Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Asheville, North Carolina has a population of less than 100,000. Yet he takes billions of dollars tourism spending year after year ― and it’s easy to see why.
“Sky Country”, as it is known, has earned a reputation among travelers with its incredible restaurant scene, famous microbreweries, iconic Biltmore Estate, outdoor adventure opportunities and much more. . But visitors don’t always fully experience Asheville. We asked locals to share some common mistakes they’ve seen among tourists.
From trying to see the best sights without a car to missing key restaurants, here are eight mistakes tourists often make when visiting Asheville — and some tips for avoiding those mistakes on your travels.
Do not rent a car
“I would say one mistake I’ve seen tourists make is not renting a car when visiting Asheville and only driving downtown or to the Biltmore Estate. While Uber can work in other cities, Asheville is so spread out that you really need a car to really get the full experience. One of the best things about Asheville is the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and you need a car to access the breathtaking views and trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway and beyond!” ― Joanna Cahill, owner of Glamping in Asheville
Skip the cocktail bars
“I get it; we’re Beer City and all that. But we have so many great cocktail bars you won’t want to miss. I recommend Little Jumbo, Sovereign remedies And Antidote. They all have amazing cocktail lists, as well as really good vibes. ― Sarajane caseauthor of “The Enneagram Letters” and host of the “Enneagram and Coffee” podcast
Walter Bibikow via Getty Images
Walking down the street
“It may just be a pet peeve of mine, but often tourists see a cobbled street and treat it as if it were a pedestrian walkway. Many of us live here and have to commute to and from work. It’s not only dangerous to walk in the middle of the road, but it’s also rude. ― Case
Missing West Asheville
“It would be a big mistake not to visit restaurants in West Asheville. Some of America’s top chefs have opened venues along Haywood Road and Patton Ave. Taste dinner, Neng Jr.And At Little Louie’s are Asheville’s hottest new spots, and longtime local favorites like Sunny Point Cafe, Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack, West Gan Shan, Donuts with holes And Hops never disappoint. There are tons of food options out there across the river and it would be a real mistake to overlook them. ― Stu Helm, food writer and tourist guide
“Another neighborhood you’ll want to drive to is West Asheville, which is full of restaurants, cafes, and shops that are some of the local favorites.” ― Case
Forgetting to make dinner reservations
“I think the #1 mistake for tourists coming to Asheville is not making a reservation at a nice place to dine. Go crazy and eat at backyard burger joints. ― Clarence Robinson, creator of Cooking with Comedy Catering
Stick to hot spots
“The most common mistake tourists make when visiting Asheville is not venturing off the beaten path. There are a handful of restaurants, hiking trails and activities that get a lot of attention and fame, but the potential for crowded trails and long wait times isn’t always worth it.I recommend booking a unique experience in Asheville through a small business, such as attending a workshop flower arrangement at our flower farm and ask the local small business owner for recommendations on favorite hiking trails, breweries and restaurants.If you’re willing to venture away from the hotspots, you’ll be rewarded with amazing food , tasty drinks and solitude while hiking or paddling. There are so many fantastic small businesses to support and creative ways to experience the arts, cooking and cooking. lture, nature and culinary delights in our mountain town. ― Niki Irving, farmer and florist at Flourishing flower farm
Do not bring money to tip buskers and service workers
“A big part of what makes Asheville great is the street performers. If you take a picture of one or listen to their music, be sure to tip! Also, our city, especially the tourism industry, is run by our service workers, but they are often underpaid and undervalued. Our cost of living is not commensurate with the income of our service workers. Do your part and tip them well! They are part of what makes your trip to Asheville a great experience.” ― Case
Assuming tourist attractions are overhyped
“In most cities, tourist attractions are places for glorified photo ops. However, many of ours are also things the locals deeply appreciate. I personally try to visit The Bosquet Park Inn, The Biltmore Estate and make a LaZoom visit at least once a year. The LaZoom tour is really fun but also informative, and Grove Park and The Biltmore make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.” ― Case