Thursday, April 24, 2014

US Hwy 70: Asheville, NC

I can see why Asheville has a reputation for being such a nice little city. The compact downtown area is crammed full with all manner of shops, restaurants, bars, music clubs, etc. A microcosm of this is the Grove Arcade which houses a broad array of retail establishments with outdoor street entrances.



Inside, the three-story atrium gives access to retail shops on the ground floor and professional spaces above. I think there are even apartments on the top floor, for those who love downtown living.

Like all of the city, it is very clean, tidy and inviting.

I asked many people if they liked living here and the unanimous answer was that they love it.

There's a clear sense of pride in the city, echoed in a ubiquitous theme of shopping locally.

It's nice to spend time in a happy, vibrant place with a sense of shared community.

It's also nice -- and fun -- to be in a place that is clearly dog-friendly and takes its coffee seriously.



Speaking of coffee-friendly, how's this for a coffee joint! It's one of Asheville's landmarks and well worth a visit. I recommend a double espresso machiatto!



Immediately around the downtown core is a variety and range of neighborhoods, generally nestled in or on the local hills. Further out, there is a some sprawl that feels a little sketchy in parts.

I've had a nice couple of days here and could see coming back for a longer visit sometime, but the Smoky Mountains are calling my name. I'm ready for some time in the woods and plan to continue northwest on US70 tomorrow... Stay tuned!

Click here to see exactly where I am posting this from on Google Maps.

1 comment:

Lynn said...

You two cannot leave Asheville without getting yourself a jar of apple butter from The Moose!!