Western North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Helene is well underway, and now locals and visitors can use a new online tool from local visitors bureau Explore Asheville to check which downtown businesses are open. The interactive tool provides real-time updates on the status of shops, restaurants and attractions, with features that allow users to search by category, hours and location – and even an interactive map.
Explore Asheville’s tool that shows businesses open to visitors
Hurricane Helene brought heavy rains, flooding and power outages, but Asheville’s resilient spirit is evident. While many businesses were temporarily closed for repairs, several have already reopened and are eager to welcome new customers. This is especially great news now that the city has lifted its 53-day boil advisory and declared public water safe to drink (locals are still drinking bottled water out of an abundance of caution, though).
The tool, accessible through the Explore Asheville website, provides essential information for navigating the area. There’s even an interactive map for those who want a visual layout of where flood recovery efforts have had the greatest impact on landmarks.
Biltmore Estate leads recovery with discounts and resilience
An iconic location leading the recovery is the Biltmore Estate, which, despite some disruptions, is operational this holiday season. The estate is open, with restored utilities and accessible roads (except for minor detours near the TN/NC border), and the team says most hotels and restaurants in Asheville are ready to welcome visitors (visit Biltmore’s website for more details). After the storm, the estate offered a special discount to locals, recognizing the importance of community support in difficult times. The estate’s equestrian team also worked tirelessly to ensure the horses’ safety during the storm, a feat highlighted by The Washington Post’s recent story. The Biltmore’s recovery efforts underscore its commitment to supporting locals and tourists alike.
And while we’re on the subject of Asheville’s best attractions, let’s not forget that the luxurious Grove Park Inn reopened earlier this month! Unfortunately, however, the famous gingerbread competition has been canceled this year.
Asheville parks and downtown parking lots return after storm disruptions
As Asheville rebuilds, the city is also taking steps to meet broader recovery needs. A few parks affected by the storm have now reopened (see updates here), giving the community some much-needed green space to breathe, stretch and recharge. Meanwhile, downtown parking rates have been reinstated to manage demand as businesses reopen their doors. For locals and visitors alike, the message is clear: Asheville is open, welcoming and ready to make every visit count.
Just one request: only visit open places and don’t be that person
As Asheville continues to prioritize its restoration efforts, locals and visitors alike should be on their best behavior. Please respect the recovery process and only go to officially opened businesses and attractions. Some places are still suffering from storm damage and cannot yet receive visitors. Showing up outside of advertised business hours or expecting service at closed locations will only add unnecessary stress to a community working hard to recover. However, if you arrive prepared, downtown businesses are ready to help you check off items on your gift list.
Fortunately, Explore Asheville’s tool takes the guesswork out of planning. Check the status of your favorite places and discover new favorites with the Explore Asheville tool, available here.
