Here are a few suggestions for starters – feel free to ask Lynne or Steve for more specific needs you may have:

The Health Adventure at Pack Place is a discovery museum that focuses on the body – a must for most children. In the same building is the Coburn Rock and Mineral Museum that is well done if you have an interest in geological things.

Parks: There is a nice park with a playground, track and tennis court very nearby off of Merrimon. To get there from the condo, take Patton Avenue to Pack Square and take that left onto Broadway (it is Biltmore to the right). Very shortly that becomes Merrimon after you go under 240. I’m not sure how far it is – maybe a mile?? – but look for the tennis courts on your right if you’re interested in tennis. If not, pass them and look for a restaurant on your right called Luella’s BBQ and turn right past that onto Murdock. You’ll see Weaver Park very soon down on your right. There is also an ice cream store at that intersection called the Hop.

There is a Marble Slab ice cream shop on Biltmore just down the hill from Pack Place – little and big kids (adults) love that place.

There is the Urban Trail in downtown Asheville that might interest older children – you can get a map at the Chamber of Commerce on Montford. It is a walking tour of Asheville with various sculptures and other markers describing some of the history of Asheville.

Wall Street – this is around the corner from the condo – take a left out of the College St. entrance, then a right on Haywood, and a left on Wall St (by the big Iron sculpture). There is a place called Climbmax that has a climbing wall there on your right. There is also a bead shop where you can make necklaces, etc on your right. To the left is a paint your own pottery studio – Fire It Up.

The Asheville Mall and two movie theatres (with 5-6 screens in each) are not far away. To get there take Patton across Biltmore, going straight through dowtown until it turns back into College. Go through the Tunnel and it becomes Tunnel Rd. Keep going until you see the mall on your right. If you turn on the Mall street you’ll see Beaucatcher Cinemas on your left. If you keep going until you pass Lowe’s on your right and cross Swannanoa River Rd., you’ll turn into the next shopping area and Carmike Theaters are at the top of the hill just past the Target.

Biltmore  Estate – spend the better part of the day here. The grounds are beautiful and there is a lot to interest children and adults.

Grove Park Inn: It is fun to just walk through this old hotel and see the photos in the hallways of all the historical figures that spent time here – the Roosevelts, etc.

 HIKING– there are tons of great places to explore up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Go online or look through my books for detailed information, but here are some favorites:

Craggy Garden and Craggy Pinnacle – only about 30-40 minutes away north on the parkway, beautiful picnic spots and relatively easy short hikes up (less than a  mile).

Craggy Gardens Picnic Area - end of trail, about 3/4 mile from lot

Sunset on Black Balsam

Graveyard Fields – probably an hour away – south on the Parkway and well marked. There is a restaurant nearby too at the Pisgah Inn that you would pass. Hiking to the top of Mt. Pisgah is straight up and strenuous and only for kids who like a challenge but the view is great. On your way you’ll see hwy 276 – if you take a left there you’ll see a sign for Sliding Rock – this is lot of fun. Double check those directions but it’s right around there. If you’re researching look for Black Balsam – one of the most beautiful picnic spots ever on a bald ridge. It’s past Graveyard Fields just a little ways but I can’t remember details of how to get to the trail.

Black Balsam, south on the Parkway, one hour away

About an hour north on the Parkway is Mount Mitchell – the tallest peak east of the Missisipi. Trails and a restaurant also and a pretty drive.

Dupont Forest – probably an hour away, near Brevard. You would take 26 towards Hendersonville, right on 280 and left of 276. You’d need to look up specific directions at that point. Three beautiful waterfalls, easy hikes.

Max Patch

Max Patch in November

1 – Ask us to stock the refrigerator for you with basic groceries you may need for your stay. We can add the cost to your credit card plus a 10% fee.

2 – Enjoy the white and red wines that we stock in the Urban Nest, and just leave cash on the counter when you leave, or ask us to charge your card. If you’re staying in the Little Sister, we can offer the same if you tell us what price range and type of wine you’d like to have waiting for you.

3 – Do you need someone to run errands for you while you’re here if you don’t have a car? This service is offered when available, depending on our schedule, but it doesn’t hurt to ask if you need this.

4 – Housekeeping – need someone to come in and tidy up while you’re here and replace your linens? We can do that for a fee of $50.

5 – Would you like to have a hospitality basket upon your arrival with local Bake Hampton brownies, Spinning spider Creamery Goat Cheese, French Broad Chocolate Lounge truffles, locally brewed beer? We like to support the local businesses that we’re proud to have in Asheville, so just ask for this service.

6 – When staying in the Urban Nest, you can order “room service” for dinner from the Lobster Trap – they will bring dinner to your room.

7 – If there is something else you need, just ask!

Last week I was asked: “French Broad Chocolate Lounge vs. Chocolate Fetish?  If I only have the chance to go to one or the other…which one do you recommend?”

Answer: Both! The Chocolate Fetish is a great location to pick up a box of truffles or other yummy top rate chocolates to take home as a gift or enjoy during your time here. The French Broad Chocolate Lounge is THE place for after dinner dessert. They use high quality ingredients, and literally everything I’ve tried there is delicious. I’m partial to their brownies and macaroons, but it’s all good. You can also enjoy a glass of wine and cheese plate for a savory bite. Their atmosphere is nice as well, so it’s a fun place to spend a little time. If you don’t want to spend so much of that time in the line that often leads out the door, you’re better going some time other than dinner-ish hours on the weekend. Another option for the late night chocolate craving is to go by Greenlife Grocery and pick up some Bake Hampton brownies. Try the sour cherry one with cacao nibs – they are sublime.

“Can you recommend a good spot for breakfast or brunch?”

Answer: Absolutely – where to begin. Near the Urban Nest is the Early Girl and Over Easy – both have wonderful homemade and creative menu options with a somewhat southern spin. Brunch on Sundays at Limones is unbeatable. For a healthy, creative meal I suggest Posana (which happens to offer all gluten free menu too, but don’t let that stop you if you could care less about gluten) near Pack Place. If you don’t mind getting in your car, Sunnypoint in W. Asheville is a local favorite, but be prepared to wait – though it ca be worth it.

“What about Indian food?”

We have several good places that serve Indian food downtown. Mela is delicious and has a really nice atmosphere to dine in, and good wine choices as well – don’t miss their lunch buffet either – a great deal. Katmandu on Patton is another great option – and has the same $8.99 lunch buffet option.

“Where is a good place to see live music?”

Asheville has many great places to see bands – many within a few minutes walk of the Urban Nest. One local favorite (and ours) is Jack of the Wood on Patton Avenue. It’s just down the road from the Urban Nest, and you can count on it to have good music (bluegrass, rock, soul, folk or other), a friendly crowd, and a lively atmosphere. The Orange Peel on Biltmore Ave is a great larger venue for bands – check out their chock full schedule of musicians on their website. One of our favorite wine bars, 5 Walnut, has music a few nights/week – it’s Asheville’s version of “Cheers”.

What are your favorite restaurants if you are looking for a special evening out?

We love Curate on Biltmore – it’s fairly new and hit Asheville by storm, so I suggest you get a reservation (or try your luck for a seat at the bar). They have a nice wine selection as well as authentic tapas, or small plates, that have too many yummy dishes to mention (though don’t miss the mushrooms!). Tell Felix that Lynne and Steve sent you. We also love Limones on Eagle Street – great upscale Mexican fare with an eclectic and very creative menu (and fabulous margaritas). Limones also has a wonderful, and affordable, Sunday brunch. I only recently discovered Posana on Biltmore across from Pack Square – this is a good option if you’ve over indulged and need something delicious but lighter and healthy.

If you’re willing to get in your car, we have two more favorites. Rezaz  mediterranean cafe is in Biltmore Village and never disappoints. Also, the Admiral in W. Asheville has gone from neighborhood “dive” to gourmet attraction, despite it’s still humble accomodations. The food, however, is worthy of note for it’s creatively inspired dishes with delicious results. There are so many great restaurants in Asheville, so these are but a few of our personal favorites – feel free to add your own and comment on them on our facebook page so that future guests will hear your opinions!

Mary D., Stayed June/July 2011 for six weeks.

” I was in Asheville for business and stayed at the Little Sister. It was less than 10 min from my meeting off Tunnel Rd.  I did not want to get out of the memory foam bed and enjoyed the view of the rear garden in the morning.  The rain shower head was the perfect start to the day and I will be back for a long weekend of fly-fishing soon (and perhaps cook my catch in the well-appointed kitchen). ”

Will Volker – Denver CO, July 2011

“We loved staying in the Little Sister! It was perfect for the two of us–great location near the Grove Park and also downtown Asheville. It had everything we needed and the most comfortable bed. We know Asheville well and visit often, and we will definitely be back! Thanks for sharing with us! ”
Molly Conti, Raleigh, NC

“Lynne and Steve’s “Little Sister” apartment is perfect for a quiet getaway in a beautiful section of North Asheville. It is super clean, well appointed, with a small, modern kitchen. I loved having my morning coffee on the deck, overlooking their beautiful gardens. Now that I live in Asheville, I will recommend this adorable apartment to my out of town friends.”

Krisen Z, Asheville, NC July 2011

“Lynne and Steve – the Little Sister was a perfect angel! We loved staying here and meeting you”. 

Nancy and Greg, Birmingham, AL  September, 2011

“What a perfect Angel the Little Sister was for us! We had a wonderful stay in your sweet “Hood” – taking a last walk this morning  before we leave – thank you!”

Louise and Ola, October 2011

“We are so glad that we found the Little Sister. It’s a great location that allowed us to do some biking in the area when we weren’t exploring all the other great things that Asheville has to offer (music, breweries, shopping, food, etc.). Thanks for sharing your nest. We hope to stay again.”

Susie and Brian, Decatur , Ga. October 2011

“We are very glad we stumbled upon your lovely space. It was a great home away from home while we explored Asheville – very cozy and comfortable, and we appreciated the laid back atmosphere”. 

Shar and Erika, November 2011

“Lynne and Steve – The Little Sister was a great home away from home – we loved the neighborhood for long walks and its easy access to downtown for dinner and events (xmas jam! and it was only a $10 cab ride home). Thank you for your hospitality!”.

Kim and Nick, December 2011