Asheville, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is a vibrant and eclectic city known for its rich culture, delicious food, and outdoor adventures. Here's a locals' guide to help you make the most of your visit to Asheville.

I. Biltmore Estate

One of the top tourist attractions in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, a magnificent 8,000-acre estate built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. The estate features a grand château, beautiful gardens, and an award-winning winery. Visitors can tour the house, explore the gardens, and taste some of the estate's wines.

II. The Arts

Asheville is a city that celebrates the arts, with a vibrant and diverse arts scene that includes everything from theatre, music, and dance to visual arts and crafts. Some popular venues for the arts include the Asheville Community Theatre, the Diana Wortham Theatre, and the Orange Peel, a popular music venue. The River Arts District is also a must-see, a community of artists' studios, galleries, and shops.

III. Outdoor Adventures

Asheville is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with endless hiking, biking, and adventure sports opportunities. Some popular spots for outdoor activities include the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers some of the best views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Pisgah National Forest, which offers hiking, camping, and fishing. The city also offers options for rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing.

IV. Food and Drink

Asheville is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse and delicious food scene that includes everything from farm-to-table restaurants to craft breweries and distilleries. Some popular restaurants include Rhubarb, The Admiral, and The Grey Eagle. The city also offers a wide range of craft breweries, such as Highland Brewing Company, Wicked Weed Brewing, and Sierra Nevada Brewing.

V. Shopping

Asheville is home to many unique shops and boutiques that offer everything from handmade crafts and clothing to jewellery and home decor. Some popular shopping destinations include the Asheville Outlets, the Grove Arcade, and the Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun District. The city also offers a farmers' market, where you can find locally grown produce and handmade goods.

VI. Festivals and Events

Asheville is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Asheville Wine and Food Festival, the Asheville Beer Festival, and the Asheville Art and Craft Fair. The city also hosts many cultural and folk festivals celebrating the area's rich heritage, such as the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival and the Goombay Festival.

VII. Accommodation

Asheville offers many accommodations, from luxurious resorts and hotels to charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Some popular options include the Omni Grove Park Inn, the Haywood Park Hotel, and the Chestnut Street Inn.

VIII. The Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a must-see when visiting Asheville. The mountain range offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Visitors can take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the longest linear park in the United States, which offers amazing views of the mountains. The parkway also offers many hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can also take a hike on the famous Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile-long trail from Georgia to Maine.

IX. Riverside Walk

The Riverside Walk is a popular spot for visitors and locals, offering beautiful views of the French Broad River and the city. The walkway is a half-mile long and takes visitors through a beautiful park with sculptures, gardens, and a playground. Visitors can also stroll along the river and watch the kayaks and tubers float by.

X. The Grove Park Inn

The Grove Park Inn is a historic inn located in Asheville. The inn was built in 1913 and has been visited by many famous people, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. The inn offers beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and visitors can enjoy the spa, fitness centre, and golf course.

XI. Conclusion

Asheville is a city that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. From its rich culture, delicious food, and outdoor adventures to its vibrant arts scene and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has something to offer everyone. With various accommodation options, festivals, events, and outdoor activities, visitors can easily plan a trip that fits their budget and preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip, Asheville has it all and is a destination worth travelling for. Remember to stroll along the Riverside Walk and enjoy the beautiful views of the city and the French Broad River; also, visit the Grove Park Inn, a historic inn that offers beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

In conclusion, Asheville is a city that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. From its rich culture and delicious food to its outdoor adventures and vibrant arts scene, Asheville is a destination that has something to offer everyone. With various accommodation options, festivals, events and outdoor activities, visitors can easily plan a trip that fits their budget and preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip, Asheville has it all and is a destination worth travelling for.