Fun Fact
Asheville has more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the United States.
What is Asheville known for?
Asheville is known for the the Blue Ridge Parkway and America's largest home, George Vanderbilt's Baltimore Estate. However, if you ask us, Asheville is known for craft beer. Asheville has 26 craft breweries within the city (and counting!) with several larger craft breweries setting up satellite locations in Asheville. These breweries include Sierra Nevada, New Belgium, and Oskar Blues.
So why are so many breweries popping up in Asheville? Not only for the growing population, southern hospitality, and proximity to the great outdoors, but for the natural water source these breweries can tap into. Thanks to the protected water shed right outside of town in the Smoky Mountains, small breweries do not need to pay the high cost of purifying water to the optimal level for creating craft beer. This has attracted microbreweries and macro-breweries alike.
Also Read: Smoky Mountain National Park Complete Guide
1. Start your day at Biscuit Head
As they advertise, "put some south in your mount" with a Biscuit Head sandwich! These sandwiches are huge and delicious, loaded up with meats, cheeses, gravies, jellies, and sides. If you are looking for a delicious local brunch place, be sure to stop here and try the Filthy Animal or Biscuit donuts.
Tip: We recommend getting here at 8am to avoid the crowds and allow time for a full day of activities in Asheville.
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2. Head to the Blue Ridge Parkway for epic views and a morning hike
Several mild hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway are the Craggy Gardens Trail (1.9 miles; 574 feet elevation; out & back) and the Craggy Pinnacle Hike (1 mile; 242 feet elevation; out & back). Both are roughly 40 minutes from Biscuit Head in Asheville with half of the time driving being on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering spectacular views and overlooks.
For a more moderate hike, you may consider the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail (3.7 miles; 882 feel elevation gain; loop), which is only a 26 minute drive from Biscuit Head. Whether you choose to hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway or simply stop to admire nature at the breathtaking overlooks, be sure to add a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to your Asheville itinerary.
J&L Top Choice: Rattlesnake Lodge Trail
3. Refuel after a morning of hiking at White Duck Taco
Almost every local we came across on our journey through the Smoky Mountains recommended White Duck Taco. This was the first place we stopped for food once we arrived and we have to say, it did not disappoint! From their funky décor to their exotic tacos, it is evident how this became such a crowd favorite.
J&L Favorites: Jerk Chicken, Spicy Buffalo Chicken, Korean Beef Bulgogi, and the Duck w/Mole.
4. Grab a Fat Tire at New Belgium Brewing Company
Recommended Brew: Fat Tire (American Amber Red Ale- 5.2% ABV)
Fat Tire is an easy-drinking amber that is