Roaming around North Carolina? Figuring out where to stay in Asheville is a must for planning the perfect trip. Perched in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is one of the Southeast’s fast-growing travel destinations. And for outdoor adventurers and arts & culture lovers alike, it’s a must-visit.
The best areas to stay in Asheville ring in & around Downtown Asheville. The historic downtown neighborhood is home to many of the best hotels in Asheville and the city’s top points of interest.
Outside the city center, plenty of other accommodation options await, too. Historic districts like Montford and Biltmore are perfect for historical sightseeing and nature escapes. With their galleries, restaurants, and breweries, neighborhoods like the River Arts District and West Asheville solidify Asheville’s hipster reputation.
Not sure where to begin your Asheville accommodations search? Find the perfect hotel with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Asheville, NC.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our other hotel & accommodations guides and our United States Travel Guide and North Carolina Travel Guide for recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do!
Best places to visit in Asheville, NC
Located on the French Broad River in Western North Carolina, Asheville is one of the state’s most popular travel destinations. And with the Blue Ridge Mountain city’s growing popularity, choosing where to base yourself in Asheville gets more difficult by the day.
For first-time visitors, the best area to stay in Asheville is Downtown. Inside its handsome historic buildings hide trendy cafes, restaurants, and many of the best Asheville hotels.
If you’re on a family trip or a romantic getaway, neighborhoods outside the city center are great choices, too. For historical sightseeing with a dash of luxury, the historic B&B and inns of Montford Area Historic District and Biltmore Village are top-notch options.
Art & culture junkies, foodies, and craft beer lovers will likewise love areas like the River Arts District and West Asheville. The quirky neighborhoods are jam-packed with cool art galleries, restaurants, and brewpubs. In its homestays and vacation rental lodgings, you’ll add local flavor to your trip.
The best areas to stay in Asheville are:
Downtown Asheville
✔ Best area to stay in Asheville for first-time travelers
Visiting Asheville for the first time? Set your compass to the heart of Downtown Asheville. For most travelers, the historic city center is the best place to stay in Asheville. Downtown is home to many of the top tourist attractions in Asheville and most of the city’s best hotels.
In Downtown Asheville, handsome Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Neo-Gothic buildings hide trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
If you’ve got just 24 hours in Asheville or a weekend getaway, focus your attention on the Urban Trail. Starting in Pack Square Park, the 1.7-mile walking route whisks past Asheville’s top downtown attractions. On the walk, you’ll squeeze in many of the city’s most important historic buildings and monuments.
On the way, be sure to stop at Grove Arcade. Built in the 1920s, Grove Arcade was one of the world’s first indoor malls. Even after a century, it’s still one of the city’s best places to shop.
With its central location, Downtown is also a great base for tackling the most popular Asheville day trips. Enjoy some of Asheville’s best hiking trails at Craggy Gardens, Mount Mitchell State Park, and Pisgah National Forest. All are within 40 to 60 minutes of Downtown by car.
As you’d expect, Downtown’s central location comes at a price. Accommodation prices tend to be higher in the city center than elsewhere. The quality and selection are, however, top-notch.
Recommended hotels in Downtown Asheville
Four Points by Sheraton Downtown
Want to stay in downtown without breaking the bank? Check into the Four Points. Excellent value for the city center, this budget-friendly hotel offers amenities beyond its price range. Take a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool to cool down in the hot summer sun. The hotel is just 10 minutes to Pack Square Park on foot.
Hotel Indigo
Dwelling in the downtown’s west end, Hotel Indigo charms guests with its funky & colorful rooms. After a day of sightseeing, imbibe organic food and cocktails at the hotel’s 151 Boutique Bar and Kitchen. The hotel is a stone’s throw from Grove Arcade and the Asheville Pinball Museum.
Kimpton Hotel Arras
With its superb location on the corner of Patton Avenue and Broadway Street, Kimpton Hotel Arras is one of the best mid-range hotels in Asheville. Guests will love the remarkable decor and the lofty views of the city center from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel serves a daily continental breakfast.
Cambria Hotel
Mid-range luxury travelers searching for a downtown retreat need look no further than the Cambria Hotel. Located in the heart of the city center, this 3-star hotel is steps away from superb restaurants and boutiques. Retire to the outdoor patio terrace for stunning views over the city and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Haywood Park Hotel
Housed in a former 1920s-era department store, this luxury boutique hotel is one of the city’s finest lodging experiences. You’ll enjoy champagne at check-in, complimentary breakfast, turndown service, and a full fitness center. The historic hotel is around the corner from Pritchard Park. The downtown park is famed for its Woodstock-like Friday night public drum circle.
Montford Area Historic District
✔ Top district to stay in Asheville for a quiet local experience
Want to escape the bustle of downtown? Spend your nights in the Montford Area Historic District. Located minutes from the city center, the neighborhood is one of the city’s prettiest residential quarters.
In historic Montford, you’ll spot historic houses, showing off distinctive architectural styles. The district teems with Colonial Revival, Arts and Crafts, and Queen Anne style buildings. Many of the area’s homes have found new life as B&Bs and manor houses.
True to its history, Montford is home to Asheville’s most important burial ground, Riverside Cemetery. The cemetery is perched on 87 acres of rolling hills overlooking the French Broad River. It’s the final resting place of several important Ashevillains, including authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry.
The Montford Area Historic District is also within walking distance of the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. At the 10-acre garden, you’ll marvel at thousands of native South Appalachian plant species.
To enjoy one of the city’s finest sunsets, take the 10-minute drive to Omni Grove Park Inn. Sip on a cocktail at the Omni Grove Park Inn’s Sunset Terrace and watch the sun dip below the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Recommended hotels in Montford Area Historic District
Cumberland Falls Bed & Breakfast Inn
With its dash of elegance, this bed and breakfast is the perfect escape for couples. You’ll love relaxing in the beautiful garden after a day of sightseeing. A complimentary breakfast is served daily.
Black Walnut B&B Inn
For a romantic getaway in Montford, look no further than the Black Walnut B&B. The inn occupies a lovely historic home, bursting with sophisticated decor. Riverside Cemetery is a short walk away.
The Applewood Manor
Steps away from Montford Park, the Applewood Manor is one of the city’s oldest B&Bs. The elegant decor throughout the property bestows a calming, home-like feel. The inn is a relaxing 15-minute walk to the Botanical Gardens via the Reed Creek Greenway.
River Arts District
✔ Recommended area to stay in Asheville for art lovers
Spread along the eastern banks of the French Broad River, the River Arts District is among the city’s biggest surprises for visitors. Once a derelict industrial area, the River Arts District (RAD) has become one of Asheville’s coolest neighborhoods. Even if you don’t stay nearby, it’s a must-visit for art lovers, foodies, and craft beer connoisseurs.
After decades of languishing, the area’s former warehouses and industrial buildings found new life as cultural hotspots. Today, they host a smattering of art galleries, cafes, bistros, and brewpubs. For artists, musicians, and other creative types, the River Arts District is one of the coolest places to hang out in Asheville.
Besides exploring the eclectic art galleries, be sure to save time for the RAD’s food & drink scene. Pop into the Wedge Brewing Co. for a tasty pint. Located at Wedge Studios, the craft brewery offers several taps with staple and seasonal brews. If you time your visit just right, you’ll be able to sample delicious street food from its popular food trucks.
Unfortunately, The River Arts District doesn’t have any accommodations of its own. You can, however, find a handful of hotels and vacation rentals within a short walk or drive. The western half of the city center is only 5 minutes away by car.
Recommended hotels near River Arts District
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Westgate
For a superb stay near the RAD, grab a suite at this full-service inn. Enjoy a dip in the heated indoor pool, work out in the fitness center, or get to work at the on-site business center. The River Arts District is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive away.
The Mount Mitchell Room at River Row Flats
Located across the river from the RAD, these chic riverside apartments are an excellent alternative. The brand-new 500-sq-foot unit sleeps four and is equipped with a full kitchen.
Hyatt Place Asheville Downtown
Located on the edge of downtown, this mid-range hotel offers one of the city’s best lodging experiences. Cool down in the indoor pool to escape the summer sun. You’ll love sipping cocktails to gorgeous views at the hotel’s Montford Rooftop Bar. The RAD is a short 5-minute drive away.
North Lodge on Oakland Bed and Breakfast
Lodged between the RAD and Biltmore Estate, this historic B&B is a fantastic choice. The inn, dating back over a century, sits on a blissful one-acre garden. The country decor and poster beds add to the charm.
Biltmore
✔ Recommended neighborhood for historical sightseeing & nature lovers
Outside the city center, many of Asheville’s other top hotels dwell around Biltmore. While not an “official” area or district, Biltmore often refers to the neighborhoods that sprung up around the sprawling Biltmore Estate.
Built in the late-19th century, Biltmore Estate is one of the city’s most impressive sights. The 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate centers around the stunning Biltmore House. At 178,926 square feet, the mansion is the largest private residence in the United States.
Besides the spectacular Biltmore Mansion, the estate teems with gardens and forests. Most famed is its azalea garden. With over 20,000 flowers & plants, it’s the country’s finest collection of azaleas.
While you’ll find a few lodging options on the estate itself, most dwell in & around Biltmore Village. Built for the estate’s employees, Biltmore Village has a charming 19th-century vibe. Among its quaint cottages, you’ll stumble into boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Confusingly, a few other towns & villages south of Asheville also bear the Biltmore name. Just south of the village lies the town of Biltmore Forest; further southeast, the village of Biltmore Park.
Recommended hotels in Biltmore
The Residences at Biltmore
The area’s best value lodgings, the all-suite aparthotel offers far more than its reasonable price tag lets on. Rooms are spacious and fully equipped with kitchens and en-suite bathrooms. Take a soak in the outdoor hot tub and pool for the full experience.
Courtyard Biltmore Village
Much like other properties in Marriott’s value hotel chain, Courtyard Biltmore Village doesn’t disappoint. you’ll enjoy plenty of space to stretch out in the colorful modern rooms. Amenities like an indoor pool, business center, and restaurant add to value.
Hampton Inn & Suites Biltmore Village
For families, there’s no better option around Biltmore than the Hampton Inn & Suites. Located just off of I-40, it’s the perfect launchpad for adventure east and west of the city, including Black Mountain.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Autograph Collection
Located in the heart of the village, the Grand Bohemian is one of the city’s finest luxury hotels. The decor is remarkable, charming guests with its rustic lodge vibe. Book a soothing massage at the hotel spa to unwind from a day of sightseeing.
The Inn on Biltmore Estate
Located in Antler Hill Village, this grand hotel is the area’s top luxury pick. At the full-service hotel, you can enjoy a dip in the heated outdoor pool or proper pampering at its luxurious spa. The inn host several excellent eateries, including a fine-dining restaurant serving innovative local cuisine.
West Asheville
✔ Recommended district for foodies & craft beer lovers
On a tighter budget and want a more local feel for your trip? Check out West Asheville. Located west of the French Broad River, West Asheville is one of the city’s coolest residential neighborhoods. And at just six minutes from downtown by car, it’s a pretty convenient choice for where to stay in Asheville, too!
Much of the action in West Asheville hovers around Haywood Road. The district’s main avenue bursts with vintage shops, live music venues, innovative Southern restaurants, and craft breweries.
Besides exploring the district’s own charms, West Asheville is the perfect place to launch day trips. The area borders some of Western North Carolina’s most pristine wilderness, including Pisgah National Forest.
The accommodation selection in the neighborhood is, however, limited. Most of the lodgings here consist of homestays and short-term vacation rentals.
Recommended hotels in West Asheville
Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel
Budget travelers looking to escape high accommodation prices will find relief at this top-notch hostel. The guesthouse offers both private rooms and dorms. For extra privacy, upgrade to its bungalow cottage.
Solace in the City
Steps away from the district’s main drag, this two-bedroom apartment is the perfect refuge. Spend an evening relaxing on the outdoor patio and in the hot tub. For a night on the town, several craft breweries are within walking distance.
Cozy Home with Hot Tub
To experience the best of West Asheville, book a couple nights at this charming home. The vacation rental includes a hot tub to complete the ultimate getaway. The area’s breweries, shops, restaurants, and music clubs are a short walk away.
Other areas to stay in Asheville
North Asheville
If you want to get a little further from the center of town, consider North Asheville. The mostly residential district shows off eclectic architectural styles, including Tudor Revival.
North Asheville’s centerpiece Beaver Lake is a great place for water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. You’ll also find several beautiful parks in the area & nearby. Most famous is Omni Grove Park, located just south of North Asheville’s Grace neighborhood.
For a quick weekend escape, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a short drive away. Within just 35 minutes, you’ll enjoy some of North Carolina’s best hiking trails around Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell.
Black Mountain
Even further afoot from the city is Black Mountain. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain resort town is a favorite day trip for outdoor adventurers.
If you want to dig into North Carolina’s wilderness, Black Mountain is a great spot. Start your adventure with the Graybeard Trail. The town’s most famous hiking trail leads to the summit of Graybeard Mountain, the sixth-highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
