News Summary
Asheville, North Carolina, has earned recognition as one of the top underrated travel destinations in the United States, landing the sixth position on Wander’s prestigious list. The city is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect getaway for adventure and relaxation. With its outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains, thriving culinary scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Asheville continues to attract visitors both nationally and internationally as a unique travel experience.
Asheville, North Carolina, has been officially recognized as one of the top underrated travel destinations in the United States, earning the sixth spot on a prestigious list compiled by Wander, a luxury vacation home rental company. The city’s combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and artistic charm sets it apart as a refreshing escape for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and scenic drives along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. The area is also famous for the Biltmore Estate, which not only features a stunning mansion but also includes extensive grounds with vineyards and hiking trails that attract visitors year-round.
The cultural vibrancy of Asheville is evident in its lively downtown, known for its distinctive art deco architecture and a flourishing arts scene. The Asheville Art Museum showcases a remarkable collection of 20th and 21st-century American art, while the River Arts District serves as a creative hub where visitors can interact with local artists and purchase unique handmade items.
In addition to its artistic presence, Asheville boasts a diverse culinary scene that marries southern comfort food with modern twists. The city has earned the title of “Beer City USA”, housing more breweries per capita than any other city in the country. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of dining options, from farm-to-table experiences to fine dining establishments, all showcasing locally sourced ingredients.
Asheville’s inviting atmosphere is characterized by its friendly locals and an ambiance that prioritizes authenticity over the commercialism often found in larger tourist destinations. A 33% reduction in violent crime from 2020 to 2024 has further enhanced its appeal as a safe and welcoming travel locale.
As interest in sustainable tourism and outdoor activities continues to rise, Asheville has gained significant visibility both nationally and internationally. The city was recently voted No. 15 on Travel & Leisure’s Readers’ 15 Favorite Cities in the U.S. for 2023 and is projected to be among Forbes’ top twelve travel destinations worldwide in 2025. Asheville has also made notable rankings on other travel lists, coming in at No. 9 on USA Today’s 2023 list of 10 Best Budget Travel Destinations and No. 10 on Tripadvisor’s list of cities with top-notch restaurants.
Seasonal events throughout the year celebrate Asheville’s local food, drink, and arts, bolstering its charm and cultural offerings. A wide variety of accommodations cater to diverse traveler preferences, from luxurious hotels to quaint cabins, making the city suitable for everyone from solo adventurers to families.
Asheville’s community spirit has also played a role in aiding recovery efforts in the region, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which caused extensive damage to western North Carolina. The city’s resilience and commitment to sustainability and the arts continue to attract visitors seeking a unique and enriching travel experience.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer
- Travel and Tour World
- Travel + Leisure
- BBC Travel
- Business North Carolina
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Asheville North Carolina
- Google Scholar: Asheville North Carolina
- Google News: Asheville North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
