The Ultimate Asheville, NC Travel Guide: 5 Local Spots You Can’t Miss
Asheville, North Carolina, is a mountain city that blends art, adventure, and amazing flavor. Known for its creative vibe, craft beer scene, and scenic Blue Ridge backdrop, Asheville offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. That’s why this place has been on my bucket list for years! I was lucky enough to spend a weekend exploring this artsy town, to the point that I almost decided to join a drum circle and never go back to DC! But that’s a story for another time!
Let’s go on an Asheville adventure, shall we?
The Times Bar & Coffee Shop
Ending my nights in Asheville at this spot was always a highlight! Nestled in the historic S&W Building, next to the beloved S&W Cafeteria and sharing an inviting patio, The Times Bar & Coffee Shop offers a charming mix of seasonally inspired and classic cocktails, all expertly crafted by passionate mixologists. Guests can also enjoy gourmet coffees anytime they wish. The cozy, stylish interior provides a warm, welcoming environment perfect for relaxing or indulging. Known for favorites like the Old Fashioned, Lemon Almond Latte, and Cucumber Lemonade, it features friendly staff, a rich spirits selection, seasonal specials, and affordable prices. This charming, dog-friendly venue has a lively yet intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting, smoky drinks, and excellent service. Whether for a quick pre-dinner drink or a relaxing nightcap after exploring Asheville, they use fresh local ingredients in creative recipes to ensure a memorable experience.
Rowan Coffee
They have two locations: downtown and West Asheville. I visited the West Asheville branch. Its modern, minimalist decor fosters a calm and stylish vibe, with plenty of natural light, sleek lines, and friendly, knowledgeable baristas. I especially recommend their cold brew, and the quiche was excellent! The staff was fantastic, helping me figure out which trails are open after the hurricane that heavily impacted Asheville. This is a great spot for breakfast or planning outdoor adventures!
Thai Pearl
I'm quite selective about my Thai food, having experienced fantastic Thai cuisine in Telluride. However, this place comes very close and is a favorite among locals! Thai Pearl is renowned as one of Asheville’s top spots for authentic Thai dishes. Situated in the lively West Asheville neighborhood, it combines traditional recipes with a modern, local twist. The ambiance is cozy yet contemporary, and the friendly staff make every guest feel like a friend. From fragrant curries and expertly cooked pad Thai to inventive chef specials and coconut milk soups, every dish at Thai Pearl is crafted with care—rich, layered, and deeply satisfying. This is a must-visit dinner spot for your time here!
Highland Brewing
Honestly, this is one of the most fun and memorable spots I've visited! After joining a travel chat at my hostel, I met some new friends to play volleyball with here. I have to admit, I wasn't a pro at volleyball, but this place totally made up for it. The brewery has an incredible outdoor area sprawling over an 11-acre facility on 40 acres of land on a hill in East Asheville. This site, formerly Blue Ridge Motion Picture Studios, has been beautifully transformed into more than just a brewery. Highland is also a destination with five sand volleyball courts, an 18-hole disc golf course, cozy indoor and outdoor public spaces, and gorgeous wedding and meeting venues, including a spacious rooftop with a stage, games, an outdoor bar, a little outdoor market, food trucks, and several beach volleyball courts. Without a doubt, this is the best brewery I've ever been to. It's a fantastic place to go alone, make new friends, or simply unwind after a busy day!
Asheville Club
I stumbled upon this charming spot while wandering the streets—my favorite way to discover new places. You're welcomed by live music, an inviting atmosphere, and really great drinks! The Asheville Club has been designed to foster connection—a warm gathering spot where locals, artists, and travelers come together effortlessly. Whether you choose to enjoy a drink from their rotating tap list, breathe in the mountain air from the nearby patios, or simply relax with good conversation and vinyl tunes filling the air, you'll feel right at home.
Final Thoughts
Asheville has a magical atmosphere, blending culture, creativity, and comfort. After a busy week working in North Carolina, it was refreshing to unwind, hike, reflect on life, and experience the city's enchanting surroundings. Share your favorite spot in the comments and suggest where I should visit next!