Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is truly a place for everyone. The downtown area features a variety of coffee shops, micro breweries, art, and museums, while the mountains and endless hiking trails are less than a 30-40 minute drive away. Are you a history buff? The architecture and detail of Biltmore Estate are sure to blow you away.
However you like to adventure, Asheville has something for you! Here are our top recommendations for your weekend adventure.
Trip Time: 2.5-3 Days including Travel
Best Time to Visit: April - October
What to Do
1. Coffee Shop Hop - There are SO many awesome coffee shops in downtown Asheville. Our favorites were The Rhu and The Times Bar & Coffee Shop.
2. Go Hiking - Although the Blue Ridge Parkway was closed due to winter weather, we were able to enjoy a few waterfall hikes and overlooks near Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina. Looking Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls were amazing!
3. Check Out the Breweries - There are tons of local micro breweries in Asheville, in addition to some bigger names like Bold Rock Cider and Sierra Nevada.
4. Visit the Biltmore Estate - You’ll be utterly amazed at the architecture and detail within the home and grounds. Don’t forget to visit Biltmore’s Antler Hill Village for some delicious food, complimentary wine tasting, and great views!
Where to Stay
1. Holiday Inn Express on Tunnel Road - We were looking for a hotel that was more economical than scenic, had a good reputation, and was close to local attractions. The Holiday in Express on Tunnel Rd. fit the bill! About 8 minutes from the downtown area, 30 minutes from hiking, and 15 minutes from the Biltmore Estate made getting around a breeze.
2. Asheville East KOA Holiday - We spent Sunday night at the Asheville East KOA Holiday for a more woodsy feel. Though it was winter, the campground is conveniently located–about 15 mins from downtown Asheville, has two fishing ponds and a river running through the park, and is surrounded by mountains.
Full 3 Day Itinerary
Day #1
Travel to Asheville
Get lunch & coffee at The Rhu
Coffee shop hop to the The Times Bar & Coffee Shop
Get dinner & a hard cider flight at Bold Rock Cider
Try unique cocktails at Imperiál
Finish the night off at Top of the Monk
Day #2
Go hiking in Brevard/Pisgah National Forest
Stop at Looking Glass Falls
Explore Moore Cove Falls
Journey to other hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Get dinner & drinks at Sierra Nevada
Day #3
Tour the Biltmore Estate
Get lunch at the Carriage House
Walk around the Conservatory & Gardens
Enjoy free wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery (reserve your spot via the guest guide upon arrival)
Get dinner and shop in Antler Hill Village
Travel Home
What are you waiting for? Get whisked away into the majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina. Whether your looking for a relaxing, bougie, or adventurous vacation, Asheville has something for everyone!
We’d love to see your adventures–tag us at @wanderingwenzels on Instagram!
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