Local's Guide to a Long Weekend in Asheville, NC (3-Day Itinerary)
Some may say I am a rare breed. To find a true local in Asheville, NC is like trying to find a Coors Light at a bar in this ‘Beer City.’ My family moved to Asheville in 1990 - I don’t remember much about what it was like back then, I was mostly focused on learning how to walk and potty training at the time. Every time I meet someone and share with them that I grew up in Asheville, I’m reminded how fortunate I was to live in a place to beautiful that folks travel from all over to see our mountains, experience the vibrant and storied art scene and maybe try a few local craft beers.
I may have moved down the mountain, but Asheville will always be home. My husband and I venture into town at least once a month to spend time with friends. If I could only go for a long weekend once a year - these would be my go to, can’t miss spots.
About Asheville
Asheville, NC is nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, in the heart of Pisgah National Forest. It’s located about 2-hours from Charlotte, near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park & Mount Mitchell (the highest mountain peak east of the Mississippi River) and the Blue Ridge Parkway runs right through town.
It’s downtown is known for it’s art deco architecture, it’s close proximity to mountains makes it the perfect jumping off point for a variety of outdoor adventures and it’s well know for it’s food and drink scene.
Day One: Take A Hike
Breakfast at The Med
The Med has been serving downtown Asheville for over 50 years. It puts a creative, local spin on diner classics using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. My go-to is the West Fork Hash Bowl.
Before you head out of town for the day, swing by Roman’s Deli to stock your cooler with a selection of made from scratch sandwiches like the Caprese or the Club. This locally, family-owned deli sources their ingredients from local purveyors like Hickory Nut Gap, Springer Mountain Farms and Annie’s Bakery.
Looking Glass Falls, Pisgah National Forest
Hit the Trail in Pisgah National Forest
With it’s close proximity to Pisgah National Forest, Great Smokey Mountains National Park and multiple state-parks and forests, it can be tough to it down. Here are few options to choose your own adventure in Pisgah:
Looking Glass Falls: This stunning, 60’, waterfall sits just to off of HWY 276. It’s not much of a hike per-say, but it is an easy stop on your way to or from any hike in Pisgah National Forest.
John Rock: John Rock is a 4.7 mi, moderate, loop with a climb that rewards hikers with stunning views of the valley, mountain ranges and neighboring Looking Glass Rock.
Moore Cove Falls: Moore Cove Falls offers hikers the unique experience of walking behind a 50’ waterfall. The trail is an easy, family-friendly, 1.2 mi out and back that leaves from a small parking area just off HWY 276.
In the summer, reward yourself with a delicious scoop (or three) of ice cream from Dolly’s Dairy Bar after your hike. This place is an institution - I’ve been enjoying ice cream at their picnic tables since childhood. Nothing tastes better after a hike.
Dinner at Good Hot Fish or Mamacita’s Taqueria
Good Hot Fish is a counter-service fish fry on the South Slope area of Downtown Asheville led by award-winning chef, Ashleigh Shanti. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but for a first time visit, be sure to get the Sweet Potato Cabbage Pancake and an order of the fish sticks.
Mamacita’s Taqueria is a casual Mexican restaurant on Biltmore Ave. serving tacos, burritos, nachos and more. Think of it as a local version of Chipotle where you can build your own dish.
Downtown Asheville, NC
Day Two: Explore Downtown Asheville
Breakfast at All Day Darling
Start your day in the Montford Neighborhood on the outskirts of Downtown Asheville. All Day Darling is a cute counter-service cafe offers a variety of breakfast sandwiches, classic plates, fancy coffees and more without the crowds and multi-hour waits.
Enjoy Shopping and Galleries
Wander the streets of downtown Asheville to explore the multitude of local boutiques and art galleries. Some of my favorites include Battery Park Book Exchange, Minx, Woolworth Walk & the Kress Emporium.
Lunch at Huli Sues
Hawaiian BBQ in the mountains may sound odd, but trust me it works. The Mochicko Chicken Bowl is my go-to here. While you’re there, stroll through the Grove Arcade, Asheville’s original “mall.” Opened in 1929, the Grove Arcade showcases a blend of art deco and Neo-Gothic influences with a beautiful indoor arcade featuring locally-owned boutiques.
Take a Ride with LaZoom
Forget traditional bus tours with dull guides droning on about… well who knows because honestly they sound like the teacher from the Peanuts. LaZoom offers hilarious, 90-minute, tours that manage to pack in a ton of history.
Dinner at Curaté
Curatê is easily in my top 5 list of favorite restaurants and is connected to special memories for our family. But don’t take my word for it, the list of accolades for this restaurant is long: James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Hospitality in 2022, one of America's 50 Wine Restaurants We Love by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2021 and Chef Katie Button, has been nominated for several James Beard Awards for Best Chef, including Best Chef Southeast in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The menu is seasonal, but the patatas bravas are always on.
Day Three: Choose Your Own Adventure
Breakfast at Hole Donuts
At Hole Donuts, every donut is cooked to order. You won’t find crazy toppings here but all it will take is one bite to realize toppings are not necessary. Go ahead and order a dozen, they’re that good.
Biltmore Estate (Option 1)
The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned home in the United States and the perfect activity for anyone interested in history, art, gardens.
There is so much to do here that it would be possible to spend a whole weekend on their grounds and still not experience it all. Their standard admission includes a self-guided tour, with audio guide, of the home, gardens, grounds and winery (including wine tastings). For an additional fee, visitors can also book a Land Rover off-roading adventure, falconry experiences, clay shooting, guided trail rides and more. Additionally, there are several restaurants on site including the Stable Cafe and Cedric’s at Antler Hill Village.
Hit the trail in Dupot State Forest (Option 2)
Triple Falls & High Falls: Located in Dupont State Recreational Forests, this moderate, 2.3 mi. out and back hike takes visitors both falls. Film enthusiasts may also enjoy
Hooker Falls: 0.6 mi, easy out and back trail
Brewery Hopping (Option 3)
Asheville won the nickname of Beer City USA due to its volume of local breweries. If you’re interested in trying several different breweries while leaving the driving and logistics up to someone else, a brewery tour is a great option.
If you’d prefer a non-alcoholic drink experience, head over to the Devil’s Foot tasting room. They use 100% Certified Organic ginger root, lemons, & limes to create craft sodas.
Where to Stay in Asheville, NC
Asheville offers quirky boutique stays, historical hotels in addition to the standard chain fair.
Zelda Dearest - Named after and inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald, this boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown Asheville.
Omni Grove Park Inn - For over a century, this hotel has welcomed guests to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain. The Grove Park Inn is worth the stay for access to the spa (so dreamy!).
A weekend is truly not enough time to see everything Asheville has to offer, but it is enough to fall in love and know you want to come back!
Want more tips, personalized recommendations and access to perks such as complimentary upgrades and spa credits?
I would love to help you book your Asheville getaway!
