Now Asheville may not quite be the city that never sleeps, but the 828 does have nearly around-the-clock fun. So last week, we asked you what vibes you look for in your daytime and nighttime activities in Asheville. And now, we’re coming through with recommendations inspired by day’s and night’s respective winning categories.
Let’s start with the early hours...
Laid-back + low-key
Picnic in the park
No reservations to make or bustling crowds waiting for your table — just you, nature, and a basket full of snacks in one of Asheville’s parks. Pro tip: We’ve got a few ideas of where to spread your blanket.
Book some self-care
Nothing says laid back quite like a day of professional relaxation at a local spa, like hydrotherapy at Shoji Spa or a steam at Drip Nordic Sauna.
Wander a museum
You can take your time in the halls and galleries of our local museums, learning something new about art, history, science, and culture.
Active + outdoorsy
Take a hike
Okay, if you were making a plan for outdoor fun, hiking probably already came to mind — but with myriad trails around the city, you’ll never run out of scenic spots. And we can point you in the right direction.
Hit the gym
Even if traditional cardio and weights aren’t your workout style, there are plenty of local gyms that can shake up your routine with classes, climbing, boxing, and dance.
Join a local league
Explore the list of sports leagues from Asheville Sports & Social Club or join Asheville Sports Club for pickup games + tournaments to turn your active occupations into a social occasion.
And when the sun goes down...
Cozy + charming
Go to the movies
There are always the newest releases showing at big theaters in the area, but Grail Moviehouse, its plush, intimate interior, and its indie flicks will add charm to your cinema experience.
Take a seat to sip
Asheville certainly isn’t short on bars and restaurants where you can spend your evenings — but when you said “cozy and charming,” we heard spots like The Low Down, Eda’s Hideaway, Haywood Famous, Battery Park Book Exchange, and Asheville Guitar Bar (just to name a few).
Bask in mellow music
Speaking of things this city will never run out of, live music is high on the list. But when that music takes on a bluesy, jazzy quality — like during Little Jumbo’s jazz nights on Mondays + Tuesdays — you can’t help but get cozy.
Sophisticated + cultured
Become an oenophile
If you’re looking to be the star of your next dinner party, attend a guided wine tasting from local experts at spots like Table Wine or plēb urban winery.
Aim for the stars
Let the night sky offer its elegance to your evening — you can always plan your own star gaze, but make sure to check out UNC Asheville’s Lookout Observatory and Astronomy Club of Asheville’s regular events.
Seek out the spotlight
Now, this cultured recommendation can be interpreted two ways (and we fully support both). Either enjoy the myriad shows and performances on stages around the city — or take the spotlight yourself at open mics or the monthly Asheville StorySLAM presented by The Moth.
