do what locals do avlAsheville is a city synonymous with tourism. Over ten million people visit the area each year. They come to experience some of the most popular attractions in western North Carolina, such as:

  • The Biltmore Estate
  • State Parks such as Chimney Rock and Mount Mitchell
  • Great Smoky Mountain National Park 
  • Watersports, zipline canopy tours, and other outdoor activities 
  • The Grove Park Inn
  • The River Arts District 
  • The Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah Inn
  • Downtown Asheville

Tourism is a vital part of Asheville’s DNA. Our minor league baseball team is called The Tourists. If you have been to the city a few times, you may have followed the tips of some lists of things to do in the area. 

There is a lot of great information about the region, and the main attractions make their way onto lists because they are amazing! But, you may be ready to explore the city like a local. 

Whether you are new to the area or just visiting for a quick getaway, we’re here to help you experience Asheville like a local. 

How to Have Fun Like a Local in Asheville, NC

1) Hiking and Mountain Biking

Is it true that residents go hiking and mountain biking in the cold months? Absolutely! 

Even though Asheville is located in the mountains, the city is not blanketed in snow throughout the winter. Many trails stay open all year, so we lace up our waterproof boots and get out in nature on thousands of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. 

2) Go to the South Slope for Food and Drink

The South Slope neighborhood of downtown Asheville is home to some of the best cuisine and drink in the city, including:

  • Catawba Brewing Company 
  • Burial Beer Co
  • Buxton Hall BBQ
  • Vortex Doughnuts
  • Farewell Coffee Co
  • The Prospect
  • Harvest Pizzeria
  • Urban Orchard Cider Co

3) Take a Neighborhood Tour

If you really want to see Asheville like a local, set aside a day or weekend to explore one of the many neighborhoods.

  • Downtown: You can't go wrong in Asheville's downtown district. You can't see everything in a single vacation, either.
  • West Asheville: This fashionable neighborhood is home to a plethora of breweries, event venues, and parks.
  • South Asheville: Many of your favorite restaurants have locations in this section of town, and getting a parking spot here is a little easier than it is downtown
  • North Asheville is one of the city's most historic areas, and it's as charming as it is entertaining.

4) Grab a Drink at a Dueling Piano Bar

One of the few dueling piano bars in the South is right here in Asheville. Off The Wagon is a popular hangout for both locals and visitors.

You can't help but have a good time at Off The Wagon. The musicians will dazzle you with their extensive repertoire of popular tunes from the previous fifty years.

 It's an all-request show, so let the musicians wow you with their skills. It's a rock-and-roll, sing-along atmosphere that's all about having a good time. When delicious drinks and excellent service are added, you may never want to leave!

If you’re in Asheville and want to live like a local, make sure you come by Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar.