As the leaves change and we enter the holiday season, many Greenvillians traditionally hit the road for a long weekend or day trip to Asheville. We all know things look different this year as communities in Western North Carolina are still recovering after Hurricane Helene.

“We are encouraging customers to support local businesses by visiting respectfully, with heart, patience, and planning,” said Explore Asheville, the city’s tourism bureau.

As the city reopens “in stages and pockets,” we’re sharing a guide to hitting the road to Asheville, plus a few resources to follow ahead of your trip.

Support local artists when RAD reopens. | Photo by AVLtoday

Experience

The Biltmore

Christmas at the Biltmore is underway with 56 trees decking the halls of the historic home. Of course, it isn’t a trip to the expansive property without a stop by Biltmore Village for your complimentary wine tasting.

Montgomery Sky Farm

Enjoy a farm tour, including meet-and-greets with the Scottish Highland cattle, Valais Blacknose sheep, and other rescue farm animals. Plus, you can add on a picnic in the pasture or a Friendsgiving with a family-style meal from Chef Taylor Montgomery (formerly of Urban Wren).

River Arts District

Asheville’s River Arts District was devastated by catastrophic flooding with 70-80% of buildings damaged + many artists losing their studios, works, and supplies. The district reopens Saturday, Nov. 9 and Sunday, Nov. 10 with RADfest, “a weekend of art, resilience, and community.”

Chai Pani is heading to the South Slope. | Photo courtesy of Chai Pani

Eat

Taco Boy

Currently operating as a counter-service restaurant, get all of your Taco Boy favorites including City Editor Danielle’s picks: the Mexican street corn dip + the spicy margarita.

Chai Pani

This fan-favorite spot serving Indian food is currently offering a buffet featuring its greatest hits like butter chicken.

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Stop by for dessert and a glass of wine as you support this local chocolatier. At this time, the chocolate factory remains closed.

Stay

The Restoration

This downtown boutique hotel is welcoming overnight visitors or guests who want to drink or dine at one of its establishments.

The Residences at Biltmore

Located just outside the gates of Biltmore in South Asheville, this condo hotel is the perfect spot for a quick getaway.

Blind Tiger Asheville

Reopening in mid-November, this lodging “feels like the guest house of a well-connected friend smack in the heart of Asheville.”

Know before you go

Before you hit the road, we recommend confirming all of your plans + following these accounts for the latest news, opening announcements, and ways you can support the Western NC community.

AVLtoday | Just like you lean on City Editors Danielle + Stephanie at home, our colleagues Molly + Grace will help you find the best spots in Asheville.

Explore Asheville | The city's tourism bureau is updating its site daily to provide accurate information on getting there, openings, and closures.