Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, NC is a small but vibrant, quaint but convenient town located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. I encourage more black people to visit! It is a growing city with a fusion of art, a little bit of history, evolving culture, natural adventure, and gastronomy. You’ll find that there is a local presence of black Americans along with an LGBTQ community although we are the minority. Downtown Asheville is pretty walkable but there are certain areas at night that you don’t want to find yourself wandering into. The food scene was absolutely amazing and was perhaps my favorite part about being there. Pack’s Tavern, Chestnut, and White Duck Taco are a few restaurants that serve delicious food with incredible service! I was also fortunate enough to join a private dinner that was hosted by a local cooperative. All of the veggies – carrots, leafy greens, and corn – were grown and locally harvested. I have never had cornbread so good in my life! For some adventure and nature, I got the chance to go forest bathing at the North Carolina Arboretum, roughly twenty minutes from downtown Asheville. The trip was led by a company called Asheville Wellness Tours and our guides were absolutely amazing. The tour lasted about two hours and at the end, our guide served us white pine tea. Add Asheville to your list if you haven’t been. It’s fun, in a beautiful city, and I would also say a great place for black people to go and explore!