Things To Do
The Biltmore Estate
This is one of our all time favorite places in Asheville, it's also where we got engaged. The Biltmore is the largest privately owned estate in the United States and is owned by the Vanderbilt's. You'll have to book tickets ahead of time but your ticket gives you access to the beautiful grounds for the full day (including the winery).
White Duck Taco Shop
There is another location on Biltmore avenue too, but this location is in the river arts district and has much more room to enjoy their eclectic taco options. Shannon's favorite is the shrimp and grits taco and Ryan loves the BLT and the grilled fish.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Another of our favorite places we've stayed in Asheville, but you don't need to be a guest to enjoy the space. One of our favorite things to do is head over in the afternoon to walk the grounds and then grab drinks to watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge mountains on their terrace.
Cúrate
Great tapas restaurant that we've only tried recently but will definitely add to our list of favorites. Its owned b y José Andres. We highly recommend making reservations ahead of time as this place gets booked quickly. They don't usually take walk ins because there is a line around the block an hour before it opens, of people without reservations trying to get on the list for the night.
Tupelo Honey
One of our all time favorite restaurants. Definitely get the biscuits and see if they have any blueberry compote to take home. They also have the most amazing chicken and waffles you will ever have!
12 Bones Brewing
Amazing barbecue, we were told by locals that it is Barack and Michelle Obama's favorite place to eat in Asheville and they stop by as often as they are in the neighborhood. This is the address for the brewery that also serves barbecue. it's about a 15 minute drive outside downtown Asheville but the original location is in the river arts district, a short walk from downtown Asheville.
Mayfel's
Great cajun food and especially breakfast! They don't take reservations but if the wait is under an hour it's definitely worth the wait (and you usually get in sooner than they say).
The North Carolina Arboretum
There are plenty of places to go hiking in Asheville but the Arboretum is always a nice option. You'll have to pay $18 per car but that also weeds out some people so it's not usually as crowded as the other trails. Besides walking the gardens they have 10+ miles of hiking and biking trails.
Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar Asheville
One of our favorite places to end our nights out! It is also the unofficial after party location.