Earning the titles of Travel + Leisure’s “Top 15 Favorite US Cities” in 2023 and Wealth of Geeks “Southern Cities Trending in 2024,” Asheville is a paradise for explorers who treasure the more eclectic parts of life. While some may argue that taking pictures takes away from the experience and “being present,” we believe that photos are a great way to preserve the beauty and surprise of the present. Plus, it allows you to revisit those moments long after you’ve left them. 

If part of your travel criteria is making sure there are photo-worthy spots to snap a selfie or two, Asheville is the place for you. While you’re sure to stumble across your own special spots while traversing our “fun and funky” city, we’ve compiled an Asheville insider’s list of favorites that scream aesthetic and visual appeal for the foodies and moodies trying to stop their followers in their scrolling tracks:

DISCLAIMER: The art around Asheville is constantly evolving, so don’t be surprised if a few of these disappear or become an entirely different masterpiece over time. It’s always a little sad when your favorite inspiring message scrawled across a silo goes away, but it’s also a great reminder to keep moving and grooving in the way only Asheville and those who love it can. 

Honorable Mentions Outside Asheville’s City Center:

Black Mountain Town Square + Giant Rocking Chairs-In Black Mountain’s picturesque Town Center you’ll find comically large rocking chairs that are the perfect photo op. Surrounded by pristine landscaping and walking distance to the many shops and restaurants in the heart of downtown, the spot has a beautiful mountain backdrop. 

Catawba Falls- Recently reopened after a 2-year hiatus, this beautiful waterfall with upper and lower falls now has a set of stairs leading to the upper portion of the falls and ending at an observation deck overlooking the mountains. 

Weaverville Water Wheel- Is there anything better than a vibrant pop of red? This summer (or fall), swing by with coffee in hand (yellow mug anyone?) for a picnic at this hidden gem in the adorable town of Weaverville just outside Asheville. 

Beech Mountain’s Autumn at Oz- Have you ever wanted to walk the yellow-brick road alongside Dorothy and her crew? Well, you’re in luck! Fun for all ages and perfect for young families, this annual event is the largest Oz festival in the world and has live performances and Wizard of Oz memorabilia available for purchase. Filled with dazzling color and top-notch costumes, the photo ops are endless! 

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge & Fae Nectar Meadery- Calling all fairies! Lake Lure’s iconic flowering bridge has its fair share of photo-worthy spots along its 0.5-mile trail, but there is also a cup of liquid gold waiting for you at the end of the rainbow. Fae Nectar, whose dreamy name perfectly encapsulates the dreamy woodland world worthy of fairies and sprites, has events that will allow you to dawn your best Celtic or Renaissance-inspired garb and stumble back in time to a day of lords, ladies, and lairds. 

Statesville Carolina BalloonFest- Located 1.5 hours east of Asheville, the Carolina BaloonFest is the second longest consecutively held hot air balloon festival in the U.S. Held in October, the autumnal landscape is further enhanced by the colorful larger-than-life vessels. Take some epic shots of the hot air balloons mid-flight or capture views from the gondola (aka the passenger compartment basket).

Max Patch Mountain- Nicknamed the “Crown Jewel of the Appalachian Trail,” this mountain bald is situated along the boundary between North Carolina and Tennessee. Its “crowning” glory is the 360-degree views from the top. The loop trail is easy to moderate and is approximately 1.5 miles long. The path to the summit begins at an information kiosk in the gravel parking area and climbs gradually, and the views only get better the higher you go.

After a short stretch of forest, you'll reach an intersection where the Appalachian Trail goes left and right. Take a right for the final ascent to the top of Max Patch. The summit offers plenty of space for picnicking, kite flying, or simply basking in the majestic views surrounding you. This hike is perfect for every season, but we recommend a sunrise or sunset hike to make the experience even more awe-inspiring. 

Note: Max Patch is a mountain bald with rare flora and fauna, and visitors must follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Stay on the designated loop trail, and do not take user-generated side trails that trample sensitive plants and wildlife. Keep in mind that temperatures are often 10-20 degrees cooler than in Asheville so bring some extra layers just in case!

A Place in the Sun

Looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains this summer? Greybeard has everything from a cozy cottage 5 minutes from Asheville's city center to a chic abode overlooking the beautiful downtown skyline to a renovated historic bungalow apartment nestled within walking distance of Biltmore Estate’s entrance. 

For those looking for a quiet and quaint alternative to Asheville that is still a quick 20-minute drive away for easy exploring, check out our vacation homes in Black Mountain. Just named one of the “15 Most Adorable Small Towns For A Summer Getaway” by Southern Living,  this darling small-town gem shines like the sun on a warm summer’s day.