๐ Jump to:Best Places to Stay in Asheville | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQ
Iโm an Asheville area local here to help you decide where to stay in Asheville while you enjoy all the fun things to do in Asheville.
Asheville may be a small city, but each area and neighborhood has something special to offer. No matter what activities youโre interested in, Iโll point you to the best area and hotel for you.
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Best Places to Stay in Asheville
Just looking for a quick answer to the best places to stay in Asheville? Here are my top picks:ย
- ๐ Best Overall Hotel โ Omni Grove Park Inn
- ๐ Best Luxury Hotel โ The Inn on Biltmore Estate
- ๐ช Best for Families โ Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate
- ๐ Best for Business โ Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel
- ๐จ Best Boutique โ The Windsor Boutique Hotel
- ๐ Best Near Blue Ridge Parkway โ Black Walnut B&B Inn
- ๐ต Best Budget โ Holiday Inn Express & Suites Asheville Downtown
Ok, letโs do a deep dive into the best areas and neighborhoods in Asheville:ย
8 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Asheville
Asheville is situated in the French Broad River Valley with the Blue Ridge Mountains all around. Downtown Asheville is central, and the neighborhoods in Asheville Iโll be covering are spread out into the hills and down by the river. However, theyโre still within close distance of downtown and accessible to local recreation and attractions.ย
Downtown Asheville
๐ Best Area For Local Shopping, Dining, and Attractions | โจ Best Downtown Asheville Hotels: The Foundry Hotel Asheville โข The Windsor Boutique Hotel โข Kimpton โ Hotel Arras
Look no further than downtown Asheville if youโre a first-time visitor. This area has a variety of hotel options to choose from.
No matter the occasion, you can find a hotel that suits your needs. Think of modern hotels like Kimpton โ Hotel Arras (with amenities like complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and terrace views), to boutique hotels like The Windsor that will make you feel at home.ย
This is a great place to stay for visitors of all ages. Being in this central location makes it easy to access downtown attractions. These include The Grove Arcade, Asheville Art Museum, downtown parks and so much more.ย
Downtown also has tons of great shopping and dining options, too, which are all within walking distance. Youโll always find someplace to eat and something to do downtown, so you really canโt go wrong. Plus, places like the Blue Ridge Mountains and Biltmore Estate are only a short drive away!
Pros of Staying in Downtown Asheville Neighborhood:
- Centrally located
- Easy to navigate
- Fantastic walkabilityย
- Great shopping and dining
- Lots of local museums and attractions
- Ideal for first time visitorsย
- Lots of hotel options
Cons of Staying in Downtown Asheville Neighborhood:
- Hotels can be pricey
- Parking can be an issue
- Noisier and more crowded than other areas
๐ Downtown Asheville Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for local shopping, dining, and attractions
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ The Foundry Hotel Asheville โข The Windsor Boutique Hotel โข Kimpton โ Hotel Arras
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in Downtown Asheville
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Tupelo Honey ($$), Twisted Laurel ($$), Chai Pani ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Hemingwayโs Cuba,The Montford Rooftop Bar,Highland Brewing Downtown Taproom
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Grove Arcade,Asheville Art Museum,Asheville Pinball Museum,LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours
Montford
๐ Best Area For History and Architecture | โจ Best Montford Hotels: 1900 Inn on Montford โข Black Walnut B&B Inn โข The 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House
Montford Area Historic District is located just north of downtown Asheville. This neighborhood is full of historic, turn-of-the-century homes and architecture, and is extremely walkable.
The quiet, secluded residential streets make it one of the best places to stay in Asheville as far as inns and local bed and breakfasts go. All of the inns mentioned above are in historic homes so you can experience Ashevilleโs rich architectural history firsthand!
Montford has its fair share of delicious restaurants and local shops to check out, as well as historic sites like Riverside Cemetery. More perks of staying in this area? Downtown Asheville can be reached by foot if you donโt mind a 20-30 minute walk, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is only a short drive away.
If youโre traveling as a couple or want a peaceful Asheville retreat, I highly recommend staying in Montford.ย ย
Pros of Staying in Montford Neighborhood:
- Charming and historic area
- Beautiful architecture
- More secluded, private accommodationsย
- Walkable neighborhood
- Walking distance to downtown (20-30 min) and other attractions
- Complimentary breakfast at inns and bed and breakfasts
Cons of Staying in Montford Neighborhood:
- More limited availability at bed and breakfasts
- Private bed and breakfasts can be pricey
๐ Montford Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for history and architecture
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ 1900 Inn on Montford โข Black Walnut B&B Inn โข The 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in Montford
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Nine Mile ($$), Tall Johnโs ($$), Chestnut ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ The Montford Rooftop Bar,Little Jumbo,Zillicoah Beer Co.
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Riverside Cemetery,Gray Line Trolley Tours, a performance by Montford Park Players
River Arts District
๐ Best Area For Local Art and Galleries | โจ Best River Arts District Hotels: North Lodge on Oakland Bed and Breakfast โข Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District โข DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown
The River Arts District is an artsy enclave located along the French Broad River just southwest of downtown Asheville. Countless art galleries make up this part of Asheville, along with some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in Asheville. These convenient eateries are perfect for starting and ending each adventure-filled day.
The River Arts Districtโs location makes it easy to reach downtown Asheville, West Asheville, and Biltmore Village. There arenโt as many hotels and bed and breakfasts here as there are in downtown, but vacation rentals are plentiful.ย
For artists, this area provides a sense of community and tons of places to check out. For families, the River Arts District offers a little extra space and privacy while still being in a convenient location. All in all, itโs pretty fitting that this neighborhoodโs nickname is โRAD!โ
Pros of Staying in River Arts District Neighborhood:
- Lots of great art galleries and local spots
- Thriving arts and creative scene
- Accessibility to French Broad River
- Good for vacation rentals
- Bikeableย
Cons of Staying in River Arts District Neighborhood:
- You will need a rental car to get around
- More limited hotel options
- Industrial warehouse vibe (can be a pro or con, depending)
๐ River Arts District Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for local art and galleries
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ North Lodge on Oakland Bed and Breakfast โข Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District โข DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in River Arts District
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ 12 Bones Smokehouse ($$), The Bull and Beggar ($$$), White Duck Taco Shop ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Great Wild Nowhere,Bottle Riot,Olde London Road English Pub
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Visit the Asheville Silo,Pink Dog Creative,French Broad River Greenway,Grail Moviehouse
Biltmore Village
๐ Best Area For Visiting the Biltmore Estate | โจ Best Biltmore Village Hotels: The Inn on Biltmore Estate โข Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate โข Grand Bohemian Hotel
Biltmore Village is the place to stay in Asheville if the Biltmore Estate is at the top of your wishlist. Best for families and couples, this area provides all the nearby amenities you need for a pleasant stay.
Biltmore Village is conveniently located next to the Biltmore Estate. This can save time, money, and energyโespecially if you can only visit for a shorter amount of time. Historic Biltmore Estate, Antler Hill Village, and all the surrounding grounds are just a stoneโs throw away.ย
Another reason to consider Biltmore Village is its central location. In a short drive, you can just as easily reach downtown Asheville as you can the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Simply put, this is the perfect spot to stay if you want to focus on the Biltmore Estate while also enjoying the downtown scene and getting in a few of the best hikes near Asheville.
Pros of Staying in Biltmore Village Neighborhood:
- Short drive to downtown Asheville
- Easy access to the Biltmore Estateย
- Central location
- Quaint, cottage feelย
- Great restaurants and eateries
Cons of Staying in Biltmore Village Neighborhood:
- Shopping, dining, and accommodations can be pricey
- Traffic can be congested around this area
- You will need a rental car to get to other parts of Asheville
๐ Biltmore Village Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for visiting the Biltmore Estate
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ The Inn on Biltmore Estate โข Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate โข Grand Bohemian Hotel
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in Biltmore Village
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Corner Kitchen ($$), The Cantina at Historic Biltmore Village ($$), Fig ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Casablanca Cigar Bar,Burial Beer Co. Forestry Camp Taproom
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ The Biltmore Estate (Biltmore Mansion, Antler Hill Village,Biltmore Winery, etc.), exploring Biltmore Village,The Cathedral of All Souls
North Asheville & Grove Park
๐ Best Area For Peace and Tranquility | โจ Best North Asheville & Grove Park Hotels: Omni Grove Park Inn โข Albemarle Inn โข The Reynolds Mansion
North Asheville is a residential area known for its varying architecture and privacy from downtownโs hustle and bustle. This part of Asheville is particularly famous because it is home to the Omni Grove Park Inn (which has been regarded as one of the best hotels to stay in Asheville!).ย
This historic inn has hosted many famous guests over the years. Its scenic setting and welcoming atmosphere continue to make it a timeless place to stay. Itโs a great place for families as well as couples because it offers amenities for all ages.ย
Outside of the Grove Park Inn, North Asheville offers visitors a peaceful stay. Youโll need a car to get around, but the location makes it easy to reach the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and outdoor recreation. If youโre contemplating where to stay and donโt mind trading distance for a little extra privacy, this area is ideal.
Pros of Staying in North Asheville & Grove Park Neighborhood:
- Secluded and peacefulย
- Access to Beaver Lake
- Lots of amenities at Grove Park Innย
- Walking to downtown Asheville is possible (40-50 min โ depending)
Cons of Staying in North Asheville & Grove Park Neighborhood:
- You will need a rental car to get around
- Further from downtown Asheville
- Grove Park Inn can be priceyย
๐ North Asheville & Grove Park Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for Peace and Tranquility
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ Omni Grove Park Inn โข Albemarle Inn โข The Reynolds Mansion
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in North Asheville & Grove Park
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Dining at the Grove Park Inn ( Edison,Blue Ridge,Vue 1913,Sunset Terrace) ($$$), Luellaโs Bar-B-Que ($$), The Original Vinnieโs Neighborhood Italian ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Edison at the Omni Grove Park Inn, The Great Hall Bar at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Frazierโs Tavern
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Grove Park Inn,Grovewood Village,Beaver Lake
West Asheville
๐ Best Area For Funky, Local Vibes | โจ Best West Asheville Hotels: Bon Paul & Sharkyโs Hostel โข Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville โข Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District
West Asheville is unofficially known as Ashevilleโs โcoolโ neighborhood, and itโs easy to see why. This area has boomed in the last decade or so, and its funky, artsy vibe is hard to beat.ย
As its name suggests, it is located on the west side of Asheville. Because it has a strong local community, it tends to be more budget friendly and low-key than other parts of the city. You wonโt find as many hotels here, but it is a good place to find vacation rentals. Not to mention, the neighborhood is really walkable.
The foodie and beer scene here is also thriving, so if thatโs the vibe youโre going for, go ahead and book your stay in West Asheville. Youโll find no shortage of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and even donut shops! This is also a great location for hitting up day trips and nearby national parks.ย
Pros of Staying in West Asheville Neighborhood:
- Cool, funky atmosphere
- Local feelย
- Lots of great restaurants and bars
- Tons of local art to see
- Good for vacation rentals
- Walkable neighborhoodย
- More affordable if doing Asheville on a budget
- Good spot for taking day trips
Cons of Staying in West Asheville Neighborhood:
- You will need a rental car to get to other parts of Asheville
- More limited hotel options
๐ West Asheville Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for funky, local vibes
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ Bon Paul & Sharkyโs Hostel โข Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville โข Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in West Asheville
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Green Tea Sushi Japanese Restaurant ($$), Tastee Diner ($), Sunny Point Cafe ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ New Belgium Brewing Company,The Whale,Leoโs House of Thirst,One World Brewing
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Murals and street art, French Broad River Park,West Asheville Tailgate Market
South Asheville
๐ Best Area For Shopping, Amenities, and Distance to Airport | โจ Best South Asheville Hotels: Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park โข Courtyard by Marriott Asheville Airport โข Wingate by Wyndham Fletcher at Asheville Airport
Biltmore Village is directly south of downtown Asheville, and South Asheville is just a few miles further in that direction. This area is closest to the Asheville airport and is filled with places for shopping, dining, and access to amenities.ย
A popular spot to stay within South Asheville is Biltmore Park, which is a walkable area that is super family-friendly. The Hilton, a top-rated hotel, can be found here.
South Asheville is a longer distance to downtown Asheville, but it is only a short drive away from a couple entrances to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Popular attractions like the North Carolina Arboretum and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. are also nearby.ย
Since South Asheville is connected to more major highways and roads, I recommend staying here if day trips are a priority for you. Brevard and Hendersonville are especially close!
Pros of Staying in South Asheville Neighborhood:
- Lots of amenities
- Lots of shopping and dining options
- Quick drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Short distance to Asheville Regional Airport
Cons of Staying in South Asheville Neighborhood:
- You will need a rental car to get around
- Further from downtown Asheville
- Lacks โdowntownโ feel
๐ South Asheville Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for shopping, amenities, and distance to airport
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park โข Courtyard by Marriott Asheville Airport โข Wingate by Wyndham Fletcher at Asheville Airport
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in South Asheville
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Tupelo Honey ($$), Wild Ginger ($$), Bearโs Smokehouse Barbecue ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Sierra Nevada Brewing Company,Thirsty Monk South at Biltmore Park
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ North Carolina Arboretum,Biltmore Park Town Square,Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Black Mountain
๐ Best Area For A Mountain Getaway | โจ Best Black Mountain Hotels: Hampton Inn Black Mountain โข The Monte Vista Hotel โข Black Mountain Inn
Hereโs your reminder that you donโt have to stay in Asheville to enjoy all that the area has to offer! The town of Black Mountain could be your answer if youโre picturing more of a cabin or secluded mountain retreat over a hotel in the city.
Only a 20 minute drive away, this small mountain town is one of Ashevilleโs closest and all-time favorite towns. Though small, Black Mountain offers plenty of options for food and drinks, as well as local shops for arts and crafts.ย
There are a few hotels in the area, but if youโre already considering staying outside the city, vacation rentals are probably the way to go. Plus, itโs a great option for families, couples, and larger groups. Overall, if youโre looking for a true mountain escape while still being close to Asheville, Black Mountain is perfect!ย
Pros of Staying in Black Mountain:
- Local, small town feel
- More secluded and private
- Lots of great restaurants and local shops
- Walkable downtown
- Access to nature
- Less crowds
- Can be more budget-friendly
- Good for vacation rentals
Cons of Staying in Black Mountain:
- You will need a rental car to get around
- Further from Ashevilleโs city center and attractions
- More limited hotel options
๐ Black Mountain Mini Guide ๐
Best Area to Stay for a mountain getaway
Google Map
โจ Best Hotels โ Hampton Inn Black Mountain โข The Monte Vista Hotel โข Black Mountain Inn
๐ Apartments โ Browse Top Rentals in Black Mountain
๐ฝ๏ธ Where to Eat โ Trailhead Restaurant & Bar ($$), Open Oven Brunch and Bakery ($$), My Fatherโs Pizza & Pasta ($$)
๐ธ Where to Drink โ Town Pump Tavern,Goldfinch Black Mountain,Lookout Brewing Company,Black Mountain Brewing
๐๏ธ Top Attractions โ Lake Tomahawk,Catawba Falls, explore downtown
Tips for Staying in Asheville
Tip #1 โ Prioritize the Activities Youโre Interested inย
Prioritize the activities youโre interested in when youโre figuring out where to stay. For example, if you prefer outdoor recreation over the downtown scene, consider spots outside the city like Black Mountain.ย
๐ Get your free printable Asheville itinerary here!
Tip #2 โ Think About the Seasons and Plan Ahead
Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit Asheville. Because of this, accommodations can get booked up fast and be more expensive. If you plan on visiting during these times of the year, I recommend booking in advance.
Tip #3 โ Travel During the Off-Season
Winter (after the holidays) is Ashevilleโs off-season. During this time, you can expect lower prices and fewer crowds. And since winters are generally mild, you can still enjoy some hiking and outdoor recreation. Your accommodation options could open up as well.ย
Tip #4 โ You Will Need a Rental Car
The bottom line is this, youโre going to need a car to explore Asheville. Even if you plan on staying downtown where things are pretty centralized, you will need a car to reach most places in North Carolina.
Plus, exploring one of Ashevilleโs best attractionsโthe Blue Ridge Parkwayโrequires one! Lastly, public transportation isnโt too widespread in Asheville, so itโs better to be prepared with your own car.ย
๐ Read Next: Where to Stay in Charlotte
Tip #5 โ Pack in Layers
When packing for a trip to Asheville, layers are super important. The area experiences all four seasons, but the elevation and mountain climate can cause fluctuations in weather. Check the forecast beforehand and pack accordingly, but throw in some extra layers so you have optionsโjust in case!
Tip #6 โ Follow Safety Rules and Precautions When Exploring the Outdoors
North Carolinaโs Blue Ridge Mountains may seem like a safer area for outdoor recreation compared to say, the Colorado Rockies, but donโt underestimate them. When it comes to the outdoors, stay on marked trails, respect signage, and always use common sense and caution.ย ย
๐ Read Next: Asheville Safety Guide
Tip #7 โ Understand that Local Business Hoursย May Vary
Asheville is largely made up of small, independently owned businesses. So, donโt be too surprised if places seem like they open late or close early. In fact, many businesses close around 5 pm.ย
FAQs About Where to Stay in Asheville
How far is downtown Asheville from the Biltmore?
Downtown Asheville is only 4 miles from the Biltmore Estate. It takes under 10 minutes by car.ย
Where is the best part of Asheville to stay?
The best part of Asheville to stay is downtown Asheville, especially for first-time visitors and those who want to be close to everything.
What is the best month to visit North Carolina?
The best month to visit North Carolina is October, in my opinion. Itโs the most popular time of year by far because of fall foliage.ย ย
Is Asheville a walkable city?
Asheville is a pretty walkable city. Outside of downtown, neighborhoods like Montford and West Asheville are especially walkable. Keep this in mind when youโre deciding where to stay in Asheville.
How far are the Blue Ridge Mountains from Asheville?
The Blue Ridge Mountains are only a 10 minute drive from Asheville, specifically the downtown area. Depending on where youโre coming from, you will need to take different milepost entrances.
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Each area of Asheville offers something unique. Wherever you choose to stay, Ashevilleโs charm and scenic beauty are sure to make for a memorable trip.ย Bookmark my 5-day Asheville itinerary for more inspiration!
(Featured Image Credit: Irina Moss / Shutterstock)