Asheville, North Carolina is known for its vibrant arts scene, award-winning restaurants, mountain views, and outdoor adventures. Simply put, this is a diverse area, with something for just about everyone to enjoy. Yet, still, deciding where to stay during your trip can make a big difference in the overall tone and outcome of your vacation. For example, should you base yourself right in the heart of the city and take advantage every night of that proximity to local bars and nightlife, or venture a stay in a quiet mountain neighborhood with a cozy hot tub that beckons you to stay in and enjoy evenings beneath the stars?
As you can see, your answer depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. Whether you want to emphasize breweries and galleries or waterfalls and forests, this town has the options! Below, we’ll explore the top areas in and around Asheville, including downtown and surrounding towns like Brevard, Lake Lure, Leicester, Weaverville, and Fletcher. Each section includes a standout vacation rental to help you picture what your stay could look like.
Your Guide on Where to Stay in and Around Asheville
1. Downtown Asheville: Best for First-timers, foodies, music lovers, and urban explorers
Downtown Asheville is compact and packed with energy. You’ll find indie boutiques, rooftop bars, live music venues, and some of the South’s best farm-to-table restaurants. This is the place to stay if you want to walk everywhere, explore the River Arts District, or make the most of Asheville’s craft beer scene.
2. Small Town Weaverville: Best for families and travelers who want quieter nights with easy city access
Located just ten to fifteen minutes north of Asheville, Weaverville offers a charming small-town atmosphere with mountain views and friendly cafes. You can enjoy laid-back living while staying close enough for day trips into the city.
A great place to stay in Weaverville is the Cool Stream Lodge. This spacious mountain home offers room for up to 6 guests, a game room, wraparound deck, and stunning creek views. It’s great for families or groups who want a nature-inspired base with urban access.
3. Lake Lure: Best for romantic getaways, summer vacations, and water-loving individuals
Lake Lure is both the name of a town and a lake. The lake covers over 720 acres, with a shoreline of 27 miles, while the town features a small population of just over 1,000 residents whose economy largely depends on the many tourists who come to enjoy the local waters. Located about 45 minutes southeast of Asheville, Lake Lure is best known for those gentle lake waters, mountain backdrop, and small-town charm. It’s perfect if you want to kayak, hike to Chimney Rock, or relax with a drink on the dock away from city bustle.
A great place to stay in Lake Lure is the aptly named Lure Me in Lodge. This dreamy lakefront property features three bedrooms, fantastic views, a covered porch complete with an attached hot tub, and other great amenities. Be sure to ask about their Yonder Experience Program which makes it easy to further personalize experiences for your travel group.
4. Black Mountain: Best for couples, nature lovers, and those seeking a very cozy cabin travel vibe
Though not so far from Asheville, the cabins tucked into the forests around Black Mountain and deep in the nearby valleys offer an ideal escape with their privacy, quiet neighborhoods, and easy access to forest trails. These are the kinds of places where you spend your morning sipping coffee with a mountain breeze and absolutely no timeline.
A great place to stay around these parts is at Little Bear Den. This gorgeous log cabin is perched in a peaceful spot, complete with wood-burning fireplace, private hot tub, and wooded surroundings. Perfect for couples or small families wanting a mountain experience with style.
5. Brevard: Best for waterfall seekers, arts and culture lovers, and cyclists
Located about 35 miles southwest of Asheville, Brevard is a haven for the alternative crowd and the outdoors enthusiasts. You’ll find this surrounded by the beauty of the Pisgah National Forest and its many waterfalls, mountain biking trails, and dog-friendly hiking trails. The town itself is renowned for having an artistic atmosphere with its nice mix of independently-owned galleries and music venues.
A good place to stay in Brevard is at the Main Street Alchemy. No need to drive all over town when you stay at this beautifully designed home situated mere steps from shops, cafes, and local art. With modern finishes and mountain flair, it’s ideal for couples or small families.
6. Fletcher: Best for the time-crunched airport flier and those seeking space paired with convenience
Fletcher is a neighborhood located just south of Asheville and minutes from the airport, making it a great pick if you’re flying in, especially if you have a short stay. While not as scenic as Lake Lure or Brevard, Fletcher is a good practical choice, with shopping, parks, and easy access to both Asheville and Hendersonville.
A great place to stay in Fletcher is at this Stunning Fletcher Home. This modern home lives up to its name, with luxurious furnishings, a hot tub, and beautiful outdoor spaces. We especially think it is a great choice for families or friend groups who want easy access to Asheville without being in the center of the city.
Choosing the Right Place for Your Needs
Asheville’s charm isn’t just in the city itself, but in the mountains, valleys, and small towns that surround it. Whether you’re staying within walking distance of downtown murals and microbreweries, or in a peaceful cabin 30 minutes outside the city, there’s no wrong choice, just different flavors of the same unforgettable experience.
Looking for more travel inspiration in the Blue Ridge Mountains? Check out our other pages for even more handpicked cabin stays, hiking trails, restaurant recommends, and trip itineraries around Asheville and beyond.
