Doubletree by Hilton in Downtown AVL
What's up yall? Wow it has been such a good summer. I am soaking it up now that it is coming to an end soon. I hope you have had a nice one so far! It's been a hot one here in the South, but at least it is beautiful in the Carolinas. In the summer, I always enjoy going down to the beach and up to the mountains. I like to get away from Charlotte for a couple days to cool off by the water or with the mountain air.
The drives are both easy and a change of scenery is worth it. I love chasing summer sunsets and road trips. Now, fall is so close that I can taste the pumpkin haha. It's around the corner and everyone is looking forward to getting up the Blue Ridge Mountains for the foliage. The city of Asheville, North Carolina is the perfect place to explore, even if it's just for a weekend.
Asheville has live music, bright art, chic coffee spots, rooftops views, organic food options and much more. It is fun to walk downtown by all the murals and explore the unique shops. I love to try new restaurants, hiking trails, and overlooks when I come to town.
I went to the North Carolina Arboretum for the first time on this trip. The Biltmore never gets old and is worth the visit. The hotel I recently partnered with is only three miles away from the incredible estate. I'm going to tell you a little bit about it tonight! I shared a blog two years ago about a glamping dome experience in Asheville.
I had a fabulous time waking up in the mountains with colorful leaves around. It was out in the nature and a small drive to the city from the Airbnb. Although, I know some travelers rather stay in a hotel than through the apps. So, I couldn't wait to share this option in downtown with you.
I stayed at the Doubletree by Hilton recently and it's a solid option if you prefer to be near all the action. This location was walking distance to many amazing spots. I was overjoyed when I got the invite to check out the newly renovated hotel. I like sharing new N.C. suggestions and shooting new content for you.
The opportunity got even better when I knew that I could share the joy and experience with two winners. In case you missed it on Instagram, we have a GIVEAWAY that includes a free two-night stay, breakfast, and parking where I stayed! The prize packages also include $75 vouchers to their rooftops. It actually ends TONIGHT so you better enter soon.
The rooftop bar was one of my favorite parts about the hotel. The Doubletree by Hilton in Asheville has one of their very own on the 8th floor. You don't even have to leave to catch a good view with good drinks and vibes! The hotel had delicious food, so you don't have to leave for that either. They offer a few different dining options which I appreciated.
I also appreciated how clean the rooms were. I noticed the lobby and breakfast spread stayed clean too! The staff was very helpful. They were kind whenever we were passing through or needed any questions answered. I thought the service was really good at all the restaurants as well. Let me break down the three options for you.
DINING IN THE HOTEL
The Dogwood Cafe
I'm a big breakfast fan! I get really excited when hotels have a nice breakfast spread to indulge in when you wake up. This one passed the test with the fresh fruit, made-to-order omelets, crispy potatoes, and golden brown french toast. They had such a variety that we ate here every morning. It was nice to sit down here for coffee to start the day. The cafe has several nice TVs and mountain art on the wall.
We did not have the chance to eat dinner here, but they offer a menu that includes wings, burgers, flatbreads, and more. I did have the chance try the same club sandwich, fries, and a caesar salad though! They actually offer the same cafe menu options at the lobby bar. It was a simple food order but DELICIOUS.
The Dogwood Bar
I loved how close it was to grab some yummy drinks and food. If you are looking for a great craft brew or handcrafted cocktail during your stay, you can just head downstairs to the lobby bar to indulge in one. It's a casual place to post up and grab a bite to eat without having to leave (or get a reservation in town).
To drink, I got the mule! It was so cold and refreshing. The updated bar area was the spot to chill, chat with the bartender and visitors around. I noticed a few hotel guests stopped here first, then headed upstairs to continue the fun.
The Montford Rooftop
If you want more of a view than the Dogwood Bar, you can take the elevator up to The Montford Rooftop. This bar also has a great cocktail and beer selection. My favorite drink I tried here was the espresso martini. They serve Southern style, small plates when it comes to the eats.
This is the spot for sunset hour! It overlooks the gorgeous mountains and downtown Asheville. It was a breathtaking view from the inside and outside seating areas. Not to mention, it is the place to snap a pic for IG! I can only imagine how pretty it will be this fall, when you can look out at the bright trees changing.
When it comes to dining in Asheville outside of the hotel, I don't even know where to start. I ate so much good food on this trip haha! I have been to several spots worth sharing on my visits to Asheville before that. I decided that I am going to have to share a separate round-up in a reel or blog soon lol. This is one of the best cities around for foodies. Here is a recommendation that immediately comes to mind from my most recent trip.
It's a sweet one! I haven't stopped craving this donut shop since I tried it. In the future, I will be going back to Hole Doughnuts. It was the cutest! The donut flavors were one of a kind. I adored the laid-back atmosphere . There was an area for you to watch them make your order. That is how you know they're freshly made with love! I was just as entertained as all the kids watching them knead, fry and top each one.
Off the top of my head, here are some other popular places to note around downtown!
Curate for Spanish tapas and wine
La Bodega by Curate for espresso and a hazelnut chocolate croissant
Soverign Remedies for fresh cocktails and bites
Capella on 9 for small plates and a city view
Odds Cafe for coffee/tea, smoothies and breakfast bites
Packs Tavern for sandwiches and pizza
Green Sage Cafe for vegan and GF options
Lobster Trap for seafood (and live music some nights)
Biscuit Head for biscuits and brunch
Burial Beer Co and Wicked Weed for brews
This city is full of options so picking where to eat or drink last minute can be tough! There are also a decent amount of hotels to pick from. It can be overwhelming when you are online trying to choose and sort through reviews. After staying here for three nights, I think you should definitely consider this one! We really enjoyed it overall. I felt comfortable and cozy in the room. They have good WiFi and television channels.
Again, the big perk was that we could walk most of the places I had in mind from the hotel. You just can't beat that. It makes grabbing drinks or a quick dessert much easier than having to pay for a ride or find parking. On the days we were heading farther out to eat or explore nature, it was simple to grab the car from the lot. They also have valet parking, which we did a few times.
If you are wanting to book a stay here or look into pricing, here is the link to their website. They offer different views from the rooms and different bed sizes, so it all depends on that. I cannot wait for the two winners to be hosted. The second prize package is actually to another hotel in downtown Asheville. It is the Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville and is currently being renovated.
The plans looks fantastic so keep an eye out for that opening in January 2024. I look forward to sharing more Asheville stops that are worth adding to your list. Stay tuned on my Instagram. I hope everyone has a safe Labor Day tomorrow. As always thank you for reading. It is a dream come true to travel and share with you.
I love this online family. I cannot wait for the next, new season ahead! I think I will start getting out my Autumn decor now that September has arrived. I have so many fall fits to show you too! You can find the details for the outfits I packed on this short and sweet stay on my @shopltk page.
Take care,
Rachel
