Curator’s statement
Asheville, North Carolina, holds a special place in my heart — it's a sanctuary for anyone who cherishes life's exquisite pleasures. From mouth-watering cuisine to distinct craft brews, not to mention the diverse array of activities, Asheville is a tapestry of experiences that resonate with me deeply. I'd like to share with you the top spots and activities that, in my eyes, truly encapsulate the spirit of this vibrant city.
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Things to do in Asheville
Top Breweries in Asheville
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
This legendary brewery's East Coast location is a temple for beer aficionados. With a sweeping selection of ales and lagers, plus a beer garden and an on-site restaurant, it’s a place to savor the craft beer revolution.
New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium's tasting room and expansive liquid center patio offer a spectacular view of the French Broad River, complemented by a range of beers and a glimpse into the company's sustainable practices.
Burial Beer Co.
For an authentic Asheville experience, Burial Beer’s taproom is a destination of choice, known for their bold craft beers and a spot where brewing creativity reaches new heights.
Wicked Weed Brewing
Wicked Weed Brewing has become synonymous with craft beer innovation in Asheville. The Funkatorium is their dedicated haven for sour and funky beer enthusiasts.
Top Activities in Asheville
Biltmore Estate
The grandeur of America's largest home, the Biltmore Estate, is a marvel of elegance and history, where touring the mansion and gardens offers a glimpse into the luxurious Gilded Age.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Known as America's favorite drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking vistas, abundant hiking trails and a peaceful retreat into nature for an unforgettable experience.
Asheville’s Urban Trail
The self-guided historical walking tour through the city's downtown features 30 stations that highlight Asheville's past and vibrant culture, serving as a "museum without walls."
Asheville Art Museum
At the Asheville Art Museum, visitors can engage with American art of the 20th and 21st centuries and participate in programs that inspire creativity and thought.
Places to eat & drink in Asheville
Top Restaurants in Asheville
Cúrate
A celebration of Spanish cuisine, Cúrate brings the essence of Spain to the heart of Asheville. Led by Chef Katie Button, this vibrant tapas bar serves a variety of traditional dishes like jamón Ibérico and patatas bravas, as well as a fine selection of Spanish wines.
Tupelo Honey Cafe
Tupelo Honey offers a modern twist on Southern comfort food. Their scratch-made dishes that pay homage to the South’s rich culinary traditions, such as fried chicken with honey dusting, are a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic taste of Southern hospitality.
The Admiral
The Admiral might surprise with its unassuming exterior, but inside lies a world of culinary innovation. The menu is an eclectic mix of global influences, serving up dishes that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are palate-pleasing, making every meal here a gastronomic adventure.
Chestnut
Chestnut is an establishment where classic flavors meet modern flair. With a menu that showcases local ingredients and hand-crafted cocktails, Chestnut stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in Asheville.
Rhubarb
Chef John Fleer's Rhubarb delivers a seasonal menu that emphasizes local Appalachian ingredients, offering dishes that celebrate the region's abundant produce and artisanal meats.
Chai Pani
Chai Pani brings the street food of India to downtown Asheville, serving vibrant flavors in dishes like okra fries and Thali platters in a colorful and casual setting.
12 Bones Smokehouse
12 Bones Smokehouse is revered for its slow-smoked ribs and a wide array of house-made sauces. This place stands as a testament to Asheville's love affair with barbecue, serving comfort food that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.
Jargon
Nestled in the heart of West Asheville, Jargon offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. With a menu that changes frequently, it showcases the creative spirit of Asheville's culinary scene, inviting diners to embark on a journey of taste with each innovative dish.
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Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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For more travel tips, check out this guide to Asheville by Fora Advisor Joslyn Weaver: Romantic Long Weekend Getaway in Asheville.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Asheville.