Asheville, NC is a picturesque and enchanting destination for couples dreaming of a magical wedding and memorable stay. This vibrant city combines its natural beauty, rich history, and a thriving arts scene, making it an idyllic backdrop for tying the knot. And, it’s got some of the coolest and most accommodating lodging options around – from group stays to cabins and cottages.
So, whether you’re a wedding planner who’s just starting their research or you’ve already decided on this mountain city destination, we’re here to tell you that Asheville is one of the top wedding spots in the country and here’s why.
Natural Beauty and Stunning Venues
Asheville’s natural landscape is nothing short of majestic, with the surrounding mountains offering a serene and romantic setting. Venues range from historic estates and rustic barns to stunning gardens – each providing a unique atmosphere that caters to a variety of wedding themes and sizes. The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, offers opulent options for a fairytale wedding, while the botanical gardens provide a more intimate natural setting. Get a roundup of many of the top Asheville wedding venues here.
A Vibrant Culinary Scene
Food is a centerpiece of any wedding, and Asheville’s culinary scene will delight your taste buds. Known for its farm-to-table dining, the city boasts an array of restaurants and caterers that offer fresh, locally-sourced dishes. From gourmet cuisine to traditional Southern comfort food, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The Asheville Independent Restaurant Association, affectionately known as AIR, is a good place to familiarize yourself with some of the city’s favorites. So, before or after the big event, guests will not fall short on fabulous places to eat.
Brews and Views
For those beer enthusiasts on your guest list, Asheville is surely a sudsy paradise. The city is a four-time winner of the annual Beer City USA poll and its well-established craft beer scene offers couples and their guests the chance to enjoy a diverse selection of local brews. Many breweries also serve as unique venues for wedding events, providing a casual and fun atmosphere that’s perfect for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding gatherings. Many breweries offer up river and rooftop views too. There’s even one where you can hop on board an old train car – the Whistle Hop – and it all started with a rusty caboose.
Outdoor Adventures
Couples and guests who love the outdoors will be hard-pressed to stay inside. Asheville is an absolute utopia of year-round outdoor activities. From hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains to mountain biking, rafting, ziplining and more, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. These activities not only offer pre- or post-wedding day fun, but also present stunning photo opportunities for the happy couple and their guests for years to come.
Arts and Culture
Asheville pulses with a rich arts scene and is home to numerous galleries, live music venues, and theaters. The River Arts District (RAD) showcases local artists and craftspeople, making it a perfect spot for wedding guests to explore. This cultural vibrancy just further contributes to the alluring atmosphere that makes Asheville a unique wedding destination all year long.
Accommodations for All
From cozy cabins in the woods to luxurious downtown hotels, Asheville offers a wide range of accommodations, ensuring that guests can find a comfortable place to stay that fits their preferences and budget.
Inspired Getaway has several accommodation options from which to choose. Are you looking for a village-like setting or a beautiful home with plenty of space for groups and families to stay together? We’ve got you covered. Here are some top Asheville lodging choices:
Cedar Cliff Village: This 3-acre community is located 10 minutes outside of downtown Asheville. There are several short-term vacation rentals that are clustered together so groups visiting the area can stay within walking distance of each other. This is a great feature for family and friends attending an Asheville wedding. There’s even a community pavilion and fire pit and grills for pre-and post-celebrating.
Right outside of Cedar Cliff Village, these four amazing properties are among the best places to stay in Asheville and offer everything from hot tubs and fabulous decks to gourmet kitchens and cozy fireplaces.
- Laurel Hill: This beautiful farmhouse-style home can accommodate up to 8. It’s a 20-minute drive to downtown Asheville and the hot tub is just waiting to work out those pre- and post-wedding kinks.
- Misty Mountain Retreat: This luxury mountain home can accommodate up to 12 guests and is about 35 miles to Asheville. It’s ideal for those looking for a true mountain escape where they can unwind after the wedding festivities.
- Maddie’s Mountain Getaway: Tailored for those seeking the quaint allure of a “small town” or “main street” ambiance, this place can sleep 8. It’s in the heart of downtown Black Mountain, which repeatedly tops “best small town” lists, and about 20 minutes to downtown Asheville. Maddie’s is a lavish bungalow perfect for family and friends to share.
- Black Horse Mountain Retreat: Share stories and roast marshmallows around the fire pit, which is nestled under its own private and charming pergola. The house can sleep 7 and it’s about a 25-minute drive to the Asheville Regional Airport.
So, as you can see, Asheville is the perfect place for a wedding and a memorable stay. It’s a place where wedding dreams come alive against a backdrop of mountain splendor and where every moment becomes a cherished memory for couples and their guests alike.
Order a free wedding planning guide to help plan an Asheville wedding – start to finish – and then book one or more group stays here.