Asheville Guidebook

Asheville is pretty spread out, so car is the best way to get around, especially if exploring the mountains. However, there are quite a few bike paths (with more being constructed!), making it a decently bike-friendly city. Best place to ride bikes is the River Arts District. Uber and Lyft are helpful for exploring downtown where parking can be a challenge (and also if you're drinking).

Pack hiking gear, including hiking shoes. Trails can get muddy and slippery from rain & waterfalls, so hiking shoes are highly recommended. Bathing suits are encouraged for a river day float or a swim at one of the hike-to spots (if visiting during the warmer months). Bring an appetite, as Asheville has an incredible food and beverage scene!

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a must when visiting Asheville. Even if you don't care to do a hike (which is highly encouraged), simply driving the long stretch through the mountains, and pulling off to capture the views from any of the spots along the way is a breathtaking experience.

Live music is a big part of the culture here in Asheville, with quite a few venues, as well as breweries and bars that tend to have musicians play as well. Check out the schedules at the Orange Peel/Rabbit Rabbit, Salvage Station, and Grey Eagle during your stay. https://salvagestation.com/ https://theorangepeel.net/ https://rabbitrabbitavl.com/ https://www.thegreyeagle.com/

The Biltmore is is pretty unreal to see, especially with the audio guide tour so you can learn all about the history of this humungous estate. It's an entire day's affair, as you must see the house, the gardens, winery, gift shops, and any of the multiple restaurants. There are even walking trails along the river. Copy and paste this link for tickets and additional info: https://www.biltmore.com/visit/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8O-VBhCpARIsACMvVLMkCg-ZaavQ27tQpOaUpU0tUCymXV6x_KVEj7-nAq15dlPxw4oTYeIaAoclEALw_wcB

• Poison Ivy is commonly found throughout our forests. Please keep a watchful eye for it. • Please do not approach or feed wildlife, and ensure trash is securely stored in the bins provided on the right side of the home (when looking at the property from the driveway). • Be alert and aware of the difference in features between venomous and nonvenomous snakes. https://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/News/documents/Coexist-Snakes-v3.pdf • Warm weather = ticks and mosquitoes become active.

While an attack by a black bear is incredibly rare, it is important to practice bear safety at all times. They are fast, with speeds up to 35 mph, and the mothers are very protective of their cubs. They are also very agile tree climbers. The main attraction for them is trash. They are extremely sensitive to any type of smell and are constantly looking for food. Please be extra mindful about disposing of trash properly and securing the lid. Review this website for tips on bear safety and what to do in case of an encounter: https://www.romanticasheville.com/bear_safety.htm

This is one of our favorite things to do in the warmer months, and can be done by kayak, tube, or paddle board. While the river does not have any major rapids, it can be deceivingly hazardous at times, so make sure you check the conditions and weather first. Our favorite place for rentals and even tours is https://frenchbroadoutfitters.business.site/ Another great option is: https://zentubing.com/ *highly recommend using a dry bag for your belongings!

Catcha a ride on one of the big purple buses you see driving around town. These are so much fun. They have three different ones: a comedy tour, a haunted tour (also funny though), and a live band tour. The first two are about 1.5 hours and very informative about Asheville's history - all while making you laugh and trying a few of the local breweries. For tickets, copy and paste: https://www.lazoomtours.com/