It’s the “off-season” here in Asheville. The summer vacationers + leaf peepers have gone back home, it’s easier to find a downtown parking spot and local restaurants have shorter waits. This is a bitter-sweet time for locals – a slow season at work for many industry workers – but it’s also a time Ashevillians can enjoy their city during quiet winter days.

In celebration of the latter, we put together a winter staycation guide, hotel discount, and giveaway in partnership with FIRC Group Inc.

From now until March 31, get 20% off room rates and food (no alcohol) at Cambria Hotel Downtown with this link + Hemingway’s Cuba, Haywood Park Hotel, Isa’s Bistro and Country Inn & Suites by mentioning “AVLToday” while booking. (Excludes holidays. Based on Availability. Contact hotel or restaurant for additional details.)
Plus, enter to win a *free* two-day VIP package at Cambria, including breakfast at Hemingway's Cuba and dinner at Isa's Bistro (enter over on Instagram – giveaway closes Monday 12/3).

Now, treat yo’self and plan your local getaway.

We’ve all been there – you have an acquaintance reach out that they’re taking a weekend trip to Asheville. What should they do, they ask? But, what about when *you* have a few days free to spend out on the town?

Where to stay

Cambria Hotel Downtown – The modern downtown hotel at 15 Page Avenue, right next to Grove Arcade, has 138 rooms. With the Bed and Breakfast Package, a daily breakfast at Hemingway’s Cuba is included. And, there is a Biltmore Estate Package which includes two-day admission to the estate. 👏

Haywood Park Hotel – The boutique, historic hotel at 1 Battery Park is elegant + modern at the same time. Their 45 suites range from 475 to 1,200 sq. ft. and each has an Asheville skyline view. 👌

Country Inn & Suites – This option includes a hotel + a daily shuttle to downtown, plus a breakfast buffet. A perfect budget-friendly option.

More hotel options here.

What to do

If staying at Cambria or Haywood park, the Battery Park Book Exchage & Champagne Bar is only a few steps away. What’s better than reading + sipping a glass of wine during a cold winter day?

The Fine Arts Theatre is an independent movie theatre right downtown and has multiple showings of the best movies out every day. Plus, local snacks + drinks are served.

Here is a list of 30+ things to do downtown – no matter if it’s snowing, rainy, or just cold.

Where to eat

Hemingway’s Cuba – Asheville’s only cuban downtown restaurant, led under the leadership of Chef Duane Fernandes, also has arguably the largest outdoor rooftop patio downtown. Open for breakfast, dinner and available for special events, it’s menu includes paella, Palomilla sliders + more.

Isa’s Bistro – Chef Peter Crockett serves up seasonal harvest + fresh produce with a European twist. Open for breakfast, lunch + dinner. (Pro-tip: Try their new Carrot Cake Pancakes or Vegan Breakfast Bowl for brunch.) Their large patio is pet-friendly. 🐶

Here are Stu Helm, Asheville food writer’s top 10 favorite dishes to get your mouth watering.

This content was created in partnership with FIRC Group Inc.