Welcome to Biltmore Village, a charming historic district nestled in Asheville, NC. Crafted in the late 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II, and originally designed to house the workers of the grand Biltmore Estate, this picturesque village boasts quaint cottages, tree-lined streets, and the beautiful Cathedral of All Souls. Today, it’s a lively hub of shops, restaurants, and galleries, blending rich history with modern flair.
Over the years, Biltmore Village has gained a reputation for attracting an older and more conservative crowd of visitors. However, thanks to some local entrepreneurial visionaries, things are changing and Biltmore Village is getting a much-needed transfusion from some young blood. From charming coffee shops and modern-day mercantiles to race car sims, craft cannabis, and beer bars, there's something for everyone.
So secure your hip bag, drop a Drip Drop in your reusable water bottle, velcro your Chacos, and get ready to explore Asheville's Historic Biltmore Village - like a local.
8:00 AM - The Daily Grind
Located at: 100 District Drive, Unit 216, Asheville, NC 28803 (Just up the hill in the District Apartments with plenty of parking).
Asheville does not wake up early but The Daily Grind does! And despite there being a coffee shop in the heart of the village, it doesn't open until 9 AM. So if you're trying to beat the Biltmore (Estate) crowd, you'll want to start your day with a jolt of caffeine from The Daily Grind, open at 7 AM, it's a delightful alternative to Starbucks. The Daily Grind was founded by friends and Asheville natives, Dee Dee and Chuck. and is known for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional coffee, The Daily Grind is the perfect place to percolate before your day's adventure.
9 AM - The Biltmore Estate
Located at: 100 Lodge Street, Asheville, NC 28803
Beat the crowds and head over to the Biltmore Estate while it's still quiet. This iconic mansion, completed in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt II, is the largest privately owned house in the U.S. The estate originally donated 87,000 acres to help create Pisgah National Forest, and over a ten-year period, thousands of trees were planted daily to craft the breathtaking landscape you see today. It's wild when you see it in person to try and imagine the visionary who designed this landscape!
For those who have binged the Netflix glass-blowing series Blown Away, don't miss the Chihuly Exhibit running now through January 5, 2025. If you're visiting the House, I recommend purchasing the self-guided audio tour which provides an engaging way to explore the mansion at your own pace. And while pets aren't allowed inside the house or at the two hotels on-site, they are welcome to roam the expansive grounds, especially if you have an annual pass (a worthy investment if you visit Asheville fairly often and have a furry friend). While you're there, be sure to enjoy a wine tasting and grab lunch in Antler Village.
2:00 PM - Finch Grocery
Located at: 10 1/2 All Souls Crescent, Asheville, C 28803
Once you've explored the Biltmore Estate grounds, head back into Biltmore Village and make your way to, Finch Grocery for a mid-day, pick-me-up, cup of coffee, or second glass of wine (my speed). Tucked back off the road, this charming spot feels like a secret European cottage filled with local wares and delicious delicacies. While you're there, stock up on snack provisions, maybe a gift for yourself or someone else, and enjoy a crisp rosé in the quaint courtyard. Finch Grocery is open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, so take your time to savor the moment before heading out for more shopping.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Shop in Biltmore Village
After lunch, it's time to explore the shops in Biltmore Village. Here are a few must-visits:
Fjallraven: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, and Asheville has no shortage of outdoor activities.
Provisions Modern-Day Mercantile: A modern-day general store for the tastemaker, offering eclectic and contemporary wares and craftsmanship. This spot is perfect for younger, artisan-focused travelers.
Scout Boutique: A stylish boutique offering unique European and local fashion finds.
4:00 PM - All Souls Grotto
Located at: 5 All Souls Crescent, Asheville, NC 28803
Just a few doors down from Finch, you'll find All Souls Grotto. This is not your typical Biltmore Village provisionary or bar. Specializing in high-quality cannabis, craft hemp products, and craft beer, All Souls Grotto offers a modern twist on the traditional bar experience. With board games and Nintendo Switch, it's a great place to unwind and experience something new.
5:00 PM - The Track
Located at: 9 Reed Street D, Asheville, NC 28803
Just a short walk from All Souls Grotto is The Track, Asheville's first state-of-the-art racing simulator. Founded by Joel and Ruth Bergstein, The Track lets you jump right into a race via their Arcade mode, no experience necessary (though it helps if you've watched Gran Turismo a few times).
7:30 PM - Forestry Camp
Located at: 10 Shady Oak Drive, Asheville, NC 28803
Burial Beer Co. has a cult following, and for good reason. Located just around the corner and up the street off Old London Road, Forestry Camp is home to Burial's production brewery and VISUALS Winery. While there's not a sidewalk, it is walkable from Biltmore Village. Originally built in the 1930s as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) compound, the site housed workers who contributed to various forestry projects during the Great Depression (to learn more about its history, click here).
Grab a pint and a bite (the kitchen closes at 9:30 PM most nights) and immerse yourself in the culture that Burial has cultivated throughout Asheville, without fighting for parking at their downtown location. If you visit on a Saturday, don't miss booking their one-hour introspective tour of the facility with a brewery historian. And mark your calendar for Burial's annual music and beer event of the year: Burnpile. This is a great event to plan your visit around.
9:00 PM - Village Wayside Bar and Grille
Located at: 30 Lodge Street, Asheville, NC 28803
Wrap up your day with a nightcap at Village Wayside Bar and Grille, a local favorite. Wayside, as referred to by locals, is a converted passenger train depot and was founded by Mark & Polly Harding, the "slightly dysfunctional people pleasing" husband and wife duo (NOT to be confused with the newer Village Pub up the hill). Wayside is an industry hangout for locals, especially those in the restaurant and hospitality fields. Despite North Carolina's ban on "happy hour," (don't get me started) Wayside typically offers one all-day special, a great bourbon selection, scratch-made food, and a lively late-night crowd. Lastly, the train tracks are very active, so don't be surprised when the trains roll by—very close—and very loud.
So there you have it—Biltmore Village—a modern itinerary for a historic neighborhood! For each above-mentioned business, be sure to check online for hours of operation. Let me know if you check any of these places out! Better yet, post a pic and tag @proseandpassports
BEFORE YOU GO! As a special thanks for my readers, click the link for 30% off your Ten Percent Happier subscription.
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