Things to Do When Visiting Asheville, NC
The Biltmore Estate, iPhone 15 Pro Max /©️Robbie Randall Photography
A Charming Blend of Culture, Nature, and Southern Hospitality
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is more than just a mountain town—it's an experience. With its walkable downtown, rich history, artisan flair, and access to world-class nature, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're planning a getaway, elopement, or destination photo session, here are some of my favorite things to do when visiting Asheville.
1. Wander Through Walkable Downtown Asheville
Downtown Asheville is a vibe all its own. Lining the streets of this vibrant city center, you’ll find an eclectic mix of independent shops, local art galleries, music venues, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries. It’s not just a place to walk—it’s a place to explore, discover, and fall in love with local flavor. You never know what you’ll stumble upon: a street performer, a tucked-away vintage store, or a lavender latte worth writing home about. Asheville is bursting with personality, and it all starts here.
2. Step Back in Time at The Grove Arcade
One of Asheville’s crown jewels, The Grove Arcade was built in 1929 and was originally designed as one of the first indoor shopping malls in America. With its ornate architecture and old-world charm, it's a destination unto itself. Today, it houses boutique shops, cozy cafés, handcrafted goods, and a rotating public market that makes it perfect for browsing and people-watching. Don’t forget to look up—the building’s architectural details are a photographer’s dream.
3. Toast the Sunset at a Rooftop Bar
When the sun dips low behind the mountains, there’s no better way to take it in than from a rooftop bar. A few local favorites include:
Antidote – a vintage apothecary-style bar with unforgettable cocktails and cozy ambiance.
The Social Lounge – a chic downtown spot with great views and locally sourced bites.
Hemingway’s Cuba – perched atop the Cambria Hotel, this Cuban-inspired rooftop has sweeping mountain views and mojitos to match.
Grab a drink, lean back with a selfie, and let Asheville’s golden hour do its thing.
Sunshine Sammies, Asheville, NC
4. Indulge at Sunshine Sammies
If you’re craving something sweet (and a little gourmet), Sunshine Sammies is the place. Their inventive, locally made ice cream sandwiches and small-batch treats are made from scratch and filled with love. Flavors rotate often, so you’ll always find something new. And yes—this place is just as photogenic as it is delicious. Bring your sweet tooth and your camera.
Yes, it’s the hand-crafted Best Ice Cream Sandwhich!
5. Explore the Biltmore Estate
No visit to Asheville is complete without stopping by The Biltmore House, America’s largest privately owned home. Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, this estate offers awe-inspiring architecture, breathtaking gardens, a working winery, and 8,000 acres of lush, rolling hills. Whether you book a guided tour or spend the day wandering through the grounds, the Biltmore is a window into Gilded Age grandeur and Southern elegance.
6. Chase Waterfalls Near Town
Need a break from the bustle? Just outside the city, you’ll find some of the region’s most magical waterfalls. Favorites include:
Cullasaja Falls – a roadside marvel in the Nantahala National Forest.
Dry Falls – where you can walk behind the cascading water.
Rainbow Falls – a dramatic 150-foot drop with stunning photo ops.
Glen Falls – a tiered beauty that rewards the effort with multiple scenic viewpoints.
Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and enjoy nature at its finest.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you're here for a corporate event, a weekend getaway, or to say “I do” in the Blue Ridge, Asheville is a city that invites you to slow down and savor the beauty around you. If you're looking for photography that captures the soul of your visit, you know where to find me.
