It’s February and our romantic friend cupid is at it again. This mythical god of attraction and affection is shooting arrows left and right and many are landing right here in Asheville. Why? It’s because Asheville is an ideal spot for a romantic couple’s getaway. It’s a city filled with beautiful spas, romantic dining spots, and gorgeous scenery. And there’s no shortage of romantic places to stay to create an unforgettable weekend with your loved one. So, are you ready to put romance back on your priority list? We’ve got some ideas to help you plan the perfect romantic Asheville, North Carolina vacation. 

Tranquil Spa Treatments

Asheville is home to many outstanding spas that offer several unique experiences. After all – it is Asheville – and we’d expect nothing less. At  Still Point Wellness, couples can enjoy an Esalen massage (a technique created at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA) which is designed to deliver a deep sense of relaxation and integration of body, mind, and spirit. There’s also a saltwater float tank experience for those interested in reaching deep states of relaxation. 

Asheville Massage and Bodywork offers an array of different spa services. If you book an appointment onsite, you can enjoy their private sauna and foot bath services too. Or, you can choose their mobile massage service, where they’ll come to you for an amazing couple’s massage. 

If you’re looking for a spa experience with a view, the Shoji Spa and Retreat offers private outdoor salt tubs in a Japanese-like setting. Tea service is provided by Dobra Tea and soakers can book a massage or enjoy a sauna before or after. 

The Asheville Salt Cave is also home to one of the most unique massages around. When you book a private couple’s massage here, you’ll be surrounded by 30 tons of pure pink salt from Poland, the Dead Sea, the Himalayas, and the Celtic Sea. And if you want to indulge, book a private session in their hamman – and experience a traditional Turkish bath. 

Romantic Dinner Spots

After you’ve rejuvenated your mind and body with a spa experience, now it’s time to invigorate your appetite at one of Asheville’s many romantic restaurants. At Bouchon, couples can enjoy a taste of Paris in one of the city’s favorite bistros. The menu is filled with French comfort food ranging from mussels and steak frites to cordon bleu and salmon Dijonnaise. Try to book a table upstairs for some extra romantic ambiance. They also have a second location that’s a bit more off the beaten track – Rendezvous. 

Zambra is Asheville’s original tapas restaurant and wine bar. Its amber-muted lighting and stone floors just beckon couples to cozy up in a corner with a great glass of bubbly and some shared plates for two. 

The Sunset Terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn offers the quintessential romantic setting. The view is one of the best in Asheville and the food features some of the top ingredients from western North Carolina farmers. 

If you’re wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, North Asheville is home to Bone and Broth. It’s southern-inspired menu features premium dry-aged steaks from its butcher neighbor – the Chop Shop. This local butcher is also a good place to shop for top-notch ingredients if you prefer to stay in and cook a romantic meal for two.  

Hand-holding Hikes

An ideal way to end your romantic weekend couples retreat is with a scenic, hand-holding hike.  Lover’s Leap in nearby Hot Springs is a nearly 2-mile loop that follows the Appalachian Trail along the French Broad River. It then turns up a ridge via switchbacks to reveal panoramic views of the river and Pisgah National Forest. Bearwallow Mountain is a short hike that ends up at a beautiful bald with 360-degree views. Hikers can also make a stop at the nearby Hickory Gap Nut Farm retail shop and grab a little edible treat to take home. 

Romantic Places to Stay

We’ve compiled a few places for you to stay during your romantic Asheville getaway. They all have hot tubs to melt those everyday stresses away. They include: 

• Magnolia Mountain: A farmhouse-style home with a gorgeous outdoor hot tub. 
• Tranquil Oasis: The hot tub here sits above the treetops. 
• Laurel Hill: This brand-new hot tub is just waiting for you. 
• Adoring Asheville Luxury Bungalow: Intentionally designed for romantic getaways. 
• Asheville Getaway- Feel the Luxury: This NC Green Built home offers the perfect combo of tranquility and convenience. 
• Black Horse Mountain Retreat: Sip some bubbly in the bubbles! 
• King of the Hill: Wonderful home with mountain views. 
• Mountain Star: A luxury home perfect for couples.
• Taylor Ranch Retreat: Set back in the woods for ultimate privacy. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your romantic Asheville getaway today. 

 

If you’ve got a few days off or just want to get away, a Thanksgiving vacation in Asheville makes for a perfect fall, holiday escape. Whether you choose to visit on your own, with a loved one, a friend, or the whole family, Asheville offers so many things to do. Fly or drive and find a cozy place to rent that will only enhance your stay. 

Dine in or out for your Thanksgiving vacation in Asheville

Since you’re on a fall getaway, cooking is probably not top of mind. And we respect that! That’s why we’ve come up with a few ideas that will keep you out of the kitchen and give you more time to soak in the season. If you choose to dine in at your rental place, there are several places in Asheville where you can order a sumptuous turkey dinner to go. They include:  

Moose Cafe: This farm-to-fork restaurant is an Asheville classic.

Black Bear BBQ: Get something smoked from this soulful kitchen that delivers dishes for those culinary adventurers. 

Post 25 Kitchen and Lounge. They offer a variety of platters that are sure to make you smile. 

Or – To help you plan, see more up-to-date information about local restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, go to the Asheville Independent Restaurants website or social media.

Many Asheville supermarkets such as Whole Foods, Fresh Market and Ingles also offer Thanksgiving orders to go. And since this is Asheville, vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options they can enjoy too. And, if you’re interested in grabbing a few Thanksgiving pies from local bakeries, consider placing an order at City Bakery or The Baked Pie Company. 

If you prefer to dine out, we’ve got you covered there too: 

Bargello: Located in the Kimpton Hotel Arras, this stunning restaurant offers a family prix fixe menu. 

Isa’s Bistro: Locally sourced and inspired, this Asheville restaurant is a local and tourist destination too. 

Pack’s Tavern: A local family-owned restaurant located in a renovated historic building. It’s warm and friendly service keeps people coming back time and time again. 

Red Stag Grill: Enjoy European flavors with a Carolina twist. 

The Blackbird Restaurant: Vibrant cuisine in a lively atmosphere. 

Keep in mind, this is not an exhaustive list. Explore Asheville is a good resource for updates on where to dine in or out in Asheville on Thanksgiving Day. 

Take a Thanksgiving Day Walk Around Asheville 

After you’ve filled up on turkey, stuffing and pie, what better way to work off those Thanksgiving holiday calories than taking to the great outdoors? Fall is an amazing time to be in Asheville’s mountains and there are so many great places to get out and walk without having to go too far off the beaten track.  

• Bent Creek: Just 15 minutes from downtown Asheville, you’ll feel like you are miles and miles away. The trails vary from easy to more advanced. Mountain bikers are welcome on many of the trails too.  
• Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary: This lovely lake provides an ideal habitat for resting, feeding and nesting. And if you want to get a few more steps in, you can walk around the lake – it’s about a 2-mile loop. 
• Wilma Dykeman Greenway: A local fave, this delightful greenway runs along the French Broad River. Walkers, bikers and rollerbladers can pop into a host of breweries, wineries, or galleries along the way. 
• Riverside Cemetery: This historic cemetery is located in the Montford neighborhood. There are even walking tours that you can sign up for. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more robust, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway (but check the map for possible weather closings first). There’s a multitude of hikes to do from Frying Pan Mountain and Mt. Pisgah to Crabtree Falls and Graveyard Fields. Dupont State Forest is also home to the magnificent Triple Falls. 

Activities to do Thanksgiving Weekend in Asheville

You can choose to do a lot or a little. It’s up to you. Here are some holiday-inspired activities to get you started:

• Kick off the holiday season at the popular North Carolina Arboretum. Its open-air winter lights show is dazzling fun for the whole family. 
• Have a hot cider at the Great Hall Bar at the Grove Park Inn. 
• Bundle up and head to Antidote’s Rooftop bar. There’s an outdoor fireplace and lots of heat lamps to keep you warm. 
• Buy Your Christmas Tree: Obviously, this one is for those of you who are driving. Visit a “choose and cut” tree farm. Many farms offer hayrides and other activities too. 
• Visit Biltmore Estate: We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention this iconic estate. Located on nearly 8,000 acres, this is a top-notch fall destination that includes a magnificent house, art exhibition, award-winning winery and copious dining and shopping venues. There are also 20+ miles of nature trails to explore. 

So, are you ready to ditch the apron and grocery list? Treat yourself to an Asheville fall getaway. Cedar Cliff Village is a good place to check out if you’re looking to rent a place for your stay. It’s minutes from downtown and the Blue Ridge Parkway and it offers a variety of choices when it comes to booking group stays. 

 

Music lovers will be hard-pressed to figure out which Asheville music venues to choose from, so it’s probably best to plan to visit again and again. From rock and indie to blues, classic and bluegrass, the Asheville music scene is certain to strike a chord. The Asheville music culture is one that’s been written about – coast to coast – because it really marches to the beat of its own drummer.  

In 2019, “Rolling Stone Magazine” stated that “Asheville is “the new must-see music city.” It hails its musical spontaneity and close-knit camaraderie. Lonely Planet, a travel guide publisher, agrees and likens it to the early days of Nashville and Austin in the article – Why Asheville is America’s Next Major Music City.  And, the city’s melodic allure only continues to shine.   

Asheville Music Venues

Asheville has a mountain of music venues, but these are a few that locals love: 

The Orange Peel – In the heart of downtown Asheville, many locals affectionately refer to this place as simply – “The Peel.” It’s a top southeast musical destination and features state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Its musical roots run deep. Over the years it hosted musical greats such as Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, The Indigo Girls, The Smashing Pumpkins, Joan Jett, Ice Cube, Luke Combs and countless others. 

Grey Eagle – A family-friendly music venue in Asheville’s River Arts District, the Grey Eagle spotlights local talent and puts together a schedule of diverse musical genres that appeal to local interests. 

Rabbit Rabbit – In Asheville’s South Slope, this outdoor live music venue also hosts movies and other special events. 

Asheville Music Hall – This is an intimate, yet mid-sized music venue that, like many other Asheville music venues, has played host to an impressive roster of musical legends such as Ghostface Killah, Del the Funkee Homosapien and Disclosure. 

Salvage Station – This place is often rated Asheville’s best live music venue. Why? It has indoor and outdoor stages, river views and several bars. Oh – and it’s all located in a defunct salvage yard where you can even enjoy a beer inside its oversized PBR can. Pretty cool – huh? 

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts – Located in the center of Asheville’s Pack Square, this cultural icon hosts national and international touring artists. Past headliners include Kathy Mattea, Black Violin, Bela Fleck, DIAVOLO and more. 

Asheville Guitar Bar: Located in an old cotton mill in the River Arts District, this listening room  just hums with local musicians. Most nights music lovers will find acoustic music ranging from classical guitar and swing, to rock ‘n’ roll blues and more in a laid-back atmosphere with chandeliers, brick walls and leather chairs. 

Save the Date for these Asheville Concerts

While it’s nearly impossible to list them all, here are 15 live shows – of all different genres –

happening in Asheville this October, November and December that you may want to mark your calendar for:  

• Gregory Allen Isakov: Oct. 10 – The Orange Peel
• Willie Nelson and Family: Oct 18 – Rabbit Rabbit 
• Band of Horses: Oct 20 – The Orange Peel
• Nicotine Dolls: Oct. 24 – The Grey Eagle
• DropKick Murphys: Oct. 28 – Rabbit Rabbit
• Noah Reed: Oct. 27 – The Orange Peel
• Mia X Alley: Oct. 30 – The Grey Eagle
• Leftover Salmon’s Brew Ridge Jam, with Kitchen Dwellers, Fireside Collective, and Arkansauce: Oct. 21 – The Salvage Station
• Gilla Band: Nov. 6 – The Grey Eagle 
• GZA and Fishbone, Truth and Swords Tour: Nov 9 – Salvage Station
• Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band: Nov. 11 – The Salvage Station
• Graham Nash: Nov 12 – Wortham Center for the Performing Arts
• The Snozberries Psychedelic Circus with Kendall Street Company – Asheville Music Hall
• Warren Haynes Christmas Jam: Dec. 9, 2023 – Venue TBA
• A Swannanoa Solstice: Wortham Center for the Performing Arts – Dec. 17

For a more comprehensive list of live shows in Asheville, visit:  https://www.exploreasheville.com/iconic-asheville/music/live-music-events-calendar/

And for those looking to explore a bit, a quick venture a few miles north of Asheville leads to the mountain town of Weaverville. A free music series – Music on the Knoll – kicks off in October and runs through April. Held in the community center above Lake Louise, these concerts will feature local and regional musicians. Zack Page and Friends is on the calendar for Oct. 22. 

Where to Stay While Enjoying Asheville Music Events

Visitors looking for a place to stay while checking out the local music in Asheville might want to consider the Downtown Asheville Modern Retreat in the trendy South Slope brewing district.   This modern retreat is conveniently located near Rabbit Rabbit, the Orange Peel, Asheville Musical Hall, the Salvage Station and the Grey Eagle – all within walking distance. 

So, are you ready to rock? Check your calendars, grab your tickets, and book your stay.

 

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. 

 

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.

The Blue Ridge Mountains draw tourists every year because they’re glorious all year round. Asheville, the population hub of Western North Carolina (WNC), is nestled in the heart of these mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway rolls through blue-grey peaks and green valleys. Wondrous views greet you around each bend in the road. But the region also offers an opportunity to explore local vineyards and delve into your favorite finds.

The mountains of WNC provide an idyllic climate for growing grapes. The rich, cool night air, coupled with the humidity needed for a vineyard to thrive, provides the perfect storm for great wine. While the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the most toured winery in North and South America, you can discover other local vineyards throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.

There are 60 wineries within a short driving distance of Asheville, so you’re sure to find one — or more — to make your personal favorites. Whether you live in one of the glorious mountain homes around Asheville or just like to visit the area wine country, you can end almost every day sipping wine at a different vineyard.

What Are the Exceptional Vineyards and Wineries Near Asheville?

You can find many vineyards in and near Asheville that produce excellent vintages, as Western North Carolina produces many award-winning wines. A few of the vineyards and wineries worth mentioning include:

Burntshirt Vineyards. Their Tasting Room and Bistro near Chimney Rock Village boasts magnificent views of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls. The actual vineyards and winery are in Hendersonville, where they have another tasting room. Burntshirt offers tours and tastings within an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Marked Tree Vineyard. This vineyard is in Flat Rock, which is also less than an hour’s drive from Asheville. They have a satellite sipping space in Asheville called The Grape.

St. Paul Mountain Vineyards. Located in Hendersonville, this farm is a working vineyard and orchard. They offer award-winning wines and hard cider for your pleasure.

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. A family-operated winery near Boone, it sits at the base of the unforgettable Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, NC. A visit may require a day trip, as Banner Elk is about a two-hour drive from Asheville.

Silver Fork Vineyard & Winery. Huddled among the mountains, this Morganton winery is an event destination, so it offers a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the full flavor of its wines. Morganton is a bit over an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Mountain Brooks Vineyards. This award-winning winery is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tryon. It’s not even an hour’s drive away and it’s well worth the trip.

Parker-Binns Vineyard. Also in Tryon, NC near the Tryon Equestrian Center Resort, Parker-Binns is a lovely vineyard that is now over 30 years old and is a family-run winery. You’ll be impressed with the green rolling hills, rocking chairs and delicious wine produced right there on the property.

Biltmore Estate Winery. This famous winery is located in the heart of Asheville on the park-like grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Against the backdrop of the mountains, it’s one place you don’t want to miss.

Why Is Asheville and Its Vicinity a Great Vacation Spot?

The Blue Ridge Mountains attract every kind of traveler to its nooks and crannies. From whitewater rafting and extreme hiking enthusiasts to art and wine lovers, there’s something for everyone. Exceptional vineyards and wineries are abundant throughout WNC. So if you’re a local wine lover or you’ve traveled a far distance, welcome to your heaven.

Explore and discover it all if you’re so inclined. Sip and taste the fermented grapes as you enjoy a sunset from your front porch. Enjoy that bottle of wine you bought at your favorite winery after a long day of shopping. Plan a picnic at one of the many waterfalls that grace these mountains. Or sip some wine while basking in the hot tub at your vacation condo. Anyway, if you enjoy the vineyards near Asheville, you’ll be glad you came.

 

 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain escape in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Sitting atop Sunset Mountain, it faces the city and neighboring peaks and pinnacles. It’s a historic inn built into the side of the mountain that’s designed for relaxing in the fresh mountain air.

Asheville’s mild climate makes it a great travel destination year-round. When you visit the Omni Grove Park Inn, you can count on first-class service, natural beauty and a location that’s been enjoyed over the years by many famous and historical figures.

What Makes the Grove Park Inn Memorable?

The Omni Grove Park Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for good reason. It’s a massive hotel with luxurious rooms and breathtaking views. Other amenities that make the Grove Park Inn memorable include:

• Delicious meals. There’s no reason to leave the property if you’re looking for a great dining experience. Whether you have a taste for a luxurious four-course meal, fine dining on a terrace with a spectacular view or a more casual, comfy café, you can find it at the Inn.
• Cocktail lounges. There are many choices for an evening spent enjoying hand-crafted cocktails or an assortment of fine wines. Relax with friends or have fun dancing at the piano bar.
• World-class spa. You won’t forget the spa at the Grove Park Inn, which includes therapeutic waterfall pools, saunas, inhalation rooms and private men’s and women’s contrast pools. The coed room includes both warm and hot pools. Experienced masseurs await your visit.
• Sports center. Guests at the Grove Park Inn enjoy access to the Sports Center, which includes instructor-led fitness classes, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a weight room and an indoor swimming pool.

At the Grove Park Inn, you can enjoy a truly magical experience with quiet meditation by a roaring fire or activities such as a ride on a horse-drawn carriage or a rousing game on the legendary 18-hole Donald Ross championship golf course. And don’t forget to spend some time visiting the many unique gift shops at The Marketplace and Grovewood Village.

Which Historical Figures Have Stayed at the Grove Park Inn?

Walk the halls in the footsteps of an array of trailblazers and historical figures. From movie stars and country singers to first ladies and grand dames, the Grove Park Inn has been a constant in the celebrity world for decades. The hotel’s history includes visits by presidents, authors and other luminaries such as:

• Helen Keller
• Henry Ford
• Thomas Edison
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt
• Dwight D. Eisenhower
• Barack Obama
• Billy Graham

Author F. Scott Fitzgerald lived there for about a year while struggling with alcoholism and tuberculosis. His wife Zelda was hospitalized nearby for schizophrenia.

Can I Visit the Grove Park Inn if I’m Not a Guest?

As an Inspired Getaway guest, your visit to the Grove Park Inn can be arranged to suit your schedule with dining reservations at one of the hotel’s exclusive restaurants, or ELDR in the nearby Grovewood Village, golf dates and shopping excursions to fill your free time. Some of the things you can enjoy when you’re not an overnight guest include:

• Free parking for up to three hours
• Cocktails and dinner
• Browsing in shops
• Walking Trails
• Watching the gorgeous sunset from the terrace

Whether you’re looking for stunning views, history, comfort or convenience, you’ll find it at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Contact Inspired Getaway to book your upcoming stay in one of our modern, green-home rentals today, complete with special days and evenings at the Grove Park Inn.

Feature Image photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn, The Omni Grove Park Inn

Asheville offers some memorable vacation experiences. The mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures are simply icing on the cake because the Western North Carolina region offers so many things to do. Your options include sightseeing, hiking and ziplining.

The North Carolina Arboretum, located just south of Asheville, provides well-groomed trails and beautiful gardens of native species. Educational programs, seasonal events, biking trails, photography, winter lights and garden exhibits make your visit worthwhile as you commune with nature. Other enticements include:

• Art exhibits
• A gift shop
• A Bonsai tree exhibit
• An on-site bistro

What Are Some Specific Features of the Arboretum?

This park sits within the Pisgah National Forest. It features easy hiking paths that include Bent Creek Road, Old Mill Trail and Wolf Branch Road, all of which are shorter than 1.5 miles. The Arboretum also has tougher hiking trails if you’re up for it. You can also find biking trails of various levels of difficulty.

ArborEvenings, a weekly event, includes live music, performances by numerous regional and local artists, and delicious food. It’s free for Arboretum Society members and for visitors who pay the standard parking fee. The parking fee runs from $16 for a passenger car to $100 for a large bus. Except for certain events, there’s no extra entrance fee to visit the Arboretum. Parking discounts include:

• AAA members receive $1 off personal vehicle parking.
• Members of the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program can park for free.
• Buncombe County and Henderson County Library ZOOM pass holders receive free parking.
• Active/retired veterans park for free on Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day.
• On the first Tuesday of every month, the Arboretum offers a 50 percent discount on personal vehicle parking.

What Else Does the NC Arboretum Offer?

The NC Arboretum has 65 acres of maintained gardens to delight your senses. Wildflowers at the Arboretum and Bonsai Exhibition Garden always attract a crowd. The gift shops, educational sessions and guided programs offer something for every nature lover.

The Arboretum sits within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest, also part of the Pisgah National Forest. The nearby Bent Creek area is 6,000 acres of recreational forest that doubles as a research center. Broaden your nature experience in Western North Carolina with a visit to Bent Creek for:

• Hiking, biking and horseback riding are only permitted on established pathways within the forest’s boundaries
• Hunting and fishing, but only with the precautionary and necessary measures
• Camping and swimming in the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area, located in the heart of the Bent Creek Experimental Forest

Why Choose Inspired Getaway in Western North Carolina?

Inspired Getaway has concierge services for short-term vacation rental properties. Bringing together the best quality rental properties into one easy-to-access and easy-to-rent website, Inspired Getaway provides an exclusive experience and discounts for guests. The company includes rentals near Asheville and the Arboretum, making you feel at home with:

• Renter benefits
• Individualized services
• A memorable guest experience

Whatever your reason for visiting Western North Carolina, Inspired Getaway properties suit your budget and taste. They help you find the perfect vacation home, from a rustic cabin to a luxurious downtown condo. For an experience of a lifetime, contact Inspired Getaway. 

 

Escaping the heat and hitting the mountain rivers of Western North Carolina is one of the best ways to beat the heat during the sometimes-sizzling summer months. Starting in June, the water is beginning to warm up just enough, making it a perfect time to make new memories in this mountain area that has something for everyone.

When you escape to Asheville, you’ll enjoy cool summer breezes, breathtaking views and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s the ideal destination for a healthy and active vacation and the knowledgeable team at Inspired Getaway is here to help you get settled in your rental and find your way to your great river adventure. 

What Are Some Rafting Rivers in the Asheville Area?

The North Carolina mountains are home to several rafting rivers. Whether you’re looking for a river that’s quiet and peaceful or one that offers exhilarating whitewater rafting, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of these rivers:

• French Broad River. This wide river is the world’s third oldest river and a popular destination for anyone who enjoys either exciting whitewater rafting or calmer river trips.
• Nantahala River. If you’re looking for cold water to relieve the intensity of hot summer days, this iconic mountain river is a great option for a river adventure.
• Green River. There are plenty of river activity options for all levels along the Green River including tubing, canoeing, kayaking and more.
• North Toe River. This meandering river is a great destination for river enthusiasts who enjoy kayaking, canoeing and tubing.
• Pigeon River. The Pigeon River is about 50 miles from Asheville. The Upper Pigeon is filled with continuous waves for an exciting river experience while the Lower Pigeon is gentler and a better option for kids or those unfamiliar with whitewater rafting.
• Tuckasegee River. The calmer rapids of the Tuckasegee River offer the perfect location for tubing, kayaking, paddling and fishing.

Get in touch with nature on the rivers in the Asheville area. Western North Carolina is known for its beauty, and a river adventure may be just what you need to renew and refresh your spirit, while having a whole lot of fun.

Where Are the Best Outfitters in the Asheville Area?

There are various different outfitters in the Asheville area that can provide tours and supplies to meet your needs. Some options include:

• Asheville Outdoor Center.  Select a raft, kayak or canoe, and enjoy a seven-mile trip down the French Broad River floating along with the Biltmore Estates property. This is a calm rafting trip that’s perfect for beginners.
• Wai Mauna Asheville Sup Tours.  Standup paddleboarding is a great way to enjoy the river. This company offers self-guided rentals or guided paddleboard tours.
• French Broad River Outfitters.  This company provides recreational trips as well as outfitting for rafting and whitewater kayaking. Enjoy slow-flowing tubing, canoeing, standup paddleboarding and more.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center.  Experience guided family-friendly whitewater rafting or paddling at your own pace with a raft or ducky rental. Nantahala Outdoor Center offers quality gear and guidance for all ability levels. 

Start planning a river adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime and experience all the best life has to offer in the Asheville area. Be sure to check out all the properties on Inspired Getaway and book your upcoming stay today. 

 

Summer in Asheville, NC can bring you closer to nature or delight you with new city activities. Whichever direction you choose to go, you’ll find things to do. But to avoid the commonplace tourist destinations and the overhyped activities, your best bet is to try one — or more — of these 10 unique-to-Asheville tours. Pick the ones that resonate with your interests for a delightful experience.

10 Tours for Your Summer in Asheville

LaZoom Comedy Tours

If you don’t know where to begin, try an entertaining tour to get a feel for the landscape. LaZoom not only provides a fun ride around Asheville’s distinctive locations but also includes live comedy. It’s like a theatre on four wheels and comes highly recommended.

Asheville Wellness Tours

Unplug, unwind, and reconnect with your own, custom mini-retreat in Asheville, NC. Choose a-la-carte from a menu of options like Private Chef Services, Tarot Readings, Mountaintop Yoga Hikes, Forest Bathing Walks, Private Yoga Sessions, Winery Tours, and more or work with their complimentary concierge service to create your ideal wellness retreat.

Asheville Detours

Whether you want a one-of-a-kind bachelorette party or a scavenger hunt with your friends or family, choose Asheville Detours. Explore the city while participating in fun activities. These tours take you off the beaten path. They also make authentic Asheville gift boxes available.

Asheville Wine Tours 

Western North Carolina is wine country. These tours take you inside the world of wineries, but the best part may be the beautiful countryside surrounding most destinations. Choose three or four of the area’s 13 wineries.

Asheville Brews Cruise 

This cruise cut to the chase of one of Asheville’s major industries: beer production. These cruises are entertaining and educational, allowing you to sample a variety of beers while enlightening you on the history, work and passion behind each sip.

Asheville by Foot

Offers guided walking tours of the city. The specialists who lead these tours know Asheville’s history and architecture better than anyone. These one-of-a-kind tours inform and delight you as you learn about the rich art, culture and history of the city and region.

Asheville Hiking Tours

These walking tours lead you to see stunning waterfalls and get you closer to wildlife while also introducing you to edible plants. Visit a world of wildflowers and exotic trees. Learn and experience nature as never before.

Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours

These tours offer a bird’s eye view of the city. Go on a magnificent tour of Asheville’s best rooftop pubs, which not only show off some gorgeous views but also offer local brews and carefully crafted cocktails.

Eating Asheville Food Tours

A delicious way to explore Asheville is these tours for foodies. The city features 3 unique food tours and many eateries with over 500 reviews on TripAdvisor and a 5-star rating. Choose a culinary experience that suits your tastes. These tours reveal fascinating historical facts as well.

Asheville Art Experience

Asheville has a history as an artist haven. These tours take you to different sites and give you a personalized map so you can choose what you want to see. Visit directly with artists and even spend time making your own art in painting, clay, glasswork and woodworking.