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Travel and Outdoors

Road trip to this Forbes-listed “Top 12 Travel Destination”

April 22, 2025 • 
Julia Pizzuto
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A drone shot of Asheville from above, with mountains and pink clouds in the background

Whether it’s your first visit or your 50th, there’s always something new to discover.

Photo courtesy of Andre Daugherty

Pop quiz: Which North Carolina city was named one of Forbes’ Top 12 Destinations and one of The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2025? And sits only 90 minutes from Charlotte?

If you guessed Asheville, you’d be correct. The Appalachian mountain town earned a spot on both prestigious lists this year with its resilience, heart, and creative spirit, boasting experiences like:

  • One-of-a-kind dining experiences rooted in mountain-grown ingredients
  • Immersive arts workshops
  • Performances set against WNC views
  • Unplugged nature adventures + endless outdoor activities

Plan your trip

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