Best of Asheville
A mountain art town with waterfalls and overlooks minutes away.
Spring blooms and brilliant fall foliage make these the standout months in the Blue Ridge. October is peak leaf season, so book ahead.
Day 1·Downtown Delights & Brews
Open in MapsSightseeing
Woolworth Walk
Browse a vibrant art gallery housed in a historic five-and-dime.
Food
French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Indulge in decadent desserts and craft chocolates.
Activity
Asheville Pinball Museum
Play unlimited classic and modern pinball games for a flat fee.
Food
Burial Beer Co. - South Slope
Sample unique, experimental brews in a bustling brewery district.
Day 2·Biltmore Estate Grandeur
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Biltmore Estate
Explore America's largest home, its gardens, and the estate winery.
Day 3·River Arts District & Sunset Views
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River Arts District (RAD)
Wander through working artist studios and galleries along the French Broad River.
Shopping
Olde World Asheville
Discover unique imports and handcrafted goods in a charming shop.
Activity
New Belgium Brewing Company
Tour the facility and enjoy a tasting with views of the French Broad River.
Food
Sunset Terrace at The Omni Grove Park Inn
Sip cocktails and enjoy stunning sunset views over the mountains.
Day 4·Blue Ridge Parkway Gems
Open in MapsSightseeing
Folk Art Center
Admire traditional and contemporary Appalachian crafts.
Sightseeing
Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
Learn about the parkway and its natural and cultural history.
Activity
Craggy Gardens
Hike through rhododendron tunnels to stunning vistas (seasonal).
Activity
Mount Pisgah Trail
Embark on a challenging hike to a rewarding summit view.
Day 5·North Asheville History & Gardens
Open in MapsSightseeing
Botanical Gardens at Asheville
Stroll through native plant collections and natural beauty.
Sightseeing
Grovewood Village
Explore historic craft workshops and galleries next to The Omni Grove Park Inn.
Sightseeing
Vance Birthplace
Step back in time at the preserved birthplace of a former North Carolina governor.
Day 6·Waterfall Wonders & Mountain Air
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Looking Glass Falls
Enjoy an easily accessible and picturesque waterfall visible from the road.
Activity
Sliding Rock
Slide down a natural 60-foot rock waterslide into a chilly pool (seasonal).
Activity
Pisgah National Forest
Hike scenic trails and immerse yourself in lush Appalachian wilderness.
Day 7·West Asheville Quirks & Bites
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West Asheville Strip
Discover eclectic shops, vintage finds, and local eateries.
Food
Sunny Point Café
Savor popular Southern comfort food for breakfast or lunch (expect a wait).
Food
Desoto Lounge
Enjoy a casual, dog-friendly bar with a rotating selection of craft beers.
Shopping
Walk
Explore a unique shoe store offering a curated selection of comfortable and stylish footwear.
Day 8·Downtown Art & Architecture
Open in MapsSightseeing
Asheville Art Museum
Peruse American art from the 20th and 21st centuries, with a focus on regional artists.
Sightseeing
Basilica of Saint Lawrence
Admire the stunning Spanish Baroque architecture of this historic basilica.
Sightseeing
Grove Arcade
Wander through a historic architectural gem with unique shops and restaurants.
Food
Green Man Brewery - Dirty Jack's
Visit one of Asheville's oldest breweries for classic English-style ales.
Day 9·Scenic Drives & Nature Trails
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Mount Mitchell State Park
Drive to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River for panoramic views.
Activity
Linville Falls
Hike to see a beautiful three-tiered waterfall on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Activity
Catawba Falls
Enjoy an accessible hike to a majestic waterfall in Pisgah National Forest.
Day 10·Relaxed Morning & Departure
Open in MapsShopping
Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe
Browse books and enjoy a coffee in this beloved independent bookstore.
Activity
Asheville Community Yoga
Join a donation-based yoga class for a mindful start to your day.
Food
Wicked Weed Brewing Pub
Grab a final Asheville brew and a delicious meal before heading out.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.