Is Asheville the right destination for your next event?

Here at Huddle, we are always excited to explore the latest venues, destinations, and concepts for our clients. From corporate retreat destinations to meeting and event venues, there is an incredible marketplace of options out there. Today we are going to be looking at a corner of the world that the Huddle team of venue sourcing experts are hearing a lot of buzz about lately. Asheville, North Carolina.

Nestled on the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers as they wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville presents a wealth of opportunities for corporate events. Let’s explore some options together.

Transportation

Event destinations can live and die with transportation. So, we are glad to report that there are several choices for reaching Asheville. The airport provides regular service to Boston, Chicago, Houston, Las Vegas, Orlando, Dallas-Fort Worth, Washington D.C, Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Chicago. There are also seasonal connections to New York and Philadelphia. So, for most of the country this mountain gem is easy to reach. And once you arrive, it is only a short drive to downtown Asheville.

The Biltmore

One of our favorite local attractions, the Biltmore Estate is a truly historic building of national significance. The grand 250-room castle constructed in the French Renaissance style by George Vanderbilt, scion of the railway dynasty, is America’s largest home. The 8,000-acre grounds feature nature trails and gardens for relaxation and enrichment as you soak in the ambiance. Visit the winery, tour the estate on horseback riding adventures or treat yourself to a guided tour of one of the nation’s great architectural landmarks. There are even accommodation options available.

Blue Ridge Parkway

One thing that sets Asheville apart as a destination is the incredible scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding the city. One great way to view these natural wonders is the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as ‘America’s Favorite Scenic Drive’. 469 miles long and weaving through the peaks and ridgetops of the Southern Appalachians, the approaches to Asheville offer incredible views of some of the tallest peaks this side of the Mississippi. Trail heads and overlooks abound, making this a compelling group travel destination.

Downtown

While the opportunities for adventure in the gorgeous Appalachian landscape abound, downtown Asheville offers cultural, dining, commercial and leisure activities fit for any incentive program or company retreat. Farm-to-table eateries, local breweries, theatres, art galleries and historic tours turn this place into an unforgettable destination able to keep you entertained between explorations of the local national parks.

Shopping

Surprisingly for a city of its size, Asheville is a world class shopping destination. Indie boutiques, open air markets, independent booksellers and vintage apparel merchants are a feature, but you will find the large national brands well represented too.

One factor our event venue sourcing team loves about Asheville, whether for incentive trips or larger conferences, is the variety of hotels, resorts and venues available. From luxury cabins and lodgings near the Blue Ridge Parkway, to iconic character properties like the Biltmore and golf courses like those at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Whatever your needs, we feel comfortable you could find something to meet them in Asheville.

Want more great destination ideas? Contact Huddle today!