Where to Stay in Asheville (Best Areas & Places)

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

Downtown Asheville

👉 Best for First-Timers | ✨ Best Downtown Asheville Hotels: Kimpton – Hotel Arras • The Flat Iron Hotel • Zelda Dearest • The Foundry Hotel Asheville • The Windsor Boutique Hotel

Look no further than Downtown Asheville if you’re a first-time visitor. Downtown is walkable, and you’ll be close to some of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and attractions. And there are plenty of hotels to choose from. 

My #1 overall recommendation is the modern Kimpton – Hotel Arras. It has amenities like complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, terrace views, and an awesome location within walking distance of everything. 

The Flat Iron Hotel is another top choice for its perfect location in the heart of the city. The 1926 building was one of Asheville’s first skyscrapers, so it has plenty of historic charm. I think it’s a great pick for couples exploring Asheville on a weekend getaway. 

If a boutique atmosphere is a top priority, book a room at the whimsical yet elegant Zelda Dearest hotel. Its location is slightly removed from the bustle of downtown, but it’s still highly walkable. And you’ll be close to The Orange Peel and popular breweries in the South Slope district. 

If none of these hotels suit you, there are plenty of other options like the highly-rated Windsor Boutique Hotel or Foundry Hotel, both with walkable locations in downtown. 

Overall, Downtown Asheville is an ideal choice for visitors of all ages. You’ll have attractions like the Grove Arcade and Asheville Art Museum at your doorstep, and you’ll be in the midst of all the unique local shops, breweries, and restaurants that give the city its distinctive character. 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

Montford

👉 Best Area For History & Architecture | ✨ Best Montford Hotels: 1900 Inn on Montford • Black Walnut B&B Inn • The 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House

Montford Area Historic District is located just north of downtown Asheville. This neighborhood is full of historic, turn-of-the-century homes and architecture, and it’s extremely walkable, making it a top choice for couples or peaceful retreats near downtown.

The quiet, secluded residential streets make it one of the best areas to stay for local bed and breakfasts. All of the inns mentioned above are in historic homes so you can experience Asheville’s rich architectural history firsthand.

Both the 1900 Inn on Montford and Black Walnut B&B Inn are adult-only inns that provide complimentary breakfast, an on-site garden and terrace, and other amenities for a cozy, comfortable stay. Meanwhile, The 1899 Wright Inn & Carriage House offers guests turn-of-the-century historic charm and decor, plus suite and family-style rooms. 

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.

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

River Arts District

👉 Best Area For Local Art & Galleries | ✨ Best River Arts District Hotels: Oakland Cottage Bed and Breakfast • Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District • The Radical Asheville

⚠️ Closure Notice: The River Arts District was particularly devastated by Hurricane Helene. Many businesses in this area may be closed or rebuilding.

The River Arts District is an artsy enclave located along the French Broad River just southwest of downtown Asheville. Countless art galleries make up this part of Asheville, along with some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in the city, perfect for starting and ending each adventure-filled day. 

There aren’t as many hotels and B&Bs here as there are downtown, but The Radical Asheville is the most centrally located choice. This boutique-style hotel has rooms that reflect the area’s artsy, off-beat vibe, while still being chic. Meanwhile, the Oakland Cottage Bed and Breakfast is perfect for a cozier, local feel. Additionally, 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)

Biltmore Village

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

⚠️ Closure Notice: Biltmore Village was particularly devastated by Hurricane Helene. Many businesses in this area may be closed or rebuilding.

Biltmore Village is the place to stay if the Biltmore Estate is at the top of your wishlist. Best for families and couples, this area provides all the nearby amenities you need for a pleasant stay in Asheville.

Biltmore Village is conveniently located next to the Biltmore Estate. This can save time, money, and energy — especially if you’re in town 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 is its central location. In a short drive, you can just as easily reach downtown Asheville as you can the Blue Ridge Parkway.

To stay within the grounds of the estate itself, book a stay at The Inn on Biltmore Estate or the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate. Just outside the entrance to the estate, you’ll find the cozy and luxurious Grand Bohemian Hotel, in the heart of Biltmore Village.

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

North Asheville & Grove Park

👉 Best Area For Peace & Tranquility | ✨ Best North Asheville & Grove Park Hotels: Omni Grove Park Inn • Albemarle Inn • The Reynolds Mansion

North Asheville is a residential area known for its varying architecture and privacy from downtown’s hustle and bustle. If you’re contemplating where to stay and don’t mind trading distance for a little extra privacy, this area is ideal.

The Omni Grove Park Inn is the neighborhood’s best known landmark. It’s been regarded as one of the best hotels in Asheville and is my personal recommendation. The historic inn has hosted famous guests from F. Scott Fitzgerald to former President Barack Obama. Its scenic setting and luxury lodge atmosphere continue to make it a timeless place to stay for visitors of all ages.

Outside of the Grove Park Inn, you’ll find peaceful and historic local inns like Albemarle Inn and The Reynolds Mansion. 

You’ll need a car to get around North Asheville, but the location makes it easy to reach the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and outdoor recreation.

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 

West Asheville

👉 Best Area For Funky, Local Vibes | ✨ Best West Asheville Hotels: Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel • Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville • Country 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’s on the west side of Asheville. It has a strong local community and tends to be more budget-friendly and low-key than other parts of the city.

You won’t find as many hotels here, but there is Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel as well as vacation rentals. Not to mention, West Asheville 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 spot for doing day trips and nearby outdoor recreation.

Pros of Staying in West Asheville Neighborhood:

• Cool, funky atmosphere
• 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
• Limited hotel options

South Asheville

👉 Best Area For Shopping, Amenities, and Distance to Airport | ✨ Best South Asheville Hotels: Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park • Courtyard by Marriott Asheville Airport • Wingate 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, family-friendly area. The Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park is a top-rated hotel located right in the action. If you want to be really close to the airport, Courtyard by Marriott Asheville Airport has great reviews.

South Asheville is a longer distance from downtown, but it is only a short drive away from a couple of entrances to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Plus, the North Carolina Arboretum and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. are 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

Black Mountain

👉 Best Area For A Mountain Getaway | ✨ Best Black Mountain Hotels: Hampton Inn Black Mountain • The Monte Vista Hotel • Peri Social House

Here’s your reminder that you don’t have to stay in Asheville to enjoy all that the area has to offer! The town of Black Mountain could be your answer if you’re picturing more of a cabin or secluded mountain retreat over a hotel in the city.

Only a 20-minute drive away, Black Mountain is one of Asheville’s closest 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 handful of hotels in the area like Hampton Inn Black Mountain for a comfortable, mid-range stay just outside of downtown. There’s also Peri Social House and The Monte Vista Hotel, which are located right next to one another and both offer a more quaint, local atmosphere. There are plenty of vacation rentals in Black Mountain as well. 

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
• Lots of great restaurants and local shops
• Walkable downtown
• Access to nature
• Fewer 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

Tips for Staying in Asheville

Tip #1 – Prioritize the Activities You’re Interested in

Prioritize the Asheville activities you’re interested in when you’re figuring out where to stay. For example, Downtown Asheville will be ideal for most visitors who want a mix of local attractions, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. But if you’re just visiting the area for outdoor recreation, consider staying in Black Mountain or another nearby town like Brevard.

📚 Related Reading: Towns in Western North Carolina Worth Visiting

Tip #2 – Summer and Fall are the Most Popular Seasons

Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit Asheville. 

Summer brings lush landscapes for outdoor activities, patio dining at breweries, festivals, and much more. Fall (particularly mid-October) is leaf peeping season as the city gets flooded with visitors wanting to catch a glimpse of the mountains’ vivid autumn hues. 

Because of this, accommodations can get booked up fast and be more expensive. If you plan on visiting during these times of the year, I highly recommend booking in advance. 

Tip #3 – But Consider the Off-Season, Too

Although summer and fall are popular, they aren’t the only seasons worth visiting Asheville. 

Winter (after the holidays) brings cheap prices and fewer crowds. And in recent years, temperatures have been abnormally mild (anywhere from the 50s to 70s ℉), making it still pleasant to hike and be outside. Spring tends to be less crowded as well (apart from tulips blooming at the Biltmore Estate), but just bring your allergy medicine. The pollen is no joke.

Tip #4 – You Will Need a Car

You’re going to need a car to explore Asheville. So if you’re flying in, be sure to rent a car when you get here. Plus, exploring one of Asheville’s best attractions — the Blue Ridge Parkway — requires one! 

Not to mention, there are so many amazing day trips just a stone’s throw away. And public transportation isn’t too widespread in Asheville, so it’s better to be prepared with your own car.

Tip #5 – 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!

Tip #6 – Follow Safety Rules and Precautions When Exploring the Outdoors

North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains may seem like a safer place for outdoor recreation than say, the Colorado Rockies, but don’t underestimate them. 

When it comes to the outdoors, follow local safety guidelines. Stay on marked trails, respect signage, and always use common sense and caution. That being said, it’s still very possible to explore the area’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and other attractions safely.

Tip #7 – Understand that Local Business Hours May Vary

Asheville is largely made up of small, independently owned businesses. Also, the pace of life just tends to be slower in the mountains compared to bigger cities. So, don’t be too surprised if places like coffee shops, boutiques, and other stores seem like they open late or close early. In fact, many businesses close around 5 pm.

FAQs

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.

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Wherever you choose to stay, Asheville’s charm and scenic beauty are sure to make for a memorable trip. Bookmark my 5-day Asheville itinerary for more inspiration!

👉 Get your free printable Asheville itinerary here!

(Featured Image Credit: Irina Moss / Shutterstock)