What’s New in 2022: At-A-Glance Guide 22 Transformational Stories, Culture Adventures & Self-Care Escapes for Blue Ridge Travelers in 2022 Below is an at-a-glance look at 22 (and then some!) transformational travel stories for the year ahead. Beyond the “what’s new” factor are the ever-inspiring histories, untold stories and trailblazers leading the way in the lively...
Handmade Holiday: A Gift Guide from Asheville Makers Looking for the perfect holiday gift idea, stocking stuffer or present for a loved one? We've got your holiday shopping covered!
Iconic Holiday Traditions Return In-Person Asheville’s most cherished holiday events are back IRL in 2021 and ready to dazzle visitors in-person once again. Christmas at Biltmore, Plus a Multi-Sensory Art Exhibit: Biltmore Estate, America’s Largest Home, opened for the Vanderbilt family on Christmas Day in 1895. More than a century later, Biltmore continues to astound with its 35-foot...
A COLORFUL SEASON AHEAD FOR THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS + ECO-FRIENDLY OFFERINGS + ASHEVILLE TRAVEL NEWS With more than 100 deciduous (leaf-shedding) tree species, coupled with a wide range of elevations and a temperate climate where warm days and cool nights are possible, Southern Appalachia experiences one of the most colorful and long-lasting leaf seasons in the country. This year, biologists in...
Asheville’s reputation as a wellness destination dates back centuries with the region’s climate and altitude making it an ideal location for the health-conscious traveler looking to recuperate and heal. Today, wellness offerings for travelers have adapted during the pandemic, providing visitors with safe ways to explore, unwind and reboot, whether they are beginning a yoga practice,...
Case Studies From Recent In-Person Events + Virtual FAM Experience + New Group Offerings Looking to ease the minds of meeting planners making their way through these challenging times and alleviate some of the uncertainty, the Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau has unveiled a brand-new and robust Meeting Planner Toolkit complete with case studies from recent in-person meetings,...
Heritage, artistic triumphs, inspired perspectives, justice around the table and music with meaning color the landscape of new travel experiences heading through 2021 in Asheville, N.C. Below is a roundup of stories and experiences connecting travelers to new and inspiring Blue Ridge Mountain adventures in the year ahead. Overview: Musicians and chefs pulling segregation-era history forward; a...
~Biltmore Celebrates a Landmark Holiday, Gingerbread Goes Virtual, Santa Practices Rock Climbing + Gift Guide Highlights Maker Culture~ Time-honored traditions, milestone celebrations and surprising feats of Christmas magic bring some much-needed sparkle to 2020 through the holiday season in Asheville, N.C. Travelers (and armchair travelers alike) will enjoy tech-enhanced experiences and socially...
~ Custom Leather Accessories, Artisan Foods, Sustainable Outdoor Gear, Plant-Based Skincare and Cocktail Kits + Local Maker Spotlights ~ Visit Holiday Gift Guide In a Blue Ridge Mountain city whose inspiring backdrop has long influenced creatives and entrepreneurs to live their dreams, the maker culture in Asheville, N.C., continues to generate some top-notch products tied to most every facet of...
~ Scenic Serenity, Cozy Wellness + Major Art and Music News ~ This year, weather experts are predicting a warmer winter for the Southeast U.S., possibly bringing more opportunities to enjoy Asheville’s walkable downtown, dine at outdoor patios or in a city “parklet” and to social distance and refresh on a nearby mountainside. Often underrated, winter in Asheville is a bit of a...
Virtual 3D Site Tours (With Aerial Drone Footage!) + “Mug Moments” Featuring Hotel Partners + Meet Safe Pledge Quickly adapting to the “new normal” as the COVID-19 pandemic halted meetings, conferences and travel across the globe, the Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau has released a series of virtual tools to help support both meeting planners and local...
ASHEVILLE TRAVEL NEWS + WHAT A WARMER AUTUMN MEANS FOR FALL ROAD TRIPPERS Travelers may be able to linger outside a little longer in fall 2020. Weather experts predict that fall color will develop later this year and temperatures will be warmer early in the season due to La Niña, an ocean-atmosphere phenomenon that impacts weather around the globe. Road trippers seeking open spaces, fresh...
Asheville, N.C. resources for safety-first summer travel in the Blue Ridge Mountains ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 22, 2020)—North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper's office announced this week its order to lift stay-at-home travel restrictions ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of the summer season. Asheville-area businesses have stepped up to protect workers and guests with...
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (April 29, 2020) – NEW RESOURCE: Inspiring, immersive content and ways to support our still-vibrant community are being collected and shared via Explore Asheville's new Together in Spirit microsite. For example, the Community Spirit section illuminates Asheville's creative resilience and provides paths for support, while the Virtual Asheville section...
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (March 26, 2020) – The world has hit pause on travel (and an ever-growing number of shared human experiences). Like you, Asheville and other destinations are trying to find our way through these strange days in the wake of COVID-19. In addition to supporting our community, we have curated a virtual escape with restless, homebound souls in mind. From virtual hikes in...
~ Rooftop Hop at Sunset, Capture the Famed Rhododendron with an Expert Lens, Explore a New Side to Asheville’s Oldest Brewery, See the Sights with Man’s Best Friend + Be at One with the Blooms ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (Feb. 18, 2020) – With the gradually warming weather comes peak exploration time in Asheville, N.C. Creative local...
~ New Art Museum Illuminates Appalachia, National Craft Hub Puts Makers in Focus, Global Arts Center Anchors The Block, James Beard Noms Team Up for Art Deco Food Hall, Vinyl Record Plant Opens with Music Café + Artistic Hotel Amenities ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (Nov. 14, 2019) – Blue Ridge Mountain legacies of craft and creativity take the spotlight in 2020 as Asheville, N.C., marks four major...
~ Christmas (and “Downton Abbey”!) Come to Biltmore, Instagram-Worthy Lights in a Winter Wonderland, A Bucket-List-Worthy Gingerbread Display, Santa Does a Trial Run + Seasonal Shopping Made Easy ~ ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 24, 2019) – Festive holiday happenings and all things merry and bright abound in Asheville, N.C. Each year, beloved longtime traditions and fresh offerings...
~ S’more flights, mountaintop yoga under the winter sun, new downtown hotel and art hubs with long-range views and “Downton Abbey” at Biltmore ~ ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 15, 2019)—Often overlooked and underrated, winter in Asheville, N.C., is a bit of a secret in a Blue Ridge Mountain city world-famous for fall color and lush summer adventure. Mostly moderate winter weather...
~ Expert predictions, fall color facts and what’s new for autumn 2019 ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (Sept. 3, 2019) — Biologists and fall color experts in Western North Carolina – an area known for one of the longest and most colorful fall leaf displays in the world – say that conditions are lining up for a vibrant autumn season across the Asheville area and the...
ASHEVILLE, NC (August 15, 2019) — Asheville, North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains – known for one of the longest and most colorful fall foliage seasons in the world – offer a mix of surprising adventures this autumn including a new food-centric downtown hotel, Downton Abbey costumes and life-sized set recreations at Biltmore, rooftop dining atop the...
ASHEVILLE, NC (July 30, 2019) – The Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau has just released a 15-minute “on-demand” webinar for meeting planners, providing a virtual tour of the destination and insights on how this Blue Ridge Mountain city meets their top-level needs. The free tool offers planners a look at Asheville's meeting-planning resources...
ASHEVILLE, NC (April 23, 2019) – Appalachian food was born in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but today Asheville, North Carolina food folk are claiming, examining and elevating their culinary roots in new and creative ways. Bagels using sorghum syrup and Southern flour, a gourmet twist on the regional-favorite Moon Pie, a restaurant honoring African-American influence on the area’s...
~ Yoga While You Hike, Instagram-Worthy Blooms, A James-Beard Breakfast Boom, Trail-Ready Lodging, New Outdoor Fun + Costume Exhibit at Biltmore ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (Feb. 8, 2019) — As winter gives way to milder days, set your sights on spring in one of America’s top outdoor vacation destinations: Asheville, North Carolina. With...
~ New Downtown Hotels Celebrating Asheville’s History and Architecture, Whitewater SUP Tours, Yoga Hikes, A Chocolate Factory/Museum & A Chef-Led Signature Culinary Event Celebrating Appalachia ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (November 28, 2018) — Cultural experiences expand in every direction across a vibrant Blue Ridge Mountain city. Food-centric hotels, James Beard chef news, a beverage boom...
~ Scenic rooftop fireplaces, Appalachian culinary traditions, soul-warming spirits, cozy cultural experiences and why winter is the season to experience Asheville’s emerging music scene ~ ASHEVILLE, N.C. (October 29, 2018) — Often overlooked and underrated, winter in Asheville is a bit of a secret in a Blue Ridge Mountain city world-famous for fall color and lush summer adventure....
~ New tours at Biltmore & beyond, James Beard-chef ventures, craft spirit collaborations and fresh ways to experience one of the world’s longest fall color seasons ~ ASHEVILLE, N.C. (August 21, 2018) — Asheville, N.C., and the Blue Ridge Mountains – an area known for one of the longest and most colorful fall foliage seasons in the world – head into autumn with fresh...
~ New Trails for the Avid Hiker, Electric Adventure Vehicle Tours at Biltmore, Yoga While You SUP (or Have a Beer!), Perfect Picnic Places, New Riverside Hangouts ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (June 19, 2018) — Colorful outdoor hangouts along one of the oldest rivers in the world; new off-road adventures at Biltmore; whitewater surfing on your belly; new hiking trails with...
Six-month celebration of glass art and deep creative roots at America’s Largest Home and across the Blue Ridge ASHEVILLE, NC (April 19, 2018) — Inspired by an upcoming Chihuly exhibition at Biltmore and the region’s direct connections to the American roots of studio glass art, Western North Carolina glass artists and studios have created Asheville’s Summer of Glass, an...
~ New Hotels for the Culinary Traveler, Major Exhibitions at Biltmore, Art Immersions with Food & Beer, New Trails, Food Hubs & Adventure Spa Pop-Ups ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (December 19, 2017) — An icon gets an update in Asheville’s Art Deco skyline; Chihuly at Biltmore + Asheville’s Summer of Glass; major international sporting events; and new hikes with extreme views and...
~ Holiday travel deals and festive ways to play, indulge and get away from it all at www.ExploreAsheville.com/holidays.~ ASHEVILLE, NC (November 15, 2017) — Snap a Giant #SnowflakeSelfie Asheville’s busy downtown sidewalks are dressed in holiday style, thanks to Winter Lights Downtown in Pack Square, with double the number of lights this year. NEW! A 10-foot gilded purple...
~ New ways to see the leaves change, interactive 360-degree views and weekly color reports at FallintheMountains.com ~ ASHEVILLE, N.C. (August 24, 2017) — Biologists and NOAA weather experts are citing ideal conditions for a healthy and bright 2017 fall color show across the Blue Ridge Mountains and Asheville, an area known for one of the longest and most colorful fall foliage seasons in the...
~ Hidden Histories in Arts & Crafts, New Hotels and Rooftop Spaces + A Brewery Linked to Blue Ridge Parkway History ~ ASHEVILLE, NC (December 13, 2016) — New hotels, a major exhibit at Biltmore, whitewater sports you’ve never heard of and a brewery with ties to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville, North Carolina is alive with new adventures (and special savings and travel packages)...
From hiking trails to historic homes to hilarious heists ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 20, 2015) – With awards season underway, a spotlight is cast on the Asheville area and its numerous 2015 connections to the silver and small screens. Playing the role of story muse, film backdrop and celebrity playground, Western North Carolina offers adventures and immersive travel experiences for film...
Romantic adventures and travel deals for a Valentine's Weekend getaway ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 28, 2015)—Amp up Valentine's Day Weekend with world class romance. Recently named one of the world's top destinations in 2015 by Frommer's, Asheville offers over-the-top romantic experiences with an expansive Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop. Make your own engagement ring, play royal at...
Plus: Asheville Travel Packages, Weekly Color Reports & The Science Behind Fall Color ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Sept. 10, 2014)—Landscape in red: Biologists and weather experts report that fall color forecast factors may align for an electric pop of red foliage amid the Blue Ridge Mountain autumnal spectrum. Why is red, in particular, such a big deal? 3D technology, satellite flyovers and time...
NEW INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY OFFERS TALES, TRAILS ITINERARIES & TRAVEL PACKAGES Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: More Info: Photo Downloads Asheville on Facebook Asheville on Twitter Press Room ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 30, 2014)—Test drive your road trip. This summer millions of...
Romantic travel deals that are sure to impress Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: More Info: Photo Downloads Asheville on Facebook Asheville on Twitter Press Room ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 30, 2014)—It may seem impossible - getting a deal on a last-minute Valentine's Day gift that makes your special someone feel...
A NEW VIEW OF FALL WITH A TECH TWIST: 3d ANIMATIONS, SATELLITE COLOR FLYOVERS AND TIME LAPSE SKYSCAPES Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: Online Resources: FallintheMountains.com Weekly Fall Color Report, starting September 13 Asheville Concierge’s “Fall Deal of the Day” Scenic Drives, Rides and...
Regional foods shine in Asheville with culinary travel packages and fall recipes Quick Links: 6 Harvest Adventures | Packages & Deals | Recipes | Images Media Contact: Dodie Stephens (828) 257-4959 dstephens@exploreasheville.com High-Res Photos: More Info: News Releases RSS YouTube RSS Asheville on Facebook Asheville on Twitter Press Room ASHEVILLE, N.C. (August 7, 2013) — Top chefs and...
Asheville rocks North Carolina Beer Month with music video, vacation giveaway Quick Links: Video | Contest | Brew News | Images Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: More Info: News Releases RSS YouTube RSS Asheville on Facebook Asheville on Twitter Press Room ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Apr. 9, 2013) - Consumers continue to lift their...
Asheville's Secret Gardens & Storybook Blooms Quick Links: Timelapse Video | Weekly Bloom Report | 8 Amazing Gardens | Packages & Deals | Images Media Contact: Dodie Stephens 828.257.4959 dstephens@exploreasheville.com High-Res Photos: Embed our timelapse video: More Info: News Releases RSS YouTube RSS Asheville on Facebook Asheville on Twitter Press Room ASHEVILLE, N.C. (March 19, 2013)...
Asheville, North Carolina offers Pinterest recipes and Christmas gift ideas for a uniquely homemade holiday Quick Links: Infographic | Pinterest Contest | Holiday Stats | Links | About | Images Media Contact: Cat Kessler ckessler@exploreasheville.com 828.258.6135 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: Share It: Tweet More Info: News Releases RSS YouTube RSS Asheville on Facebook Asheville on...
Autumn Forecast Update: Weekly color report identifies best and brightest of fall season Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel HD Broll Footage: High-Res Photos: Online Resources: FallintheMountains.com Weekly Fall Color Report, starting September 13 Asheville Concierge’s “Fall Deal of the Day” Scenic Drives, Rides and...
Favorable Blue Ridge Mountain forecast encourages travelers to book early this fall season Media Contact: Dodie Stephens dstephens@exploreasheville.com 828.257.4959 | @AshevilleTravel High-Res Photos: Online Resources: FallintheMountains.com Weekly Fall Color Report, starting September 13 Asheville Concierge’s “Fall Deal of the Day” Scenic Drives, Rides and Hikes Fall tips...
Asheville Travel Packages: Survival Skills, Celebrity Suites Star Stalking In Brief: The Hunger Games was filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains around the Asheville area. The young celebrity cast stayed in Asheville during filming and spent their free time enjoying many of the things to do. Visitors can have their own celebrity experience with a Hunger Games travel package. Share It: Mov...
In Brief: Bboy Santa has invaded Asheville and inspired a holiday vacation giveaway. In Asheville's holiday video, Dancing Santa shows off his break-dancing moves at iconic Asheville locations. The holiday season in Asheville is filled with festive events and performances. Go to DancingSantaAsheville.com and enter to win. Visit our gallery to download photos of Bboy Santa. Share It: Tweet...
ASHEVILLE, NC (October 21, 2011) - Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Executive Vice President and Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) Executive Director Kelly Miller resigned today to accept the position of president and CEO at Tampa Bay & Company, the official tourism promotion agency for that region. Miller has been with the CVB, a department of the Asheville...
ASHEVILLE, NC (Sept. 6, 2011)-Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. While a traveler's favorite fall color destination may be based on personal preference or sentimental connection, biologists and foliage experts in Western North Carolina are making the case that 2011 could put the Blue Ridge Mountains at the top of the (leaf) pile. Expert predictions are in agreement that environmental...
With 2,180 miles stretching across 14 states, a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail is daunting for anyone to attempt. For Asheville resident Jennifer Pharr Davis it was a calling. However that calling wasn't just to hike the entire trail, but to break the record for speed set in 2005, and that's just what she did. To top it off she surpassed not only the women's record, but the men's as well....
