Cars parked outside the Omni Grove Park Inn, one of the best choices for where to stay in Asheville

Where to Stay in Asheville in 2023 (Best Areas & Places)

👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Asheville | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQ

I’m an Asheville 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 part of Asheville has something special to offer. No matter what activities you’re interested in, I’ll point you to the best area and hotel for you

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Best Places to Stay in Asheville

Aerial view of Downtown Asheville in North Carolina
Downtown Asheville has tons of hotels to choose from

Just looking for a quick answer to the best places to stay in Asheville? Here are my top picks: 

Ok, let’s do a deep dive into the best areas and neighborhoods in Asheville: 

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 Ashville I’ll be covering spread out into the hills and down by the river. However, they’re still within a close distance to downtown and accessible to local recreation and attractions. 

Downtown Asheville

View when you look up outside the Kimpton Hotel Arras
Kimpton Hotel Arras is located right off Pack Square Park (photo: Jeffery Edwards / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Local Shopping, Dining, and Attractions | ✨ Best Downtown Asheville Hotels: The Foundry Hotel AshevilleThe Windsor Boutique HotelKimpton – Hotel Arras 

If you’re a first-time visitor wondering where to stay in Asheville, look no further than downtown Asheville. 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 everything from modern hotels (with amenities like complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool), to boutique hotels that will make you feel at home. 

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. 

Downtown also has tons of great shopping and dining options, too, which are all within walking distance. You’ll always find someplace to eat and something to do downtown, so you really can’t 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 walkability 
  • Great shopping and dining
  • Lots of local museums and attractions
  • Ideal for first time visitors 
  • 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

📚 Downtown Asheville Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for local shopping, dining, and attractions
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsThe Foundry Hotel AshevilleThe Windsor Boutique HotelKimpton – Hotel Arras

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Downtown Asheville

🍽️ Where to Eat – Tupelo Honey ($$), Twisted Laurel ($$), Chai Pani ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Hemingway’s Cuba, The Montford Rooftop Bar, Highland Brewing Downtown Taproom

🎟️ Top Attractions – Grove Arcade, Asheville Art Museum, Asheville Pinball Museum, LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours

Montford

View of a stone house in Montford Area Historic District
Montford Area Historic District is full of turn of the century homes and historic buildings

👉 Best Area For History and Architecture | ✨ Best Montford Hotels: 1900 Inn on MontfordBlack Walnut B&B InnThe 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House

Montford Area Historic District is located just north of downtown. 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. In fact, all of the inns mentioned above are in historic homes so you can experience Asheville’s 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 don’t mind a 20-30 minute walk, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is only a short drive away. If you’re traveling as a couple or want a peaceful Asheville retreat, I highly recommend staying in Montford.  

Pros of Staying in Montford Neighborhood:

  • Charming and historic area
  • Beautiful architecture
  • More secluded, private accommodations 
  • 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

📚 Montford Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for history and architecture
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels1900 Inn on MontfordBlack Walnut B&B InnThe 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Montford

🍽️ Where to Eat – Nine Mile ($$), Huli Sue’s ($$), Chestnut ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – The Montford Rooftop Bar, Little Jumbo, All Day Darling

🎟️ Top Attractions – Riverside Cemetery, Gray Line Trolley Tours, a performance by Montford Park Players

River Arts District

Establishments with art scene in River Arts District
The River Arts District has an unmatched local art scene

👉 Best Area For Local Art and Galleries | ✨ Best River Arts District Hotels: North Lodge on Oakland Bed and BreakfastCountry Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts DistrictDoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown

Located along the French Broad River and just southwest of downtown Asheville, the River Arts District is an artsy enclave. 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 District’s location makes it easy to reach downtown Asheville, West Asheville, and Biltmore Village. There aren’t as many hotels and bed and breakfasts here as there are in downtown, but vacation rentals are plentiful. 

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, it’s pretty fitting that this neighborhood’s nickname is “RAD!”

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
  • Bikeable 

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)

📚 River Arts District Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for local art and galleries
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsNorth Lodge on Oakland Bed and BreakfastCountry Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts DistrictDoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in River Arts District

🍽️ Where to Eat – 12 Bones Smokehouse ($$), The Bull and Beggar ($$$), White Duck Taco Shop ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Great Wild Nowhere, Bottle Riot, Olde London Road English Pub

🎟️ Top Attractions – Visit the Asheville Silo, Pink Dog Creative, French Broad River walkway, Grail Moviehouse

Biltmore Village

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville from the outside
The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville is great for a romantic getaway (photo: Nolichuckyjake / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Visiting the Biltmore Estate | ✨ Best Biltmore Village Hotels: The Inn on Biltmore EstateVillage Hotel on Biltmore EstateGrand Bohemian Hotel

If the Biltmore Estate is at the top of your wishlist, then Biltmore Village is the place to stay in Asheville. Best for families and couples, this area provides all the nearby amenities you need for a pleasant stay. It’s also conveniently located near the Biltmore Estate. This can save time, money, and energy—especially 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 stone’s throw away. 

Another reason to consider Biltmore Village when deciding where to stay in Asheville is its central location. In a short drive, you can just as easily reach downtown 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 Estate 
  • Central location
  • Quaint, cottage feel 
  • 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

📚 Biltmore Village Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for visiting the Biltmore Estate
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsThe Inn on Biltmore EstateVillage Hotel on Biltmore EstateGrand Bohemian Hotel

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Biltmore Village

🍽️ Where to Eat – Corner Kitchen ($$), The Cantina at Historic Biltmore Village ($$), Fig ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Casablanca Cigar Bar, FINCH Gourmet Market and Wine

🎟️ Top Attractions – The Biltmore Estate (Biltmore Mansion, Antler Hill Village, Biltmore Winery, etc.), exploring Biltmore Village, The Cathedral of All Souls

North Asheville & Grove Park

View of the Grove Park Inn from the outside
Iconic stone exterior and red roof of the Grove Park Inn (photo: Dee Browning / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Peace and Tranquility | ✨ Best North Asheville & Grove Park Hotels: Omni Grove Park InnAlbemarle InnThe Reynolds Mansion

North Asheville is a residential area known for its varying architecture and privacy from downtown’s 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!). 

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. It’s a great place for families as well as couples, because it offers amenities for all ages. 

Outside of the Grove Park Inn, North Asheville offers visitors a peaceful stay. You’ll need a car to get around, but the location makes it easy to reach the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and outdoor recreation. If you’re contemplating where to stay in Asheville and don’t mind trading distance for a little extra privacy, this area is ideal.

Pros of Staying in North Asheville & Grove Park Neighborhood:

  • Secluded and peaceful 
  • Access to Beaver Lake
  • Lots of amenities at Grove Park Inn 
  • Walking to downtown Asheville is possible (40-50 min – 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 pricey 

📚 North Asheville & Grove Park Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Peace and Tranquility
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsOmni Grove Park InnAlbemarle InnThe Reynolds Mansion

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in North Asheville & Grove Park

🍽️ Where to Eat – Dining at the Grove Park Inn (Edison, Blue Ridge, Vue 1913, Sunset Terrace) ($$$), Luella’s Bar-B-Que ($$), Avenue M ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Edison at the Omni Grove Park Inn, The Great Hall Bar at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Frazier’s Tavern

🎟️ Top Attractions – Grove Park Inn, Grovewood Village, Beaver Lake

West Asheville

A group of friends having a toast with their glasses of beer
West Asheville has a great foodie and craft beer scene!

👉 Best Area For Funky, Local Vibes | ✨ Best West Asheville Hotels: Bon Paul & Sharky’s HostelCrowne Plaza Resort AshevilleCountry Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District

West Asheville is unofficially known as Asheville’s “cool” neighborhood, and it’s easy to see why. This area has boomed in the last decade or so, and its funky, artsy vibe is hard to beat. 

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 won’t 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 that’s the vibe you’re going for, go ahead and book your stay in West Asheville. You’ll 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. 

Pros of Staying in West Asheville Neighborhood:

  • Cool, funky atmosphere
  • Local feel 
  • Lots of great restaurants and bars
  • Tons of local art to see
  • Good for vacation rentals
  • Walkable neighborhood 
  • 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

📚 West Asheville Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for funky, local vibes
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsBon Paul & Sharky’s HostelCrowne Plaza Resort AshevilleCountry Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in West Asheville

🍽️ Where to Eat – Green Tea Sushi Japanese Restaurant ($$), Thai Pearl Restaurant ($$), Sunny Point Cafe ($$), Grata Pizzeria ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – New Belgium Brewing Company, The Whale, Leo’s House of Thirst

🎟️ Top Attractions – Murals and street art, French Broad River Park, West Asheville Tailgate Market

South Asheville

Dark clouds over the Biltmore Park in South Asheville
Shops at Biltmore Park in South Asheville

👉 Best Area For Shopping, Amenities, and Distance to Airport | ✨ Best South Asheville Hotels: Hilton Asheville Biltmore ParkCourtyard by Marriott Asheville AirportWingate 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. 

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. 

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 “downtown” feel

📚 South Asheville Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for shopping, amenities, and distance to airport
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsHilton Asheville Biltmore ParkCourtyard by Marriott Asheville AirportWingate by Wyndham Fletcher at Asheville Airport

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in South Asheville

🍽️ Where to Eat – Tupelo Honey ($$), Wild Ginger ($$), Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Thirsty Monk South at Biltmore Park

🎟️ Top Attractions – North Carolina Arboretum, Biltmore Park, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

Black Mountain

View from the Downtown Black Mountain in North Carolina
Downtown Black Mountain (photo: Nolichuckyjake / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For A Mountain Getaway | ✨ Best Black Mountain Hotels: Hampton Inn Black MountainThe Monte Vista HotelBlack Mountain Inn

When deciding where to stay in Asheville, here’s your reminder that you don’t actually have to stay in Asheville to enjoy all that the area has to offer! If you’re picturing more of a cabin or secluded mountain retreat over a hotel in the city, Black Mountain could be your answer. 

Only a 20 minute drive away, this small mountain town is one of Asheville’s 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. 

There are a few hotels in the area, but if you’re already considering staying outside the city, vacation rentals are probably the way to go. Plus, it’s a great option for families, couples, and larger groups. Overall, if you’re looking for a true mountain escape while still being close to Asheville, Black Mountain is perfect! 

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 Asheville’s city center and attractions
  • More limited hotel options

📚 Black Mountain Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for a mountain getaway
Google Map

✨ Best HotelsHampton Inn Black MountainThe Monte Vista HotelBlack Mountain Inn

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Black Mountain

🍽️ Where to Eat – Trailhead Restaurant & Bar ($$), Open Oven Brunch and Bakery ($$), My Father’s Pizza & Pasta ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Town Pump Tavern, Goldfinch Black Mountain, Lookout Brewing Company

🎟️ Top Attractions – Lake Tomahawk, Catawba Falls, explore downtown

Tips for Staying in Asheville

Prioritize the activities you’re interested in 

The author admiring a waterfall in Asheville

When choosing where to stay in Asheville, prioritize the activities you’re interested in. For example, if you prefer outdoor recreation over the downtown scene, consider spots outside the city like Black Mountain. 

Think about the seasons and plan ahead

Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit Asheville. Because of this, accommodations can book up fast and be more expensive. If you plan on visiting during these times of year, I recommend deciding where to stay in Asheville and booking in advance. 

Travel during the off-season

Winter (after the holidays) is Asheville’s 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 options of where to stay in Asheville could open up as well. 

You will need a rental car

A car driving in Asheville with a view from Blue Ridge Parkway

The bottom line is this, you’re 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 Asheville’s top attractions—the Blue Ridge Parkway—requires one! Lastly, public transportation isn’t too widespread in Asheville, so it’s better to be prepared with your own car. 

👉 Read Next: Where to Stay in Charlotte

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 options—just in case!

Follow safety rules and precautions when exploring the outdoors

View of a signage in Beacon Heights Mountains Trail

North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains may seem like a safer area for outdoor recreation compared to say, the Colorado Rockies, but don’t underestimate them. When it comes to the outdoors, stay on marked trails, respect signage, and always use common sense and caution.  

👉 Read Next: Asheville Safety Guide

Understanding local business hours 

Asheville is largely made up of small, independently owned businesses. So, don’t be too surprised if places seem like they open late or close early. In fact, many businesses close around 5 pm. 

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. 

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. It’s the most popular time of year by far because of fall foliage.  

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 you’re 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 you’re coming from, you will need to take different milepost entrances.

***

Hopefully, you now feel better prepared to choose where to stay in Asheville! Each neighborhood offers something unique. Wherever you choose to stay, Asheville’s charm and scenic beauty are sure to make for a memorable trip.  

(Featured Image Credit: Irina Moss / Shutterstock)

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