12 Awesome Areas to Stay in Asheville (2025)

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Asheville has a way of pulling you in. I’ve been here twice now, and each trip showed me a different side of the city. The first time, I stayed downtown and spent nights hopping between breweries, street musicians, and funky galleries—Pritchard Park’s drum circle still sticks with me. On my second trip, I escaped to North Asheville, waking up in a cabin surrounded by trees before heading to the Grove Park Inn for those insane Blue Ridge Mountain views.

That’s what makes Asheville so special. One moment you’re sipping craft beer on Haywood Road in West Asheville, the next you’re wandering the historic brick sidewalks of Biltmore Village. Whether you’re after a cozy cabin retreat, a boutique hotel with rooftop views, or an artsy neighborhood full of character, Asheville delivers. If you’re planning your trip and wondering where to stay, I’ve got you covered. Here are the coolest neighborhoods and stays that will make your Asheville experience amazing.

Top Places to Stay in Asheville at a Glance

Trying to decide where to stay in Asheville? Here’s your at-a-glance guide to the city’s most exciting, relaxing, and unforgettable neighborhoods. Whether you’re into breweries, hiking trails, or historic charm…there’s a perfect pocket of Asheville waiting for you.

• Best for First-Timers: Downtown Asheville
• Most Historic Charm: Montford Area Historic District
• Coolest Local Vibes: West Asheville
• Top Artsy Escape: River Arts District
• Most Elegant & Iconic: Biltmore Village
• Best Urban-Nature Mix: South Asheville
• Top for Relaxation & Views: North Asheville
• Best Hidden Nature Gem: East Asheville
• Most Suburban Comfort: Westwood Place
• Best for Nightlife: Haywood Road Corridor
• Cutest Old-School Feel: Five Points
• Top Offbeat Getaway: Black Mountain

Here’s how I’d do it: base yourself in Downtown or Biltmore Village, spend a day gallery-hopping in the River Arts District, and catch a sunset up in North Asheville. Keep scrolling for all the local tips and where to stay for your perfect Asheville adventure!

1. Downtown Asheville

Downtown Asheville is where it’s all happening, and honestly, it’s probably the best spot for first-timers. I stayed right in the heart of things during my last trip, and you can’t beat being able to walk everywhere. The Aloft Asheville Downtown has this cool rooftop pool with mountain views that’s actually pretty spectacular, and their lobby scene is always buzzing with live music.

The hotel situation downtown is really solid in 2025. The Foundry Hotel just keeps getting better – their bar and Benne on Eagle restaurant are legit some of the best spots in the city. The Flat Iron Hotel in that iconic building gives you serious Jazz Age vibes, and I love how Cambria Downtown puts you right on Biltmore Avenue where all the action is.

What’s great about downtown is you’re walking distance to everything that matters. The Friday night drum circle at Pritchard Park is still going strong (don’t miss it), and you’ve got The Orange Peel for live music, plus about a million breweries and restaurants within a few blocks. The South Slope brewery district is literally a 10-minute walk, so you can brewery hop without worrying about driving.

The only downside? It can get loud on weekends, especially if you’re near Pack Square. And parking isn’t cheap if you’re driving. But honestly, for the convenience of being in the middle of everything, downtown can’t be beat. I’d definitely stay here again.

• Read also: My Favorite Activities in Nashville At Night

2. Montford Area Historic District

Montford is like stepping back in time, but in the best possible way. These Victorian houses are absolutely gorgeous, and the neighborhood has this super relaxed vibe that feels way different from downtown. I walked through here during my last visit and was totally charmed by the tree-lined streets and wraparound porches.

You’ll find some really cool bed and breakfasts here that actually know what they’re doing. The accommodations tend to be more intimate than the big downtown hotels, which is perfect if you want something with character. Black Walnut B&B Inn is supposed to be incredible (though definitely on the pricier side), and there are several other historic properties that let you really feel the neighborhood’s personality.

The location is pretty perfect too. You’re close enough to downtown that it’s maybe a 10-minute drive or a pleasant 20-minute walk, but far enough away that you don’t hear the weekend party noise. Riverside Cemetery is right here if you’re into that kind of history, and the Asheville Botanical Gardens are walking distance when you need some nature time.

What I love about Montford is how it feels like a real neighborhood. People actually live here, walk their dogs, and say hello. It’s not just tourist central like some areas. The Victorian architecture is stunning, and if you’re someone who appreciates that old-school charm, this area will totally win you over. It’s one of those places that makes you want to slow down and actually enjoy where you are.

3. West Asheville

West Asheville is where the locals hang out, and it’s honestly one of my favorite parts of the city. The whole Haywood Road corridor is packed with breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants that feel authentic rather than touristy. I spent an entire afternoon just wandering between The Mothlight and The Grey Eagle, catching live music and drinking really good beer.

The accommodation scene here is a bit different – you won’t find big chain hotels, but there are some excellent boutique options and Airbnbs that let you live like a local. The whole area has this creative, laid-back energy that’s perfect if you want to escape the downtown crowds but still be close to everything.

French Broad Brewery is one of the originals and still crushes it. Their riverside location is beautiful, especially when the weather’s nice. Burial Beer has locations here too, and their beer is legitimately some of the best in the city. For food, you’ve got everything from dive bars to farm-to-table spots, and most of them are places where actual Asheville residents eat.

The best part about staying in West Asheville is feeling like you’re getting the real experience. You’re not in a tourist bubble – you’re in a neighborhood where artists and musicians actually live and work. It’s maybe a 10-minute drive to downtown when you want the main action, but most nights you won’t need to leave the area. The music scene here is incredible, and the food just keeps getting better.

• Read next: Unique Asheville Dining Experiences

4. River Arts District (RAD)

The River Arts District has been through a lot lately, but it’s coming back stronger than ever. After Hurricane Helene really hammered this area in 2024, the artists and community have rebuilt with incredible determination. The Upper RAD – basically Roberts Street, Artful Way, Depot Street, and Clingman Avenue – is fully open and buzzing again.

I visited the rebuilt studios in early 2025, and honestly, the resilience here is amazing. You’ve got over 300 artists working in converted warehouses, and many have completely reimagined their spaces post-Helene. Wedge Brewing has their location back up and running, though their Foundation Street spot is still rebuilding. The Second Saturday Art Stroll is happening again, and it’s the best way to see everything.

The accommodation situation is mostly boutique hotels and unique stays nearby rather than right in the district. Grand Bohemian Lodge in Biltmore Village reopened in May 2025 and is gorgeous. From there, you’re just a few minutes’ drive to the studios. Some of the downtown hotels are actually closer – it’s really easy to get here from anywhere in the city.

What makes RAD special is watching artists actually work. These aren’t just galleries – they’re working studios where you can see pottery being thrown, glass being blown, and paintings coming to life. The whole area has this industrial-meets-artistic vibe that’s unlike anywhere else. Plus, you’re right along the French Broad River, so the setting is beautiful. The recovery story here is inspiring, and supporting these artists by visiting feels really meaningful.

5. Biltmore Village

Biltmore Village is pure charm, and I mean that in the best way possible. Those brick sidewalks and English cottage vibes make you feel like you’ve stepped into some idealized version of a small town. It’s tourist-friendly for sure, but it’s done so well that it doesn’t feel cheesy.

The Grand Bohemian Lodge just reopened after Hurricane Helene and looks incredible. This is definitely the place to stay if you want luxury and you’re planning to visit Biltmore Estate (which is literally right there). Hampton Inn & Suites Biltmore Village is a solid mid-range option that puts you walking distance to everything, and there are several boutique properties that really lean into the historic vibe.

Corner Kitchen is back open after being closed for 318 days post-Helene, and their patio dining with mountain views is exactly what you’d want. The shopping here is a nice mix of boutiques and some bigger names, all in buildings that actually have character. Cathedral of All Souls is worth seeing even if you’re not religious – the architecture is stunning.

The location is perfect for a certain type of trip. You’re 10 minutes from Biltmore Estate (obviously), about 15 minutes from downtown Asheville, and it’s a great base for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway. During the holidays, this place goes all out with decorations and lights that are legitimately magical. It’s definitely more expensive than other areas, but if you want that storybook village experience with easy access to everything, Biltmore Village delivers.

6. South Asheville

South Asheville is where you get the best of both worlds – city convenience and mountain access. Biltmore Park Town Square is the main hub here, and it’s actually pretty well done for what could have been just another shopping development. The mix of local and national businesses works, and you’re super close to outdoor adventures.

Hampton Inn & Suites Asheville Biltmore Area is a reliable choice here, and there are several other chain options that give you good value. The area is more suburban than other neighborhoods, but that means easier parking and generally lower prices. Plus, you’re literally minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway access points.

The brewery scene in South Asheville is legit. You’ve got several spots that feel more local and less touristy than some downtown options. The shopping at Biltmore Park is convenient when you need basics or want familiar chain restaurants, but there are also some local gems mixed in.

What I really like about staying here is the outdoor access. You can be hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway in 15 minutes, but still get to downtown Asheville for dinner without much hassle. It’s perfect if you’re someone who wants to spend your days in nature but still wants good restaurants and breweries at night. The accommodation prices tend to be more reasonable than downtown or Biltmore Village, which is a nice bonus.

7. North Asheville

North Asheville is all about that Grove Park Inn energy, and honestly, it’s pretty spectacular. The Omni Grove Park Inn is literally one of the most iconic hotels in the entire region – over 100 years old and sitting up on Sunset Mountain with views that are absolutely insane. I had drinks on their terrace during my last visit, and the Blue Ridge Mountain panorama is worth the price alone.

The hotel itself is like a destination within a destination. They’ve got multiple restaurants (the steakhouse is excellent), that famous subterranean spa, golf courses, and enough activities that you could honestly spend your entire trip there. Room rates aren’t cheap – we’re talking $400+ a night in peak season – but the experience is pretty incredible.

The University of North Carolina Asheville campus is nearby, which adds some younger energy to the area. Beaver Lake is great for walking or just sitting by the water, and you’re close to some excellent hiking trails. The Botanical Gardens at Asheville are beautiful and way less crowded than some other nature spots.

From North Asheville, downtown is maybe 10 minutes by car, so you’re not isolated from the main action. But the elevation and setting make it feel like a retreat. If you’re doing a romantic getaway or want to feel fancy for a few days, Grove Park is hard to beat. The National Gingerbread House Competition happens here every November if you’re into that kind of thing. It’s definitely a splurge, but sometimes you want to splurge.

• Read next: Epic Things to Do in the Carolinas

8. East Asheville

East Asheville is the area people sleep on, but it’s actually great for a certain type of trip. You’re tucked into the hills but still close enough to everything that matters. Azalea Park is lovely for morning walks, and the Municipal Golf Course has surprisingly good mountain views if you’re into that.

The accommodation options here are more limited but tend to be good value. You’ll find some nice vacation rentals and smaller properties that give you more space and privacy than staying downtown. The Blue Ridge Parkway access is excellent – you can be on scenic mountain drives in just a few minutes.

This area really shines in fall when the foliage is peak. I drove through here during my October visit and the colors were absolutely ridiculous in the best way. Lake Tomahawk in nearby Black Mountain is also easily accessible and perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

East Asheville works best if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors or if you want a quieter base for exploring the region. You’re about 15 minutes from downtown when you want restaurants and nightlife, but most of the time you’ll feel like you’re in your own little mountain retreat. The prices are generally more reasonable than the main tourist areas, and you get more space for your money.

9. Westwood Place

Westwood Place has this nice suburban feel that’s perfect if you want comfort and easy access to outdoor activities. The neighborhood is well-maintained with good family vibes, but you’re also right near the French Broad River where the kayaking and rafting scene is excellent.

The accommodations here lean toward vacation rentals and family-friendly properties rather than boutique hotels. You’ll get more space and often better value than staying in the main tourist zones. The French Broad River access is a huge plus – there are several outfitters nearby if you want to get on the water.

I really like this area for groups or families who want a home base that feels residential but isn’t too far from the action. You’ve got hiking trails nearby, the river for water activities, and you’re still just 15-20 minutes from downtown Asheville when you want the city experience.

The Westwood Place area also connects well to some lesser-known hiking spots that don’t get the crowds of the more famous trails. If you’re someone who likes outdoor adventures but also wants comfortable, spacious accommodations to come back to, this neighborhood hits that sweet spot. It’s not the most exciting area for nightlife, but that’s kind of the point.

10. Haywood Road Corridor

The Haywood Road Corridor is pure West Asheville energy, and it’s absolutely where you want to be for nightlife. This strip has some of the best bars, live music venues, and late-night spots in the entire city. The Mothlight and The Grey Eagle both host incredible shows, and the brewery density here is honestly impressive.

You won’t find traditional hotels right on Haywood Road, but there are some cool boutique options and Airbnbs nearby that put you walking distance to everything. The whole corridor is super walkable, which is key because you definitely want to bar hop without worrying about driving.

West Asheville has this authentic local vibe that feels way different from downtown tourist central. The music venues here book both touring acts and local bands that are legitimately good. French Broad Brewery anchors one end of the strip, and there are probably six other great beer spots within a few blocks.

The food scene on Haywood Road is excellent too. You’ve got everything from dive bar burgers to really solid farm-to-table restaurants. Rocky’s Hot Chicken is legendary for late-night food, and there are several coffee shops that are perfect for recovering the next morning. If you’re someone who wants to experience Asheville’s real music and nightlife scene rather than the tourist version, Haywood Road is absolutely where you need to be.

11. Five Points

Five Points feels like old Asheville in the best way possible. These early 20th-century houses with tree-covered streets give you that historic neighborhood vibe without being as touristy as some other areas. I love walking through here because it feels like a real place where real people live.

The accommodation options are mostly charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals that let you experience the neighborhood’s character. You’re close enough to downtown that it’s an easy walk or very short drive, but far enough away that you feel like you’re staying somewhere with actual personality.

Five Points has some great local coffee shops and small restaurants that cater to residents rather than tourists. The Craftsman-style and Victorian homes are beautiful, and many have been converted into creative businesses or kept as gorgeous residential properties. The neighborhood has this timeless quality that makes you want to slow down.

What I really appreciate about Five Points is how it balances convenience with character. You’re not in the thick of tourist central, but you can walk to downtown Asheville for dinner and nightlife. The tree canopy here is incredible, especially in summer, and the architecture makes every street feel like a photo opportunity. It’s perfect if you want to feel like you’re staying in a real neighborhood rather than a hotel district.

12. Black Mountain

Black Mountain is technically its own town, but it’s close enough to Asheville (about 15 minutes) that it works as a base, especially if you want that small mountain town experience. The arts scene here is legit – Black Mountain Center for the Arts hosts excellent events, and the downtown area has several galleries and studios worth exploring.

Lake Tomahawk is the main draw here – it’s beautiful for walking, fishing, or just sitting and taking in the mountain views. The downtown area is walkable and has that authentic small-town feel that’s getting harder to find. Several good restaurants and cafes that feel local rather than touristy.

The accommodation options in Black Mountain tend to be vacation rentals, small inns, and bed-and-breakfasts that give you more of a retreat feeling. Prices are generally more reasonable than staying in Asheville proper, and you get that mountain town vibe that many people are really looking for.

The Blue Ridge Mountains access from here is excellent, and you’re still close enough to Asheville that you can easily drive in for dinner or nightlife. Black Mountain works particularly well if you’re planning to spend a lot of time hiking or exploring the mountains, but you still want good restaurants and some cultural activities nearby. It’s like having your own little mountain town base camp while still being connected to everything Asheville offers.

• Read next: Amazing Asheville Cabins

FAQs about Where to Stay in Asheville, NC

Are you looking for more content to help you decide where to stay in Asheville? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best areas in Asheville, North Carolina.

Is it better to stay in downtown Asheville or Biltmore Village?

Both downtown Asheville and Biltmore Village have their unique charms. Downtown Asheville is the heart of the city, bustling with energy, and filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. It’s one of the best places to stay for nightlife and for those who want to be in the middle of all the action. On the other hand, Biltmore Village offers a more relaxed and historic ambiance. It’s one of the best places to stay in Asheville for families looking for a quieter environment yet with easy access to attractions like the Biltmore Estate. In essence, your choice depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking!

Is Asheville a walkable city?

Absolutely! Asheville’s downtown area is particularly pedestrian-friendly. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there’s a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Plus, with the city’s commitment to green spaces, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore on foot.

What is the most beautiful neighborhood in Asheville, NC?

Asheville is home to many picturesque neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. If we were to create a listicle of the most scenic areas, it’d look something like this:

1. Biltmore Village: A historic gem with English village vibes.
2. Montford Historic District: A neighborhood filled with grand old homes and tree-lined streets.
3. Five Points: A blend of history and modernity, with early 20th-century homes.
4. Westwood Place: Suburban charm meets nature’s beauty.

Is downtown Asheville worth visiting?

Definitely! Downtown Asheville is the city’s cultural and commercial hub. It’s where you’ll find a mix of historic architecture, modern art galleries, craft breweries, and some of the best neighborhoods in Asheville for dining and shopping. With its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, it’s a must-visit for any traveler.

How many days should I stay in Asheville?

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to experience the essence of Asheville. This gives you ample time to explore the city’s major attractions, delve into its arts and crafts scene, and even take a drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Discover a variety of vacation rentals in NC that cater to all tastes and budgets, from coastal cottages to mountain cabins, for an unforgettable North Carolina getaway. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or want to explore unique areas in Asheville, North Carolina, a week-long stay would be perfect.