Newsroom

December 12, 2008

Category: Vacation Planning Ideas

The beautiful city of Asheville, NC, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the perfect location for a mountain getaway, especially during the holiday season. As a popular vacation destination, Asheville is known for its majestic mountains, natural beauty, outdoor sports, fine arts community and spirited history, however, few visitors know until they arrive that Asheville is also home to some of the greatest and most unique shopping in Western North Carolina. Planning a vacation can be confusing, especially to a place you have never been, but whether you enjoy antiquing, retro stores or traditional mountain arts and crafts you can find what you are looking for in downtown Asheville.

Days Gone By: Boutique Shopping in Asheville, NC

Planning a vacation in Asheville? Make sure you leave time to explore the incredible local, independently-owned boutiques. Wall Street is one of the prettiest streets in the city. Here, visitors find import stores, clothing shops, art galleries and more. The cobblestone streets make you feel as if you have gone back in time. Another popular shopping area is the Grove Arcade. Opened in 1929 and closed during World War II, the Grove Arcade market was a bustling part of Asheville life. Restored in 2002, the Grove Arcade has experienced a return to its original glory. An outdoor market can be enjoyed throughout most of the year. Also, while you are on your luxury mountain getaway, don’t forget the exceptional restaurants and local music.

The Vanderbilt Legacy: Art and Antiques

On the outskirts of the Biltmore Estate, one of the largest draws for travel and tourism in Asheville, NC, visitors to the area will find Biltmore Village. Biltmore Village is full of quaint storefronts that house shopping opportunities you won’t find anywhere else like specialty gardening shops, art galleries, mountain arts and crafts and antique dealers. If you are planning an Asheville North Carolina vacation you won’t want to miss seeing this Vanderbilt family legacy. Biltmore Village and Biltmore Estate are also perfect for travelers planning a family vacation since you can find fun for all ages.

New Diversity and Culture: Haywood Road in West Asheville

Each year downtown Asheville attracts more people interested in mountain travel. Naturally, Asheville has expanded and one of the benefits has been the commercial development of Haywood Road. West Asheville has a diverse population and Haywood Road is a reflection of this. Along the main drag, visitors find a less formal shopping atmosphere that contains everything from bike shops to Latino markets. Most stores are locally owned and operated and prices are affordable. It’s a must see on your Asheville mountain vacation.

The Mountain Tradition of Handmade Arts and Crafts

When you are planning a family vacation to Asheville and want to get a taste of mountain culture, visit the Western North Carolina Farmers’ Market. Accessible by car and city bus, the farmers’ market offers everything from fresh mountain produce to authentic Appalachian arts and crafts. The Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to buy gifts or keepsakes to remember your NC mountain getaway. Open all year round, the Farmer’s Market is an amazing slice of mountain living.

Go Retro on Lexington Avenue

Artists, musicians and performers have always favored Asheville. Shopping on Lexington Avenue shows that creativity and originality are still an integral part of the Asheville experience. Tattoo studios, retro stores, independent book and music sellers, art galleries and costume shops abound. If you are looking for an unconventional and memorable gift, you can’t go wrong. Lexington Avenue is also home to some of Asheville’s best restaurants, coffee shops and music venues. In addition, visitors will find a wide variety of unique shopping choices on Biltmore Avenue and Haywood Street. Step outside the box and let shopping in Asheville help you create an unforgettable NC mountain getaway.

Planning a Vacation with Fashion in Mind

New York City and Paris are known throughout the world as centers of high fashion. In North Carolina, Asheville is recognized for its independent fashion designers, who are featured in boutiques throughout the city. Are you searching for clothing that can’t be bought anywhere else? Then check the local paper to find the date and location of the next local fashion show.

Whether you are planning a family or romantic vacation, Asheville, NC provides something for everyone. Experience the local flavor and shop till you drop! To learn more about Asheville travel visit www.ResidencesatBiltmore.com.

Return to Previous Page