Putting this here since it isn’t strictly beer centric. If you are planning to come to Asheville in June 2026, or anytime really. I’d be glad to offer recommendations for things to do in and not far away from Ashvegas.
Just one example, take a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Max speed limit of 45mph. Pull off frequently and enjoy the views. Find waterfalls along the way or take a hike for a few hours.
Glad to recommend breweries or restaurants as well.
I can add to this… Make sure to hike Chimney Rock or take the elevator. There is also a waterfall nearby, maybe a 30-45 min hike around the face of the mountain from Chimney Rock. Well worth it! Also, visit nearby, the town of Black Mountain. There is a small brewery there, can’t remember the name but there is a mural of Roberta Flack on the side of the brewery. Can’t miss it!
The Town of Chimney Rock washed away during Hurricane Helene. The town is still almost all gone and you cannot access it down Hwy 9 since it washed away as well. Hwy 9 will not be back open to the public for 2 or 3 years. You have to come in from Lake Lure and I believe you also must have a reservation for Chimney Rock State Park if you want to visit/hike.
I live in Black Mountain and the brewery with the mural is Black Mountain Brewing. We also have Lookout Brewing Company and Pisgah Brewing Company.
Extending the offer to assist once again for anyone looking for recommendations in the area.
Zebulon Artisan Ales in Weaverville will be opening on Thursday June 18 for those who may want to visit during Homebrew Con.
Full text of post:
“We welcome the National Homebrewers Convention to Asheville this weekend! We are opening up all day on Thursday (1-7) to give attendees a chance to check out Zebulon. We have a bunch of fun beers on tap including the last ever keg of Original IPA (circa 1840), East India Porter (circa 1840) and some rare bottles from the cellar. This is a free event and open to the general public as well.”
Fantastic. I believe most were unaware of the existence of Zebulon earlier today so seeing that turnout for Mike opening on an Thursday was very nice.
Anyone who is in Ashvegas be sure to go to Diatribe Brewing in West Asheville before you head home. It would be a super short Rideshare away if you are downtown. Dave Byer is an Award Winning Pro and Homebrewer as well as a BJCP Master level judge. His beer is not to be missed.
Dave is giving a talk on Saturday at 1pm.
"From NHC to World Beer Cup, Homebrew Style
Speaker: David Byer
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Room: Meeting Room 2
Samples: Yes
Hide session description
Session Description: Learn homebrew inspired and focused techniques that Diatribe Brewing co-owner Dave Byer still uses at his brewery to win medals at competitions like the World Beer Cup and GABF. From breaking from the rules on aging temperatures and yeast techniques to taking pride in brewing inefficiencies and not sweating the hot side, let’s get away from the common talking points to explore ways to make your best beer, worthy of medals on the biggest stages."
If you’re in Ashevegas this morning, Sunday Jun 21, and able to see this they are serving Coffee and Bagels at Diatribe this morning from 10:30 until Noon as well as a free pour of the Dark Rye Lager used for the toast at the Homebrew Con Keynote.
