The Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the best vantage points to watch the sun drop below the peaks in a splash of color. People travel from all over the world to see the nightly show.
Asheville does golden hour like it means it—light spilling over ridgelines, rooftops catching fire, and the whole Blue Ridge turning into a watercolor. We asked our social media community where they go to watch the day land softly. Here are their favorite spots.
Where are the Best Places to Catch a Scenic Sunset?
The Omni Grove Park Inn Sunset Terrace
Our social media fans named the Sunset Terrace at The Omni Grove Park Inn the most popular spot. Take in dazzling views of downtown and the mountains on the aptly named Sunset Terrace, also famous for its chop house cuisine. Already made a dinner reservation? Grab a cocktail and a table in the seating area just below the main terrace, or order up some small plates and a local craft brew and lounge on a fireside sofa at EDISON restaurant for similarly impressive vistas.
On the Grounds of the Biltmore Estate
Choose from numerous scenic options at the Biltmore, from the meadow behind America's Largest Home, to the lagoon with views of the back of the house and a good chance of a deer sighting at the 8,000-acre George Vanderbilt's historic estate. Or choose a window-side table at the Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate and drink in the beauty of the landscape while you sip some estate-grown wine.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
Catch some pre-dusk views on the Blue Ridge Parkway, America's Favorite Drive. Hop on near Asheville and drive south to catch several scenic vistas. Or choose an overlook to snuggle up next to someone special and watch the stars come out. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Rooftop Views at Capella on 9
U.S. News and World Report named Capella on 9 one of the “50 Best Rooftop Bars in the World.” From this swanky bar on the ninth-floor terrace of the AC Hotel, sip handcrafted cocktails and enjoy a tapas-style menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients. See our guide for the best rooftop bars in Asheville.
The Montford Rooftop Bar
Breathe in the crisp mountain air at The Montford, one of our other best rooftop bars in Asheville, located on the 8th floor of the DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown. Pair the views with seasonally inspired craft cocktails and small bites made with local ingredients for a memorable experience.
Craggy Gardens
While Craggy Gardens is also located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it holds a special place in our fans' hearts that warrants its own mention. For stunning views, hike to Craggy Pinnacle, just seven-tenths of a mile to reach the upper overlook. Look out over layers of mountain ridges and see the Blue Ridge Parkway winding through the mountains below you. In June, Craggy Gardens comes alive with the purple blooms of the Catawba Rhododendron.
Max Patch
Find 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and an intersection with the Appalachian Trail at Max Patch, a famous grassy bald. For a sunset to remember, get there early and bring a picnic and a blanket. Note: Please protect this sacred natural wonder by following the principles of Leave No Trace—plan ahead, be prepared, and leave it as you found it. Don’t forget your camera to capture the colors of the sunset reflected on the layers of majestic mountains.
Anywhere in Asheville
Many readers made a very good point—you’ll find a place to see the sunset almost anywhere in the Asheville area! Because some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River (including the highest) surround us, views abound all over town. Whether you're dining in a restaurant, checking in to a B&B, browsing the eclectic shops, or even just standing in a parking lot, don't forget to stop and take in the view.
What should you know before heading out for sunset?
- Parkway access and trail conditions can change seasonally—check National Park Service road and closure updates before you go.
- Max Patch closes one hour after sundown and has use restrictions in place to protect the landscape.
- Temperatures drop quickly at elevation; layers make sunset stays more comfortable.
