurants.
Lucas and I spent a wonderful long weekend in Asheville. Although, we definitely didn’t get to experience everything (there’s loads to do!), we took in as much as possible.
We mainly went for the food. The food scene is incredible and varied and was a star of our trip.
So here’s some tips for a Long Weekend in Asheville, North Carolina. Jump to a summary of food and attractions by clicking here.
Friday
We arrived in Asheville early evening and checked into our hotel. We got a great deal on Hotels.com. I wouldn’t stay any further than 10 miles from the city center.
For dinner, we ate at the original location of Nine Mile in Historic Montford. Although we did have to wait, the Caribbean style restaurant was quite fun.
We really enjoyed our food. I loved the Concrete Jungle and Lucas loved the Amani.
After dinner, I would suggest driving around the area, take in the old houses and amazing architecture, and then park and enjoy a walk downtown.
Saturday
America’s largest home, Biltmore, is one of Asheville’s main attractions. I put off buying tickets for years because I felt like the tickets were expensive. But let me tell you what… it is well worth it!
But before visiting Biltmore, get your breakfast at the Early Girl Eatery in downtown Asheville. Made from scratch with local ingredients, the food was absolutely delicious.
Now back to the “main” event… The great thing about your Biltmore ticket is that it includes the self-guided tour of the House and access to the gardens and trails, conservatory, and Antler Hill Village and Farm.
We were highly impressed with the whole experience, especially since the Chilhuly exhibition was taking place! Although this exhibition is over, Biltmore has many events and activities like this.
Just make sure you set aside a good portion of your day so you can take in the whole affair.
Spend your early evening on a self-guided tour of downtown Asheville. We combined the Urban Trail and Architecture Trail found on Asheville Downtown. We stopped at each station (44 if you combine the two trails) and learned so much about Asheville’s history.
For dinner, stay downtown and eat at one of the many restaurants around Pritchard Park (if there is a drum circle, make sure to dance!). We’ve eaten at Mayfel’s, Tupelo Honey, Karen Donatelli Bakery and Café and have enjoyed all of them.
Top off the evening with an escape room. The Conundrum, also located downtown, was the best escape room Lucas and I have been a part of.
Sunday
We used this day to explore the mountains that western North Carolina is known for. I had Chimney Rock State Park and DuPont State Forest, both an hour drive from Asheville, as our options.
We ended up choosing Chimney Rock State Park and it was so much fun! The climb is difficult but oh my, the view is perfect!
Oh, make sure the elevator is actually not working. You don’t want to climb all those steps to realize it is working (oops!)
Tip: If you want to climb more, Exclamation Point Trail is nice, but don’t continue on Skyline Trail if you want a view of the falls (so disappointed). Take the Hickory Nut Fails Trail to the bottom of the falls and you’ll be so amazed!
Since you may be tired from hiking and walking the past two days, book a massage or saltwater floatation for a vacation experience once you return to Asheville. I suggest Still Point Wellness.
We spent the evening exploring the River Arts District and ate at White Duck Taco Shop.
Monday
Even if it makes your drive home a little longer, hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville (MP 382) and drive North to Mt. Mitchell State Park (MP 355).
You’ll drive on the side of mountains to reach Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern U.S. Even if it’s a foggy day, the trip is worth it.
Either continue on the parkway, get off at the next access point, or retrace your steps for the journey home.
Summary
Food
Attractions
- Biltmore
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Chimney Rock State Park
- The Conundrum
- DuPont State Forest
- River Arts District
- Still Point Wellness
- Urban Trail and Architecture Trail
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