Asheville has something for everyone: a wide variety of cultural offerings, shopping, and outdoor activities. Asheville is also known for its mountain beauty, mild weather, quality of life, and friendly people.

Asheville is consistently ranked in national surveys one of the best places to live in America. It is the regional center for activities and industry in the 15-county area that makes up Western North Carolina. Outdoor recreation is enjoyed by over 11 million visitors passing through the Blue Ridge Parkway that runs through Asheville. Hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, fishing, boating, biking and site-seeing are favorite activities.