Looking for your next weekend getaway? There’s no shortage of incredible places to explore right here in our state, so every Friday this month, we’re highlighting one destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary. This week, pack your appetite — we’re taking a foodie foray into Asheville.

Whether you’re interested in taking a tour of Highland Brewing, grabbing a cup of coffee from a bus at Double D's, or indulging your sweet tooth at French Broad Chocolates, this driving-distance destination is every foodie’s dream.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~2 hours from downtown

Est. population: 93, 716

Avg. temperature in August: 73°

🎟️ Things to do

Asheville Urban Trail

Lace up your shoes and head out on this 1.7-mile trail with 30 official stations, shedding light on some of the city’s history and accomplishments. See the interactive map at each location.

LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour

See the city’s sights by way of an award-winning comedy tour. LaZoom offers family-friendly and adult-only options as well as a ghost tour experience.

Brewery Tours

For beer lover’s, no vacation to Asheville would be complete without a brewery tour where you can taste some of the city's most iconic brews.

Grove Arcade

Shop ‘til you drop at Grove Arcade, which was built in 1928 as the nation’s first indoor shopping mall. For all you book lovers, find your next great read while sipping on champagne at Battery Park Book Exchange.

Asheville Pinball Museum

Relive your arcade days at the Asheville Pinball Museum, where $17 per person gives you all access to more than 40 pinball machines and 40 classic video games.

Mount Mitchell State Park

Asheville’s surrounding area has the perfect hike for everyone. If you’re looking to get really high, take the Blue Ridge Parkway to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Access the 360°-observation deck via a short path from the parking lot if an hourslong hike to 6,000-feet above sea level isn’t your thing.

🍲 Memorable eats

Chai Pani, 32 Banks Ave.

Editor’s Pick: SPDP (Sev Potato Dahi Puri)

If the 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant isn’t enough to convince you, let the flavors at this Indian street food spot speak for themselves. You can also stop by its counter-service sister restaurant, Botiwalla, or pick up a flavorful souvenir at the Spicewalla shop.

SPDP at Chai Pani in Asheville. | Photo by WStoday

Cúrate Bar de Tapas, 13 Biltmore Ave.

Editor’s Pick: The Cúrate experience

This Michelin-recommended spot will transport you from Asheville to a bar in Spain, where you can snack on shareable plates with your travel companions. At $80 per guest, the Cúrate experience takes away the pressure of choosing while highlighting quintessential dishes — and if you’re really hungry, add the paella.

All Day Darling, 102 Montford Ave.

Editor’s Pick: Shakshuka

Breakfast for dinner and vice versa? This affordable option doesn’t discriminate between meals, with its menu served all day. Feel the vibes of the historic Montford neighborhood with a laidback meal on All Day Darling’s patio.

crowds at all day darling asheville outdoor patio — All Day Darling offers a little fresh air. | Photo by Jason B. James, via @alldaydarlingasheville

Wicked Weed Brewpub, 91 Biltmore Ave.

Editor’s Pick: The Carolina Burger

Wicked Weed’s original location serves up more than just beer. Its family-friendly restaurant is a place for tourists and locals alike. Explore its pet-friendly outdoor patios, tap room, beer garden, and bottle shop or take a guided tour of its original 15-barrel operations. Note: Tours are only offered afternoons Fridays through Sundays.

Suwana’s Thai Orchid, 11 Broadway St.

Editor’s Pick: Khao soi

Find authentic Thai food in downtown Asheville at this unassuming spot that’s been around since 2008. Frommer’s Travel Guide named it one of the best restaurants in the city but warned that some dishes are so authentic (read: spicy), you’ll sweat.

🏨 Accommodations

Exterior of the Omni Grove Park Inn — The Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic Asheville hotel. | Photo by AVLtoday

Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville, 15 Page Ave.

In the heart of downtown, this hotel features a rooftop bar and authentic Cuban restaurant to enjoy while you take in views of the city.

The Omni Grove Park Inn, 290 Macon Ave.

This historic hotel offers something for everyone, from its subterranean spa, golf course, award-winning wine selection, delicious restaurants, and mountain views.

AC Hotel, 10 Broadway St.

Stay within walking distance of your activities at this hotel and taste its signature cocktails at its tapas-style restaurant.