Budget-Friendly Road Trip: Asheville to the Outer Banks

Day 1: Asheville Exploration

Asheville, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Kickstart your trip with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite, known for its Southern-style dishes and fresh ingredients.
Walk or drive to the restaurant.
USD 10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit The Biltmore Estate

Explore the grandeur of America’s largest home, set in beautiful gardens and land, rich with history.
Drive to The Biltmore Estate (10-minute drive).
USD 60, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at White Duck Taco Shop

Enjoy tasty and unique taco options made with local ingredients in a fun atmosphere.
Drive (10 minutes) back downtown.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:15 PM

Wander through Downtown Asheville

Stroll through vibrant streets filled with street performers, art galleries, and local shops.
Walk around downtown.
FREE, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit River Arts District

Explore the artist studios, breweries, and art galleries nested along the French Broad River.
Drive to the district (10-minute drive).
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Buxton Hall Barbecue

Savor authentic whole hog BBQ and southern sides, a true taste of Asheville.
Drive back downtown (10 minutes).
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Hiking & Culture

Asheville, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Moose Café

Indulge in a local favorite breakfast spot featuring farm-to-table ingredients.
10-minute drive or walk.
USD 12, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drive

Take a stunning drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, filled with panoramic mountain views.
Drive to the entrance (15-minute drive).
FREE, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Hiking at Craggy Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing hike and soak in breathtaking scenery of the blooming rhododendrons.
Continue driving on the parkway.
FREE, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Corner Kitchen

Grab a farm-fresh meal in the historic Biltmore Village area after your hike.
Drive back to Biltmore Village (30 minutes).
USD 18, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit the Asheville Art Museum

Engage with impressive collections of 20th and 21st-century American art.
Drive to museum (10 minutes).
USD 15, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Cúrate

Experience authentic Spanish tapas in an inviting atmosphere, perfect to wind down your day.
10-minute walk or drive.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature & Adventure

Hanging Rock State Park, NC

7:30 AM

Check-Out and Breakfast at Biscuit Head

Start your day off with delicious biscuits and gravy at this bustling café before departing.
Drive out (30-minute drive).
USD 12, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Hiking to Hanging Rock

Embark on a scenic hike to the park's namesake, offering stunning views from the summit.
Drive into the park (20 minutes).
USD 10 (parking fee), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Picnic Lunch at the Park

Enjoy a packed lunch under the trees; consider visiting a local grocery store for supplies.
Choose a picnic spot in the park.
USD 10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Waterfalls

Visit the various beautiful waterfalls, such as Moores Creek Waterfall, nearby in the park.
Follow park signage.
FREE, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Check-in to Local Campground

Settle into your accommodation; consider camping to immerse in nature fully.
Drive to campground within the park.
USD 25, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Cook Dinner at Campsite

Prepare a simple meal using a portable stove or plan for an easy cookout.
At the campsite.
USD 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Coastal Adventures

Outer Banks, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Campground

Enjoy a simple breakfast in nature before heading out to the coast.
At the campsite.
USD 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Outer Banks

Travel to the Outer Banks, taking in the scenic drives along the way.
Drive to Outer Banks (2-hour drive).
USD 20 (gas)., 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Bodie Island Lighthouse

Explore this iconic lighthouse and enjoy the history and stunning surroundings.
Drive to lighthouse (30 minutes).
FREE, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at the Black Pelican

Enjoy seafood dishes in a beachfront setting, featuring fresh and local flavors.
Drive to restaurant (10 minutes).
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Outer Banks Beach Time

Relax on the stunning beaches, soaking up the sun and atmosphere of the Outer Banks.
Walk to the nearby beach.
FREE, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Sam & Omie's

Savor local seafood cuisine, a staple of the Outer Banks dining experience.
Short drive to restaurant (10 minutes).
USD 22, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Rich History & Relaxation

Outer Banks, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Ketch 55 Seafood Grill

Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring fresh local ingredients before a day of adventures.
Drive to the restaurant (10 minutes).
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Wright Brothers National Memorial

Discover the birthplace of aviation and walk in the footsteps of history at Kill Devil Hills.
Drive to memorial (15 minutes).
USD 10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Roanoke Island

Immerse yourself in local history and enjoy the beautiful natural parks and waterfront views.
Drive to Roanoke Island (30 minutes).
FREE, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Hungry Pelican

Relax over fresh deli sandwiches and local craft beers at this cozy spot.
Drive to restaurant (15 minutes).
USD 15, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Explore the tallest natural sand dune system on the East Coast, experience the beauty and serenity of the dunes.
Drive to the park (20 minutes).
FREE, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Outer Banks Brewing Station

Savor a farmhouse-inspired dinner with plenty of local beers on tap.
Drive back (30 minutes).
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return Journey

Asheville, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel/campground

Finish your journey with a light breakfast at your accommodation.
At your location.
USD 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive back to Asheville

Take your time driving back to Asheville and enjoy the scenic views during the journey.
Drive back (2.5-hour drive).
USD 20 (gas)., 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at the Grove Arcade

Stop for a culinary delight inside one of Asheville’s historic landmarks.
Drive to the arcade (15 minutes).
USD 20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Asheville Botanical Gardens

Take a leisurely walk through this free botanical garden, perfect for reflection.
Drive to the gardens (10 minutes).
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Final Stop at The River Arts District

End your trip by exploring local artisan shops and studios one last time.
Drive back to the district (10 minutes).
FREE, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at the Bull & Beggar

Celebrate the end of your trip with a special meal at this upscale eatery famous for its local farm-to-table approach.
Drive to the restaurant (10 minutes).
USD 30, 1.5 hours
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