Re-vitalization bordering on greed
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3/27/2016
I've grew up in the Asheville area and visit often. I've watched this place transform from a quaint and sometimes eccentric Southern town to an over-developed tourist hub. Downtown is now carpeted with condo high rises and new hotels which have all but eliminated easy to find parking. Downtown streets have gotten crowded with pedestrian and car traffic especially in summer and fall. On the positive side, Asheville has some great restaurants and if you like craft beer, you'll love walking to one of the many great breweries. Have patience during peak tourist season.
The Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby State and National parks offer plenty of outdoor opportunities but again, plan for company during the Summer and Fall.
Housing in Asheville is expensive and developers are taking advantage of the strong market to build wherever possible, be it on a mountainside or literally in the back yard of houses with larger lots. Again, I think this takes away from once quaint character of this place.
Asheville can still be a charming place but you have to look harder for the road less travelled. Dont forget your wallet :-) If I were planning to move back I would consider some of the smaller cities further out like Sylva, Clyde or Spruce Pine. East TN would also be worth a look.
Franklin | Cary, NC