By Madison McManus
For the second installation in the Ardrey Kell Chronicle’s weekend trip series, we are taking you to Asheville, North Carolina, a city tucked away in the Appalachian mountains known for its bohemian charm and quirky character. Located roughly two hours away from Charlotte, Asheville is the perfect place to enjoy some of North Carolina’s most immersive outdoor experiences, as well as one of the South’s most unique urban environments.
Art and Culture
Regarded as one of the most eclectic locales in the country, Asheville certainly has no shortage of cultural attractions. For a blast to the past, Mast General Store contains a variety of goods ranging from outdoor apparel to collectible knick-knacks, all within a rustic shop reminiscent of the early 1900s. Stop by the River Arts District, a collection of 22 former industrial buildings that are now used to display artwork to support local artists. With no set hours of operation and a rotating display, there are always new pieces to see and artists to meet.
Coffee Shops and Cafés
If there is anything that Asheville isn’t lacking, it is coffee shops. With an overabundance of options capable of providing you with a caffeine boost, narrowing down your café choices is a challenging task. Nevertheless, there are some standouts. High Five Coffee Bar, located near UNC-Asheville’s campus, offers a wide variety of coffee-based beverages and, most notably, creates some of the best latte art in the city. If you're looking for the perfect study spot, Trade and Lore Coffee, positioned in the heart of downtown Asheville, is filled with cozy decor that is sure to boost your productivity.
Sightseeing
With spring on the horizon, Asheville is the perfect place to enjoy the warmer weather. For hiking enthusiasts, the Asheville Botanical Gardens allow you to reconnect with nature by trekking through the North Carolina wilderness. Despite the feeling of seclusion that the gardens provide, they are actually located directly on UNCA’s campus, making the drive a quick trip from downtown Asheville. Another wonderful outdoor activity located in Asheville is Treetops Adventure Park, which offers zip-lining and a ropes course with beautiful views of the city skyline. For those not interested in outdoor activities, Asheville is home to the Biltmore Estate, the nation’s largest private residence. Take a tour of the grounds or simply wander throughout the home’s 250 rooms for an awe-inspiring afternoon.
Restaurants
If you're interested in a formal dining experience, Asheville is home to a plethora of unique and notable restaurants. For fans of Southern cuisine, Biscuit Head serves a variety of dishes that, as their name suggests, manage to incorporate biscuits. With dozens of specialty jams and uniquely infused gravies, it provides a culinary experience unlike any other. If you're wanting to enjoy a traditional brunch, look no further than Chestnut. This community staple offers all the classics, including eggs benedict and chocolate chip waffles. A favorite of locals, Chestnut is the perfect place to spend your Sunday morning.
As you can tell, Asheville is a vibrant and unique city perfect for exploring over a long weekend. With its wide variety of cultural experiences, outdoor attractions, and cuisines, Asheville is not to be left off your spring bucket list.
Комментарии