Aside From Biltmore Estate, City Offers Much More, Including Vibrant Arts Scene, History, and Strong Food & Drink Community

Jeff Walker,  Entertainment Writer / Travel Writer

When tourists think of vacationing in Asheville, North Carolina their first thoughts are usually centered around the Biltmore Estate. Built by George Vanderbilt, the stunning French Renaissance château with its 250 rooms (America's largest home) features a picturesque garden, a working farm, a shopping village, and celebrated winery, making the 175,000-square-foot mansion and the surrounding 8000 acre property not only an historic landmark, but one of the country's major tourist attractions.

However, shockingly with all its Gilded Age grandeur, as well as history (circa 1895), dining, and shopping there is much more to Asheville than the Biltmore. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains Asheville offers a vibrant art scene in their River Arts District, plenty of outdoor activities, epic waterfalls, nature trails, national forests, and a bustling downtown area complete with award winning restaurants, museums, galleries, and nightlife.

Whether it's a couples getaway or a family vacation, Asheville has something for everyone. It's an ideal destination for a long four day weekend or an entire week.

It's hard to imagine anyone visiting Asheville for the first time and not touring the Biltmore Estate. Depending on the length of your stay in Asheville, the Biltmore might be a one of two day excursion, allowing for enough time for history buffs to soak in all the opulence inside the house together with the sprawling and beautifully landscaped property. 

Contingent upon your level of interest and wallet there are several tours upon visiting Biltmore. The most preferred ticket is the House & Grounds tour. Depending on the time of year the ticket prices range between $75-125, and include and audio guide introducing you to the Vanderbilt family, in addition to their magnificent home’s history, architecture, and fine art collections. Admission comes with full access to the garden, Antler Hill Village, and complimentary wine tastings.

There are packages that include overnight stays on the property with bed & breakfast options as well. From fine to casual there are no less than seven sit down dining destinations at Biltmore with the main Dining Room, a Forbes Travel Guide Four Stars award winning restaurant providing world-class service and unforgetable views of the property. For more on dining at Biltmore visit https://www.biltmore.com/things-to-do/dining/restaurants/

Antler Hill Village provides a nice midway point between the house and the winery, allowing visitors to dine, shop, access to the Farmyard, relaxing Village Green, and opportunity to explore the Outdoor Adventure Center with it's many exhibits. Guests can easily spend hours enjoying the activities and atmosphere in Antler Hill alone.

I feel certain no travel writer myself included can fully describe how spectacular the Biltmore property is. Mere words, photos, and online videos cannot do the house and the gardens justice. The detail, architecture, the fixtures, tapestry, priceless artworks, as well as the landscaped yards and stunning greenhouses indicate how meticulous the caretakers at Biltmore are. Clearly Biltmore is Asheville's marquee attraction. Begin your journey to Biltmore at https://www.biltmore.com

Easily one of downtown Asheville's beloved treasures is Woolworth Walk. The historic building (circa 1939) on Haywood Street is the former home to an iconic F. W. Woolworth's department store, or as many baby boomers recall the 'five & dime' or 5¢ or 10¢ store. The store closed in 1989 and in 2002 reopened becoming a creative emporium for local artisans and craftsmen to sell their wares. Pottery, painting, photography, fiber, wood, metals, glass, jewelry, and more are all on display in this 20K square foot building covering two floors. 

History buffs, fans of nostalgia, and all out foodies might be more lured in to Woolworth Walk for their retro 1950's looking Soda Fountain serving many original menu items, including egg creams, club sandwiches, coffee and, of course, old fashioned ice cream sodas and chocolate malts.

Although the luncheonette counter is similar to taking a step back in time, the Soda Fountain does bridge a modern day gap, offering espressos, lattes, chai tea, vegan options, as well as their signature Big Ass Fried Bologna sandwich which pairs well with their Big Salad (nod to Seinfeld). Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Woolworth Walk here first at https://www.woolworthwalk.com/

For fans of yesteryear or the oddball, Asheville is home to some of the quirkiest museums in the country. Vintage gamers might find the Asheville Pinball Museum of interest, where they invite you to 'party like it's 1979'. For just $17 per person you can play as long as like, enjoying 40 vintage pinball machines and another 40 classic arcade games until your flipper finger gets tired or your brain tilts (pun intended). 

While hardcore historians can date various pinball machines back to the 1800's, coin operated electrical machines debuted in gaming halls and arcades during the 1930's in Chicago, Los Angeles, and along the Jersey shore, with Bally and eventually Williams becoming the prominent manufacturers.

The Asheville Pinball Museum not only carriy vintage machines to play, but they provide the history of almost all of the machines on display. The owner T.C. Di Bella indulges in childhood nostalgia, with an endless array of yesteryear toys and figurines on display. He knows a thing or two about setting up an arcade, cleverly painting the ceiling black so it cuts down the glare on the machines, making it easier to see the ball.

T.C. is like the really cool kid you hang out with in school, because his parents had really cool games to play in the cellar. No surprise they get super busy on rainy days. Located at 1 Battle Square downtown. Are you still a pinball wizard? Before it's game over visit https://ashevillepinball.com/ to plan your game day adventure.

If you want to check out Asheville's creepier side than I suggest taking the Haunted Asheville tour. Created by native paranormal investigator and enthusiast JoshuaP. Warren, the guided tour will take you to several of the spookiest downtown sites, while exposing patrons to some of Asheville's dark history. 

Your ticket price includes a visit to Warren's Mystery Museum appropriately located in the basement of the historic Masonic Temple built in 1913. A variety of tour packages available including a Supernatural Tour and a Biltmore Village Mystery Tour. For a spine tingling good time start here at https://hauntedasheville.com/

If you're pressed for time and want to discover the best way to explore downtown Asheville than hop board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated day tour, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of the city that's often referred to as the 'Paris of the South'. Endorsed by the Preservation Society of Asheville, Grayline Tours offers a 90 minute loop with a boarding pass good for two days. 

The narrated tour covering 15 miles highlights and visits eight of downtown Asheville's most popular districts, including the River Arts District, the Montford Historic District, Grove Arcade, and the ever popular South Slope Brewery District. Jump on and off as you please, with additional trolleys stopping on the half hour. Visiting Asheville as a large wedding party, reunion, or company outing, maybe do a group rental as part of their Asheville Overview Tour. Each trolley holds 34 people.

Grayline's Haunted History & Murder Mystery Ghost Tour explores the more ghostly points of interest in Asheville, with their Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour a delightful blend of holiday storytelling and traditional Christmas caroling while rolling by festive holiday decorations in downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Village. Begin your ride here at https://graylineasheville.com/

Bordered by Asheland, Biltmore, Southside, and Hilliard Avenues, Asheville's South Slope district is a vibrant community and home to a dozen breweries, including Hi-Wire and Catawba Brewing, as well as local favorites Archetype Brewing, The Chemist, Burial Beer Co. and Dirty Jacks. All of them allow you to sample their products, providing you're 21 and older. However, if you want VIP tours conducted by experienced brew guides I suggest visiting https://brew-ed.com/asheville-brewery-tours/

Natives have been known to venture to Vortex Doughnuts in South Slope for some of he funkiest doughnuts in the southeast. Vortex' daily-changing menu features both light yeast and dense cake doughnuts, often highlighting local ingredients. From inside their industrial style environs Vortex are renowned for extensive vegan options, high-quality craft coffee complements of Asheville's own Penny Cup Coffee Co. Love a good sweet treat coupled with a hearty cup of piping hot joe than I recommend dropping in. Like them at https://www.facebook.com/VortexDoughnuts/ 

Art lovers might choose to visit Asheville's River Arts District (RAD), a thriving creative community that welcomes visitors. Some 700 plus artists are on display in working studios, galleries, and collectives along the French Broad River. Just minutes from downtown and the Biltmore, immerse yourself in Asheville's resilient art community and meet the artists the bring city to life. Discover more at https://www.romanticasheville.com/river_arts.htm

Perhaps your prefer live theatre and performing arts. Whether it's chamber music, the symphony, Broadway musicals, or repertory theatre, Asheville and the surrounding community are home to 20 or more theatres, playhouses, performing art centers, and annual festivals such as the Brevard Music Center Summer Festival showcasing a variety of 100+ events and performances during a 10 week span. Begin your creative journey at https://www.romanticasheville.com/arts.html

With a population estimated just under 100K, Asheville is not only a vibrant mid-sized city, it is western North Carolina's largest city, as well as a regional hub for the state. When it comes to big time sports, comedians, pro-wrestling, and a variety of musical artists, the 7K plus seat Harrah's Cherokee Center at 87 Haywood St. in Asheville is where all the excitement unfolds. Maybe take in a concert or check out an expo by checking into https://www.harrahscherokeecenterasheville.com/

Automobile and motorcycle admirers have a couple options, with one being roughly 45-60 minutes from downtown. Car buffs have a shorter ride. Less than 15 minutes outside downtown, Grovewood Village (former weaving & woodworking operations for Biltmore) is home to the Antique Car Museum where they house vintage automobiles alongside horse-drawn carriages, and an antique fire engine.

Listed among America's National Register of Historic Places the 11 acre Grovewood Village includes working artist studios and Biltmore's Homespun Museum which could be of interest to arts & crafts lovers. Grovewood host several featured events throughout the year. For more on this hidden gem visit https://www.grovewood.com/

Want to get your 'motor runnin' and prefer two wheeled transportation, take a trip to the Wheels Through Time Museum located 45 miles west of Asheville just 5 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway in scenic Maggie Valley NC. Wheels Through Time houses over 300 classic motorcycles, including bikes from Harley-Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Crocker, and Henderson. 

From rare to one of kind, as well as dirt bikes, memorabilia, and exhibits, Wheels Through Time is easily the home to the world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles. It is the same location where the late Dale Walksler, founder of the museum hosted his popular Dale's Channel, a show about restoring, rebuilding, and documenting rare antique motorcycles. Shows stills streaming online. Before you head out on the highway visit https://wheelsthroughtime.com/

Hospitality, Food & Drink & Shopping:

The biggest question when vacationing anywhere is 'where to stay'. Much like any well trafficked destination Asheville offers plenty of lodging. If you want less expensive hotels you'll no doubt find them along the exits off I-40 and I-26.

However, if you really want to bask in the rich history that is downtown Asheville I recommend staying at the Haywood Park Hotel located at One Battery Park Avenue. The building is as iconic as the city itself, dating back over a century, with it listed among the Historic Hotels of America, spanning Asheville's neoclassical to mid-century modern era. Haywood Park Hotel regularly receives 4.5 out of 5 stars on travel review sites. Early check in begins here at https://www.haywoodpark.com/

The elegantly and architecturally appealing four story Haywood Park Hotel dates back to 1923 when the former Bon Marché department store held residence along Park Avenue, before relocating (1937) across the street, with Ivey's taking over their original site. Although Bon Marché closed its doors in 1979 it is still listed as Asheville's longest running department store. Haywood Park pays homage to the former department stores throughout the hotel. 

Ivey's would shutter in 1975 with Haywood Park acquiring the property in the early 1980's, undergoing extensive renovations to become the luxury boutique hotel it is today, first welcoming guests in 1985. As a member of the Ascend Hotel Collection, Haywood Park is dog friendly (one-time fee per stay of $ 75), and remains one of Asheville's few non-smoking properties.

Furthermore Haywood Park offers upscale amenities including a fully-equipped fitness center, valet parking, comfortable meeting rooms, late check out upon request, and Sunday brunch. Searching for that ideal high-end bauble. Discover one of kind rare gems at Estate Jewelry AVL situated in the lobby of Haywood Park. Whether it's centuries old or retro from the 1980's Estate Jewelry will help you find the right piece that complements your collection. Your gem of a mystery begins at https://estatejewelryavl.com/

And to welcome your time in Asheville, Haywood Park start your stay with a glass of champagne at check-in, including free bell service and more. They also provide free WiFi throughout the entire hotel. Furthermore they are within walking distance to several of Asheville's preferred downtown destinations, including the Pinball Museum and Woolworth Walk, as well as a less than a 10 minute drive to the Biltmore Estate.

Haywood Park's amenities don't stop there. Their two eateries are among Asheville's most exquisite dining options, catering to eclectic tastes. At Fitz and the Wolfe enjoy craveable bites and cocktails with several split personalities. Whether you're sipping something bold and smoky in The Showroom, or hiding out in The Palm Room with a tropical twist in hand, the atmosphere is meant to be fun and where a little party never hurt nobody. Need a break from the noise, maybe hang out in The Den where conversation and billiards foster a warm nostalgic feeling. 

The marquee menu at Fitz includes killer smash-burgers, wings, and lite bites, paired with a stellar complement of draft & craft beers, signature cocktails, specialty martinis, tequila, and their famous Honky Tonk Shots, aka potent potable concoctions, like their Cowboy Mouthwash, a smooth blend of Evan Williams bourbon laced with peach schnappes and cinnamon liqueur. It's a swirl of sweet and dry across your teeth & gums. The best way to describe Fitz & the Wolfe is it's a honky-tonking slice of life in Asheville. However you spend your night, it starts at https://fitzandthewolfe.com/

Not to be outdone, Hemingway's Cuba rooftop restaurant at the Cambria, is where you can grab a daiquiri and a meal while enjoying breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and downtown. Haywood Park's sister restaurant sitting on the 4th Floor of 5 Page Ave lets you experience delicious Cuban cuisine and nightlife without having to travel to Havana.

Pair traditional Ropa Vieja (stewed beef & tomatoes) or a classic Cuban Sandwich with over 20 signature cocktails, including Hemingway's own daiquiri (blend of Bacardi silver rum, grapefruit, lime juice, & maraschino liqueur). Tony's black angus burger comes slathered in bacon onion fig jam and melted brie on a brioche bun. Yum yum! Four different flavors of mimosas as well as an awesome Espresso Martini. Ideal choices when enjoying weekend brunch. Hell yeah, they have a kids menu. Visit Cuba while in Asheville at https://www.hemingwayscuba.com/ 

Less than half a block from the Haywood you'll discover the must see Grove Arcade. Covering a full city block the historic 1929 landmark is known as one of America's first indoor shopping malls. Featuring stunning, ornate architecture with Venetian gothic arches and ivory terra-cotta tiles, today the Grove Arcade serves as a vibrant hub for local artisans, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants surrounding the exterior. 

15 plus shops, all with eclectic tastes make up the ground floor at the Grove Arcade. Bibliophiles and fruit of the vine lovers might enjoy hanging out at Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar. Read and sip to your heart's content. Roberto Coin provides shoppers to experience finely crafted Italian jewelry. Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Meherwan Irani, Spicewalla is known for its curated selection of spices, signature blends, and rubs. If you want to enhance your kitchen skills pop into Spicewalla. Bring home a taste of Asheville at https://www.spicewallabrand.com/

Dining destinations at Grove Arcade include Summit Coffee. Serving sustainably sourced coffee from farmers and cooperatives all over the world, Summit is a certified organic facility in NC. Enjoy a robust cup of coffee while enjoying freshly baked breakfast foods such as muffins and bagels. Reach the Summit at https://www.instagram.com/summitcoffeegrove/

Offering contemporary southern cuisine, Carmel's Kitchen & Bar is the Grove's fun and casual dining destination where their culinary team specialize in soups, salads, and specialty sandwiches for lunch, adding favorites such as shrimp & grits and sweet-tea-glazed ribs to the dinner menu. Featuring Asheville's largest outdoor patio. Carmel invite you to eat together at https://www.carmelsofasheville.com/ 

Facing Battery Park Avenue, the Portico Market, often referred to by natives as the 'Makers Market' at the Grove is a seasonal outdoor market featuring a dozen covered stalls with local artisans selling handmade crafts, including jewelry, art, and food. It is considered one of downtown Asheville's most frequented markets, showcasing local mountain talent. When mother nature is less friendly, the Grove Arcade is a welcoming retreat. Luxury and history is a click away at https://grovearcade.com/

In general foodies have a slew of opportunities in downtown Asheville alone. Whether you're searching for Asian, Thai, Mexican, American, BBQ, seafood, sweet treats, or southern cuisine Asheville has you covered. If burgers top your list, I recommend one particular place sourced from local, sustainable, independent farms.

While Farm Burger is technically a 'burger joint', it carries a beefier (pun intended) purpose. Located at 10 Patton Avenue, the founders of Farm Burger have a dedicated mission to serve up burgers not only from grass-fed cows, but from cows that are grass finished, meaning the cows have only eaten grass its entire life. Furthermore they are free of antibiotics or added growth hormones. 

You can build your own or order any of their six signature burgers including a house-made vegan. Their namesake comes with aged white cheddar and caramelized onions. They also carry a ground chicken burger oozing with smoked gouda and a Double Bacon Burger ideal for the ravenous burger lover. If you come hungry I guarantee you'll leave happy. Your farm to table meal begins at https://www.farmburger.com/

Maybe you're the type who likes to sleep in and dine at brunch spots (a little bit breakfast & lunch fare). If that's you then I highly recommend two incredible locations. One (Chestnut) situated in the heart of downtown Asheville, with the other (Corner Kitchen) in Biltmore Village, just outside the Biltmore Estate. Not surprisingly, both are co-owned by Joe Scully and Kevin Westmoreland. While Joe is the duos head chef, Kevin acts as CFO and the company's IT guy. However both men and their staff are extremely dedicated to incredible cuisine and exceptional customer service.

Located at 3 Boston Way the Corner Kitchen has become an trusted anchor in the historic Biltmore Village. The house itself dates back to 1895 thanks to the vision of George Washington Vanderbilt, with its association with food dating back to the 1930's when locals knew as The Biltmore Cafe. Joe and Kevin began their own culinary vision in 2004, with locals and tourists continually filling up the kitchen ever since. It's truly hard to single out any one item because the entire menu is 'freakin' amazing'. 

Their namesake Reuben sandwich on griddled rye bread could make New Yorkers tear up, with the Red Eye Shrimp n Grits entree among the best in the southeast. Seven main dishes in all including Boozy French Toast (Grand Marnier brioche, fresh berries & cream) and Crow’s Famous Chicken n’ Waffles. Their Cool Grilled Chicken and Baby Kale Caesar Salad are easily gluten-free.

If you're on vacation live a little and pair your meal with an Unpretentious Mimosa crafted from champagne, Natalie's fresh OJ and your choice of cranberry, grapefruit, or pineapple juice. Ooh la-la! Your farm to table daily brunch (9:30-2:30) experience starts at https://thecornerkitchen.com/ They serve dinner nightly beginning at 5pm. Three words that best describe the Corner Kitchen, 'warm, quaint, and friendly'.

Staying in the heart of downtown, if so and the weather cooperates you can walk to 48 Biltmore Avenue where locals flock to enjoy brunch at Chestnut. What makes Chestnut so special is they truly handcraft all their desserts including their sorbet and ice-cream, as well as their demi-glaze. While they don't make a big deal out of it, they totally partner with local growers, ranchers, and dairies. Like their sister restaurant Chestnut open for dinner at 5pm everyday.

However, let's talk a little about their brunch bill of fare. Several items from Corner Kitchen dot Chestnut's menu including handhelds the half pound Biltmore Burger and their Reuben. The Southern Chicken & Waffles and Benedict Du Jour carry over as well. Heartier morning appetites might lean to their Carne Asada Breakfast Burrito layered in filet tips, or if you're more geared to the lunch side perhaps the Pesto & Parmesan Crusted Salmon dish under a roasted red pepper aioli complete with a creamy fingerling potato salad might satisfy hunger pangs. 

Going full tilt maybe enjoy your entree with any of their six signature cocktails including a Bloody Mary laced with Sub Bacon-Infused Vodka. Want to titillate the taste buds, I recommend the Razzle Dazzle, siimply Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka combined with a blend of Raspberry Purée. Kentucky bourbon sippers could opt for Chestnut's Clouded Judgement with blackberry liqueur, and lemon juice. Savor robust coffee complements of Smokey Mountain Roasters from nearby Waynesville N.C.

Maybe start your meal with a Lobster Bisque or Crème Brûlée Parfait beautifully crafted from Greek yogurt with fresh local berries, pistachio & Golden Raisin granola before being topped with a honey whip. Yum yum! All of this sumptuous food & drink in one of the most beautifully restored historic dwellings in Asheville. If Joe stops by your table, ask him for the history at 48 Biltmore Ave. Creative cuisine, craft cocktails and ambiance for brunch or dinner start here at https://www.chestnutasheville.com/

One other breakfast place I can totally endorse is Early Girl Eatery. The daily brunch only (8am-3pm) diner offers three locations in greater Asheville including one (8 Wall St.) a hop, skip, and a jump from Haywood Park. With menus sourced using the highest quality ingredients, Early Girl has been delighting locals for more than two decades, adhering to a strict made from scratch farm to table mindset.

Everyday classics as well as omelets, pancakes, waffles, bowls, and sandwiches align their menu. Wash it all down with a North Carolina's own Jags Head Coffee or a variety of mimosas. Order online or enjoy takeout by checking in at https://earlygirleatery.com/ 

Hemingway's Cuba offers a nice view of Asheville's skyline and sunsets. However if you're seeking two of the best places to dine and catch an epic sunset than I suggest making reservations at either the Montford Rooftop Bar (199 Haywood St. Double Tree) or at Soprana Rooftop Cucina atop the Embassy Suites at 192 Haywood St.

A Mountain Express 1st Place winner for Best Bar with a View' seven years in a row, the Montford is known for its small bites and seasonally driven cocktails. When mother nature is being particularly pleasant guests can enjoy the warmth of the sun going down over the Blue Ridge mountains, or embrace a cool breeze while sipping on select wines, local craft beers, and signature cocktails. 

Shareables at Montford include an eye appealing charcuterie board, overly plump wings, chicken sliders glazed in apple butter, parmesan coated truffle fries, and fried green tomatoes served with pimento cheese and apple chutney. Ideal with a glass of vino, cold brew or any of their dozen signature adult beverages.

An ample selection of IPA's but for those who prefer a darker beer I offer up Bed of Nails, an English-style brown ale from Asheville's own Hi-Wire Brewing. The Montford bridges the gap between the mystique of a speakeasy with modern day rustic charm. A great place to hang out and chill. Capture the moment and the sunset at https://www.themontford.com/

Across the street Soprana indulge in Italian hospitality, specializing in 14 inch brick-oven pizzas and seasonal fare, paired with an ideal selection of craft cocktails, wine, and beer. 13 signature pizzas, six with red sauce and seven non-red makeup the menu. Carnivores will appreciate their Meatball & Ricotta or the Salami & Sausage Pizzas. Searching for a pizza with character and panache, maybe opt for the Fiore Calabrese, covered nicely in house Italian sausage, spicy capicola, pesto, mushrooms, garlic confit, onions, Calabrian chili.

Begin your Italian cuisine journey with First Impression aka appetizers. All eight will make an impression on your taste buds. Kick start the starters with their housemade Meatballs, made from locally raised beef & spicy pork, crushed tomato, further enhanced with herbs, parmesan, and house focaccia (Italian flatbread). Their Charred Brussel Sprouts surrounded by roasted garlic cloves, spicy nduja (spreadable pork salami) and charred lemon will equally arouse the pallet. Save a little room for Ricotta Cheesecake or homemade cannolis. 

A stellar list of Italian wines, including Castello Colle Massari's, Montecucco Rosso Riserva, a red fruit vino from Tuscany and GD Vajra Vino Spumante Di Qualita Extra Brut Della Neve Rose, Piedmonte, a fragrant sparkling wine. Blanco lovers might relish a Ariolas Vermentino Di Sardegna, a silky and medium-bodied white wine from Sardinia. Enjoys sunsets and Italian food & drink at Soprana Rooftop Cucina which doubles as a laid back spacious Italian villa in downtown Asheville. Dine like the Italians do at https://sopranarooftop.com/

Heading back to your hotel after taking in Asheville's nightlife, and maybe you have a hankering for something sweet, something crunchy, or something gooey. Find your way to Insomnia Cookies at 8 College St., the city's popular late-night bakery chain known for serving warm cookies, brownies, and ice cream until 3am Thurs-Sat. Your sweet retreat starts at https://insomniacookies.com/

Aside from the winery at Biltmore which earned the title 'Top 10 Cities for Wine Snobs!' by the Travel Channel, Asheville is home to over a dozen area wineries, with five of them located in the Tryon Foothills Wine Country and another five on the drive along the Catawba Valley Wine Trail. Your 'grape escape' begins here at https://www.tryonwinerytours.com/ and https://ncwine.org/wineries/catawba-valley-wine-trail/

Do you have a sweet tooth and regular chocolate cravings? If that describes you I recommend not leaving Asheville without taking a tour at the French Broad Chocolate Factory. Over a 45-minute to 1-hour 'bean-to-bar' tour you'll learn how cacao beans cultivated on small farms in South America, Uganda, and Nicaragua make their way to Asheville, to the home of the city's preferred chocolatier. 

An experienced guide will provide a history of the company, their passion for chocolate, and the journey from cocoa pod to finished product. You'll be schooled on the various different stages of chocolate-making and taste finished truffles, bars, and caramels. You'll observe the roasting, grinding, conching (an aerated heating method), and tempering processes required to turn direct-sourced cacao into mouth watering chocolate.

Your tour will culminate back in their cafe/retail area where you'll receive a 10 percent discount card toward purchases, which can used at their midtown lounge (10 Pack Square) as well. To take the tour follow your nose for the heavenly smell of chocolate at 821 Riverside Drive or simply click here https://frenchbroadchocolates.com/pages/tours

Of course Asheville has its complement of national name brand stores, but if you're seeking trendier and peculiar boutiques there is no shortage.

Madam Clutterbucket's Neurodiverse Universe is appropriately billed as a quirky & innovative shop focusing on ableism, bringing an edge to disability advocacy merchandise that celebrates neurodiversity. The family owned store is staffed by adults with developmental disabilities selling everything from shirts & hoodies and totes & koozies to mystery bags and products they love! Proudly spend your vacationing money here at https://www.madamclutterbuckets.com/

Right next door to Madam Clutterbucket's (21 Battery Park) you'll find Rocket Fizz, a nostalgic and vibrant 'Pop & Candy' shop, dispensing one of a kind candies and over 500 bottled soda flavors, as well as gag gifts. Inside their retro atmosphere downtown store you'll come across hard to find treats including novelty toys. Gulp down a bottle of Toxic Waste Slimer Licker Strawberry Sour Soda while munching on Tangerine Taffy and Freeze Dried Skittles. Visit the wacky universe at https://rocketfizz.com/ 

Crafters might enjoy popping in to Earth Guild at 33 Haywood St. Serving artisans since 1970, Earth Guild specialize in tools, materials, and books for traditional and contemporary handcrafts, including knitting, weaving, spinning, and dyeing, as well as the home of Dragon Tale Yarns. Color your world at https://www.earthguild.com/

Known for their bright purple buses and entertaining, theatrical city tours, Lazoom Asheville is the city's extremely popular, comedic sightseeing bus tour. Lazoom offers a good mix of comedy, history, and local culture, including ghost tour and beer tours. Enjoy their kid-friendly 'Lil' Boogers' tour, specifically designed for families with young children, with 'The Hey Asheville Tour' catering to kids 13 and older. 

Tours depart from the Lazoom Room at 76 Biltmore Avenue which doubles as a bar and event venue regularly hosting karaoke, stand-up comedy, and live events. Get on the bus and get on the bus and experience the greatest show on wheels at https://www.lazoomtours.com/

Sadly, greater Asheville suffered a rare setback from Hurricane Helene in the fall of 2024. However, the city as are its residents are resilient. While a few areas are still recovering, downtown Asheville, Biltmore Estate, and many of the touristy districts are alive and well.

Asheville isn't some sleepy holler in the mountains of North Carolina. Rather, it's a bustling city ripe with a vibrant food & beverage scene, a progressive arts community, unique boutiques, and rich history. Asheville has it all and more. It's modern yet old school, with a definite southern charm similar to Charleston SC and Savannah Ga.

To fully explore all Asheville has to offer visit https://www.exploreasheville.com/ and to capture the allure of western North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Mountains and 40+ unique and friendly small towns within a 90-mile radius of the Asheville, like Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Cherokee visit https://www.romanticasheville.com/#owl-hash-nid-30464736