Experience the Best of Asheville in One Weekend
From breathtaking views to historical experiences, Asheville has so much to offer locals and visitors alike.
Whether you are traveling to the area for a weekend or want to show off your hometown to visitors, we’ve created the perfect guide to get the most out of your 48 hours in Asheville.
Day One: Biltmore Experience
The Biltmore is worth an entire day to itself. Head over to the Estate early in the moring to see the beautiful grounds from sun up to sun down. Tickets can be purchased online or on the grounds directly after entering through the gates. With your purchase of a house tour ticket you gain access to the 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds and a complimentary wine tastings at the winery.
Arrival & Breakfast: 8:30am - 9:00am - Welcome Center & The Stables
After securing your tickets, head directly over to the complimentary parking area and either walk or grab the shuttle to the house. Before your morning tour, The Bake Shop is the perfect stop for coffee and breakfast. Located in the Stable area next to Biltmore House, is the ideal setting to sip your morning coffee and take in the views of the Estate. This is the perfect time to make your reservation for your Wine Tasting later that day through the QR Code on your Estate Guide.
House Tour: 10:30am - 12:30pm Self-Guided Audio Tour
Arrive at the front of the house 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time of your ticket. Upon entering the home, there will be a staff member to present your ticket and receive your headset and audio tour. The House Tour is approximately 2 hours and will introduce you to the Vanderbilt family and their magnificent home's history, architecture, and collections of fine art and furnishings.
Lunch in the Gardens: 12:45pm -1:45pm - The Conservatory Cafe
Directly next to the house are the world renowned gardens and conservatory. Meander through the gardens on your way to The Conservatory Cafe located at the Conservatory’s back patio. Serving Biltmore wines, light snacks, and small plates this light lunch will be perfect for the next activity.
Falconry Experience: 2:30pm - 4:00pm - The Biltmore Inn
Either grab the shuttle or return to your car and drive over to the Biltmore Inn to experience the Art of Falconry. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Close-toed shoes are required and long pants and earth-toned clothing are recommended.
Wine Tasting: 5:00pm - 6:00pm - Antler Hill Village & Winery
Directly next to The Biltmore Inn is the Antler Hill Village & Winery. Hosted in their inviting Tasting Room, this Complimentary Wine Tasting is a must-do for happy hour! Their knowledgeable wine hosts will introduce you to some of our Winery’s most popular and award-winning vintages, while also sharing a brief history of Biltmore’s vineyards and wine operations.
Dinner: 6:30pm - Bistro at Antler Hill Village & Winery
Dinner reservations at the Bistro in the Antler Hill Village & Winery. Enjoy estate-raised and regionally sourced ingredients expertly crafted by their chefs in this vibrant, casual setting that embodies the charm of Europe. Tables surround the open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs prepare meals as you sip award-winning Biltmore wines you just tasted.
Day Two: Hit the Trails
Spend the second day of your trip packed with hitting Asheville’s trails both in the nature and in the city.
Breakfast: 7:00am - All Day Darling
All Day Darling is the perfect place to fill you up before a day full of activity. Located in the historic Montford District this cute neighborhood cafe serves fresh daily baked goods, hearty salads, bowls, toasts, seasonal dinner specials, and snacks.
Private Hiking & Waterfall Tour: 8:30am - 1:30pm Pisgah National Forest
Explore Brevard (AKA The Land of Waterfalls w/ over 250) during this moderate-difficult private hiking tour provided by Asheville Hiking Tours.
The hike: Hike to John's Rock and see 3 waterfalls along the way. This hike is moderate but the guide can give you options for making it a little more difficult (or easier). Hike up to 6 miles past waterfalls and enjoy a beautiful lookout at the top. The perfect lunch spot!
What's included: Pickup and drop off, granola bars + water,
Your guide: an expert naturalist who will discuss flora, fauna, and local history along your hike
Bonus: Enjoy a ride on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on the way home
Lunch & Brews: 1:30pm - 2:30pm - New Belgium Brewery
Unwind and relax after your adventurous morning with lunch and a beer! Asheville is home to 50+ breweries but New Belgium makes for the best after-hike spot. With a large patio that looks over the French Broad River and the River Arts District and an evolving door of food trucks, this brewery is a must-visit.
Asheville Urban Trail: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Pack’s Square
Head back across the river to Pack’s Square to start the self-guided Urban Trail in downtown Asheville. In a casual two-hour amble about town, enjoy exploring the city's quirky and magical past while getting to know many of its larger-than-life historical characters.
A good place to start is in front of Pack Place on Asheville's Pack Square where you can step up to Plaque #1, called "Walk Into History." But any starting point is fine. And you're not breaking any mountain laws if you veer off into a tavern, restaurant, store or conversation ~ or pause to hear the riffs of a street busker at full busk. The trail is urban, and so are the many bracing delights of the city. Take your time and follow the nose of your curiosity.
Charcuterie & Champagne: 5:30pm - 6:30pm Battery Park Book Exchange
End the Urban Trail at Battery Park Book Exchange in The Grove Arcade for the best selection of cheeses and champagne. Battery Park offers delicious wines and delectable bites within a two-story bookstore decorated with art and antiques
Dinner: 7:30pm - Hemingways Cuba
No better way to spend your last night in Asheville than with dinner and a view. Hemingways Cuba located at the top of the Cambria Hotel Downtown not only has stunning views of the city but serves exemplary authentic Cuban cuisine with an Asheville flair. This rooftop bar and restaurant is a staple in the Asheville community making it the best ending to the best weekend.
