Curator’s statement
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains just 20 minutes east of Asheville, Black Mountain, NC has long been treasured for its walkable downtown, artsy spirit and stunning natural surroundings. While Hurricane Helene brought significant challenges to the area, this resilient small town has made an incredible recovery. Today, Black Mountain is fully open for business, welcoming visitors with open arms. We have personally supported and experienced this recovery — after all, Black Mountain is also our home! Recently named "North Carolina’s Most Charming Small Town" by AFAR Magazine, and featured in Southern Living’s list of Charming Mountain Towns in North Carolina, Black Mountain is gaining well-deserved recognition as one of the best mountain destinations in the South. It's a place where creativity flourishes, nature is always close by and community pride shines through in every locally-owned shop and restaurant. Whether you're looking for a full-day escape from Asheville or planning a full weekend getaway, Black Mountain delivers a perfect balance of small-town charm, outdoor adventure and memorable experiences.
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Things to do
Browse the unique shops and galleries
Shop & stroll
Downtown Black Mountain is a treasure trove for shoppers, art lovers and anyone who enjoys wandering:
Mountain Fairy Hair: Add some sparkle with hair tinsel magic.
Gem Drop Jewelry: Locally handcrafted jewelry.
Sassafras: wonderful independent bookstore with kids toys, gifts and fun finds in an airy boutique and coffee shop.
Town Hardware & General Store: A true step back in time. Everything you didn’t know you needed and plenty you did.
Red House Gallery and Studios: A hub for local artists with working studios and galleries.
North Carolina Glass Center: Stunning blown-glass art and gifts and glass-blowing classes!
Seven Sisters Gallery: Unique fine arts and crafts from local and regional artisans.
Black Mountain Center for the Arts: Gallery shows, classes and performances all supporting local creativity.
Old Depot Arts and Crafts Gallery: Located in an old train depot, featuring a range of handmade goods from regional artists.
Whether you're picking up a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, admiring Appalachian folk art or simply soaking up the creativity, Black Mountain’s shopping and arts scene is an experience.
Music & entertainment
Black Mountain pulses with live music and entertainment year-round:
White Horse Black Mountain: A premier live music venue offering an intimate setting for acoustic performances, jazz, Celtic and more.
The Station: A lively venue hosting a mix of concerts, events and food trucks right in the heart of town.
Silverados: A larger outdoor venue perfect for country, rock and Americana shows, often drawing regional and national acts.
Music spills out into the streets at festivals and special events, too. You’re never far from a good tune here.
Outdoor adventures
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore within and just outside town. From serious trailheads to leisurely lakeside strolls, there’s outdoor beauty for every pace.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Just minutes away, the Parkway offers some of the most beautiful scenic drives in America, with countless pull-offs for hikes and views.
Montreat: Adjacent to Black Mountain, this peaceful community offers beautiful hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging mountain climbs.
Lookout Mountain Trail: A local favorite for a moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the valley.
Lake Tomahawk Park: A serene in-town spot for an easy walk around the lake, tennis and picnics.
Places to eat & drink
Pure and Proper
Black Mountain’s culinary scene is rich and varied, offering everything from elevated farm-to-table dining to casual comfort food.
Pure and Proper: Upscale Southern classics with a stylish, modern twist.
Que Sera: French-Southern cuisine in an intimate, relaxed setting.
The Oyster Bar: Fresh oysters, seafood and expertly crafted cocktails.
Fresh Wood Fired Pizza: A casual local favorite for wood-fired pies.
Peri Social: Trendy and welcoming for coffee, wine and light bites — and a gourmet pizza truck!.
La Guinguette: A lively French-Latin café with colorful patio seating.
Black Mountain Bistro: A long-time favorite for hearty, satisfying dishes.
The Grange: Large, mostly outdoor, pet-friendly patio with great burgers.
Hell or High Water: Seasonal, farm-to-table dishes in a rustic-modern setting.
Taco Billy: Bold, flavorful tacos and a fun, friendly vibe.
Berliner Kindl: Authentic German fare, brats, schnitzel and beer-garden vibes.
Cousins Cuban Café: Serving espresso drinks & Cubano sandwiches, plus brunch bowls & wraps.
Need to know
Black Mountain is a 20-30 minute drive from Asheville Airport and a 20-minute drive from downtown Asheville. Whether you're looking for a full-day escape from Asheville or planning a full weekend getaway, Black Mountain delivers a perfect balance of small-town charm, outdoor adventure and memorable experiences. Reach out to me for personalized recommendations. Reach out to me for advice or recommendations.
Travel Advisor
Dave Levine
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