48 Hours in Asheville: A Memorable Journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains
Planning a weekend getaway to North Carolina's coolest mountain town? You've picked the perfect destination. Asheville has an unbeatable combination of craft beer culture, James Beard-recognized dining, outdoor adventures, and a lively arts scene, all located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.
This detailed 48-hour itinerary covers everything from hiking trail specifics to restaurant reservations, so that you can make the most of every moment in Beer City USA.
Day 1: Morning
1. Brunch at Corner Kitchen
3 Boston Way, Asheville, NC 28803
Begin your day at Corner Kitchen, a charming eatery housed in a historic Victorian home. Their mouthwatering farm-to-table brunch offerings and friendly atmosphere make it the perfect spot to start your Asheville journey.
2. Explore The Biltmore Estate
1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
No Asheville visit is complete without experiencing George Washington Vanderbilt's 250-room Château at the Biltmore Estate. Allow at least three hours to explore the house, formal gardens, and winery.
Tickets range from $75-95 for adults depending on the season, and booking timed entry online in advance will save you waiting in line. The sheer scale and opulence of America's largest private home, combined with the stunning mountain scenery, make this a beautiful (and historic!) experience.
Day 1: Afternoon
3. Lunch at a Local Brewery
25 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
Recharge with a delicious meal at a brewery. Check out Hillman Beer Old Fort, where you can enjoy over 32 taps and a hearty lunch. Imbibe either indoors or outdoors, as this location offers over 10,000 square feet of dining. It's a great way to experience Asheville's thriving beer scene.
4. Explore Asheville's Unique Stores
4 S Tunnel Rd Suite 230, Asheville, NC 28805
Spend your afternoon exploring Asheville's local shops. Don't miss the Mountain Running Company, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or just starting, this store has all the gear you need to make your adventures unforgettable.
Day 1: Evening
5. Dinner and Relaxation
With Asheville being home base to several James Beard Award recognized eateries, there is no shortage of restaurant options to visit. Whether you choose to explore local farm-to-table fare, international cuisine, or a cozy bistro, you're sure to be delighted. After dinner, relax at your locally operated vacation rental and prepare for another exciting day ahead.
We recommend ending your first day with dinner at Curate on Biltmore Avenue, the James Beard Award-winning Spanish tapas restaurant that has assisted in putting Asheville on the culinary map. Their Jamón Ibérico, perfectly prepared paella, and famous gin & tonic selection create an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are essential—book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend dining.
If Curate is booked, consider Chestnut for refined Southern cuisine or Pack's Tavern for upscale pub fare in a historic setting.
6. Nightcap at French Broad Chocolate Lounge
10 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801
Cap off your evening at French Broad Chocolate Lounge on Pack Square, with craft cocktails, house-made chocolates, and locally roasted coffee awaiting your arrival.
Their signature Liquid Truffle drinking chocolate and handcrafted bonbons collection provide the perfect sweet ending to your first day. The cozy atmosphere and artisanal treats make it a quintessential Asheville experience.
Day 2: Morning
6. Coffee at Dynamite Roasting Co. Coffee Bar
3198 US-70, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Start your second day with a visit to Dynamite Roasting Co. Coffee Bar. The artisanal coffee and friendly atmosphere will kickstart your morning with a burst of energy. You can also pick up an energizing souvenir, as the shop sells their in-house roasted coffee beans here.
7. Hiking or Trail Running
With fresh brew in hand, tackle the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail, a moderate 3.8-mile round-trip hike that takes about 2.5-3 hours total. Starting from Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 374.4, this trail leads to historic ruins of a 1900s resort with panoramic mountain views. Bring water, snacks, and a camera to capture both the scenic vistas and fascinating remnants of Asheville's resort history.
For an easier alternative, try Lake Powhatan Trail, a family-friendly 1.6-mile loop that takes about half an hour.
Lastly, lace up your hiking boots and hit the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This 1,175-mile gem crosses North Carolina, and you can sample a small piece of it right here in Asheville. The lush forests, flowing streams, and striking views will make you feel truly connected to the great outdoors.
Day 2: Afternoon
8. Visit More Local Breweries
With over 50 breweries and counting, Asheville is known for its craft beer scene. Spend your afternoon brewery-hopping, tasting unique beers, and chatting with locals. You might discover your new favorite brew or a cozy spot to unwind. It’s been voted Beer City, USA four times for a reason.
Start your brewery tour at Sierra Nevada Brewing Company in nearby Mills River, where free self-guided tours of their impressive East Coast facility offer tastings of their legendary Pale Ale and rotating seasonal beers. Then, head to Wicked Weed Brewing on Biltmore Avenue for lunch, where you can choose from over 40 taps featuring sour ales and experimental brews you won't find anywhere else.
Another fantastic brewery to add to your list is Burial Beer Co, in the arts district, where the artistic vibe matches their creative approach to brewing. Don't miss their Surf Wax IPA, consistently ranked among North Carolina's best.
9. Explore the Vibrant & Artistic Culture
Take some time to stroll through Asheville's downtown, where you'll find vibrant street art, artisan shops, and a welcoming, artsy atmosphere. Explore shops like Malaprops Bookstore/Cafe, where locals gather for coffee and literary events. Don't forget to check out the Grove Arcade for a slice of local history.
Keep an ear out for the spontaneous drum circles that happen at Pritchard Park. They are officially on Fridays nights, but you might catch impromptu sessions throughout the week!
Day 2: Evening
10. Dinner at a Local Gem
End your 48-hour adventure with a memorable dinner at one of Asheville's top restaurants. If you didn't visit Curate, Chestnut, or Pack's Tavern the first night, try your luck on night 2! Other favorites include: Jargon, Posana, Limones, or The Lobster Trap.
Whether you're craving international flavors, Southern cuisine, or something in between, Asheville has a culinary experience to suit your taste.
11. Plan Your Return
As your time in Asheville comes to a close, reflect on the memories you've created and the beauty you've experienced. With its natural charm and diverse offerings, you'll leave Asheville inspired to return for more.
Two days in Asheville will leave you with muddy hiking boots, a brewery passport full of stamps, and probably a slight obsession with local honey. You'll also understand why this mountain town keeps showing up on "best places to live" lists.
There's something addictive about a place where you can summit a mountain peak in the morning and sip craft cocktails made with locally distilled spirits by evening! 48 hours barely scratches the surface.
You'll drive home already planning your next visit, wondering if Grey Beard Realty has any long-term rentals available. Fair warning: Asheville has a way of turning weekend visitors into permanent residents. Don't say we didn't warn you!
