48 Hours in Asheville: What to Expect During Your Tour

Discover Your Dream Home with Our Exclusive Private Real Estate Tours.

Location is every bit as important as the specs of your new home. That’s why we treat prospective buyers to a personalized tour of the Asheville area.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small city punches above its weight in natural beauty, healthcare, arts, culture, and culinary delights—all within a mild, four-season climate conducive to year-round comfort.

Our agents take the time to learn about your needs in terms of amenities, interests, and social life so we can best answer your questions and showcase features that will be of greatest interest to you.

Explore Asheville, NC: The Heart of Your New Home.

Our brokers know this city like the back of their hands. We’ll be your concierge real estate guides to Asheville’s finest enclaves and recommend local experiences to savor, from hiking in Pisgah National Forest to playing mountain golf or touring the Biltmore Estate

downtown Asheville NC
sign with downtown Asheville attractions
Blue Ridge Parkway autumn
garden in Asheville NC
Buncombe County courthouse

Day 1 Exploring Greater Asheville, NC

Together, we’ll explore luxurious neighborhoods, local landmarks, and helpful amenities, guided by the interests you expressed.

Here are some of the sights you’re likely to see on a tour with us.

  • Mission Hospital

    Mission Hospital, the flagship Mission Health facility, was ranked as North Carolina's "Best Hospital" in 2020 by Business North Carolina, was named a “Top Hospital” in 2022 by the Leapfrog Group, and holds an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade.

  • WNC Farmer's Market

    Recently ranked the third best farmers market in the US, the market shops are open year round from 8:00 AM to 5 PM daily, boasting everything from fresh produce to plants, arts, and crafts.

  • Asheville Symphony Orchestra

    Founded in 1960, the local symphony orchestra is popular among Asheville music lovers, both as a place to enjoy the classical repertoire (and beyond) and to volunteer.

  • McCormick Field

    Located in downtown Asheville and home of Asheville’s professional minor league baseball club, the Tourists, this stadium has contained the likes of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Jackie Robinson.

  • Asheville Art Museum

    Established in 1948, The Asheville Art Museum presents 14 to 17 exhibitions annually, specializing in American art from the 20th and 21st centuries with a spotlight on works from the Southeast. You can explore volunteer opportunities and programs for learners of all ages here.

  • Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

    The Wortham Center consists of three venues in the Pack Square Cultural District: the original 500-seat Diana Wortham Theatre, the box-style Tina McGuire Theatre, and the 60 to 80 seat Henry LaBrun Studio, used for events and classes. The venues host touring acts and nearly 40 local arts groups, hosting over 200 public events per year, including music, comedy, and dance performances.

  • Grove Arcade

    Placed on the National Register of Historic places in 1976, Pharmaceutical millionaire E.W. Grove intended this building to be the first indoor shopping mall in America. Since it first opened in 1929, it has been a busy center of industry, an army base, and a place to house national weather records. Today, it is once again the lively and elegant mall Grove imagined, containing delectable restaurants, luxury apartments, a maker’s market, co-working space, and other local businesses.

  • Omni Grove Park Inn

    Since its establishment in 1913 by Fred Seely, the inn has become an emblem of the area's heritage, hosting American presidents, diplomats, and the famed annual national gingerbread house competition. This resort features spa treatments, fine dining at The Sunset Terrace and Blue Ridge Restaurant (two of its many eateries) as well as a par-70 golf course redesigned by famed architect Donald Ross in 1923.

  • The Biltmore Estate

    The Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt, is unparalleled as America's largest private home. This 35-bedroom estate on 8,000 acres is not just a historical landmark; it's a cultural hub hosting concerts, festivals, and events, making it a continually engaging destination.

  • Pisgah National Forest

    Pisgah National Forest stands out as one of the country's premier destinations for outdoor adventures, and it's easy to see why. Spanning over 500,000 acres, this magnificent park features lush hardwood forests, mountain peaks brushing the sky, roaring rivers, majestic waterfalls, and an extensive network of hiking trails. Conveniently situated to the North and South of Asheville, the nearest entrance is just a short drive from downtown Asheville.

  • Blue Ridge Parkway

    The Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque, 469-mile route that gracefully meanders through the high peaks of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. As it passes through Asheville, it offers breathtaking views of the highest mountains east of the Mississippi River and opens up access to some of the region's best hiking trails. Free to all, with plenty of designated viewpoints along the way, the Parkway is an accessible escape into nature's beauty.

  • DuPont State Forest

    This stunning park encompasses 10,000 acres of lush forest, lakes, and 86 miles of trails. Not to be outdone by the nationally treasured attractions of the area, DuPont is known for elegant waterfalls, excellent mountain biking, and as a filming location for both Last of the Mohicans and The Hunger Games.

  • Asheville Regional Airport

    A small but growing airport, Asheville residents can easily access just about anywhere in the world via a connecting flight through the Charlotte Douglas International Airport in nearby Charlotte, NC, or the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, GA.

After spending time chatting with you as we tour the town, we’ll have an even better idea of which areas might interest you. When we return to your hotel to drop you off, we will discuss which properties you would like to see the next day and finalize our plans.

Day 2 Touring Properties

On the second day, we’ll visit homes, communities, and neighborhoods that meet your requirements.

Here are some of the places we could explore and the sorts of properties they offer.

The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, Arden, NC (South Asheville)

The premier gated community in the Asheville area, the Cliffs at Walnut Cove features one of the best private golf courses in North Carolina, a wellness center, dining amenities, an in-gates farm and CSA, and miles of hiking trails. Between neighborhood developments, the clubhouse, wellness center classes, and a variety of open, member-run clubs, it’s easy to be social. Meanwhile, those seeking greater privacy may enjoy the more out-of-the-way estate sized lots prized for their mountain views. Properties range from traditional homes to luxury spec homes, townhomes, and homesites for sale.

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

9.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Grove Park Neighborhood

Featuring the famous Omni Grove Park Inn, this historic neighborhood is made up of three sections: Grove Park, Proximity Park, and Sunset Terrace—all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With its eclectic architecture, elegant landscaping, and proximity to restaurants, shopping, healthcare, and schools, this neighborhood is ideal for those who wish to live in a comfortable urban environment near downtown.
City Tax Rate

40.30 cents per $100 of assessed valuation (city)

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

City Schools Tax Rate

10.62 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Biltmore Park

Less than five miles from the airport and nine miles from downtown, this master-planned community hums with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, embodying a “new urban” concept that is greener and more walkable. Those who want to live close to the action and live comfortably on a small footprint will appreciate its luxury condominiums and townhomes. Additionally, easy access to the city’s bike trails, golf courses, and watersports make it easy to stay active.
City Tax Rate

40.30 cents per $100 of assessed valuation (city)

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

City Schools Tax Rate

10.62 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Biltmore Forest

This historic district is located within Asheville, yet maintains its own township and nostalgic feel. Once part of the Biltmore Estate, this neighborhood will appeal to those seeking a taste of the Gilded Age, from an exclusive country club social scene to elegant landscaping and architecture designed by the likes of William Waldo Dodge, Erle Stillwell, and Henry Irven Gaines.

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

34.5 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

The Ramble at Biltmore Forest

For those seeking privacy without sacrificing proximity to all of Asheville’s amenities, this gated community within Biltmore Forest, NC, is likely to be a good fit. About six miles from both downtown and the airport, The Ramble features homes and homesites nestled in the Woodlands of Ducker Mountain, with an in-gates wellness center, pool, trails, and community park. The community is also adjacent to the Asheville Racquet Club: the best tennis in town.

City Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

34.5 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Poplar Ridge (South Asheville)

A charming gated development south of Asheville, Poplar Ridge provides privacy and  views—without the club fees. Located just off Pinners Grove, it features over 250 acres, offering both homes for sale and space for new builds.

City Tax Rate

40.30 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

City Schools Tax Rate

10.62 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Southcliff, Fairview, NC (South Asheville)

This gated conservation community is ideal for nature lovers seeking their own private getaway in the mountains. Residents can enjoy six miles of hiking trails and outdoor gathering places like parks, playgrounds, fireplaces and pits, and a covered pavilion—all without leaving the gates. Whether you’re seeking a modern mountain home you can move into right away, or the perfect lot to build your dream house, odds are, Southcliff has beautiful properties for you to consider.

County Tax Rate

58.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

2 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Elk View

This exclusive mountain development north of Asheville features stunning southern views and trails surrounding its properties—all just 12 minutes from downtown. The neighborhood features 25 custom, turn-key homes built according to sustainable practices, each harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.

City Tax Rate

40.30 cents per $100 of assessed valuation (city)

County Tax Rate

49.8 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

10.62 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Champion Hills, Hendersonville, NC

One of the finest golfing communities in western North Carolina, Champion Hills offers a gated, small town getaway convenient to Asheville. Its course was designed by Tom Fazio himself and cited as one of his personal favorites. Even if you don’t care for golf, the community is rich with other amenities, including tennis courts, a wellness center, 17 miles of walking trails, dining opportunities, clubs, and a calendar of seasonal events. A variety of home styles can be found for sale.

City Tax Rate

49 cents per $100 valuation

Downtown Municipal Service District Tax Rate

21 cents per $100 valuation

7th Ave. Historic Municipal Service District Tax Rate

21 cents per $100 valuation 

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

Kenmure, Flat Rock, NC

Located outside historic Flat Rock, Kenmure is a gated golf community sprawling over 1,400 acres and offers a variety of mountain living options, from homes to homesites, within its friendly neighborhood. The Country Club at its core provides comprehensive amenities including an 18-hole golf course, indoor saline pool, steam saunas, outdoor heated pool, tennis courts, fitness center, and versatile dining. It also boasts a lively social scene, with clubs and an active community association promoting connection and camaraderie.

County Tax Rate

2 cents per $100 valuation

Municipal Tax Rate

11.9 cents per $100 valuation 

  • {{ result.address }}

    ${{ result.listPrice | formatNumber }}
    Bed/Bath: {{ result.bedrooms }}/{{ result.baths }}{{ result.halfBaths | formatHalfBaths }}
    SQFT: {{ result.sqFt | formatNumber }}
    Acreage: {{ result.acreage | formatNumber }}

Loading Failed

There are no listings on the market for this {{ complex ? "enclave" : "community" }}.
Loading...

(Optional) Day 3 Revisiting Favorite Properties & Experiencing the Region

Should you choose to stay a third day, we will return to properties that caught your eye. We are also happy to arrange for you to meet residents from a community that piques your interest. Learn first hand what it’s like to live in Asheville over lunch at the Omni Grove Park Inn or James Beard award-winning cuisine at Cúrate. Plus, if you’re interested in trying out the local amenities, we’re happy to recommend experiences that align with your interests, such as rounds of golf, fly fishing, hiking, or tennis.

Meet Your Asheville Real Estate Experts.

Josh Smith

Josh Smith

President, Walnut Cove Realty/Allen Tate

Smith has over 15 years of experience in the luxury real estate industry and was named #1 independent agent in North Carolina by REAL Trends annual report in 2022.

Rebecca Dougherty

Rebecca Dougherty

Broker-In-Charge, Southcliff Office

With over 30 years in the real estate industry as both buyer and investor, Dougherty joined Walnut Cove Realty/Allen Tate in 2019.

Kyle Olinger

Kyle Olinger

Broker

Part of the original team who launched The Cliffs at Walnut Cove in 2002, Olinger has worked in the luxury real estate and resort industry for over 20 years.

Lee Swing

Lee Swing

Broker

Swing has worked in real estate for over 25 years across the Southeast US, including Florida and North and South Carolina, with a focus on planned communities.

Hear What our Happy Buyers Have to Say.

“Our agent showed us the community and the golf course. We looked at lots and houses. He didn’t stop at anything to get us what we wanted. Walnut Cove Realty understood what we wanted. He didn’t push something that he wanted us to have. He allowed us to dictate to him what we wanted. He did a great job of finding homes that fit that bill, and we found one. It’s more than business. It’s really evolved into friendship.”

— Randy, Home Buyer

“Walnut Cove Realty helped us with so many aspects of the building process and acclimating here. Our realtor took us to see the properties. There were only four in our price range, so we decided to build a house for the first time. He pointed us in all the right directions and helped along the way with the title company, finding insurance, and all the little details. We were texting and on the phone with him all the time, asking questions, and we never felt like we were bothering him.”

— The Lewises, Property Buyers

FAQs

How is my travel, lodging, and transportation arranged?

The agent will suggest local hotels for you to book your stay. As for transportation, we'll work together to determine what would be most convenient for you.

How long does the tour typically last?

This varies according to your needs. Visiting multiple communities, for example, typically takes one-half to a full day, whereas exploring the Asheville area typically takes three-quarters of a day.

Can I bring family members or others on the tour?

Yes, if you’re purchasing a home with a partner, it’s usually best if they are present. Children and pets are also welcome.

Scheduling Your Tour Is as Easy as...

1. Express your interest. Submit the contact form below to let us know you're interested and share a little information about yourself.
2. We'll schedule a call to discuss tour arrangements. We'll work with you to coordinate and schedule a tour at your convenience.
3. Discover Asheville and find your dream home. You'll enjoy a personalized tour and be shown a selection of properties that fit what you're looking for.

Schedule your private tour today.

We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.