Asheville recovering: Explore arts, nature and vibrant food scene

Asheville is making progress in its recovery after Helene, with vibrant attractions and improved transportation ready for visitors as the spring season kicks off.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Six months after Helene wreaked havoc on western North Carolina, Asheville is making a remarkable recovery. During the Live Impact News stream on WCNC+, anchor Jane Monreal spoke with Vic Isley, CEO of Explore Asheville, to discuss the city’s progress and what visitors can look forward to.

Isley shared that Asheville has been steadily recovering since Helene.

“Every day we’re making progress,” Isley said. “While Helene certainly ravaged Asheville and western North Carolina back in September, day by day our community has been making great strides. Downtown Asheville is still stunning and still standing.”

She said the hard-hit River Arts District is recovering, with some artists returning to showcase their work.

Despite the damage, Asheville remains a vibrant destination. With spring now here, some businesses are relying on tourism to pick up.

“Our food scene is thriving, our live music calendar looks amazing all through the summer,” Isley told Monreal.

Visitors can explore over 100 miles of trails in Pisgah National Forest and trails at the North Carolina Arboretum. The Blue Ridge Parkway has also reopened a stretch leading to Graveyard Fields, a popular hiking spot.

Isley reassured potential visitors about the availability of accommodations.

“Our hotels and vacation rentals are open and taking reservations,” she said.

The Grand Bohemian Hotel by the Biltmore Estate, which sustained significant damage, is set to reopen by the end of May. The latest information on reservations can also be found on exploreasheville.com.

Transportation has also improved during the recovery efforts.

“I-26 both ways North and South is fully operational, and has been for months. I-40 from Greensboro reopened very early on, and as of March 1, I-40 from Tennessee to North Carolina has one lane open in both directions,” Isley said, adding the airport has been seeing record arrivals, growth and nonstop service — with seven new gates and a new terminal set to open this summer.

Isley encouraged people to visit Asheville and be part of its recovery in the months to come.

“Come to Asheville, have a great time, be a part of our revival,” she said. “It’ll be the most fun public service you’ll do this summer.”

Download WCNC+ on your on Roku, Amazon Fire TV or Apple TV, and stream the news that impacts you for free.