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Meet in Asheville: A Dynamic Comeback for Meetings & Events

February 26, 2025

Asheville is back—stronger, bolder and ready to welcome meetings and events in 2025. With revitalized historic venues, world-class dining and immersive group experiences, this mountain destination is more inspiring than ever.

Set against the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville’s creative spirit thrives. Groups hosting meetings here not only gain access to exceptional venues and unique team-building experiences but also play a role in supporting the city’s resurgence. The return of conferences, incentives and corporate retreats bolsters the local economy and preserves the artistic culture that defines this one-of-a-kind destination.

Asheville Highlights and Industry Trends:

Airport Expansion: The Asheville Regional Airport’s historic $400 million expansion remains on track, with a portion of its new concourse slated to open in June. Upgrades include new gates, boarding bridges, modern “smart” restrooms and concession areas.
Asheville Selected for James Beard Foundation Chef Action Summit: Asheville has been chosen as the host city for the prestigious James Beard Foundation Chef Action Summit, bringing together several hundred top chefs, food advocates and industry leaders from across the country to champion sustainable food policy.

What’s New in Hotels with Event Space:

The Inn on Biltmore Estate: This spring marks the completion of a 2-year redesign of all guestrooms and corridors at The Inn on Biltmore Estate in collaboration with ROAM Interior Design.
Grand Bohemian to Reopen with New, Inspired Interiors – Following significant flood renovations, the Grand Bohemian Asheville in Biltmore Village is set to reopen this May with new interiors and upgraded event spaces. Renovation projects include a remodel and redesign of the lobby, guestrooms and the property’s renowned restaurant, Red Stag Grill, which features a private dining room, able to accommodate up to 131 guests. The 2,100 sf Kessler Ballroom is the luxury lodge’s largest venue.
Street Art-filled Hotel in the RAD Adds Event Spaces: The “rebel glam” boutique hotel, The Radical, is now accepting bookings for its new event space, Radical Underground. The modern 1,283 sf venue offers top-tier AV capabilities and pairs effortlessly with the hotel’s additional event spaces, Golden Hour and The Roof. The hotel also has a hidden, private bar inside for room blocks.
New Venue for Elegant Receptions Opens Downtown: The Foundry Hotel, in Asheville’s historic Black business district, is adding The Refinery to its selection of meeting and event spaces. The Refinery (capacity: 65-85) offers a sophisticated setting for corporate and social gatherings.

New Venues Inspire Connection and Creativity

Award-Winning Cúrate Bar de Tapas Opens Private Event Space | La Bodega: The James Beard Award-winning restaurant Cúrate is reopening La Bodega as a premier private venue. The upstairs dining room offers an elegant setting for corporate gatherings, rehearsal dinners and speaking engagements (capacity: 90 seated, 125 cocktails).
LGBTQ-Owned Bar & Event Space Finds a New Location | DayTrip: This cafe, bar and gathering space, rebuilt with community support, will open a larger location downtown. DayTrip’s original location in the RAD was flooded, just weeks after opening. Its new, larger space is located near downtown and features exposed brick interiors and mid-century modern furnishings (capacity: 130). Anticipated opening in March 2025
Picturesque Winery Adds Private Event Amenities | Addison Farms Vineyard: This family-owned boutique winery offers a stunning backdrop for receptions and group experiences. Addison Farms offers private tours, tastings and personalized event planning. Venues include an elegant tasting room with vaulted ceilings, a rustic open-air barn or and a private deck.