3 day itinerary for Asheville And Smoky Mountains

Itinerary

Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains are such a delightful combination of vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of both worlds!

## Day 1: Explore Asheville

Morning:

• Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery: Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast. Their biscuits and gravy are a must-try!
• Visit the Biltmore Estate: After breakfast, head to the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home. Take a self-guided tour of the mansion and stroll through the beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Biltmore Winery: Enjoy a light lunch at the winery’s bistro, and if you’re up for it, do a wine tasting afterward.
• Explore Downtown Asheville: Head downtown and wander through the eclectic shops, art galleries, and street performances. Make sure to check out the Asheville Pinball Museum for a bit of nostalgia!

Evening:

• Dinner at Curate: Treat yourself to some delicious Spanish tapas at Curate. Reservations are recommended, as it’s quite popular!
• Live Music: After dinner, catch some live music at one of Asheville’s many venues. The Orange Peel is a great spot for local and touring acts.

## Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a local café: Fuel up for a day of adventure!
• Drive to the Smokies: Head out early to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The drive is about 1-1.5 hours, depending on where you’re going.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking: Start with a hike on the Alum Cave Trail. It’s about 5 miles round trip and offers stunning views. The trail is moderately challenging, but the scenery is worth it!

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic overlooks. There are plenty of spots to relax and take in the views.
• Cades Cove Loop: After lunch, drive the Cades Cove Loop Road. It’s a beautiful 11-mile loop where you can see wildlife, historic buildings, and breathtaking landscapes. Don’t forget to stop at the various pull-offs for photos!

Evening:

• Dinner in Gatlinburg: Head to Gatlinburg for dinner. Try The Peddler Steakhouse for a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
• Stroll the Strip: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Gatlinburg Strip. There are plenty of shops and attractions to explore, and the lights at night are charming!

## Day 3: More of Asheville and Surroundings

Morning:

• Breakfast at Biscuit Head: Indulge in some of the best biscuits in town! Their unique toppings are a fun twist.
• Visit the River Arts District: After breakfast, explore the River Arts District. You can visit local artists’ studios, galleries, and maybe even catch a live demonstration.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at White Duck Taco Shop: Grab some creative tacos for lunch. The Bangkok Shrimp and the Lamb Gyro tacos are crowd favorites!
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Spend your afternoon driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stop at overlooks for breathtaking views and take a short hike at Craggy Gardens or Linville Falls.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Bull and Beggar: For your last night, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at this upscale restaurant in the River Arts District. The ambiance is lovely, and the food is divine!
• Sunset at the Blue Ridge Parkway: If you have time, catch the sunset at one of the overlooks on the Parkway. It’s a perfect way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared!
• Stay Hydrated: Especially if you’re hiking, keep water handy.
• Check for Events: Asheville often has festivals, markets, and events, so check the local calendar for anything special during your visit.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Asheville and the Smoky Mountains! Enjoy every moment! 🌲🏞️✨