Your Ultimate Asheville Homework: A Whimsical Scouting Trip Guide
Congratulations, future Asheville aficionado! You stand on the brink of life-altering decisions: the choice of where to call home.
Asheville, North Carolina, with its captivating blend of mountains, culture, and craft beer, beckons you like a siren from the glossy pages of a travel brochure. But before you pack your bags, let's embark on your Asheville homework adventure to ensure you're not about to move to a town where everyone communicates exclusively through interpretive dance. Get ready to be enlightened, entertained, and perhaps even tickled.
Navigating Asheville's Unique Landscape
Your Asheville journey begins at the Visitors Center, where you'll receive not just one, but two detailed maps that divide the city into North and South sides. These maps provide a comprehensive view of individual neighborhoods, allowing you to highlight the ones you like and gain a broader perspective on the city's layout. While Google Maps is a viable option, there's a certain charm in tracing your route with a pen and highlighter. These maps will help you visualize where you want to visit, the distances between places, and explore the surrounding areas that could also pique your interest.
Moreover, the friendly staff at the Visitors Center are eager to assist you. It's conveniently located, easy to park at, and an excellent place to pick up brochures on local activities or book tours. It may seem unconventional to start your local exploration at the "visitors" center when considering permanent residency, but it provides a solid foundation for your research. Think of yourself as a visitor for now until you complete the Asheville initiation process, which involves more hugging than hazing.
The Delightful Downtown Experience
Now that you've obtained your trusty maps (which may elicit a few curious looks from passersby), it's time to explore downtown Asheville. Think of it as a 'choose your own adventure' where you're continually torn between savoring artisanal ice cream, browsing handmade soap shops, or witnessing peculiar street performances featuring mimes, snake handlers, and trombonists. You might even encounter a unicycling nun, but don't worry, it's all part of the LaZoom comedy tour, a hilarious way to learn about downtown and Asheville's history.
Downtown Asheville invites you to amble through its streets, bask in the sunshine, sip coffee, and savor pastries at places like Old Europe. Delve into boutiques and relish the quirky, artsy ambiance of this historic area. Don't forget to visit Woolworths, a collective of artists' booths, and indulge in a milkshake at the old soda fountain. Wander through Mast General Store to gear up for upcoming outdoor adventures. People-watching from an outdoor table at a restaurant in the Grove Arcade is a must. Explore the Art of Science Museum, take your time, get lost, and revel in the downtown atmosphere.
Nature's Adventures and Surprises
Asheville boasts more trees, mountains, and natural beauty than you can shake a stick at. Head to a nearby park, go for a hike, snap a selfie with a waterfall, and try not to be outperformed by the parkour skills of resident squirrels. This is precisely what draws people to live in Asheville – the accessibility to abundant natural beauty. Explore greenways, take a bike ride, and get outdoors in countless ways depending on the season and your preferences.
You can go rafting on the French Broad River or rent a tube. Discover the Land of Waterfalls, and perhaps even slide down one into a refreshing plunge at Sliding Rock, or hike in the Pisgah National Forest. Experience some of the nation's best mountain biking in Bent Creek, or try bouldering nearby. If you're into more thrilling adventures, consider a hot air balloon ride over the region. You can even pick blueberries along the numerous hiking trails or zip through the canopies of the Blue Ridge Mountains, feeling alive and invigorated.
Breweries and the Art of Tipsy Trivia
To truly fit in (though fitting in is optional), become a master of beer trivia. Did you know that Asheville boasts more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the United States? You're moving to a city where everyone is a beer connoisseur, and they couldn't be happier about it. What sets Asheville apart is its water quality, which is ideal for crafting exceptional beers. In addition to breweries, you'll find vineyards, wineries, and distilleries producing rum, vodka, whiskey, and more. There are tequila-specific bars and a diverse array of libations to cater to every taste.
Beyond the city limits, you'll discover charming neighboring towns that are integral to the Asheville experience. Don't miss them, as they contribute to the city's unique charm. Venture out to towns like Weaverville, Black Mountain, or Hendersonville. Explore their quaint main streets, visit nearby lakes, savor a latte, and discover the special qualities that make each town distinct. You may even stumble upon a hidden gem on the outskirts of Asheville that feels like home.
Event Hunting – An Epic Adventure
Asheville is an event mecca, with festivals celebrating music, arts, and even the peculiarities of firefly mating habits. Upon your arrival, grab a free copy of the "Mountain Xpress" for event details. There's always something happening in the city, from live music shows to art openings, sustainable living classes, outdoor activities, and more. Immerse yourself in the local scene by attending events and connecting with people who share your interests.
The Great Neighborhood Safari
Hop in your car and cruise through the neighborhoods you've been eyeing online. Park, explore on foot, greet neighbors, pet their dogs, and ask more questions than a curious four-year-old on a sugar rush. The goal is to blend in and envision yourself sipping coffee (or kombucha) on that porch as your neighbor strolls by. Consider how it feels to live in each neighborhood, as it's not just the walls of your future home but the overall living experience that will determine your quality of life. Homes you tour now may not be available when you're ready to buy, as the Asheville housing market moves quickly.
To gauge your affordability in Asheville, research online and explore areas of interest. Walk around and view virtual and video home tours online. Once you're ready, consult with a lender (without affecting your credit) to determine your price range. This will ensure that you're not wasting time looking outside your budget and provide a sense of security as you navigate this significant life transition.
A team of professionals is ready to guide you through every step of the home-buying process.
Coffee Shops: Where Secrets Are Overheard
Spend some time at a local coffee shop, not for covert purposes, but as an excellent place to eavesdrop on conversations. Without being creepy, immerse yourself in the atmosphere and soak up the local culture. Listening to the discussions of patrons can offer valuable insights into what matters to Asheville residents.
Schools
For those with children or planning a family, school quality is often a top concern. Set up meetings with schools that pique your interest and inquire about unique programs, such as Spanish immersion, art, or special needs opportunities. Asheville's Buncombe County boasts highly rated schools, making it worthwhile to explore your options. Join the "Families Moving to Asheville" Facebook group to connect with other families and gather valuable information.
Zen and the Art of Athletic Exploration
If fitness and wellness are important to you, explore fitness and wellness scene in Asheville. The city takes wellness seriously, offering a variety of activities, from yoga and CrossFit to dancing and hiking clubs. Find a class that resonates with you, and you might discover a whole new way to enjoy staying active. This is one of the keys to the happiness of the local community – people move their bodies in ways they truly enjoy.
Asheville's Eclectic Spirituality
Asheville's spiritual landscape is a tapestry of beliefs. Whether you're Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, Muslim, Hindu, or adhere to other spiritual practices, you're welcome here. The city even draws spiritual seekers, thanks to its energy vortexes and numerous retreat centers in the mountains. You'll find a variety of options to explore your spirituality and connect with like-minded individuals. Asheville is inclusive and open to all beliefs, offering a vibrant spiritual community.
Embrace the Asheville Lifestyle
Asheville isn't just a location; it's a lifestyle. Known for its eccentricity, love of nature, and craft beer culture, Asheville might just become your forever home. Embrace the quirkiness, cherish the beauty, and welcome to the Asheville family – a place where individuality is celebrated, and contentment reigns.
Enjoy your journey, and until next time, ciao!
