Top 8 Sunset Spots in Asheville, NC
By Del Holston
The Best Places to Catch a Scenic Sunset
The Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the best vantage points to watch the sun drop below the peaks in a splash of color. People travel from all over the world to see the nightly show.
We asked our social media fans to share their favorite places to watch the sunset in and around Asheville, North Carolina. Here are the results!
1. The Omni Grove Park Inn
The most popular spot to watch the sunset, according to the fans, is the Sunset Terrace at The Omni Grove Park Inn. The aptly named Sunset Terrace is famous for its dazzling views of downtown and the mountains, as well as for its chop house cuisine. Already have dinner plans? Grab a cocktail and a table in the new seating area just below the main terrace, or order up some duck fat fries and a local craft brew and lounge on a fireside sofa at EDISON restaurant, which has similarly impressive views.
2. Biltmore
The 8,000 acres of George Vanderbilt's historic estate offer numerous scenic options, from the meadow behind America's Largest Home, to the lagoon with views of the back of the house and a good chance of a deer sighting. Or choose a window-side table at the Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate and drink in the beauty of the landscape while you sip some estate-grown wine. Check out our Biltmore ticket travel packages.
3. The Blue Ridge Parkway
America's Favorite Drive—as well as several of the stops along the way—is also a popular choice for some pre-dusk views. Hop on near Asheville and drive south to catch several scenic vistas. Or choose an overlook to snuggle up next to someone special and watch the stars come out. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Parkway.
4. Capella on 9
One of Asheville’s newest rooftop bars has already earned one of the biggest accolades. U.S. News and World Report has named Capella on 9 one of the “50 Best Rooftop Bars in the World.” From this swanky bar on the ninth floor terrace of the AC Hotel, enjoy handcrafted cocktails and a tapas-style menu showcasing locally-sourced ingredients. See our guide to the best rooftop bars in Asheville.
5. Craggy Gardens
While Craggy Gardens is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it holds such a special place in our fans' hearts that it deserves its own mention. For stunning views, hike to Craggy Pinnacle, just seven tenths of a mile to reach the upper overlook. You'll look out over layers of mountain ridges and be able to see the Blue Ridge Parkway winding through the mountains below you. In June, Craggy Gardens truly comes alive with the purple blooms of the Catawba Rhododendron.
6. Max Patch
This grassy bald is definitely a favorite, with true 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and an intersection with the Appalachian Trail. For a sunset to remember, get there early and bring a picnic and a blanket. Note: Please protect this sacred natural wonder by following the principles of Leave No Trace -- plan ahead, be prepared and leave it as you found it. You'll also want your camera to capture the colors of the sunset reflected on layers of majestic mountains. Here are directions to Max Patch.
7. The Montford Rooftop Bar
The Montford is a relatively new rooftop bar located on the 8th floor of the Hyatt Place Hotel in downtown Asheville. The views are special and so are the seasonally-driven craft cocktails and small bites prepared with local ingredients.
8. Anywhere in Asheville
Many readers made a very good point—almost anywhere in the Asheville area is a good place to see the sunset! Because we are surrounded by some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River (including the highest), views are bountiful all over town. Whether you're dining in a restaurant, checking in to a B&B, browsing the eclectic shops or even just standing in a parking lot, don't forget to stop and take in the view. Go ahead, start planning your next visit.
Honorable Mentions
Pillar Rooftop Bar (Located atop the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Asheville)
Mt. Mitchell State Park
Black Balsam Knob
