places to visit in downtown asheville nc

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15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Asheville

See the outline of Downtown Asheville on a map, and its radical, irregular edged shape could be a piece from a jigsaw puzzle. But it doesn’t take long to work out, when it comes down to having a good time, this North Carolina city district is the perfect fit and has more going on than many downtown areas twice its size.

Make an inspiring visit to the home of one of America’s greatest writers, indulge in a salt cave spa or explore a fascinating urban trail. Zoom around Downtown Asheville on a purple bus, watch craftsmen blow glass or investigate the district’s culinary scene on a walking tour then watch the sunset on the mountains. It doesn’t get better than that. Or does it?

Do all of these best fifteen things to do in Downtown Asheville, and you’ll find your stay in the “Paris of the South” won’t just be better than good, it’ll be downright amazing.

1. LaZoom Tours

A wild and wacky way to see Downtown Asheville is on a LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour . Don’t expect normal. It’s just not going to happen.

Think more along the lines of men dressed as nuns and plenty of hilarious slapstick combined with sightseeing around Downtown, the River Arts district, and the Montford neighborhood.

The LaZoom Comedy Bus departs from Biltmore Avenue in Downtown Asheville. The jokes flow from the word go and continue for the entire trip which lasts around ninety minutes.

Prefer a walking tour with beer? Try out the BREW-ed Downtown Asheville Brewery Walking Tour

2. Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a rambling 19th-century mansion on North Market Street in Downtown Asheville dedicated to honoring the famous American author whose writing was inspired by the city and its people.

The museum contains over eight hundred items pertinent to the writer and the era of his literary works. In a time-capsule fashion, the rooms of the house are furnished as they were during the period Thomas Wolfe was resident in the property and it was functioning as a boarding house.

It’s possible to explore the exhibits alone or to join a guided tour of the house with narration by a qualified historian.

Related tour : Asheville City Tour

3. Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade is Downtown Asheville’s most popular mall for shopping and eating out. Built in the late 1920s, the historic building was one of the most elegant of its time and is a registered landmark.

The mall was renovated in 2002 and re-opened to continue trading in its original way with a diverse collection of select retailers offering unique services and products. Inside there are fine jewelers, specialist clock and watchmakers and even an outlet selling only fossils and minerals imported from around the globe.

The Grove Arcade also has a diverse selection of eateries serving everything from falafel, burgers, and pizza to a champagne bar with a book exchange and a wine bar with an outside patio. There is also a daily Artists Market for local crafters to sell their work.

4. Asheville Urban Trail

Walking the Asheville Urban Trail is a great way of getting to know Downtown Asheville, learning some of its history and seeing its plethora of public artworks all at the same time. The trail is just under two miles long, commences in Pack Place and makes almost a complete circuit around the Downtown area before culminating not far from where it started.

Trail maps are available from the information center in Pack Square Park or downloadable online. There are thirty individual artworks in total along the trail. Among them bronze turkeys and pigs, an enormous flat iron and life-size statues of a fiddler and dancers to name just a few.

Take a camera and snap shots of the sculptures. They’ll make a great addition to any souvenir collection of Downtown Asheville photographs.

Related tour : 2 hour Guided Segway Tour

5. French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Skip dinner and go straight for dessert at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. The celestial blue building, on the corner of Pack Square in Downtown Asheville, houses every chocoholic’s idea of heaven.

In the Lounge’s bare brick and polished wood interior, indulge in handmade truffles, ice creams, cookies or any other of the multitude of sweet confections or chocolate orientated drinks.

All the desserts are created from chocolate made in the French Broad Chocolate Factory which, although outside of the Downtown district, is also well worth a visit

6. Asheville Community Theater

The Asheville Community Theater on East Walnut Street is where the local Downtown Asheville community go to show off their talent.

The community theater has been hosting top-class performances from local actors for over sixty years in productions as varied as Sweeney Todd, Young Frankenstein and Annie, Get Your Gun.

While the participants may not be full-time actors and actresses, expect a great show presented with professionalism.

7. Asheville Museum Of Science

Make a fascinating visit to the Asheville Museum Of Science on Downtown Asheville’s Patton Avenue. The museum may be small, but it has some powerful interactive exhibits which will blow any visitor away.

Step inside the Hurricane Simulator and feel the full force of a storm or create rain in the French Broad River Water table display before getting up close to the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex or a robot used to explore Mars.

The museum also houses an extensive collection of minerals in the Colburn Hall of Minerals as well as multiple displays on the geology of North Carolina.

8. Off The Wagon

The Off The Wagon is a lively dueling piano bar on North Market Street in Downtown Asheville.

Grab a seat in the 1920s speakeasy-style bar and wait for the party to start. Be prepared to join in with either choosing songs for the piano players to perform or sing along when the words are familiar.

It’s cool, it’s casual, and it’s a fun night out in Downtown Asheville.

9. Asheville Salt Cave

Experience the therapeutic qualities of rock salt at the Asheville Salt Cave on Eagle Street in Downtown Asheville.

Meditate among the negative ions in a cave constructed of twenty tons of pink salt blocks to recharge your spiritual and physical batteries, take a detoxifying hot salt stone massage or an aromatherapeutic salt glow treatment.

Sound healing concerts, Yoga Nidra sessions and new moon meditation are also practiced at the Asheville Salt Cave.

10. Lexington Glassworks

Visit the Lexington Glassworks on Downtown Asheville’s South Lexington Avenue to watch master glass blowers at work in their studio.

View the entire process as the blowers transform an innate blob of glass into an incredible and unique work of art with their breath and a few twists of the rod.

If the heat of the furnace brings on a thirst, the studio has an in-house tap room selling Asheville craft beers served in hand-blown glasses.

11. The Flying Bike

Take the hard work out of pedaling and tour around Downtown Asheville on a Flying Bike. Join the tour just outside of Downtown on Coxe Avenue, mount one of the Pedego Boomerang Plus cycles and whizz back to the district for a morning of electric-powered exploring.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, take in the main Downtown Asheville sights during the two and a half hour tour which covers around nine miles of the district’s streets.

Don’t want a tour? Then hire a Flying Bike and cycle around Downtown at your own pace. Both ways are great fun.

12. Asheville Pinball Museum

Take a trip back in time and into the historic world of gaming at the Asheville Pinball Museum at Battle Square in Downtown Asheville.

The museum has eighty machines ranging from antique pinball to classic video games such as Pac-man which are all playable.

Entrance is restricted to a maximum of eighty people at a time to ensure every visitor has a machine to test their skills on. Get there early; pinball is a popular activity in Downtown Asheville.

13. Taste Carolina Food Tour

One way to delve deep into the cuisine and sample what’s on offer in more than one Downtown Asheville restaurant at a time is to join a Taste Carolina Food Tour.

Enjoy a Downtown Asheville Tasting Tour early in the day visiting farm-to-table restaurants, gourmet food stores and hidden culinary gems which are hard to find or take a Downtown Asheville Evening Eats and Drinks Tour for some sophisticated sampling.

You’ll soon discover why DT Asheville has become a preferred destination for foodies in North Carolina.

Related tour : Hidden Gems! Walking Eats & Drinks Tour of Downtown Asheville

14. Asheville Music Hall

There is nothing old-fashioned or vaudeville about the Asheville Music Hall on Downtown Asheville’s College Street.

The Asheville Music Hall is an up to date concert venue which features top bands and DJ’s as well as hosting trivia nights plus talent and songwriting competitions.

The venue has a standing capacity for over three hundred and fifty spectators plus an additional bar, the One Stop, for showcasing local musical talent.

15. Montford Rooftop Bar

The Montford Rooftop Bar in Hyatt Place on Haywood Street is the place to watch the sun go down on Downtown Asheville.

The sky-high bar has a west-facing, glass-walled terrace with uninterrupted views over the mountain ranges surrounding the city

Sipping on an Asheville craft beer or a cocktail and nibbling on some baked Carolina bison meatballs or house tater tots while enjoying sensational sunset vistas is the perfect way to end a day in Downtown Asheville.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Asheville:

• LaZoom Tours
• Thomas Wolfe Memorial
• Grove Arcade
• Asheville Urban Trail
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge
• Asheville Community Theater
• Asheville Museum Of Science
• Off The Wagon
• Asheville Salt Cave
• Lexington Glassworks
• The Flying Bike
• Asheville Pinball Museum
• Taste Carolina Food Tour
• Asheville Music Hall
• Montford Rooftop Bar

Asheville, NC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Stephen Pruitt Photography | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

20 Essential Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

The mountains are calling and you must go. With so many fun things to do in Asheville, you can cherry pick (or wild berry pick) a one-of-a-kind itinerary. You will discover many of Asheville's most memorable experiences in the great outdoors,

• All Things To Do

Biltmore Biltmore

U.S. News Insider Tip: Though the Biltmore house has 43 bathrooms, you can’t use any of them, so be sure to use one of the public restrooms by the Stable Café before your house tour. – Lindsey Grossman

George Vanderbilt’s enormous French Renaissance-style estate has a storied past dating back to 1889. Considered America's largest private home, it took six years to build, with 250 rooms including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and a whopping 65 fireplaces. The estate grounds designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park) cover 8,000 acres and feature nearly 22 miles of trails, gardens, a winery and so much more.

Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway close to vehicles in the winter, which affords you the unique opportunity to experience it by foot. If it’s not too far, park and walk to your hiking destination. – Lindsey Grossman

The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins in Virginia and meanders through about 250 miles of western North Carolina. With a maximum speed of 45 mph, the scenic byway offers drivers numerous opportunities to stop at overlooks, quaint mountain towns , and hiking and biking trails. The parkway is divided by milepost markers that increase as you drive farther south.

Craggy Gardens Craggy Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Late summer means berry season in the mountains. In August, you can hike up to the top of Craggy Gardens and pick your own wild blueberries! (While “supplies” last.) – Lindsey Grossman

One of the best trails for seeing wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway , Craggy Gardens is located at milepost 364. In June, rhododendrons overtake the evergreen foliage, weaving through tunnels of twisty roots and branches, making the trail as stunning as the views from the top.

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Pisgah National Forest Pisgah National Forest free

Offering more than 500,000 acres of land about 30 miles southwest of downtown Asheville, Pisgah National Forest is jam-packed with activities and breathtaking vistas. With hundreds of miles of trails and numerous waterfalls and swimming holes, the forest provides ample opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors.

One of the first national forests in the country, created partially with land that once belonged to the Biltmore Estate , the park is home to the first forestry school in the United States as well as the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Asheville Breweries Asheville Breweries

U.S. News Insider Tip: The hops don’t stop with local breweries. The Whale AVL in West Asheville boasts one of the best beer selections in the world, ranking as one of the country’s top 10 beer bars. – Lindsey Grossman

With more than 50 breweries in the area, Asheville has emerged as the beer capital of the Southeast. Sampling pints from many of the local breweries has become a favorite activity for Asheville residents and visitors alike.

Sliding Rock Sliding Rock free

Waterslide lovers can take their skills to the next level while getting back to nature at Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest . Easily one of the forest's most unique attractions, adventurous visitors can whoosh down 60 feet of sloped, predominantly flat rock that’s powered by 11,000 gallons of water per minute. The slide empties seamlessly into an 8-foot-deep pool below. Many make the trek to Pisgah National Forest to line up and take turns sliding down this fun natural wonder. Adventure Pisgah manages the site during the summer; during the offseason (after Labor Day), it’s an “enjoy at your own risk” attraction and there are no lifeguards. There are two observation platforms where those who don’t want to swim can take in the action. 

Recent visitors who took the plunge at Sliding Rock said they had a blast, and called it a must for every family’s bucket list. While travelers were unanimous in recommending a detour to Sliding Rock, they did warn that the water is cold (even in warmer weather) and you should expect crowds. For fewer lines and easier parking, avoid the peak hours between noon and 4 p.m., visit on a weekday, and bring aqua socks and a rash guard or swim shirt. 

Mount Mitchell State Park Mount Mitchell State Park free

Unsure of where to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway ? For unbeatable views of the mountains, pay a visit to Mount Mitchell State Park. Home to the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River (6,684 feet), it’s one of the parkway’s most popular attractions. Unlike many trails, this summit can be reached by car. A 4.5-mile paved road off the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you to the top, with a short walk to the observation area where you'll be treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery. What's more, visibility from the top goes as far as 85 miles.

Those hiking to the top have 40 miles of trails available that vary in difficulty and intensity. The Balsam Nature Trail is considered moderate, but is less than a mile long. Along this pathway, you'll find a small stream that is actually the highest spring in the eastern United States. To reach the top of Mount Mitchell like they did in the late 1800s and early 1900s, venture down the Old Mitchell Trail, which is 4 miles roundtrip. Or, you could walk the strenuous 2.1-mile Deep Gap Trail, which follows the ridgeline between Mount Mitchell to nearby Mount Craig.

River Arts District River Arts District free

Asheville’s River Arts District (known locally as RAD) started with a few studios in the mid-1980s and has grown to house nearly 300 artists and their creative endeavors. Former industrial and historical buildings – including a tannery and a cotton mill – have been repurposed and renovated as artist studios, shops, restaurants and a newly opened boutique hotel called The Radical. Visitors can stroll around the district to meet artists and enjoy works in various media, including paintings, textiles, ceramics, glass, jewelry and more. It's also a great place to pick up a unique souvenir from your time in the city, or sign up for a class at the North Carolina Glass Center to make your own special keepsake.

Though some visitors found the artwork expensive, they still loved walking around and watching the artists work. Visitors also noted the excellent reuse of a former industrial area, easy-to-find free parking, and Instagram-worthy public mural art.

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Appalachian Trail Appalachian Trail free

Winding its way from Maine to Georgia, the Appalachian Trail (also known as the AT) spans 2,190 miles through 14 states. About 323 of those miles are found in North Carolina, including 226.6 miles along the Tennessee border.

The North Carolina section offers many of the Appalachian Trail's highest peaks, several above 6,000 feet. Hiking enthusiasts can set out on a multiday or weeklong journey (keep in mind that you'll need permits to camp and hike in some areas, especially inside the Great Smoky Mountains).

French Broad River French Broad River free

You don't need to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway to find adventures in Asheville. In fact, the French Broad River, which runs right through town, is filled to the brim with fun and exciting activities. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the French Broad is also one of the only rivers in the world that flows north instead of south (its headwaters begin in Rosman, North Carolina and runs north to Tennessee). 

Popular river activities include tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and more. French Broad Outfitters is a highly rated tour operator that offers self-guided tours and rentals, plus gear for kayaking, tubing, stand-up paddleboarding and canoe. You can also find tube rentals at Zen Tubing , and if you happen to be more interested in stand-up paddleboarding with instruction, Wai Muana offers rentals, tours and lessons. 

The North Carolina Arboretum The North Carolina Arboretum free

Those with green thumbs will want to put the North Carolina Arboretum on their must-see list. Located 10 miles south of downtown Asheville off of Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 393, the arboretum is a 434-acre natural museum within Pisgah National Forest . Visitors can wander through 65 acres of lush gardens, including a world-renowned bonsai collection and more than 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking and walking. If you’re in Asheville over the holidays, don’t miss the arboretum’s spectacular Winter Lights walk-through experience that illuminates the gardens and grounds with more than a million lights.

Recent visitors raved about the bonsai exhibition as well as the walking trails. Kids can take part in a variety of interactive youth activities, such as the ecoEXPLORER citizen science program and TRACK Trail Guide.

Folk Art Center Folk Art Center free

At milepost 382 off the Blue Ridge Parkway , you'll find the Folk Art Center, home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The guild dates back to the 1930s and still represents the artists and craftsmen of Southern Appalachia.

One of the most popular spots off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Folk Art Center displays traditional and contemporary crafts in three galleries, and is home to a bookstore, a parkway information desk, a library and the Allanstand Craft Shop – the oldest craft shop in America. From March to December, the center also features daily craft demonstrations. If you happen to be in Asheville in either July or October, be sure to visit the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands at Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville. This event draws in more than 11,000 visitors each year and features more than 200 artists selling their craft and teaching the public about their artistic skills.

Western North Carolina Nature Center Western North Carolina Nature Center

If you're itching to learn more about the natural world of Appalachia, or simply have kids in tow, make sure that the Western North Carolina Nature Center is on your itinerary. The Nature Center, located just 5 miles southeast of downtown Asheville, is filled with 60 species of animals that are either native to the region or have at one point lived there. Resident animals – most of which cannot live in the wild on their own due to injury or imprinting (meaning they have no fear of humans and no skills to live in the wild) – include black bears, river otters and foxes. And don’t miss the red wolves, the world’s most endangered wolf species.

Both visitors and locals love coming to the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Travelers really enjoyed getting to see the various animals, especially the wolves and red pandas. Others appreciated the shaded paths and friendly staff. Another thing visitors agree on? This place is perfect for kids. In addition to plenty of exciting animals, the nature center also has Montessori-like interactive play areas for kiddos, gem and fossil mining, as well as free daily animal programs.

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Lexington Glassworks Lexington Glassworks free

Art lovers should get fired up for a stop at Lexington Glassworks. The gallery and studio prides itself on an open door culture, inviting you to watch these talented glass artists hone their craft. The gallery shows off an impressive display of both functional and decorative pieces that make great souvenirs, from drinkware to ornaments. Remodeling? Consult with Lexington Glassworks’ Lighting Design Studio for stunning custom pendants and other fixtures that will literally light up a room.

Several visitors described Lexington Glassworks as one of their Asheville musts, particularly noting the quality of the glass, friendly staff and the mesmerizing experience of watching the makers at work. One visitor points out that while many places in Asheville are closed on Tuesdays, Lexington Glassworks remains open if you’re planning your trip for midweek. 

LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours

The perfect blend of historical and hysterical, LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours welcome visitors aboard the company’s signature purple buses to drive around downtown and surrounding neighborhoods for a look at the city’s history, beer culture, ghosts and more. Along the way, you’ll meet zany characters and enjoy lots of laughter. LaZoom offers four tour options: the popular 90-minute Asheville City Tour (appropriate for ages 13 and older), a one-hour haunted comedy tour (ages 17 and older), a three-hour brewery tour (ages 21 and older) and a one-hour Kids Comedy Tour that’s suitable for all ages.

Both visitors and locals love these one-of-a-kind tours. Reviewers rave about the funny, witty guides and characters you interact with along the way. Locals call LaZoom a great way to introduce out-of-town guests to Asheville.

Asheville Pinball Museum Asheville Pinball Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Long line at the Pinball Museum? Check out the Amazing Poster Vault with 40 video games right below the museum for only $5, and the attached Lunchbox Hall of Fame with more than 200 classic lunch boxes for just $1. – Lindsey Grossman

The Asheville Pinball Museum offers the perfect activity for all ages, with 35 pinball machines and 35 classic video games to bring out the kid in everyone. A rotating collection of fully operational vintage games date as far back as the 1960s, with machines on display from as far back as the 1930s. Rare games include "Dragon's Lair," an original "Star Wars" cockpit and a 1979 Atari Football game. With sodas, snacks and beer for sale, you can easily kick back for a couple of hours. Up to 65 people are allowed in at a time, so there’s always a game available to play.

Grove Arcade Grove Arcade free

Self-made millionaire E.W. Grove (developer of The Omni Grove Park Inn ) conceived what he called “the most elegant building in America” when he built the Grove Arcade almost 100 years ago, creating the country’s first indoor shopping mall. Throughout its storied history, the architectural marvel served as a military center during World War II, and was home to the National Weather Records Center before a full renovation returned the Grove Arcade to its original vision. Today, the first floor of the Grove Arcade is filled with galleries, restaurants and shopping, with offices and residences on the higher floors. 

Visitors describe the Grove Arcade as a must-see for architecture lovers (who should check out the self-guided architecture tour ), and appreciated the air-conditioned reprieve from the summer heat. Housed inside the Grove Arcade, the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar is a favorite of both tourists and locals.

Asheville Urban Trail Asheville Urban Trail free

Weaving through downtown, the 1.7-mile-long Asheville Urban Trail walks visitors through the cultural and architectural history of the city. Public sculptures that speak to the city’s history mark each of the trail's 30 stops.

The self-guided tour takes you through five time periods, from the Gilded Age to the present Age of Diversity. The trail starts at Pack Square at the intersection of Biltmore Avenue and Patton Avenue and circles around the downtown area, arriving back at the square for the final bronze statue. Set aside two hours to complete the entire trail at once, or discover it in bits and pieces with each visit.

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Botanical Gardens at Asheville Botanical Gardens at Asheville free

If you want to connect to nature without driving too far out of town, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Located less than 2 miles north of downtown and neighboring the University of North Carolina at Asheville campus, the gardens sprawl across 10 acres, showing off Southern Appalachia’s incredible biodiversity with more than 500 species of native plants. The main loop trail is about half a mile, with gravelside trails splitting off for those wanting to explore further. Bring a picnic or choose one of several points to access Reed Creek for some rock hopping and splashing around in warmer months. You’ll also find several benches along the trails to rest and take it all in. There’s always something blooming, but the best time to visit is when the wildflowers peak in April and May and again mid-summer through early fall. Kids can learn about the different plant species with one of five investigation passports, which encourage little ones to interact with the garden and hone their observation skills (passports are available at the visitor center).

Garden visitors emphasize the natural, unmanicured feel (this is not a fancy botanical garden with high-maintenance exhibits), so temper your expectations. Reviewers also appreciated the clear signage and knowledgeable staff.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial Thomas Wolfe Memorial

One of the greatest American literary minds of the early 20th century, Thomas Wolfe was inspired by his time in Asheville, and at this historic downtown Asheville home in particular. Built in 1883, the house has changed ownership several times, and was at one time owned by Wolfe’s mother, who ran it as a boarding house. Wolfe pays tribute to his time in this house and in Asheville in his first and most famous novel, “Look Homeward, Angel.” Tour the house to gain a better understanding of how the renowned author’s childhood home influenced his work. The attached visitor center features a gift shop and an exhibit on the life and work of Thomas Wolfe. 

Visitors say the home not only offers unique insights into Thomas Wolfe’s life, but the city of Asheville as well (it’s a North Carolina State Historic Site). Visitors who weren’t as aware of Wolfe before the tour still enjoyed it and got a lot out of the experience.

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The 17 best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina

Sep 13, 2021 • 8 min read

Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its quirky vibe and welcoming people © Getty Images

Asheville is a city in a very good mood. Whether it's the mountain air, the buskers, the craft breweries, the dynamic food scene or the hordes of relieved hikers just off the Appalachian Trail bringing the magic, it’s hard to pinpoint.

But the city exudes a collegial vibe. And the whole shebang is backdropped by the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. Asheville is a busy place with lots going on, but this list of top things to do will get you started.

1. Wander downtown Asheville

When you fall in love with Asheville, it will likely be while wandering downtown on a Friday night. Buskers play banjo on the corner. Patios buzz with diners. The purple LaZoom bus rattles by with its joke-y joie de vivre. And the thumping beat of the drum circle adds a primeval edge to the scene. Daytime wanderings are equally appealing. You can admire off-beat murals, pop into indie shops or discover the history of Asheville while following the Urban Trail . And the nearby South Slope breweries? Most open at noon on weekends. 

2. Order a Dessert Flight at French Broad Chocolate Lounge

If you’re having a tough time deciding which confection to choose at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge , consider the Dessert Flight. This decadent platter includes five different desserts, each with at least a whisper of chocolate: shortbread with chocolate ganache, a hazelnut crunch bonbon, a strawberry macaron with dark chocolate ganache, chocolate mousse and a scoop of coffee-nib ice cream. The chic lounge overlooks Pack Square downtown.

3. See the sunflowers at the Biltmore

More than 140,000 sunflowers bloom on the Biltmore Estate in summer. The bright yellow flowers can grow to a height of eight feet and typically bloom for one week in July and again for a week in early September. Completed in 1895 for shipping magnate George Washington Vanderbilt II, the enormous estate, with its lush gardens and manicured grounds, is Asheville’s premier attraction. You’ll see the sunflowers while driving to Antler Village & the Winery after taking the house tour. Tickets start at $76 per adult (yes, that much). 

4. Get into the rhythm at the Friday Night Drum Circle

What began as a 10-person drum session in 2001 has become a downtown tradition drawing hundreds of spectators and a slew of drummers – not to mention belly dancers, hula-hoopers, music-loving families and folks simply looking for a fun communal experience. Held in Pritchard Park, the free event lasts from 6pm to 10pm on Friday nights, typically from April through October. Feel free to bring your own drum and join in!

5. Sample craft beer

With 48 craft breweries in its greater metropolitan area, Asheville is appropriately nicknamed Beer City USA (in fact, it’s second only to Portland, Maine, for the highest number of breweries per capita). Best part? Breweries here exude a cooperative vibe that encourages exploring. If you’re staying downtown, walk to the compact South Slope District, a former industrial neighborhood that's now home to ten craft breweries. Further afield, heavy-hitters New Belgium and the Sierra Nevada are also drawing thirsty crowds to their taprooms. For a world of choice – but in an intimate pub – stop by the bar at longtime favorite Thirsty Monk . The Asheville Ale Trail will get you started.

6. Go on a foraging tour

If you enjoy berry picking but want to up your game, sign up for a foraging tour with No Taste Like Home . These knowledgeable folks will meet you in a nearby natural area for a morning of foraging for wild local edibles, which may include mushrooms and fruit. Sample your discoveries on the trail with your guide, watch a cooking demo and then take the rest of your plants to a participating restaurant, where the chef will whip up your find into an appetizer.

7. Hike, paddle or mountain bike the great outdoors

The Blue Ridge Mountains are beacons for adventure. Trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway lead to waterfalls, wildflowers and grassy balds with sweeping views. Paddlers seeking whitewater beeline to the French Broad River while mountain bikers hurtle down singletrack in Pisgah National Forest . Ziplines and canopy tours are scattered across the mountain foothills. Great Smoky Mountains National Park , another adventure hotspot, is 55 miles west of the city.

8. Get immersed in local culture at the Folk Art Center

With three galleries, a well-stocked gift shop and daily craft demonstrations (Mar-Oct), the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway is the best place in the region to immerse in Southern Appalachian arts and crafts. The Allanstand Craft Shop sells high-quality jewelry, textiles, pottery and glassworks, all made by artisans from Southern Highland Craft Guild. The galleries showcase contemporary and traditional pieces and works from the permanent collection. 

9. Sample local barbecue

BBQ fans are divided: 12 Bones or Buxton Hall ? Perched beside the French Broad River in the River Arts District, 12 Bones is beloved for its slow-cooked smoky meats and mouthwatering sides. Buxton Hall prepares its pork Eastern-Carolina-style, infusing a whole hog with a peppery vinegar sauce, then slow-cooking it over hardwood coals. With James Beard nominee Elliott Moss as pitmaster, this is the place to eat before exploring the South Slope breweries.

10. Have a sunset cocktail at the Omni Grove Park Inn

Mother Nature shares some of her best work just beyond the terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn , particularly at sunset. With clouds aglow, forests and mountains on the horizon and stone craftsmanship framing the view, it's an inspiring place to recap your day – over fancy cocktails, of course. In fact, the entire hotel, an Arts and Crafts-style lodge that opened in 1913, evokes a long-lost era of glamour and adventure.

11. See live music

Old-time music and bluegrass were birthed in the Southern Appalachians, and this high-lonesome heritage is the default musical vibe across the city. But an influx of innovative musicians keeps the traditional sounds fresh, and the music scene is thriving. Most music venues are on the small side, so performances feel up-close and personal. The Orange Peel welcomes big-name indie bands, while the Grey Eagle showcases up-and-coming local, regional and national acts playing a mix of genres. Breweries often have live music too.  

12. Visit unique museums

No quarters are needed at the Asheville Pinball Museum , where you can play as many games as you want on the old-school pinball machines with paid admission. There are about 70 machines available for play. The interactive Moogseum spotlights the work of Dr Bob Moog, a long-time Asheville resident who invented the first commercial synthesizer, which electronically reproduces the sounds of instruments. Both museums are downtown.

13. Savor tapas as Cúrate

In a city dubbed Foodtopia, it seems ill-advised to focus on just one restaurant. But consider Cúrate a gateway culinary experience that will inspire you to discover what the rest of the chefs here have to offer. Opened by Chef Katie Button and her Catalan husband Félix Meana in 2011, Cúrate was at the forefront of Asheville’s transformation into a nationally acclaimed dining destination. Folks from far and wide continue to clamor for a spot at this intimate yet festive restaurant that showcases the sensual flavors of authentic Spanish tapas.

14. Learn about area plant life at the North Carolina Arboretum

With 65 acres of gardens, groomed hiking and biking trails and innovative exhibits blending nature and art, the North Carolina Arboretum is a pretty place to escape. The themed gardens reveal the diversity of plant life in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, and their designs often nod to the region's cultural heritage. The Quilt Garden replicates a traditional quilt-block pattern – but rendered with blooming flowers. 

15. Explore the River Arts District

Aging warehouses along the French Broad River now house a diverse collection of galleries and working studios. Indie restaurants, hip coffee shops and scrappy Wedge Brewing Co keep the neighborhood buzzing throughout the day. More than 180 artists exhibit and sell their work – jewelry, paintings, ceramics, glassware, metal textiles, and wood – in the still-growing neighborhood, which stretches one mile along the river southwest of downtown. A gallery walk with workshops, demos, live music and wine tastings occurs on the second Saturday of the month.

16. Shop local...and regional

There are numerous shopping districts in Asheville, but the best all have one thing in common: an abundance of independent owners and locally produced goods. Downtown is chock-full of local shops, from galleries and bookshops to chocolate boutiques and outdoor stores. Art in all its forms is sold in galleries across 23 buildings in the River Arts District. Craft galleries are a highlight in the town of Black Mountain just up the road.

17. Take a LaZoom City Comedy Tour

Climb aboard the purple bus for a raucous comedy tour of the city. Learn about Asheville’s history and its coolest hidden spots on a drive through the historic downtown, the South Slope District and the River Arts District. Dogs are allowed onboard, and there’s a brewery stop along the way. Kids tours, a ghost tour and a band-and-beer tour are also offered.

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Project Aspire, the largest project in downtown Asheville, aims to find its footing

A SHEVILLE - In the northeast corner of downtown Asheville, Douglas Ellington's architecture has a commanding presence over the city skyline with the dome of the First Baptist Church and City Hall's iconic, red-tiled roof.

But that distinctive skyline could change if Project Aspire, an ambitious, sprawling, mixed-use development, is built.

In a collaborative effort between First Baptist Church of Asheville and YMCA of WNC, Project Aspire was approved by City Council late last year to redevelop 10-acres of land near the heart of downtown Asheville. The project is the largest master plan ever approved in the Central Business District, according to city staff.

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If built to its proposed maximum height, two of the buildings — both projected to be 19 and 20 stories, respectively — would be the tallest in Western North Carolina.

Six months after its approval by City Council, the project is embarking on what could be a nearly 10-year process to bring affordable housing, a new YMCA building, office space and the tallest hotel in WNC to a 10-acre parcel, all of which sits next to the historically Black East End/Valley Street Community — drawing comparisons to the urban renewal projects that uprooted and displaced people in those neighborhoods decades ago .

Plans to address parking? Answer Woman: Downtown traffic impact of Project Aspire? Any plans to address issues?

A 'looming' hotel and urban renewal

Even as the project's master plan was approved in 2023, the process faced significant criticism — much of it coming from residents of the historically Black East End/Valley Street Neighborhood.

"Aspire will raise taxes on the East End community, which is another form of redlining and eminent domain and all of the negatives towards taking property from Black people," East End/Valley Street resident Kimberly Collins said during the Sept. 26 City Council meeting.

Renee White, president of the East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association and vice chair of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Land Trust, said the neighborhood took particular issue with the height of the 20-story hotel.

White said they "certainly do not want that obstruction of view and that type of height," noting that addressing those concerns with the Greenville, South Carolina-based Furman Co. has proved difficult. She said that all of the neighborhood's meetings with the company have frustrated her.

The community was not initially told of the plan to place a hotel on the property, White said.

"I definitely don't want it to be a infighting type situation," White said of working with community organizations on Project Aspire. "It needs to be a situation where we're at the table, both sides, and that we're able to come up with some workable medians that are somewhat satisfiable to everyone involved."

"I just don't see that happening with the developer that they're currently working with," she continued.

The plot of land set aside for the hotel also raised concerns.

The First Baptist Church Building was one of fewer than than 20 buildings selected to be saved as part of the 1960's Civic Redevelopment Urban Renewal Project. The project displaced 145 families, of which 42 — or 29% — were families of color, according to Renewing Inequality, a University of Richmond web service compiling the history of urban renewal across America.

In the late '60s, the adjacent property, David Millard High School, and three houses were torn down and converted to what is now known as 1 Oak Plaza. The property was sold in 1977 to three local lawyers who converted it to an Asheville office for then Gov. Jim Hunt, according to past Citizen Times reporting.

The land eventually sold to First Baptist Church in 1994.

A collaboration 6 years in the making

While much of the development was publicly announced in early 2023, the project has been in the works for nearly six years as the YMCA and First Baptist sought to bolster their community facilities.

One morning in early February, the basketball courts, pools and day care facilities of the downtown Asheville YMCA — known as the regions flagship facility — were teeming with activity. The hallways seem more like people highways, with a stream of members coming and going — greeted with "good morning," "hello" and "how are you?"

The YMCA of Western North Carolina serves roughly 43,707 members, and the Asheville location is one of the most active in the region, despite being one of the older locations, said Paul Vest, CEO of the YMCA.

Despite multiple renovations to the 1970 facility, demands have changed, and the needs of the building are more than just gyms and locker room space — where the current layout of the building has made expansion difficult.

"We don't have really any space to do diabetes prevention, LIVESTRONG, or cancer survivorship or any of our health-related programs," Vest said from the hallway of the YMCA.

The new building would have at least 10,000 more square feet of space than the current nearly 50,000 square feet at the downtown Asheville YMCA.

Down the block, a similar discussion was taking place starting in 2018.

"You know, it was just sort of serendipitous. We kind of crossed paths and found out that we were both sort of going down the same path," said Scott Hughes, a former deacon chair at the church. "Introductions happened, and conversations began."

The Ellington-built First Baptist has expanded and undergone multiple renovations over its 97 years.

Now boasting a music school, day care facilities, a food pantry, community gathering space and acting as a temporary home base for the Asheville Symphony Orchestra , the 1927 church building is constantly active and requires maintenance.

The required upkeep is visible in the small things, such as damage to the carefully designed ceiling in the main sanctuary, said Hughes, who describes his role as "congregational liaison" to the Aspire project.

Between 2017 and 2021, the building lost over $800,000 in value, Buncombe County Property Records show.

"You're constantly having to feed it in big numbers for a facility this size, this ornate," Hughes said of maintaining the historic building.

"Everything is very expensive. So, it's going to have long-term needs, but we want to celebrate them," Hughes said.

Inverting the hotel model

After joining forces, the YMCA and First Baptist contracted the Furman Co. to help develop a project to include residential space, the new YMCA building and other amenities like a pharmacy and pediatric care center.

The project didn't just require a vote from City Council and Asheville planning boards, it required those at the church to be on board with the project, Pastor Mack Dennis said. The turnout showed interest in a project.

Furman Co. stepped in to help guide the process, both in terms of deciding to build the residential space and financing for the project.

"We were being entrusted with the mission objectives of the partners, and one of those objectives was to do something for the community benefit beyond just their doors," Furman Vice President Robert Poppleton said.

After bringing Furman on board, First Baptist made the decision to sell the 1 Oak Plaza property to a hotelier. The organizations told the Citizen Times the sale would finance elements of the housing development and help provide funds for maintenance to the 1927 church, Poppleton said.

Dennis posited: What if all new hotels in Asheville came with the motivation for new housing and backing of two Asheville based nonprofits?

"They buy the land, and they build the big thing and they make the money," Dennis said of typical developments. "And this really inverts all of that. Even the hotel piece."

Will Aspire's housing really be affordable?

Asheville's Fair Market Rent is the highest for North Carolina metros, with a one-bedroom apartment going for $1,496 a month, according to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Across North Carolina and its surrounding states, only the Atlanta and Washington D.C. metros have higher Fair Market Rents for one-bedroom apartments than Asheville.

Current project plans include the possibility of at least 130 apartments that are deemed "affordable" at 80% of area median income. In Asheville, one would have to earn $47,600 a year to qualify for an apartment at 80% AMI, according to HUD data.

"We know people are struggling with housing. They're struggling with childcare. They're struggling with being able to live well and have an integrated life," Dennis said.

However, some people remain skeptical of just how affordable the development would end up being.

According to a recent study by THRIVE Asheville, a local nonprofit, 80% AMI projects in Asheville have historically missed the median income for Asheville residents who are Black or Hispanic.

The estimated median income for Asheville's Black households is $28,628, according to the American Community Survey 2022 5-year estimate. The estimate is over $35,000 below the estimated $63,810 area median income for Asheville households.

The report's equity concerns have led to the pause of the Land Use Incentive Grant, or LUIG , an affordable housing funding tool used by the city. Two-thirds of the projects funded through LUIG have only provided affordable housing at 80% AMI.

For her part, White believes a collaboration between the Asheville-Buncombe Community Land Trust, or a similar nonprofit, could bring deeper affordability.

"Maybe doing some kind of partnership, even with the land trust, so that we can ensure that some Black people are able to move in," White said. "With that type of AMI, I mean, really? Who can afford it?"

Aspire included in reparations?

Considering the history of urban renewal, Dennis said conversations between First Baptist and East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association have been difficult, but they have opened up new doors in the community.

"We can't fix what happened. We can't make it right, but we can still make something beautiful out of this," Dennis said. "And if early conversations are any indication, I think we have a lot of new friendships and new possibilities and opportunities to look forward to on both sides of the street."

Sitting in the sanctuary of First Baptist in January, Poppleton said Furman intends to follow a commitment to continuing community engagement.

"I hope that we have developed some level of trust from what we've already done in terms of community outreach," Poppleton said. "And, you know, projects move at the speed of trust."

In White’s view, the Aspire property, along with other urban renewal properties, should be included in discussion with the reparations commission.

The Community Reparations Commission is a city of Asheville commission established to create recommendations to repair damage caused by public and private systemic racism in the city.

"What does that look like in terms of reparations? What does that look like in terms of if that land was actually urban renewal property? Then what does it look like for them to be able to give back," White said.

More: Asheville Reparations: Members hear final 'equity audit:' 108 new recommendations

The next step? Funding

The project is facing other hurdles, chief among them is securing funding.

The estimated budget for the first phase of the project could run up to $200 million, Poppleton said, and would break ground with a parking deck. The company would likely request a public-private partnership to leverage public funding to build the parking deck, selling the project as good for business and housing, Poppleton said.

"What we are saying is this private investment will produce for the community of Asheville several new revenue streams that will feed into the community. Whether it be property taxes, or hospitality tax, or a portion of sales tax revenues," Poppleton said of the use of public funds toward the project.

To help with upfront cost on the project, the YMCA has sought funds from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority Legacy Investment from Tourism, or LIFT, to pay for predevelopment activities.

Project Aspire has asked for $627,263 in LIFT funds, according to the Phase 1 application to the BCTDA. The project is currently in Phase 2 of the LIFT fund process, the BCTDA confirmed March 22.

Nearly every step of the way during construction and planning, the project will continue to see community and city feedback through the Design Review Committee and Planning and Zoning Commission.

Dennis, sitting in the space he often speaks from every Sunday, wondered if the project would become a model for community collaboration around the country.

Though still early days for the project, the East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association will continue the dialogue with stakeholders.

"We've decided that we are going to sit back down with Project Aspire and look at what it looks like to get some benefits out of it for our neighborhood, for our community and especially for our Black community," White told the Citizen Times.

More: Asheville East End church saved from demolition, finds 2nd life as affordable housing

More: Downtown Asheville homeowners live amid 9 illegal Airbnb's; despite reports, no fines

Will Hofmann is the Growth and Development Reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Got a tip? Email him at [email protected].   Please help support this type of journalism with a  subscription  to the Citizen Times .

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Project Aspire, the largest project in downtown Asheville, aims to find its footing

What time is 2024 solar eclipse? Best place to see eclipse in WNC? Search your ZIP code

On April 8, when the moon totally blocks out the sun's light, tens of millions of people from Texas to Maine will have a chance to experience what is being dubbed as the "Great American Eclipse."

If you miss 2024's celestial event, the next opportunity to glimpse a total solar eclipse in the U.S. won't be for another 20 years, when just Montana and North Dakota will slip into darkness in 2044.

While it's not in the path of totality for 2024's total solar eclipse, Asheville will see approximately 85% of the eclipse during its peak, making it one of the better, though not best, locations to view the eclipse in North Carolina.

Want to know the best places in North Carolina to view the eclipse? Search for your ZIP code below or select a major city to reveal the time, duration, peak and percentage of the eclipse in your area.

What will you see during the eclipse, interactive map

For cities and towns within the path of totality, the moon will block out the Earth's vision of the sun, creating a dawn-like or nighttime-like effect.

On April 8, the eclipse will start to dim the sun's light at 1:51 p.m. Maximum coverage from the eclipse will take place at 3:09 p.m., when the moon will cover most of the sun's disk in the Asheville area. The eclipse ends at 4:24 p.m.

Developed by the USA TODAY network, the interactives display where you can see the eclipse and how much of the sun will be covered by the moon's disk based on location and ZIP code. For 28801, or downtown Asheville's ZIP code, those visiting the area's central business district will have nearly 85% of the sun obscured by the moon.

In North Carolina, the best ZIP code for eclipse viewing is 28733, which includes Fontana Village Resort. The moon is projected to cover 86.4% of the sun's disk in this area.

NC Arboretum chosen for eclipse research

Among other exciting opportunities coming to WNC during the eclipse, the 434-acre North Carolina Arboretum will hold an event from 1-4 p.m. April 8 with education sessions and special events.

In partnership with the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, the event will also include the opportunity to receive NASA eclipse glasses to safely view the eclipse, alongside a livestream showing the path of totality.

The Arboretum will also participate in Eclipse Soundscapes, a project funded by NASA's Science Activation Program, which aims to understand how eclipses affect life on Earth, according to the Eclipse Soundscapes website.

The event is free, and no registration will be required, though regular parking fees will still apply.

Don't forget your glasses!

One of the most important aspects of watching the total solar eclipse is eye safety. Improper protection from the sun could lead to permanent damage to your vision or even blindness.

All eclipse watchers  need ISO rated 12,312-2  glasses to view the eclipse. The American Optometric Association and NASA have certified companies from which you can buy glasses.

No matter what your plans are, you should know this: Don't look at the sun without protection.

Asheville and WNC eclipse events

There will be plenty other eclipse-related activities across Western North Carolina, whether that be with a former astronaut , or the chance to visit one of the few "Dark-Sky Certified Parks" in the state. Here's a list of four events which will celebrate and provide education on the total eclipse.

• Fairview's Turgua Brewing Co. will hold a viewing party at 2 p.m. April 8 for the eclipse, where the brewery will be handing out a limited number of viewing glasses .
• Another brewery option is with Highland Brewing's Rooftop at 2 p.m., where the brewery will hand out eclipse glasses to the first 100 guests.
• Sylva's Southwestern Community College will collaborate with Jackson County Early College to view the eclipse alongside food trucks from 2-4 p.m. as the area will see a partial eclipse with 87% coverage. Eclipse viewing glasses will be available.
• View the April 8 eclipse at the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute, or PARI, in Transylvania County, to learn more about eclipse research, astronomical artifacts and more during PARI's all day event. The ticket price is $40 for children 12 and under and $80 for adults.

More: How the NAR legal settlement could impact local realtors, Asheville housing market

More: East Asheville 95-home development gets planning board OK; Haw Creek asks for more time

Will Hofmann is the Growth and Development Reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Got a tip? Email him at [email protected].

9 Most Affordable Suburbs of Asheville, NC, Suburbs to Live In

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Whether you want to call it by its nickname, “The Land of the Sky,” or just by its name, Asheville, NC , is one of the many great destinations to live in the Southeast. With its natural views, outstanding restaurants, and infinite ways to spend your days, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that close to 94,100 people are living in Asheville . 

And if you’re moving to Asheville, it’s important to keep in mind that the median home sale price is $435,000, and the average sale price per square foot is $294. And if you’re a renter, the average rent price for a 2-bedroom apartment in Asheville is $1,899.

Don’t worry if those prices don’t fit in your budget – we’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment that does. We’ve rounded up a list of the 9 best affordable suburbs of Asheville, NC, to consider living in – and they’re all under a 45-minute drive from the city. You’ll be close enough to explore all of Asheville’s best activities, without paying the price of city life.

#1: East Flat Rock

Median home price: $305,000  Average sale price per square foot: $194  Driving distance from Asheville: 35 minutes East Flat Rock, NC homes for sale East Flat Rock, NC apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $305,000, East Flat Rock comes in at number one on our list of most affordable suburbs of Asheville, NC. About 5,800 people live in this suburban area and you’ll only be about a 35-minute drive away from downtown Asheville. Living in East Flat Rock, you can explore everything that this suburb has to offer its residents.

Your next home is just a tap away

Median home price: $352,500  Average sale price per square foot: $222  Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,715  Driving distance from Asheville: 35 minutes Hendersonville, NC homes for sale Hendersonville, NC apartments for rent

Taking the second place on our list is Hendersonville. Just about 35 minutes from Asheville, you can explore downtown Asheville and see the museums and galleries in no time. Living in Hendersonville, you’ll want to visit one of the many museums like Henderson County Heritage Museum, hike along the Oklawaha Greenway Trail, or explore the historic districts. When living in this Asheville suburb of 15,100 people, you can also spend the day checking out the charming downtown.

#3: Swannanoa

Median home price: $388,500  Average sale price per square foot: $277  Driving distance from Asheville: 15 minutes Swannanoa, NC homes for sale Swannanoa, NC apartments for rent

Just 15 minutes away, you’ll find the suburb of Swannanoa. Even with a population of about 5,000, there are plenty of fun things to do in Swannanoa. If you find yourself moving here, make sure to spend some time outdoors or camping at one of the campgrounds. 

Median home price: $400,000  Average sale price per square foot: $239  Driving distance from Asheville: 40 minutes Etowah, NC homes for sale Etowah, NC apartments for rent

Only slightly more expensive than Swannanoa is none other than Etowah. There are several top attractions you may want to check out in Asheville suburb and make sure to have a meal at one of the great local restaurants.

#5: Woodfin

Median home price: $410,000  Average sale price per square foot: $323  Driving distance from Asheville: 10 minutes Woodfin, NC homes for sale Woodfin, NC apartments for rent

Drive 10 minutes outside of Asheville and you’ll find the suburb of Woodfin, another great area to add to your list. Home to 7,900 residents, this affordable town can be a great choice for people looking to remain close to Asheville without paying the price for a home in the city. In Woodfin, you can go camping, check out the views of the French Broad River, or visit Craggy Mountain Line museum.

#6: Brevard

Median home price: $435,000  Average sale price per square foot: $234  Driving distance from Asheville: 45 minutes Brevard, NC homes for sale Brevard, NC apartments for rent

Another one of the well-known suburbs of Asheville, NC, is Brevard, where the home prices are $435,000. With roughly 7,700 people calling Brevard home, it’s a great area to consider moving to. Make sure to visit Deer Lake, check out the charming downtown area, explore Bracken Preserve, or hike up Kagel Mountain. You won’t get tired of this great suburb.

#7: Fletcher

Median home price: $455,000  Average sale price per square foot: $274  Driving distance from Asheville: 25 minutes Fletcher, NC homes for sale Fletcher, NC apartments for rent

Seventh on our list of affordable Asheville suburbs is Fletcher, which is about a 25-minute drive into the heart of the city. With a population of about 8,000, you’ll be living in a smaller area, but there’s no shortage of things to experience in Fletcher. If you’re going to call this area home, plan time to spend the afternoon at Bill Moore Community Park.

#8: Black Mountain

Median home price: $530,000  Average sale price per square foot: $272  Driving distance from Asheville: 20 minutes Black Mountain, NC homes for sale Black Mountain, NC apartments for rent

If you’ve lived in or around Asheville for a while, you may know our eighth suburb – Black Mountain. This affordable suburb is home to approximately 8,400 residents, so you’ll have a fraction of Asheville’s population while remaining close to the city and its attractions. Once moving to Black Mountain you’ll want to visit the scenic Lake Tomahawk Park where you can fish or walk along the trail, check out the charming downtown where you’ll find historic buildings, and grab some great barbeque. 

#9: Mills River

Median home price: $725,000  Average sale price per square foot: $263  Driving distance from Asheville: 30 minutes Mills River, NC homes for sale Mills River, NC apartments for rent

Finishing off our list of affordable suburbs of Asheville, NC, is none other than Mills River. About 30-minutes away from the city-center, you may just want to consider relocating to Mills River. Roughly 7,100 people live in this suburb, but you’ll find plenty to do in Mills River.

Methodology:   Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s median home sale price or average sale price per square foot is less than Asheville and under a 45-minute drive from downtown Asheville. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during March 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com March 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau .

Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Charlotte area, Tom Tressler is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Charlotte area, Tom Tressler possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.

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