Although college students typically flock to Asheville in the summertime for Bele Chere, the Southeast's largest street festival, there is something special about mountain towns in the winter.
Less than four hours away from UNC-Chapel Hill, Asheville is one of western North Carolina's most popular tourist destinations, as it boasts endless opportunities for shopping, touring, exploring and enjoying nature.
Dave Jenkins, a junior at UNC-Asheville, said the city has the diversity and the uniqueness to make it distinctive from other towns. "Asheville has all the perks of a big city -- two malls and athletic programs -- with the small-town atmosphere and charm," he said.
Erin Gore, who has lived in
"Leaf season and the holidays are particularly high times for tourists in Asheville," Gore said. "The town does a great job of decorating, and visitors seem to love it."
For outdoor adventurers, Asheville offers easy access to hiking, snow skiing, rafting, canoeing and even a cruise on "America's most scenic drive" -- the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"No matter what you like to do, you can definitely find it nearby," Gore said. "We're so close to ski resorts, the Nantahala River and all the hills and trails you could possibly enjoy."
In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Asheville's charm is visible in the city's rich history.
The United States' largest private home, the Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt's 255-room French Renaissance chateau, is Asheville's most popular destination, with 850,000 visitors annually.
Although Gunther said the winter is the most popular time for visitors, without saving up holiday cash or having a parent's checkbook in tow, the Biltmore house is not a very affordable destination for college students.
One ticket to the Candlelight Christmas tour will set students back $43, a fee that does not include the food and shopping that accompany most visits to the estate.
Luckily, most hotel rates in Asheville are only about $30 per person per night during the cold winter months, leaving students with enough spending money for a fancy dinner and a night on the town.
For those interested in shopping and dining, historic downtown Asheville's specialty shops, galleries and cafes and restaurants give it a European feel.
And Jenkins said the area provides enough entertainment for every student's taste."The hottest nightclub by far is Scandals in the downtown district," he said. "It's 10 times more fun than any other club you've ever visited."
Barley's Taproom, located downtown at 42 Biltmore Ave., is the most popular college bar in Asheville, Jenkins said.
"Barley's is the place to be on the weekends and definitely a must-see for any visitor," Gore said.
Asheville also caters to specific food preferences. The Laughing Seed Caf
