More and more travelers are discovering America's smaller cities. Many of these destinations are just compact enough not to be overwhelming but they still offer a great variety of things to do. They also tend to be much more affordable than more famous cities like New York or San Francisco. For the price of a basic hotel room in Manhattan, for instance, you can stay in one of the charming Asheville NC inns and explore one of America's hidden jewels.
Asheville lies where the Swannanoa River meets the French Broad River in the western part of North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Mountains are to the east of the city while the Great Smoky Mountains are to the west. Charlotte is about 130 miles southeast of this stunning little city while Atlanta is about 200 miles to the southwest.
The first inhabitants of the area were of the Cherokee nation. In the 1780s, people of European ancestry started settling here too and the town of Asheville was named in 1797. It got its name from Samuel Ashe, who was governor of North Carolina in those days. When the railways reached the little town in the last two decades of the 19th century, bringing industry with them, the local population rapidly increased.
After the Great Depression, it took about half a century for the city to recover economically. The lack of new construction projects meant that many Art Deco constructions have survived to this day and have become a major draw. Today's city is one known for the way it has embraced New Age philosophies and an independent spirit, as seen in the many craft breweries, art galleries, theaters, spas and music venues.
The breathtaking natural scenery of the area means that there are many ways to be active in the great outdoors too. National forests and parks like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are close enough for a day trip and you'll also find many hiking and biking trails to explore. You can try your hand at adventure sports too and after a busy day, you may want to relax at one of the local spas.
There is always something going on in the charming North Carolina city and you won't have any problem finding an event or festival to your liking. For example, there are several food-themed festivals, including a popular one showcasing the region's craft beers. Mountain sports have their own springtime festival too and if you love the sounds of Appalachia, the local folk festivals will definitely have you tapping your feet.
Any time of the year is a great time to visit the region with its mild climate. Summers are humid and warm but not unbearably hot. In winter you may experience some snow but not nearly as much as destinations further north. In fall, the colors of the foliage rival those of New England but temperatures are much more pleasant.
Asheville has a regional airport with flight connections to several major cities. Coming in by road is a great option too, especially since the drive through the mountains is so scenic. You'll find plenty of lovely accommodation establishments, many of which are in historic Victorian mansions.
Asheville lies where the Swannanoa River meets the French Broad River in the western part of North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Mountains are to the east of the city while the Great Smoky Mountains are to the west. Charlotte is about 130 miles southeast of this stunning little city while Atlanta is about 200 miles to the southwest.
The first inhabitants of the area were of the Cherokee nation. In the 1780s, people of European ancestry started settling here too and the town of Asheville was named in 1797. It got its name from Samuel Ashe, who was governor of North Carolina in those days. When the railways reached the little town in the last two decades of the 19th century, bringing industry with them, the local population rapidly increased.
After the Great Depression, it took about half a century for the city to recover economically. The lack of new construction projects meant that many Art Deco constructions have survived to this day and have become a major draw. Today's city is one known for the way it has embraced New Age philosophies and an independent spirit, as seen in the many craft breweries, art galleries, theaters, spas and music venues.
The breathtaking natural scenery of the area means that there are many ways to be active in the great outdoors too. National forests and parks like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are close enough for a day trip and you'll also find many hiking and biking trails to explore. You can try your hand at adventure sports too and after a busy day, you may want to relax at one of the local spas.
There is always something going on in the charming North Carolina city and you won't have any problem finding an event or festival to your liking. For example, there are several food-themed festivals, including a popular one showcasing the region's craft beers. Mountain sports have their own springtime festival too and if you love the sounds of Appalachia, the local folk festivals will definitely have you tapping your feet.
Any time of the year is a great time to visit the region with its mild climate. Summers are humid and warm but not unbearably hot. In winter you may experience some snow but not nearly as much as destinations further north. In fall, the colors of the foliage rival those of New England but temperatures are much more pleasant.
Asheville has a regional airport with flight connections to several major cities. Coming in by road is a great option too, especially since the drive through the mountains is so scenic. You'll find plenty of lovely accommodation establishments, many of which are in historic Victorian mansions.
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