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Weekend Road Trip: Spartanburg to Asheville

March 20, 2026 5 min read

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the most beloved small cities in the American South — and from Spartanburg, it's just about two hours away. Here's how to plan the perfect weekend road trip.

The Drive

Take I-26 West from Spartanburg and follow it straight into Asheville. The last 30 minutes of the drive are particularly scenic as you ascend into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Windows down, music up.

Where to Eat

Asheville has an incredible food scene. Some highlights:

  • **Tupelo Honey** — Southern comfort food done right
  • **Biscuit Head** — Famous for their massive cat-head biscuits
  • **Buxton Hall BBQ** — Whole-hog BBQ that puts most places to shame
  • **Chai Pani** — Lively Indian street food spot, always worth the wait
  • What to See

  • **Biltmore Estate** — America's largest private home, set on 8,000 acres of mountain estate. Book ahead.
  • **River Arts District** — A converted warehouse district filled with working artist studios, galleries, and great food
  • **Blue Ridge Parkway** — Pull over at any overlook for unforgettable mountain views
  • **Downtown Asheville** — Eclectic shops, street performers, and vibrant nightlife on Lexington Avenue
  • Where to Stay

    Asheville has everything from boutique hotels to cozy B&Bs. The Foundry Hotel and the Windsor Boutique Hotel are both excellent options downtown.

    Tips for the Drive

  • Leave Spartanburg early Friday to beat traffic
  • Fill up before heading into the mountains — gas is pricier up there
  • Bring layers — Asheville runs cooler than Spartanburg, especially at night
  • Book your rental with Modern Rent A Car and hit the road this weekend.