West Asheville is probably the hottest in-town neighborhood (closely followed by the more traditional with a granola flavor North Asheville).
West Asheville is funky, artsy, locally and environmentally minded, and the very definition of eclectic. The demographic is as diverse as the culture, with a "stroller explosion" population as well as old-timers who have lived in this part of town for 60 years. Young professionals, retired boomers, neo-hippies, artists, artists, artists -- you name it (including this middle-aged DINK) and they live in west Asheville!
What makes West Asheville unique, and what gave rise to its recent boom and popularity, is that it was once a separate town from Asheville proper. Separated by the river and the train tracks, West Asheville grew its own main street in the early 1900s (Haywood Road). This main drag had become a little tired over the years, as had much of the West side. But in the last 15 years it has seen a resurgence of businesses, restaurants, and coffee houses that make it one of the most popular destinations in town. Along with the business boom came a residential influx that led to a real revitalization of the homes in the area. The modest bungalows from the 1920s and 1950s cottages and ranchers now shine with pride of ownership and artsy touches. With lots of neighborhoods within an easy walk to the amenities of Haywood Road and only a short drive or bike ride to the River Arts District, West Asheville is one of the most pedestrian friendly parts of town.
Be prepared, though, West Asheville isn't gentrified by any stretch of the imagination. Our pricey avant guard restaurant, The Admiral, is one of the finest in all of Asheville's amazing culinary scene. Yet it resides in a humble cinder block building that says "dive" more than "gourmet!" Alongside the organic West End Bakery and Sunny Point Cafe are still visages from the past: the furniture store that has been there for 50 years and the used appliance part store with dead fridges on the curb.
Funky and vibrant with a beat all its own, West Asheville is a town within a town. Self-contained but 6 minutes to downtown Asheville, it is humble but proud, historic yet forward thinking, and a great place to call home!
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