District Guide

Question: Why do so many folks that visit the Asheville area on vacation end up moving here? Answer: Once they visit, they love it so much they either stay, or make plans to move to the area in the future. A truly eclectic, comfy, and beautiful mountain city, Asheville is so inviting, you'll want to make it your home town!

For those who love the outdoors, this area beckons your soul to explore Mother Nature and all her beauty. Whether you spend the day hiking on the Appalachian Trail or along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you will not be at a loss for magnificent views and crisp mountain air. But there are more than just mountains to discover in this breathtaking haven.

Downtown

Smothered in a helping of southern charm and nostalgic buildings, downtown Asheville maintains the old and welcomes the new. Art galleries, restaurants, businesses and shops of all types make up the heart of Asheville. The Vance Monument stands proudly at center stage with many great places surrounding it, including Pack Place, The Fine Arts Theatre and Cafe on the Square. The Thomas Wolfe Memorial can also be found just north of downtown as well.

West Asheville

A nice residential area with wonderful restaurants and businesses of all types make up West Asheville. The Famous Harbor Inn Seafood dishes out some tasty seafood in a relaxed, casual environment. If you're looking to satiate a more hearty appetite, check out 12 Bones Smokehouse for the smokiest meat in town.

East Asheville

Head east and you will discover the town of Black Mountain, smaller than Asheville, and truly quaint; do not overlook this small paradise. The fabulous bed and breakfast, Red Rocker Inn, sits along Main Street, where there is rich hunting for antique collectors. My Father's Pizza serves up fresh piping hot pizza with toppings of all kinds, including asparagus and artichoke hearts. Shop and nibble your way through a fun day in Black Mountain.

North

The Montford area of old homes is certainly worth a drive-through. Winding your way through this residential area is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Tucked in the North side of Asheville is the magnificent Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa with its lovely golf course beckoning those who love the sport.

South

South Asheville holds a real jewel in the crown of attractions for this area. The Biltmore Estate is truly a must-see. Drive through the gates and wind back to this privately owned estate of elegance and magic. Biltmore Village offers unique shops and eateries of all types.

Western North Carolina Area

Small mountain towns surround Asheville, each with its own tourist attraction contribution. You do not have to venture far to see breathtaking beauty. Grandfather Mountain, Chimney Rock Park and Linville Cavern offer up outdoor adventure, while Connemara, Pack Place and Harrah's Cherokee Casino cater to indoor fun!

Everyone can have an inexpensive day out, too. Finding a great place to unpack your picnic basket is never hard to do. Many local parks offer trails, shade and picnic tables. Browsing the local Farmer’s Market is also a nice way to spend an afternoon.

Night owls can find fun after dark, as many local pubs, bars and clubs keep Asheville hopping! Live music, dancing, pool and darts are just some of the attractions at many of these locations.

Children will never be bored with such an array of activities to see and do. The Western North Carolina Nature Center in East Asheville has a great curriculum of fun, as does The Health Adventure at Pack Place in downtown Asheville. Climbmax Indoor Climbing Center gives kids of all ages (and adults) an opportunity to learn rock climbing in an indoor area with experts there to help and guide.

Like to shop? Several art and craft galleries await you. Local artists show their wares in these shops located in downtown Asheville, Black Mountain and Weaverville.

Lets not forget the bevy of festivals this area offers up. Bele Chere is one of the biggest outdoor events in the Southeast. The entire downtown area of Asheville is blocked off with stages, food vendors, rides and more! This event goes for three solid days, with a hundred or more performances of many music genres on the eight to nine stages positioned throughout the city.

Free concerts can be heard in June and July during the University of North Carolina Concerts on the Quad series, held almost every Monday night in front of Lipinsky Auditorium. Folks and their families bring a blanket and some snack and enjoy all types of music from mountain music to jazz.

The beginning of summer is celebrated with “Moonlight Over Downtown,” and “Downtown After Five” directly follows. These events consist of free live concerts, with food and drinks available. Many have called these two events “city block parties.”

Shindig on the Green also provides fun and music on Saturday nights in the summer. Local Bluegrass and old-time musicians gather to supply foot stomping tunes. Folks gather bringing their lawn chairs and blankets and lay back and enjoy the sights and sounds.

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