Are you ready for fall? We certainly are. It’s been a fun-filled summer, but we’re a little tired of the heat and are ready to welcome autumn. We have an inkling you’re ready to plan an autumn getaway too. That’s why we’ve assembled a list of the top 10 fall festivals in western NC to help you plan that perfect leaf-peeping getaway. From cheese and cider to pumpkin patches and mustache contests, we’re sure you’ll find a festival that’s just right for you. 

September Fests Kick off the Season 

While the first day of fall is not till Sept. 23, Asheville and the surrounding area is so excited for this change of season, that it’s planning fall festivals a little ahead of time. September has numerous choices including:  

CHOW CHOW: Sept. 7-10: This festival showcases Asheville’s creativity and community-mindedness through food, art, storytelling and more. This year’s festival themes focus on collaboration, innovation, preservation and cultivation.  

ASAP Farm Tours: Sept. 23-24. Are you ready for a farm-fantastic adventure? Hop in your car and plan your farm-friendly route with tips from the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP). All farms are located within one hour from Asheville and are arranged in convenient clusters making for an easy-to-plan itinerary. There are more than 20 participating farms offering demos, guided tours, tastings and education.  

ClawtoberFest: Sept. 16: Asheville’s original brewery – Highland Brewing Company – is excited to host ClawtoberFest. Its Oktoberfest-style party will take place in The Meadow filled with German-inspired beers, food, music and games. Try your beer balancing skills during the stein race or enter the moustache contest and show off that dazzling upper lip fuzz.  

Flock to the Rock Fest: Sept. 30: If birdwatching gets your heart all a flutter, this is the fall festival for you! In its 15th year, this event takes place at Chimney Rock State Park during the fall migration of birds and monarch butterflies. There are opportunities to meet raptors and take naturalist-led tours too. 

Immerse Yourself in October Fall Festivals

Now that autumn is in full swing, take your pick of some of the top fall festival travel destinations this year: 

Carolina Mountain Cheese Festival: Oct. 8: This fall festival is a cheese lover’s dream. It’s hosted in the charming mountain town of Black Mountain at the Oak and Grist Distilling Company. You’ll have an opportunity to sample and purchase an incredible variety of local cheeses and other tasty treats such as pretzels, pickles, coffee and vegan cheese too.  

Art in the Park: Oct. 7, 14 and 21: Now in its second decade, Art in the Park takes places in the center of Asheville, Pack Square, where nationally-known artists exhibit – and they’re all local. Everything from glass and metal to ceramic and wood can be found while strolling the vendors in this impressive outdoor art experience.  

Asheville Vegan Fest: Oct. 8: Held in Asheville’s Pack Square, this year’s event is sponsored by Friendly Fields Farm Sanctuary, a nonprofit animal rescue and sanctuary. Activities will include educational speakers, live music, delicious vegan food, a kids’ fun zone and more. So, if you’d like to learn more about the benefits of a plant-based diet, this is the place to be. This fall festival is free to all, but donations are accepted. 

Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands: Oct. 19-22: Seventy-six years and going strong! This fall festival is truly an autumn travel destination. Hosted in downtown Asheville at Harrah’s Cherokee Center, more than 200 artisans will showcase a variety of crafts ranging from contemporary to traditional in works of clay, wood, metal, glass, fiber, natural materials, paper, leather, mixed media, and jewelry. There will be live music and craft demos too. 

Carolina CiderFest: Oct. 21: There’s nothing like a crisp cider to celebrate that newly-found nip in the air. Sample everything from hard cider and mead to apple wine and seltzers while taking in the historic McCormick Field, the event’s venue, and home to Asheville’s minor league baseball team – the Asheville Tourists. 

Black Mountain Fall Festival: Oct. 14: Black Mountain Home is a supportive home for youth of all ages. This is its signature event. There’s a car show, pumpkin patch, wagon rides and a basket auction that’s developed some notoriety over the years. Come find out how this place has been caring for children, youth, and families since 1904. 

So, once you’ve made up your mind to plan your Autumn getaway, you’ll need a place to stay. Maddie’s Mountain Getaway is an ideal choice. Located in Black Mountain, it’s centrally located for all these fun fall festivals. You can search for more here. 

Happy fall y’all! 

 

It’s easy to spend a day exploring and getting lost in all the River Arts District has to offer. And, it’s not just about art. This eclectic neighborhood of converted warehouses and other industrial buildings sizzles with wineries, breweries, an indoor/outdoor skateboard park, countless art galleries, funky outdoor murals and some of the best BBQ around. Read on to learn more. 

Getting Around the River Arts District  

First, start with a map and then figure out whether you’d like to explore on foot, by bike or hop on the trolley. There’s a comprehensive map that’s available online and also in print at the Asheville Visitor’s Center among other spots around town. There’s also a downloadable gallery guide. 

Take the trolley: Visitors can ride ArtAVL’s new free ArtsAVL Connect Trolley which connects downtown Asheville to the River Arts District. The trolleys circulate on 20-30 minute intervals from 12-8 p.m. on every Second Saturday and riders are welcome to hop on and off anywhere along the trolley routes. There’s also the hop on hop off trolley tour that introduces visitors to more than just the River Arts District. This one runs daily. 

Walk it: Asheville is a very walkable city and the River Arts District beckons visitors to hit the pavement. Its riverfront greenway is10 feet wide and has views of the river as well as the burgeoning businesses along Lyman Street such as 12 Bones Smokehouse, Wedge Brewery, retail shops and art studios. The 2-mile greenway is dotted with swings, benches, bike racks and public art. This year’s Studio Stroll takes place on November 11 and nearly 280 artists open their doors over a two-day period. 

Bike it: E-bikes are all the rage these days and Asheville is no exception. Rent one from a local shop and explore at your own pace.  

Galleries are open every day, but schedules can vary, so make sure you check the schedule online if there’s something specific you’d like to see.  

Get Inspired  

Once you’ve got a plan in place, it’s time for some fun! Visit the artists at work (and play) and see them enveloped in their medium – whether paint, pencil, pottery, metal, fiber, glass, wax, paper and more. You’re sure to stumble on some live demonstrations and are invited to ask the artists questions about their work. Most are happy to engage, share their knowledge and inspire you to appreciate art. 

Many studios even offer classes and internships. There’s The Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts or Village Potters where folks can try their hand at the pottery wheel; Ignite Jewelry Studios where people can make their own stackable rings; or JMK Studio326 where you can take a workshop in drawing, acrylics or traditional oil. You can also visit the studio of Pam Granger Gale for a relaxing marbling class; or pick from a variety of workshops at 310 ART where they believe there’s an artist inside everyone. 

Shop for Pottery

The River Arts District is one of the best places to shop for pottery. Looking for something whimsical, yet functional? Head over to Angelique Tassistro Ceramics. Interested in ramping up your table or kitchenware? The artists at Crazy Green Studios have a passion for food and it shows.  How about something on the delicate side? Michael Hofman of Hofman Studios combines lace with porcelain to create heirloom pieces to cherish for generations to come. Find a complete list of places to shop for pottery and other ceramics here. 

Explore Other Art Mediums

While Asheville is known for some top-notch pottery, it also boasts numerous other art mediums. Check out some beautiful paintings on silk, artful furnishings from Andy Cooper; luminous still-like photography images that are reminiscent of Rembrandt; fabulous mixed media Ukrainian eggs; handmade art lamps inspired by the artist’s visit to a store in Seoul, Korea; and cast and carved bio-plastic artworks that sustain the soul of this chronically ill artist. 

Book a Stay with Us at Inspired Getaway

So, whether you choose to browse or dive into creating some art of your own, the River Arts District is one of the best places in Asheville to get your art on. Now, you just need a place to stay. Inspired Getaway has many different types of places from which to choose. Some are closer to the River Arts District and others are further away. It just depends on what you’re after – a cool city flat or a private country cabin. Whatever your choice, we’d love to have you stay with us.   

 

 

Asheville is a city filled with multiple talents and personalities. It loves to show off its culinary savvy, musical competencies, artistic prowess and access to the great outdoors. It’s also very proud of all the shopping opportunities that pop up just about everywhere you turn. From historic Biltmore Village to downtown and West Asheville, this colorful city is a shopping mecca for fine art lovers, local craft enthusiasts, vintage junkies, outdoor adventurers, antique seekers and more.  

So, let us help you plan your next Asheville shopping journey here. We’ve broken it down into three very walkable shopping destinations with some must-shop stops, and we’re sure that you’ll find many more in between. 

Downtown Asheville Shopping

Downtown Asheville is a very walkable area and it’s easy to go from shop to shop, collecting treasures along the way. The places we mention here in downtown Asheville are shopping collectives where people have access to an array of creations all under one roof. 

The Woolworth Walk

This is truly a unique Asheville shopping experience. Located inside a historic Woolworth building –  there’s even an old-fashioned soda fountain that serves comfort food favorites such as tuna melts, banana splits, fried bologna and some of the “world’s best malts.” The space itself features more than 170 local artists who showcase items ranging from art and jewelry to crafts and home furnishings. 

Kress Emporium

Asheville’s Kress Emporium showcases the work of over 80 regional artists and craftspeople along with a wide selection of fine antiques and collectibles. Built in 1928, the historic Kress Building is an outstanding architectural landmark with its rich ceramic tile and neoclassic motifs. The downstairs part of this shopping destination is home to K2 Studio which houses a unique inventory of locally and internationally sourced furnishings. You’ll be hard-pressed to walk out of here empty-handed. 

The Grove Arcade

This 1920s Gothic Revival building is home to more than 20 local businesses. It covers an entire city block in Downtown Asheville and shoppers can find everything from fashion boutiques and jewelry stores to art galleries and craft shops. Stop into Bebette’s, a New Orleans-style coffee house, for some of the best beignets around. And, the southern end of Grove Arcade houses the outdoor Makers Market, where you can find dozens of stalls selling handmade clothes, jewelry, paintings, musical instruments and farm products. 

West Asheville Shopping

The West Asheville shopping experience is one with a vibe all its own. Want to add some vinyl to your record collection? Do add Harvest Records. Looking for that rare rock-n-roll t-shirt? Try your luck at Fleetwood’s. And, if you’re in the mood to make a last-minute marriage proposal, there’s a wedding chapel there too. Want a rhinestone broach? Of course – who doesn’t? You’re likely to land one at Twice Round, a funky thrift and vintage shop. There’s also the Handmade on Haywood, a collective of local artists, most of who make their for-sale goods right out of their homes. And, if you’d like to shop for items that range from nostalgic to new, Provisions Mercantile is a modern-day mercantile that’s easy to get lost in. There’s also a fun place for the kids (and adults too) – Sparky’s Toys and Gifts. It’s West Asheville’s locally-owned toy shop and offers everything from the classics to the latest trends. Finally, if you’re looking for a gift for a plant lover friend or just looking to green up your space a bit, Flora strives to cultivate new interests in botanical living within its botanical boutique and cafe.  

Historic Biltmore Village Shopping

This area is home to the iconic Biltmore Estate, but if you find you don’t have time for a visit, you can still visit their shop right outside the gates to pick up a little souvenir. The historic Biltmore Village boasts a premier shopping district among cobble-stoned streets. It’s filled with elegant boutiques, sprawling antique shops and popular clothing stores. 

There are also several antique shops right near Biltmore Village. They include the Antique Tobacco Barn which has 77,000 square feet of those somewhat needful things just waiting to be found. The Screen Door has a good deal of garden stuff and Oddfellows is the perfect place to find handpicked European imports. And while it’s a little off the beaten path, it’s still near Biltmore – the Regeneration Station and it’s got a super collection of mid-century, vintage and repurposed collectibles. 

So, make a weekend of it. A shopping trip to Asheville is a great way to see the different parts of the city and pick up some items that you’ll cherish for years to come. And, stay with Inspired Getaway – we’ve got great spaces for you to rest your tired feet after your shopping extravaganza. 

For a complete list of Asheville shopping spots, visit: Explore Asheville Shopping. 

 

Asheville’s culinary landscape offers a kaleidoscope of flavors that range from the weird and wonderful to the trendy and obscure.  Its choices of places to eat and drink are impressive and most visitors will need to return again and again to discover all that this funky “Foodtopia” has to offer. 

Places to Eat in Asheville

It’s difficult to pick just a few, but here are some that top our list: 

Tastee Diner: This restaurant’s tagline is “Comfort food for the curious and adventurous.” Are your tastebuds ready to get turned inside out? Chef Steve Goff and his crew will get the job done.  

Cucina 24: The chef here works diligently to meld the traditional philosophies of Italian cooking with ingredients sourced from the mountains.  Four-course family meals are a fun way to sample a few different things. 

The Bull and Beggar: Sure, you can get a fabulous double patty burger and fries here, but you may want to reserve that order for their sister locale – Baby Bull. The Bull and Beggar serve some top-end steaks, seafood towers and oysters to die for – though we’re pretty sure you’ll want to live to eat some more. 

Vivian: You’ll find the perfect balance of European flavors and Southern heritage when you book a table here. The chef was primarily influenced by his grandmother who threw lavish Julia Child-like dinner parties when he was growing up. 

Neng Jr’s: A relative newcomer to Asheville’s food scene, this 17-seat café brings a taste of the Philippines to Asheville. Getting a reservation may be a challenge, but it’s well worth the wait. 

Curate: James Beard award-winning chef, Chef Katie Button, has been welcoming people through her restaurant doors since 2011. Spanish tapas is served in a warm and lively atmosphere. And, her nearby La Bodega is a smaller Spanish-style restaurant, bakery and market. 

Table: This “New American” gem is the brainchild of chef Jacob Sessoms, a two-time James Beard award nominee.  He offers many American classics with a Southern twist. 

Wineries, Cideries, Breweries – oh my!

One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go thirsty when you visit Asheville. 

Beer time: While spots like Wicked Weed and Highland Brewing often top tourists’ lists, there are more than 40 breweries where you can wet your whistle. And speaking of whistles, the Whistle Hop Brewing Company has a train-themed taproom and outdoor playground for all ages. 

Wine not? If beer’s not your bag, Asheville is home to some top wine spots too. Bottle Riot has an extensive wine list, imports beers, spirits and small bites. Pleb is another wine lover’s destination and offers flight experiences in a relaxed environment. You can also visit their winery and learn about their sustainable growing practices or have a tasting at the Aventine –across from the Grove Arcade. 

Private Wine “Sips with a Somm!” Looking for that extra special experience to top off the vacation? Melissa Ward is our top local wine sommelier offering private wine tastings. With Melissa’s skilled guidance and fabulous personality — you’ll want to pack her up and take her back home with you. Contact Melissa here.

Cocktails anyone? Cultivated Cocktails takes you from the distillation process through the cocktail creation. And, Antidote’s setting is reminiscent of an old apothecary and claims to be “the cure for the common cocktail.” Its gin distillery, Chemist Spirits, is right next door.    

Cider and mead, please. As the first cider producer in Asheville, Noble Cider is a fun place to sample craft cider, wine, hard cider spritzers, and mead. And, the Botanist and Barrel offer up an extensive menu and eclectic flights. 

Take a Farm or Food Tour 

Asheville Food Tours is the original walking food tour of downtown Asheville and they offer a variety of choices. For cheese lovers, the WNC cheese trail is the perfect pick. Visit a few or try them all. Or, maybe you’re more into mushrooms – the edible kind that is. Alan Muskat is the creator of “No Taste Like Home” and has been teaching people how to forage for food, specifically mushrooms, for more than 20 years. 

Have Fun at a Food Festival 

Chow Chow was founded in 2019 by some of Asheville’s most renowned chefs. It’s designed to be an immersive four-day experience of tastings and workshops in the heart of downtown Asheville. And, Eating Asheville hosts an elaborate wine and food festival – one of the largest of its kind. Both are ideal places to discover local chefs and sample some of the region’s best food and drink. 

Learn to Cook Something New

A cooking class is also a fun way to enjoy the Asheville food scene and Cottage Cooking is not your average cooking school. They focus on small format classes of up to six and all classes are held in the hosts’ home. They have more than 20 menus and most classes include an appetizer, entrée and dessert. 

Indulge in Chocolate 

No culinary roundup would be complete without chocolate. The French Broad Chocolate Lounge and the Chocolate Fetish never fail to satisfy that sweet tooth. 

For a comprehensive list of places to eat and drink, food tours and food festivals, visit https://www.exploreasheville.com/things-to-do/tours/culinary/ to get the full scoop on the fabulous Asheville food scene and make sure to book your Inspired Getaway. 

 

Sure. Asheville has earned a reputation for being a top spot for brewery goers, nature lovers and art aficionados, but it’s not all for the adults. Kids can take part in many of these activities and more. From cool places to eat with kids, to water activities, and kid tours, there’s no reason to leave the little ones behind. Asheville is kid-friendly and there are tons of things to do. So, let’s get started. 

Places for Kids to Eat 

Two of our favorites are Asheville Brewing Company and Twisted Laurel. Asheville Brewing Company has three locations – north Asheville, south Asheville and on downtown’s south slope. It’s got delicious pizza (even gluten-free ones), apps, sandwiches and more. They also show a great variety of family-friendly movies. Recent ones include: The Super Mario Brothers Movie; Madagascar; and Kung Fu Panda. So, grab some grub and head to the 150-seat dine-in theater.  

Twisted Laurel has two locations – one in downtown Asheville and the other in downtown Weaverville, a cute mountain town about 15 minutes north of downtown Asheville. They offer special family-style dinners for groups of 7-20 and have some yummy kids’ menus too. You can even bring the family dog! 

Now, what about a sweet treat? An Asheville staple, The Hop, serves handcrafted ice cream, including vegan/non-dairy. There are more flavors than you can count. And, then there’s chocolate – and a lot of it. Take a tour of the French Broad Chocolate Factory or stop into the Chocolate Fetish where you can pick and choose. 

Kid-friendly Activities

There’s no shortage of kid-friendly activities. Anyone who’s visiting Pack Square Park on a hot day will likely see grins and hear laughter and the occasional happy scream coming from kids enjoying the city’s newly-created, popular and free splash pad – Splasheville. 

The Lil Boogers LaZoom bus kids’ comedy tour is also a fun, kid-friendly activity and is geared for kids 5-12.  It’s filled with kid-centric comedy, and some education too. They’ll explore the city with some of the funniest guides out there. USA Today reports it’s a “laugh a minute.” 

The Asheville Museum of Science is another place to bring the kids. It offers multiple hands-on experiences as well as a chance to meet Teratophoneus Curriei – their beloved dinosaur. 

The Cradle of Forestry! For adults and children is the historic birthplace of U.S. Forestry and Forestry education. Once part of the Biltmore Estate, the Cradle of Forestry offers children and parents the opportunity to learn about the history of our Pisgah National Forest and how it is connected to the formation of the Biltmore Estate back in 1893. The Cradle offers indoor learning activities & programs for young children to learn about nature and forestry, ecology and hydrology. The outdoor trails are also perfect for families to explore with interactive, historic site features and other natural features kids love to learn about.

Parks and Recreation 

Carrier Park in West Asheville sits along the French Broad River and offers great walking and biking trails as well as a fun playground area for young children, basketball courts, roller hockey, and a track. 

 

Asheville Treetops Adventure Park is an exciting Asheville attraction, with ziplining, climbing and rappelling challenges! It’s all tucked into a wooded park for ages 4 and over. 

And for those who want to venture a little outside of Asheville for some fun water activities, head to Lake Lure Beach to build some sand castles, take a cool dip or have a family picnic. The on-site beach house even sells float toys and water balloons for water wars. 

For another fun water activity – sliding rock is a natural water slide where adults and kids alike can slide down 60-feet into an 8-foot natural pool of water. It’s chilly – so this is best reserved for a sweltering day! 

Kid-friendly Breweries 

Kids will love the family and pet-friendly playground at the Whistle Hop Brewing Company in Fairview. There’s everything from mini-bowling and mini-golf to Disc Golf Connect 4 and more. Kids will also get a kick out of climbing aboard the fully renovated caboose to enjoy a locally-crafted soda. 

Burial Beer is another fun spot with two locations – one in downtown’s south slope and the other at the Forestry Camp in South Asheville. Both locations have plenty of outdoor areas to explore as well as some old vehicle relics to climb in and out of – cool!

Sierra Nevada in Mills River has both indoor and outdoor entertainment venues and the Visitor Corridor offers the entire family a bird’s-eye view of the stunning brewhouse, warehouse and packaging hall from its raised mezzanine. The large outdoor areas beckon people to enjoy the gardens or play a game of cornhole or bocce ball. 

Highland Brewing, Asheville’s original craft brewery, has a spacious, family-friendly space for parents to sip a beer and listen to live music while the kids run around the meadow and get their energy out. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with your beer. Food trucks are always around. 

New Belgium, in the heart of Asheville, sits along the French Broad River where, in the summer months, groups of tubers can be seen floating by.  Surrounded by an expansive lawn, it’s the perfect place to toss a frisbee or ball. There’s also a free brewery tour for all ages. And don’t miss that indoor slide! 

So, grab the kiddos and book a stay at one of our vacation rentals where you and your family can enjoy some good old-fashioned fun. 

Time off – whether from work or just to get away from the daily routine – is a precious commodity. That’s why it’s important that you make the most of your vacation destination and indulge in all your favorite things to do. 

So, what hits the spot? Wandering around art galleries? Listening to live music while you dance the night away? Taking in a Blue Ridge Parkway sunset? Pampering yourself with a massage? Well, we’ve got some ideas for just about everyone – from adventurers and spa-goers to art and music lovers. 

For the Adventure Hound

The Asheville area is home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi – Mount Mitchell (elevation 6,684 feet). If you’re staying at one of our Inspired Getaways, you can easily take a scenic drive north on the Blue Ridge Parkway that will land you atop Mt. Mitchell in about one hour. Or, head south on the parkway till you reach Devil’s Courthouse for some of the most exceptional views from this jagged mountaintop. No matter which direction you choose, for many, driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway is truly a bucket list item. And for good reason – just about every turn reveals breathtaking vistas, sunset overlooks and miles and miles of hiking trails. Pack a picnic, grab your backpack and head out to nature’s playground. 

For the Spa-goer

When you’re ready for a little serious r and r, Asheville is pretty good at finding ways for you to relax. From mobile massage to more traditional spas and saunas, you’re sure to find the perfect fit. 

Asheville Onsite Massage Spa Services: Relax, they’ll come to you. Massages, facials, body wraps, foot soaks and more.  This mobile massage service is ideal for bachelorette parties, romantic weekenders, or just anyone looking to unwind in the comfort of their Asheville rental. 

Sauna House: This Asheville bathhouse is committed to sustainability and to making its guests feel good. Enjoy a two-hour bathhouse visit, relax in a private hot/cold room or heat up with an infrared sauna session. Stress and tension just melt away. 

Shoji Spa and Retreat: Nestled on a mountaintop, but only minutes from downtown Asheville, Shoji spa-goers have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese soaking baths and salt tubs in a natural setting. It also boasts more than 25 world-class massage therapists. 

For the Art Lover 

Asheville – there’s no better place to get your culture fix. This vibrant city is home to the River Arts District (affectionately known as RAD) where visitors can watch artists at work in their galleries or take an art class of their own. The North Carolina Glass Center offers several different glass-making experiences and the Village Potters has extensive educational programs that offer in-person and live online classes for adults, demonstration and hands-on workshops, as well as an Advanced Studies Ceramics Program.

Downtown Asheville is also filled with impressive art galleries such as Blue Spiral 1 and Momentum Gallery. It’s also home to the Asheville Art Museum which has an outstanding collection of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries. And, in the heart of Biltmore Village’s historic district, is the 12,500 square-foot New Morning Gallery which displays an abundant selection of decorative and functional craft, all handmade by American Artisans. If you head to North Asheville, be sure to stop at the Grovewood Gallery, adjacent to the iconic Grove Park Inn. 

For the Music Maven

While Asheville has some amazing indoor music venues, spring is when this southern city really starts to get its groove on. So, when the weather heats up, the music scene really sizzles and takes to the great outdoors. Here are some local favorites that everyone can enjoy: 

Downtown After 5

In its 35th season, this free, public music event takes place the third Friday of every month from April through September. This year’s Downtown After 5 kicks off on April 21 and they just announced their 2023 season lineup. Concerts take place along North Lexington Ave. and food and beer vendors are onsite for all to enjoy. There’s sure to be some dancing in the streets too. 

Asheville Amadeus Festival: The Asheville Symphony hosts its fourth annual 10-day festival which runs from May 11-20, 2023. This year, it celebrates the many shades of Americana music, from bluegrass, jazz, and classical to pop, rock and folk. While the festival is Mozart-inspired, the music will appeal to many. 

The Asheville Drum Circle

Chances are if you head to Pritchard Park on a Friday night between April and October, you’ll be lured into this dynamic drum circle in the heart of downtown. People join together here to beat their drums and dance to their powerful rhythms. It’s a great celebration of diversity. Feel free to bring a drum or just take it all in. We’re sure, you won’t be able to sit still for too long. The drumming typically starts around 6 p.m. and winds down by 10 p.m. 

It’s no secret that Asheville is a top-notch vacation destination, but there’s more to a visit to Appalachia’s sweetheart than meets the eye. An easy 15-45 minute drive in any direction – north, south, east or west, will land you in an artsy and walkable downtown with a small-town vibe. 

GO NORTH!

Weaverville – it’s life at a slower pace. This inviting mountain town is only about 10 miles north of Asheville, but it has a whole different energy. It’s a bit like taking a step back in time. It’s not unusual to see folks stopping each other on the sidewalk to exchange neighborhood stories, while sipping a hot coffee or tea from its beloved Well-Bred Bakery. Locals and visitors, alike, can be found strolling its picturesque Main Street while exploring its impressive selection of high-end art galleries such as Magnum Pottery and Miya Gallery. Nature lovers can also enjoy the Main Street Nature Park right in the heart of town or visit Lake Louise Park. Chances are they’ll get a glimpse of some ducklings splashing around by the small waterfall and big red waterwheel. 

Photo credit: Weaverville Business Association

 

HEAD SOUTH

For many years, Hendersonville – about a 30-minute drive from downtown Asheville – was overshadowed by its northern sister, but as it’s been discovered by retirees and tourists, it’s really started to shine on its own. There are many reasons to visit this western NC region. A big one is that it’s an apple lover’s dream. It’s home to nearly 20 apple orchards – many where you can pick your own – as well as its annual Apple Festival, held over Labor Day weekend. People can meet the growers, sample different varieties, listen to some of the regions’ top-notch entertainment and a whole lot more. Now, if apples ain’t your thing, there’s wine too – and a lot of it. There are at least seven vineyards that we know of and each has a personality all its own. Burntshirt Vineyards is one of the oldest family-run vineyards and Stone Ashe is one of the newest. If you play your cards right you can do a little of both – pick and sip. 

Photo credit: Visit Hendersonville

 

EXPLORE THE EAST

In recent years, Trip Advisor readers have named Black Mountain, “The prettiest small town in America.” Snuggled in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains, it’s about a 20-minute drive from Asheville and it’s a wonderful place to spend the day. Visitors can sip on an organic brew at Pisgah Brewing and then put their singing to the test at open mic night at the White Horse. If shopping is your bag, there’s no shortage of eclectic shops to explore in its very walkable downtown. And, nearby Montreat is home to Ten Thousand Villages, a retailer that sells fair-trade crafts and housewares from Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. This area also gives hikers easy access to some of the most beautiful hikes around. The Graybeard Trail is an 8-mile challenge but pays off with incredible views. 

Photo credit: Visit Black Mountain

WANDER TOWARDS THE WEST

Located in Haywood County, Waynesville is the furthest destination from Asheville – about a 45-minute drive. It’s one of the region’s top agritourism destinations and boasts a healthy selection of farm-to-table restaurants, U-pick Farms (i.e., flowers, vegetables) and farmer’s markets. Its historic farmer’s market is a great place to pick up some local treats. And while Waynesville is very proud of its Appalachian heritage, it embraces many cultures in one community each year at its Folk Moot Festival. There are live storytellers, music, artist workshops and so much more. The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is also a cool spot to take in a live play or performance. 

Photo credit: Nina Bauer (@hiking.nina) and Visit NC Smokies

And all of these vibrant towns are just minutes away from the splendor of the Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s favorite drive. An interactive map makes planning this mountain escape fun and easy. There’s just so much to explore. 

So, what do you say? Are you ready to book an Inspired Getaway? Check out our vacation rental property list or contact us directly, info@inspiredgetaway.com.

Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains continues to be a popular destination for group travelers of all kinds, but rather than lodging in places that are widespread and dispersed, why not have everyone take over a small-scale neighborhood? If you’re traveling as a group then stay together as a group. At Inspired Getaway, we offer group lodging at Cedar Cliff Village, a newly designed, small community of homes nestled together in Fairview, North Carolina that allows group travelers the option to stay in separate but together living spaces. 

Location, Location, Location

The Cedar Cliff Village location is difficult to beat. Located in Fairview, NC within 5-minutes of the Blue Ridge Parkway and 10 minutes to downtown, Cedar Cliff not only provides the convenience of groups lodging together but allows you to be in close proximity to all things Asheville has to offer. For wedding parties, corporate retreats or family’s traveling together, Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff homes are also popular for the communal neighborhood amenities such as the community pavilion for picnicking, fire pit, and walking paths. 

Wedding Party Lodging

Planning a wedding or small elopement? Couples and wedding planners know Asheville is the second most popular wedding destination in the United States. Our colorful mountain landscapes and long-range views attract families and friends from all over the world to spend an entire wedding weekend together. And by together we also mean, stay together with Inspired Getaway’s group lodging options.

Save time and money by lodging together at Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village. No more hassle of wrangling wedding guests who are staying all over town or in separate hotels. We’re set up to accommodate easier coordinating for your weekend wedding events.  For carpooling and transportation coordinating, the group rentals at Cedar Cliff offer guests next-door living making wedding party logistics an easier feat. 

Corporate Retreats

The same goes for small businesses or corporate retreats that want to assemble for company meetings, planning, and group wellness. Asheville’s unique backdrop and endless play activities make us one of the top destinations for wellness and company retreats. Inspired Getaway understands that planning a corporate retreat at a stuffy hotel can be disappointing and unoriginal.

Our quiet, small-scale neighborhood Cedar Cliff Village is an ideal way to convene yet escape to reconnect with coworking teams and ourselves without feeling like you’re stuck in another hotel. Cedar Cliff Village homes are also great for planning those extra add-ons like mobile spa massages and private chefs. There’s also plenty of space to hold meetings, gather around a bonfire in the evening, or relax in your own private hot tub after a long day of retreating. 

Family Travel

Planning a family reunion or group family vacation in Asheville, NC? Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village is also perfect for families to gather for quality time together. Several of our Cedar Cliff lodging rentals are furnished and set up for small families with children. We understand that parents need space to relax but also need to know their children are nearby and safe. Some of the houses have amenities that include board games, bunk beds, TVs for gaming or watching movies, and space for running around and spreading out. A few are even dog friendly. 

Separate but together, relax and enjoy the mountain living lifestyle in Inspired Getaway’s Cedar Cliff Village. Inspired Getaway is ready to help you start planning lodging for your next group vacation, wedding  or corporate retreat. Contact us at info@inspiredgetaway.com to reserve your village in the mountains of North Carolina!

Ask a local who’s been a renter in Asheville, or is currently, they will explain their frustration about how difficult it is to find a space to rent here in the mountains. The demand for renting a single-family home in Asheville has skyrocketed in the last decade, making our area one of the more difficult and expensive locations to rent. While there are many factors contributing to this, Inspired Getaway has solutions.

Finding the right property to rent in Asheville doesn’t have to be such a struggle. At Inspired Getaway, we are able to offer lovely living spaces for you to lay your head at night and feel secure whether you’re staying for work or leisure. Our property management company not only provides short-term vacation rentals, but we also offer long-term as well for those who need and can stay for an extended amount of time. Let’s take a closer look at the type of person we match our rentals to and why.

Location, Location, Location

Many travel employees want to live as the locals do. This means enjoying an outdoor adventure right out your door, sipping beer at one of the multitudes of breweries and great restaurants, or booking a sunset yoga hike with Asheville Wellness Tours. Many times, the locals access annual passes to Biltmore Estate grounds and other historical sites. While these places mainly appeal to tourists, many locals like booking tours with LaZoom Comedy Bus, Flying Bike Electric Bike Tours, and many other fun, local activities. Being surrounded by the majestic beauty of the blue ridge mountains has always been a place attractive to travelers, especially for escaping for self-care, curiosity, or now, a work position.

Digital Nomad Stays

Digital Nomads are referred to as people who can work from anywhere they land whether nearby or far away thanks to internet capabilities. With more and more employees choosing to become independent contractors, living in more desirable areas is now a reality for many. Tech companies and others alike allow employees to work from home or anywhere in the world, independent from an office space, and Asheville is at the top of those destination lists. Long term rentals hosted by Inspired Getaway appeal to digital nomads because many of our properties are close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, downtown Asheville, and outdoor adventure or social outings. 

Travel Nurse Stays 

The same goes for travel nursing. Nursing is another industry that gives workers the freedom to travel, if they choose, to various hospitals & cities for defined amounts of time. These positions pay well and often align with someone’s yearning to move around and city-hop. Inspired Getaway’s long term rentals are appealing to travel nurses for a few reasons:

1. We offer 3 – 12 month stays allowing nurses to leave the area on schedule then, if they choose to return, Inspired Getaway can provide an easier transition into a rental if they come back to work here again.
2. Our rentals are in close proximity to the area hospitals — and everything else you will need to feel right at home in Asheville.
3. Inspired Getaway will work with you as best we can to accommodate your stay, and even give you our insider tips for how to become more familiar with Asheville and the surrounding towns. 

Inspired Deals for Winter Stays

Inspired Getaway believes in supporting its community and understands that finding a long-term rental in the colder seasons can seem unattainable. This year, we have a few rentals offering great winter deals for renters. Here they are by location:

Winter Deals on Vacation Rentals Offering Long Term Stays

Flat Rock, NC

All are offering reduced monthly rent, the price includes all utilities and is good from now through March 31st.

1. Baby’s Corner – Monthly decreased winter rate of $999/mo at Mill House Lodge
2. Johnny’s Bungalow – Monthly decreased winter rate of $999/mo at Mill House Lodge

Our Inspired Getaway team is ready to help you move into your next living space, whether long-term or short. We do our best to accommodate all our guests and renters in any situation. Consider our amazing Winter deals lasting through April 30, 2023.

Contact us today to inquire about your next long-term rental.

Your goosebumps may begin the minute you drive through the historic entry gate and continue on the drive up the winding, wooded driveway to the magnificent Biltmore House. Every year, teams of local elves spread their holiday magic across the 8,000 acres of the sweeping Biltmore Estate grounds. Visitors come from far and wide to see America’s largest private home transformed with miles of glittering grandeur.

Christmas at Biltmore — surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina — is their most popular time of year. Timed-entry tickets sell out quickly. Your team at Inspired Getaway ensures you get tickets and an entry time for this event when you stay at a participating vacation property. Christmas at Biltmore runs from early through the first week in January.

What Is Christmas at the Biltmore Estate All About?

The landmark Biltmore House is the centerpiece of any visit. Built for famed magnate George Vanderbilt and his family, the estate comes alive at Christmastime. During your visit, you’ll experience:

• 250 rooms that offer a step back in time
• Dozens of hand-decorated trees
• A hundred kissing balls
• Thousands of poinsettias
• Strolling musicians
• Choirs and Christmas concerts

The Vanderbilt family Christmas, a tradition that began in 1895, lives on today. You may amble at your own pace through the expansive house, with a complementary audio guide explaining the history of each room. Decorating at Biltmore is different every year. It takes an entire year to plan and execute. 

What Can I Expect When I Visit Americas Largest Private Home?

A hallmark of any holiday visit is the immense Christmas tree installed in the grand Banquet Hall. The raising of the tree is the most anticipated event of the season — in 2022, the team purchased a 35-foot Fraser fir, brought from a mountaintop in nearby Avery County.

Dedicated crews pull out all the stops to give you an unforgettable experience. Biltmore House offers two different experiences:

• The Daytime Tour provides stunning mountain views from every window in the house and an optional stroll through the nearby Conservatory and gardens.
• The Candlelight Tour boasts glowing fireplaces and live music.

What Else Can I Do at the Biltmore Estate?

In addition to the grand Biltmore House, your entry ticket to the grounds entitles you to participate in other activities around the Estate, such as:

• Antler Hill Village, to explore the shops and eateries
• Cedric’s Tavern, named after the beloved family St. Bernard
• The award-winning winery culminates in complimentary wine tasting
• A scenic drive through the expansive grounds, which treats you to views of a bass pond, a turtle-filled lagoon, and charming stone bridges

If you’re looking for more to do at Biltmore, packages include lodging, specialty tours, events and spa services. Traveling exhibits occasionally come to the Biltmore House too, such as the Downton Abbey collection in 2020 and the Leonardo da Vinci immersive, multi-sensory exhibit in 2022.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Biltmore at Christmas?

All tickets to Christmas at Biltmore include complimentary parking, the audio guide, access to the grounds and wine tasting. The prices vary, depending on the date you book and what’s included in the package. Ticket prices begin at $99.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a day or a weekend that includes Christmas at Biltmore. Contact Inspired Getaway to recommend the best times to visit and secure tickets to one of America’s time-honored traditions.