Things to do in Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the leafy Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Asheville has become one of the South’s most dynamic destinations. Whether you’re strolling through the arts district, browsing the independent shops or hiking one of the nearby cloud-draped peaks, Asheville—aptly known as the Land of the Sky—offers near-limitless things to do.

“Asheville has been attracting people for centuries,” says Katie Button, an award-winning chef, cookbook author and media personality. “This artistic, entrepreneurial spirit, this creative spirit, is vibing throughout all of Asheville.” Here, tapas bar owner Button shares recommendations for where to eat, explore and stay in Asheville.

What you’ll learn:

• Visitors to Asheville can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, tour the grand Biltmore Estate or browse the studios of the River Arts District. 

• Food lovers can enjoy award-winning tapas at Curate Bar de Tapas, mouthwatering treats at Hole Doughnuts and locally crafted chocolates at French Broad Chocolate.

• Places to stay include cozy mountaintop vacation homes with sweeping views and riverside cottages close to downtown.

• Eligible cardholders can earn elevated rewards when they use Capital One Travel to book their trip.

Asheville is a place where art, adventure and Southern hospitality blend effortlessly. Around every corner, the city offers new wonders and experiences. Whether you’re chasing epic views, tasting local brews or immersing yourself in the music scene, there’s no shortage of things to do in Asheville. Here are some of the most notable Asheville attractions that capture the city’s creative energy and natural beauty.

“One of the best features of Asheville is that the Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the center of the city,” Button says. For outdoor lovers, it’s one of the most scenic drives in the country, dotted with overlooks and trailheads that make it easy to stretch your legs and take in the mountain air. “One of my favorite spots is Graybeard Mountain Overlook—it’s gorgeous,” she adds. The 5,592-foot perch offers commanding views of the Seven Sisters range and access to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. It’s accessible to cars, or for those who prefer hiking, there’s a 9.5-mile round-trip route you can take. 

Graybeard Mountain Overlook: 3641 Blue Ridge Parkway, Barnardsville, NC 28709

For a deeper dive into Asheville’s creative side, head to the River Arts District, where “you could spend all afternoon,” Button says. “It’s packed full of artist studios.” This walkable (and cyclable) neighborhood features diverse spaces—many in repurposed warehouses and mills—that showcase a colorful array of basketry, ceramics, jewelry, painting, printmaking, sculpting and more.

River Arts District: Clingman Avenue at Lyman Street, Asheville, NC 28801

If your idea of sightseeing involves hops rather than hiking boots, make time for Highland Brewing. “They were the first brewery in Asheville—the one that kicked off the craze of craft beer in this community,” Button says. Founded in 1994, this local staple has kept with the times by offering an array of fine ales and lagers: Gaelic Ale (“Asheville’s first beer”), Oatmeal Porter, High Pines Imperial IPA and more. “This place is also really special because they have all these outdoor activities in addition to the beer,” Button adds. “Make a day of it!” Visitors can relax on the lawn, play on the disc golf or volleyball courts, and enjoy regular live music events that capture the city’s laid-back vibe.

Highland Brewing: 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville, NC 28803; 828-299-3370

Of course, no trip to Asheville is complete without a visit to the Biltmore Estate. “It’s something everyone has to see,” Button says. “It’s really incredible—it takes you to another place, another time.” Built by George Vanderbilt, this 250-room French-style chateau is America’s largest privately owned home, surrounded by 8,000 sprawling acres of manicured gardens, walking trails and even its own winery. Now part of the National Register of Historic Places, it’s visited by more than 1 million people each year. Family-friendly offerings include everything from guided tours and seasonal events to lodging options at one of three properties on the estate, which include a moderately priced hotel, a 4-star luxury inn and private cottages. 

Biltmore Estate: 1 Lodge St., Asheville, NC 28803; 800-411-3812

To balance all that exploration, some locals swear by a bit of self-care. “My favorite morning routine is to catch a class at the Asheville Yoga Center and then head over to Liberty House Cafe for a really luxurious latte,” Button says. Flexibility, stress relief and inner peace are all attainable at this popular yoga spot, which welcomes all levels with in-person and virtual classes.

Asheville Yoga Center: 211 S. Liberty St., Asheville, NC 28801; 828-254-0380

In Asheville, food is part of the city’s creative DNA. From tapas bars and chocolatiers to neighborhood cafes that feel like second homes, Asheville is a destination where every bite tells a story. “People come to Asheville looking for adventure,” Button says. “But then you’re also getting incredible food and culture. When thinking about where to open our restaurant, we knew this was the place.”

In the heart of downtown, Button’s Curate Bar de Tapas is a must-visit for anyone who loves Spanish flavors and convivial dining. It specializes in small plates and a robust Spanish wine list. The menu, largely locally sourced, changes with the season and includes creative twists on tapas favorites like chistorra and chips (chorizo wrapped in potato chips). Save room for the tarta de queso—a Basque-style cheesecake topped with blueberry-tarragon compote. And if your taste buds crave more, you can take Curate home with you by ordering from Curate at Home, where sauces, oils, charcuteries and curated kitchenware make perfect souvenirs for the home cook.

Curate Bar de Tapas: 13 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, NC 28801; 828-239-2946

For a taste of Asheville’s playful side, nowhere beats Hole Doughnuts. “Asheville is a foodie community,” Button says. “And Hole Doughnuts is one of my favorite places on Earth.” At this beloved local shop, the donuts are made to order and served piping hot—each one crafted from single-yeasted dough mixed with cane sugar, sea salt and whole butter and then fried in rice bran oil. Toasted almond sesame cinnamon is a popular choice, but Button swears by the plain vanilla glaze. “They’re like air, sugar and yeast: magic.”

Hole Doughnuts: 168 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806; 828-774-5667

Another Asheville staple, French Broad Chocolate satisfies every sweet craving. “French Broad Chocolate is a super-unique spot,” Button says. “They make their own chocolate right here in Asheville.” Bonbons, brownies, cakes, cookies, custard, ice cream and more—nearly all featuring locally sourced cocoa—are the main draws at this chocolate lover’s haven.

French Broad Chocolate: 10 S. Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801; 828-252-4181

For a slow morning, Liberty House Cafe delivers effortless charm. Housed in a refurbished historic homestead on South Liberty Street, this northside hangout is known for its creative takes on breakfast and brunch, plus its handpicked coffee varieties from local roasters.

Liberty House Cafe: 221 S. Liberty St., Asheville, NC 28801; 828-505-2236

After exploring Asheville, nothing is better than returning to your own private hideaway. Whether you prefer a contemporary home near the best downtown restaurants or a secluded cabin in the forest, you’ll find plenty of options that reflect the same mix of the city’s character, comfort and natural marvels. 

When you’re planning your perfect trip to Asheville, consider choosing one of the handpicked premium vacation rentals of the Premier Collection featured below. Booking through Capital One Travel gives eligible Capital One cardholders premium benefits with every visit, including an experience credit to use toward activities unique to each stay; room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout when available; and complimentary Wi-Fi. Plus, you’ll earn elevated rewards.

Overlooking North Asheville, Beaver Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sunset Sanctuary by KEY.co offers a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable, with unobstructed panoramic vistas. Among its draws are a welcoming kitchen featuring an oversized island and a gas cooktop and an open and light-filled great room. 

Book through Capital One Travel.

Upstream Cottage by KEY.co is a newly constructed three-bedroom sanctuary nestled above the French Broad River. Imagine waking up surrounded by lush landscapes with unobstructed river views and then strolling down the greenway for some artisan coffee. You’re not just close to everything—you’re in the center of it. 

Book through Capital One Travel.

For larger gatherings, Leyland by AvantStay offers the ideal backdrop. Just outside central Asheville, this cabin-style mansion has a modern yet rustic vibe with plenty of space to entertain. It boasts multiple decks with expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy an al fresco meal and an outdoor fire pit, and sit and breathe in the mountain air long after the sun sets. 

Book through Capital One Travel.

For those seeking a resort-style escape, Asher by AvantStay is a short drive from Weaverville and Asheville. This five-bedroom home is a private retreat with its own pool, hot tub and multiple balconies revealing the Blue Ridge Mountains. Inside, sleek design meets homey comfort: two spacious living rooms, a chic kitchen and big windows framing the mountains beyond. 

Book through Capital One Travel.

The great outdoors. Historic architecture. Eclectic art. Renowned restaurants and distilleries. Asheville offers a little of everything for travelers who crave both artistry and adventure. 

The best time to visit Asheville depends on what kind of experience you’re after: spring (March through May) brings wildflowers and perfect hiking weather; summer (June through August) offers long, lively festival days; and fall (late September through early November) is peak season for colorful foliage along the parkway. Winter tends to be quieter and more affordable, with cozy stays and fewer crowds in the downtown breweries and galleries. 

If you’re planning a trip to Asheville, you might want to consider taking a travel rewards credit card:

• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights, vacation rentals and activities when booking through Capital One Travel with the Venture X card.

• Earn unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars and activities when booking through Capital One Travel with the Venture card. 

• Earn 2X miles on all other purchases, at home or away, with the Venture X and Venture cards.

From booking to destination, you can elevate every part of your trip with Capital One:

• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit. Venture X and Venture cardholders can receive up to a $120 credit for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® when they pay for the application fee with their card. 

• Flexible options for redeeming rewards. Redeem rewards for flights, hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars and activities booked through Capital One Travel. 

• Travel protections. Cardholders may have access to travel insurance through their credit card. Benefits may include trip cancellation insurance and lost luggage insurance. You can review your guide to benefits for more information on which benefits come with your credit card.

• Security features. You’ll also have access to security features like fraud alerts, card lock, $0 liability for unauthorized charges and virtual card numbers.