As destinations reopen around the world, travelers are once again exploring places that inspire curiosity and creativity. Over the coming weeks, we’ll invite you to rediscover favorite spots and hidden gems with our #WelcomeBacktoTravel series. Today, take a visual and informative stroll through Asheville, North Carolina—an arts-forward city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, rich in outdoor beauty, culinary creativity and cultural history.
Once an industrial area, the River Arts District now hosts more than 200 working artists alongside a lively mix of restaurants, cafes and breweries. The district offers studios, galleries and seasonal events that celebrate local creativity.-
The Biltmore Estate, often called “America’s Largest Home,” reflects the Vanderbilt family’s legacy across multiple floors filled with period furnishings, historic clothing and decorative arts. Guided tours and seasonal exhibits provide insight into its architecture and the era it represents.
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The Blue Ridge Parkway winds for hundreds of miles through Virginia and North Carolina, offering sweeping mountain vistas, abundant biodiversity and ample opportunities for hiking, scenic drives and photography year-round.
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Pack Square Park has been a cultural hub since Asheville’s early days. Located at the intersection of Patton, Biltmore and Broadway Avenues, the park hosts festivals, public art and community events that highlight the city’s civic life.
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Sierra Nevada opened a modern brewery and taproom in Mills River, near Asheville, expanding the region’s craft beer scene. Local breweries are an integral part of Asheville’s food and drink culture, offering tours, tastings and farm-to-glass experiences.
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The North Carolina Arboretum features formal gardens like the Quilt Garden, where color-blocked plantings create intricate floral patterns. The arboretum and nearby trails make Asheville a destination for gardeners, hikers and nature enthusiasts.
