Asheville, N.C. (May 29, 2025) – This summer, Asheville isn't just growing — she's glowing. Following a season of renewal and reflection, the region's creative soul surges with new energy. From reopened studios in the River Arts District (RAD) to verdant hiking trails and cool waterfalls, a renaissance is unfolding in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

With the completion of Asheville Regional Airport's expansion this June, escaping to the region's vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty in peak lushness has never been easier or more invigorating.

Five ways to find your peak in Asheville this summer:

1. Arts Renaissance: "Neo-Appalachia" in full bloom | The Appalachian region's rich craft heritage is experiencing a vibrant revival. Visitors can witness this creative resurgence up close with AVL Free Walking Tours' new “Flood to Flourish” tour, which highlights revitalized spaces and the artists shaping the RAD's future. Notable stops include ceramicist Akira Satake's new showroom, shared with Rite of Passage, a slow-fashion boutique honoring local textile traditions. Artists displaced by the hurricane will showcase their work every week, during RAD Market Saturdays. Downtown, Center for Craft is exhibiting works by 40 craft artists impacted by Hurricane Helene. Just a few blocks away, two artist studios — Print House (modern printmaking) and Ignite Jewelry Studios (jewelry and metalsmithing) — have reopened in new locations, inviting visitors to create their own works of art alongside the region's craft artists. The Big Crafty July (12-13) and the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands (July 17-20) gather hundreds of artists and craftspeople in one space, offering visitors the chance to bring home a one-of-a-kind, handmade treasure. Fashion and design enthusiasts will swoon at The Bal Harbour Shops Access Pop-Up Tour, a first-of-its-kind traveling luxury retail event at Asheville's Tanger Outlets, showcasing high-end brands alongside local independent vendors in a tropical atmosphere (June 13 - Aug. 10).

2. Savor Appalachia's most bountiful season | Summer in Asheville bursts with flavor —from farmers' markets overflowing with heirloom produce to restaurant menus crafted from wild-foraged ingredients. Chefs pay homage to the land with daily specials at upscale spots, like Luminosa, The Admiral and Neng Jr.'s – a 2025 James Beard finalist. New restaurants and bars stimulate the senses: Rowan Coffee is a light-filled cafe inside a repurposed Greyhound station, with soaring factory windows and dark wood interiors. DayTrip, a newly reopened LGBTQ-owned bar and lounge, charms with its kitschy, granny-core vibe. Food-lovers looking for a quick, delicious and affordable bite can pop into new fast-casual gems: ButterPunk, a new RAD spot helmed by Beth Kellerhals, known to her customers as the “Queen of Biscuits,” and Pho Real, a café north of downtown serving Vietnamese classics, like pho, banh mi and noodle bowls. For a true taste of Asheville, pay a visit to Spicewalla's shop at the Grove Arcade for the new “Made With Love in Asheville Collection,” featuring 10 custom blends co-created with local chefs, with proceeds supporting storm recovery efforts.
   
   
3. Wonder in the wild: Asheville abounds with family adventures | For families seeking connection beyond screens and schedules, Asheville offers immersive outdoor adventures. Moonlit forest bathing and secluded creekside cabins set the scene for an enchanted storybook adventure, while art and craft workshops let kids (and grown-ups) create their own masterpieces. Animal lovers can meet native wildlife at the reopened WNC Nature Center or farm animals at Hickory Nut Gap Farm and Biltmore Estate's Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience. Families can cool off at one of the area's hidden natural pools, waterfalls – and even a thrilling ride down Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide in Pisgah National Forest. The Blue Ridge Parkway, an iconic setting for picnics and hikes with panoramic mountain views, is officially open for the season – visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and confirm hours and parkway access here. Summer also marks the return of beloved traditions, like cheering on the Asheville Tourists at McCormick Field and spreading out a picnic blanket to ooh and ahh over the Fourth of July fireworks display at the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa.

4. Unwind and recharge at a slower pace | For the soul-tired and nature-starved, Asheville offers a gentle reminder to exhale. Here, the art of JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) is just as celebrated as the region's vibrant festivals and bustling markets. For those seeking a lavish treatment with all the trappings, The Spa at Grand Bohemian just reopened with luxurious facials, healing rituals and custom massages in an opulent setting. Just a short drive from downtown, Shoji Spa transports guests to a serene forest retreat, where Japanese-inspired treatments and private outdoor soaking tubs encourage deep rest and reconnection. AyurPrana Listening Room invites guests to drop into stillness through sound, led by global kirtan musicians and meditation guides. And for mindful shoppers, YEWO Collective —a new downtown boutique — features ethically made jewelry from Malawi and sustainable goods that embody the spirit of slow living.
   
   
5. Festivals and performances set the vibe | Music lovers can dust off their cowboy boots and festival fringe because Asheville's summer calendar is packed with outdoor music and events. Annual favorites include Shindig on the Green (July 5 - Aug. 23) and Downtown After Five (June 20 and Aug. 15). The Martin Luther King, Jr. Association celebrates Juneteenth with a week full of activities and events for the whole family, including performances, film screenings and walking tours (June 12-19). Concert-goers can delve deeper into the local scene at venues like The Grey Eagle in the RAD, Eda's Hide Away in Weaverville, and White Horse Black Mountain in Black Mountain. For the night owls, Fitz & the Wolfe is a new, three-story cocktail bar and music venue downtown, offering a distinct atmosphere on each floor. Regular theme nights run the gamut from Wednesday jazz sets to honky tonk on Saturdays.

For centuries, Asheville has been a haven for the curious and the creative. This summer, the Blue Ridge Mountain region is more than a destination — it's a vibrant and enchanting experience for the whole family. A high-resolution, rights-approved photo gallery can be found here – please credit: ExploreAsheville.com. For additional information, assets, press visits and interviews with artists and curators, please contact:

Media Contact:
Cass Santander, PR Manager
csantander@exploreasheville.com
(828) 707-8188