8:00 a.m. – Coffee at Liberty House Café
Start your day with a peaceful morning at Liberty House Café in North Asheville. There’s something special about this spot—it feels like you’re hanging out in someone’s cozy backyard. I love sitting out on the patio with a cup of locally roasted coffee. If you’re an early riser like me, the quiet here is just what you need to ease into the day.
9:00 a.m. – Walk Through the Botanical Gardens
One of my favorite ways to wake up is a slow stroll through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Tucked away near UNC Asheville, it’s a tranquil escape from the city. You can wander by the stream, take in native plants, and spot a few butterflies. The best part? It feels like you’re miles away from everything, but it’s right in town.
10:00 a.m. – Breakfast at HomeGrown
After your walk, head over to HomeGrown, just a short drive from the gardens. This spot is a local favorite, and for good reason. Their farm-to-table Southern dishes hit the spot every time. I’m a sucker for the buttermilk fried chicken biscuit. It’s hearty but won’t slow you down for the day ahead.
11:30 a.m. – Explore the River Arts District
This is where Asheville’s creative heart beats. As a local, I’m always popping by new studios in the River Arts District (RAD). Grab a coffee at Summit Coffee and take your time wandering through artists’ spaces like Wedge Studios or the new Riverview Station. You’ll find everything from pottery and jewelry to massive murals. If you’re lucky, you might catch an artist at work. The RAD isn’t just for tourists; locals love it too for its ever-evolving, inspiring energy.
1:00 p.m. – Lunch at 12 Bones Smokehouse
When hunger strikes, it’s time to hit up 12 Bones Smokehouse, famous for its ribs. Even former President Obama is a fan, and it’s one of my go-to spots for good BBQ. Whether you go for the pulled pork or the smoked turkey, pair it with their jalapeño cheese grits for the perfect Southern lunch. You’ll leave full and happy, ready to tackle the afternoon.
2:30 p.m. – Hike at the Blue Ridge Parkway
One of the absolute best parts of living in Asheville is how quickly you can be in the mountains. After lunch, hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and head up to Craggy Gardens. It’s just a 25-minute drive from downtown, and the views are stunning year-round. Whether you want a short hike or just to sit and take in the view, this is a perfect spot for a quick escape. The smell of the fresh mountain air never gets old for me.
5:00 p.m. – Brewery Hopping in South Slope
You can’t do Asheville without a brewery visit (or two). South Slope is packed with them, and my personal favorite is Burial Beer Co. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the beers are always creative. I love their darker brews, but there’s something for everyone. After Burial, wander over to Green Man Brewery or Hi-Wire for more local flavors. I’ve spent many an afternoon just bouncing around this area, and there’s always something new to try.
7:00 p.m. – Dinner at Chai Pani
When it’s time for dinner, I always recommend Chai Pani for its vibrant Indian street food. Their kale pakoras are incredible, and the thalis (plated meals) give you a taste of everything. It’s one of those places that locals rave about and it lives up to the hype every time.
9:00 p.m. – Music at The Orange Peel
Asheville is known for its live music scene, and no night out is complete without catching a show at The Orange Peel. I’ve seen some of my favorite artists here, and the venue is intimate without being cramped. Check their schedule ahead of time—there’s always something happening, from big-name bands to local talent.
11:30 p.m. – Late-Night Drink at The Crow & Quill
To wind down the night, I love heading to The Crow & Quill. This speakeasy-style bar has an incredible selection of whiskey, and the vibe is just right—dim lighting, cozy seating, and no pretension. It’s the kind of place where you can have a quiet drink and reflect on the day.
1:00 a.m. – Head Home
After a full day of exploring Asheville, it’s time to call it a night. Whether it’s been an art-filled day or a brewery-hopping adventure, Asheville’s unique blend of nature, creativity, and hospitality always makes me appreciate living here even more.
That’s how I’d spend 24 hours in Asheville!
Whether you’re here for the first time or you’re a regular, there’s always something new to discover.
If you're looking for more recommendations, feel free to reach out to me!