Which is the best area to stay in Asheville NC?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023
Without a doubt, the best area to stay in Asheville is Downtown, which is just 20 minutes from the airport. Downtown is home to everything you may need in order to enjoy a large city. You will find many of Asheville’s main attractions here, such as the Basilica of St. Lawrence, the Asheville Pinball Museum, Vance Memorial, the giant Urban Trail sculpture, the beautiful Art-deco Kress and Woolworth buildings and the charming Wall Street.
As far as cuisine goes, Over Easy is a very popular place among both visitors and locals for breakfast. Wicked Weed is a great option for lunch or a snack, which is also one of Asheville’s most popular breweries. For dinner, we recommend Curate, home to Asheville’s most famous chef, Katie Button. And if you get a craving for ice-cream, there is the artisan ice-cream shop French Broad Chocolate Lounge in Pack Square.
A great alternative for shopping is the Grove Arcade Mall, a historic shopping center with multiple galleries and local shops. If you are looking to experience Downtown’s nightlife, a visit to Scandals Night Club, The Orange Peel and Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues are the places to be.
If you want to travel outside of Downtown, you can take a taxi or the bus. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Biltmore Estate, a historic and incredible rural estate which is just 7 minutes away by car, and is where the largest house in America can be found.
Jump to Other places to stay in Asheville or Where to stay near Asheville On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Asheville NC, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
If you were interested in finding out where to stay in Asheville, you may also be interested in knowing where to stay in Charlotte and where to stay in Raleigh.
Downtown, the best place to stay in Asheville
Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge and the spectacular natural landscape of North Carolina, the small town of Asheville has everything necessary to satisfy any traveler. Downtown Asheville is a great place to stay if you want to forget about the car and walk from any of the hotels in this area to the numerous restaurants, books, shops, breweries, galleries and monuments in the area.
There are lots to see in Asheville, from the impressive Art Deco architecture, which can be found everywhere in the town’s downtown landscape, to the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, which has the largest dome in North America, passing by the Grove Arcade, one of the oldest buildings in North Carolina and the Portico Market, up to the Pack Place, a complex which houses the Asheville Museum of Art and the Colburn Earth Science Museum. There is easy access from any of the Downtown hotels to everything Asheville has to offer without needing to use public transport.
Other places to stay in Asheville
Biltmore Village
The crown jewel of Asheville, Biltmore Village, is located just 7 minutes away from downtown by car and is considered a true landscaping masterpiece. Here you will find the largest private residence in the US, with 250 bedrooms, 65 chimneys, beautiful gardens and antiques, all open to the public. Staying here is a great opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You will find the town’s most luxurious hotels here, and with the best views in town, Biltmore Village also connects with the village of Antler Hill, the most modern area boasting first-class restaurants and bodegas.
Located just outside the historic Biltmore Estate, Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph Collection boasts a tudor-esque exterior and a vastly individualistic interior.
River Arts District
The River Arts District stretches across the shore of the French Broad River and is close to downtown. It consists of 22 renovated industrial buildings where more than 165 artists have their studios. This is the best place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the rich cultural life Asheville has to offer. Every second Saturday of each month, the artistic community organizes exhibitions, classes and events, and during two weekends per year, you can also take part in the “Stroll”, a walking tour of the artists´ studios, admiring their work and chatting with them in their workspaces. The area boasts many cafés, restaurants and bars, and its proximity to downtown makes it a great option for those looking to explore the city’s diverse artistic offering.
West Asheville
If you love a hipster vibe with delicious eateries, West Asheville is for you! Indeed, this colorful and quirky neighborhood is home to some of Asheville’s best and most authentic restaurants. You can enjoy dining out here- whether you on a budget or not. There are many excellent cafés and bars too- with a vibrant and youthful nightlife!
As well as the excellent culinary scene, nature lovers will love West Asheville. It is home to two spacious parks along the French Broad River- perfect for relaxing family days out. There are many great hotels in West Asheville to choose from- whether you are a budget backpacker or large family. You can also choose from a range of shopping options here, including local boutique stores.
Biltmore Estate
Biltmore Estate is the best place to stay in Asheville for those who love a luxury getaway. It is a very unique form of accommodation, as it serves both as a major tourist attraction and holiday accommodation! Originally a French Renaissance Castle, it has a rich and interesting history, with many things to do around the grounds.Officially the biggest private home in the whole of the United States, Biltmore Estate is home to several interior residences including the expansive Biltmore House. Here, tourists flock to explore its opulent interior, followed by a nice walk in the beautiful gardens and country trails within the grounds. Within Biltmore Estate, there are a number of luxury accommodations, as well as fantastic shopping and dining options.
Montford Historic District
The Montford Historic District offers a captivating and charming experience for visitors seeking a unique place to stay. Steeped in history, this neighborhood boasts an array of architectural gems, showcasing Victorian, Queen Anne, Arts and Crafts, Neoclassical, Colonial Revival, and castle-like designs from the turn of the 20th century.
Among the picturesque streets, you’ll find several well-preserved bed and breakfast inns that provide a comfortable and welcoming retreat. From the Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast’s lush gardens to the historic elegance of the 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House, these accommodations blend the nostalgia of a bygone era with modern amenities. Montford’s allure extends beyond its beautiful architecture, with events like the Montford Arts and Music Festival, adding vibrancy and culture to the neighborhood.
Where to stay near Asheville
Lake Lure
Nestled in the foothills of Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure is one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the country. Also known as the “Crown Jewel of North Carolina”, Lake Lure boasts of a white sandy beach which has lovely amenities like a waterslide that falls into the lake and a water park perfect for a hot summer day.
Do visit the Rumbling Bald Trail, which is a popular spot for rock climbing and hiking. The Town Centre Walkway makes for a great trail along the lake for spectacular mountain views.
There are cushy resorts and homely vacation rentals all around the lake for you to stay with your family. You will find log cabins, cabin rentals and lodges on the lake too.
Black Mountain
Also referred to as the front porch of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is located just 15 miles east of Asheville, NC. This quintessential small town has a charming walkable downtown area and a thriving arts and crafts scene along with access to incredible outdoor adventure thanks to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This town is a haven for artists, poets and musicians. There are lots of shops, restaurants, art galleries, artisan eats, music halls, and breweries to keep you occupied all throughout your stay here. You will find lots of Inns and Motels dotted throughout the town, plus many bed and breakfasts too. There are options like the Monte Vista Hotel too if you don’t wish to stay in an Inn.
Accommodation in Black Mountain
Waynesville
Nestled in the scenic beauty of the North Carolina mountains, Waynesville is an idyllic place to stay close to Asheville. Just a short drive away from the vibrant city, Waynesville offers a peaceful retreat with a charming small-town atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and a wealth of outdoor activities, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The town’s historic Main Street is a delight to explore, featuring quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
With a variety of accommodation options, from charming inns to rustic lodges, Waynesville provides a welcoming haven to relax after a day of exploring the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway or the Great Smoky Mountains.
Our recommended hotels in Asheville
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in AshevilleNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
