Nestled in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains region, Asheville is on travelers’ radars thanks to its dynamic downtown area, lively cultural offerings, thriving arts scene, New Age nuances, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Architecture buffs love the town's Art Deco-influenced buildings, as well as the Biltmore Estate. Modeled after a French castle, it ranks as the largest private residence in North America. Shoppers can scoop up fine arts and crafts at local artisan galleries, while nature enthusiasts can foray into the surrounding mountain preserves that burst with colorful wildflowers when spring comes around.