Enjoying the fruits of an exhilarating economic development effort, Asheville is arguably one of the most exciting communities in the southeast today—imagine Austin in the Blue Ridge Mountains. In recent years, Asheville has consistently been named one of the smartest, happiest, and overall best places to live in America by magazines such as Forbes and Travel & Leisure.

So what makes Asheville so special? The eclectic local culture combines the best elements of a resort town, an entrepreneurial hub, and a bohemian artists’ community. Gorgeous mountain views are everywhere, and outdoor enthusiasts have no shortage of nearby trails to explore, whether they’re hiking, biking, or skiing. The city itself offers a huge variety of restaurants, as well as an impressive array of breweries. The music scene has something for every taste as well, with the most popular musical attractions including the Asheville Symphony Orchestra and the weekly downtown drum circle.