5 Things to Do in Asheville This Winter: A Guide for Our Cabin Guests
Winter in Asheville offers a wide range of outdoor activities, local attractions, restaurants, and reliable indoor options. Guests who stay at the Log Cabin Motor Court have the whole of Asheville at their fingertips, so figuring out the best plan for your stay is paramount!
1. Skiing and Snowboarding
Several ski areas sit within a reasonable drive, which gives our guests the flexibility to choose based on difficulty level, terrain, distance and type of experience they want.
Cataloochee Ski Area (Maggie Valley)
This is the closest option. It has beginner friendly slopes, a ski school and equipment rentals on site. Guests often choose Cataloochee because the travel time is manageable and the runs are suitable for families or first time skiers.
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort (Mars Hill)
Wolf Ridge works well for visitors who prefer a quieter environment. The resort features a mix of green, blue and black runs, and it’s a good choice if you want shorter lift lines or a more relaxed day on the mountain.
Sugar Mountain Resort (Banner Elk)
This is the largest resort in the region. It offers more advanced terrain, tubing, ice skating and multiple chairlifts. The variety makes it ideal for guests seeking a full winter sports day with different activities available in one place.
2. Visiting the Biltmore Estate in Winter
Biltmore remains one of the most reliable attractions for winter visitors. The estate operates on a predictable schedule and offers several areas so guests can plan their visit according to time and interest.
The house tour provides access to the main rooms and the extensive servant and service areas. Many visitors spend several hours inside because the route is self paced and the estate's indoor spaces are large. After the tour, Antler Hill Village usually becomes the next stop. It includes shops, exhibits, and the estate winery, which offers tastings without additional charge once admission has been purchased. There are also casual dining options in the village, which makes it easy for guests to combine the outing with lunch or an early dinner.
3. Exploring Asheville’s Restaurant Scene
Winter is a strong season for dining in Asheville. Restaurants run their normal schedules and reservations become easier to secure compared to the busier seasons.
Posana
This restaurant is known for contemporary American dishes that use local ingredients. The environment is polished without being overly formal, which appeals to guests who want a dependable dinner option downtown.
Cúrate
Cúrate continues to be one of the most recognised restaurants in the city. The menu focuses on Spanish tapas, and the consistent quality makes it a frequent choice for visitors celebrating a special occasion or looking for a meal they can count on.
Twisted Laurel
This is a practical option for guests who want a comfortable and approachable menu. It’s suitable for families, larger groups or travellers seeking something uncomplicated after a full day out.
4. Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
Winter Lights is a ticketed evening event that runs through the holiday season. Guests walk through designated outdoor paths where the arboretum installs large scale light displays, themed sections, and music. The event is self guided, and most people spend one to two hours exploring the grounds.
Because Winter Lights is popular, guests benefit from purchasing tickets ahead of time. Parking is straightforward, and the layout works well for families or couples who want an organised seasonal activity. Visitors typically appreciate that the route is easy to navigate and that the event remains consistent from year to year.
For guests staying at Log Cabin Motor Court, Winter Lights provides an evening activity that does not require a long drive or an extensive time commitment.
5. Practical Winter Activities in and Around Asheville
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so guests often look for options that remain reliable regardless of temperature.
Clear days work well for short hikes at lower elevations, visits to the Botanical Gardens at Asheville or scenic drives through town and nearby areas. When the temperature drops or rain moves in, indoor alternatives become more practical. The Asheville Art Museum, local craft galleries, and antique shops downtown provide structured ways to spend a few hours indoors. Breweries and cafés also serve as easy stop offs for guests who want a relaxed setting without needing reservations.
These mixed indoor and outdoor options help visitors build flexible itineraries during their stay.
If you would like a customized itinerary or recommendations based on your travel dates, we are always available to assist.