Where the Summer Camp stars visited in Asheville

Summer Camp Trailer Still

“Oh my God, it’s Diane Keaton!”

Those words were heard around Asheville in 2023, as the Academy Award-winning actress explored the city while shooting her new comedy Summer Camp with co-stars Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard and Eugene Levy.

Filming took place in surrounding Western North Carolina, an area steeped in summer camp tradition, and Asheville provided a natural base camp during production.

Here’s how to retrace the steps of the stars of Summer Camp, opening in theaters on May 31, during their time in Asheville. And if you're inspired to relive your own summer camp experience, check out these great ideas!

Where They Went in Asheville

KimptonKimpton Hotel Arras

The cast enjoyed food and drinks in the heart of downtown at Kimpton Hotel Arras, using the location as a jumping-off point to get to some of Asheville's best art galleries, shops, breweries, restaurants, busking and cafes. The Arras has two restaurants on-site, including Bargello: a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant on the ground floor, known for its fresh hand-rolled pasta, house-made bread and innovative menu from Executive Chef Tyler Slade. District 42 is a great place to start or end your evening, offering small shareable plates and cocktails. The bar is open seven days a week, so there's never a bad time to sit back and relax in their lounge or outdoor patio.

New Belgium Brewing in Asheville, NCNew Belgium Brewing

A cold beer at New Belgium is a quintessential stop on any Asheville itinerary. It's a perfect place to enjoy the French Broad River or begin an afternoon in the River Arts District. New Belgium also has a great list of revolving food trucks and offers multiple tours including a 45-minute free experience that begins with beer samples and ends with a ride down its famous slide. 

MarqueeMarquee Asheville

You don't have to be Annie Hall to understand why Diane Keaton would want to spend time at Marquee Asheville in the River Arts District. Think outdoor European street market meets the funkiness of Asheville, with dozens of rotating vendors selling unique antiques, vintage clothes, jewelry, art and home decor. It's also a great place to pick up delicious natural wines or unique NA products for your sober buddies! Marquee is located on Foundry Street, next door to plēb urban winery, Wedge Brewery and Grail Moviehouse.

Sparky’s Bardega 

Located in downtown Asheville, Sparky's is the perfect place to pick up some awesome local Asheville products and swag or sit at the bar and enjoy a local craft beer. Don't leave without petting Lyla, the sweetest bark-tender in town. 

Sweeten Creek Antiques

The cast and crew of Summer Camp quickly discovered why Asheville is considered such a great location for antique shopping. They were seen perusing the wares at Sweeten Creek Antiques, which has over 100 vendors in a 31,000-square-foot market. 

The Asheville Art Museum illuminated at night in Asheville, NC

Asheville Art Museum

The Asheville Art Museum, located downtown in Pack Square, always has exceptional seasonal exhibitions that thrill and educate guests. Diane Keaton was seen checking out the museum's outdoor architecture before heading inside. 

Sassafras on Sutton

Like many who visit Asheville, the cast of Summer Camp took a day trip to beautiful Black Mountain, known as the front porch of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and dropped by Sassafras on Sutton. They enjoyed some espresso while enjoying two stories of books, toys and family-friendly gifts!

Updated May 21, 2024