If you’re reading this, we know you’re already a pro. But say you’re telling a friend how great Asheville is — before getting to the deep cuts, walk them through this guide to Asheville for newbies.

For the friend who…

🌄 Believes if it’s not on the ’gram, it didn’t happen

Grab a bite to eat (Bomba if you start near Pack Square, PIE.ZAA if you start closer to the South Slope) and take a walk on the South Slope Mural Trail.
Take a short drive + hike to visit Catawba Falls.
See glorious mountain vistas up close and personal with our hiking guide.
Snap a selfie or six outside in front of Liminal, the 3-D tile installation outside of the Center for Craft.
Time a trip to Craggy Gardens — we recommend an inspirational quote for the caption.

👕 Loves a good local shopping spree. Add these to the list:

Moonlight Makers or Mount Inspiration for punny postcards, t-shirts + coffee mugs.
Hot sauce from Firewalker + O’Yeah
Cocktail mix from Cultivated Cocktails
Pickles + fermented delights like sauerkraut and kimchi from Sweet Brine’d
Chocolates galore from French Broad Chocolates and the Chocolate Fetish

🍽 Sees the world through their stomach

Forage local food vendors at Asheville’s first food hall, S+W Market. Pro Tip: Tuesdays are Locals Day, where all vendors offer specials for those of us lucky enough to live here.
Introduce them to the brew scene — Highland Brewing, Archetype, Asheville Brewing, Wicked Weed, Green Maqn, Bhramari, Catawba (among many)…
… or the coffee scene — Pollen, Gallivant, Grind, Rowan (but wait, there's more).

📚 Travels with a library in their carry-on

Check out the Asheville Art Museum’s nationally-acclaimed collection of architectures + American art.
Stroll through downtown and see some incredible public art.
Experience some of Asheville’s history at the YMI Cultural Center and the North Carolina Room at Pack Memorial Library.
Learn something new with a class at NC Glass Center.