We’d start REALLY early… Pour a cup of Cooperative Coffee (meetup with some of our closest friends) and head up the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 404.5. Nothing beats, starting the day with a little quiet time and a perfect sunrise view at Mills River Valley Overlook.

Then, we’d head back down the mountain to trendy, Haywood Road, and sit outside at Sunnypoint Cafe for a Mimosa and the Huevos Rancheros breakfast.

After a full belly and a little liquid courage, we’d head up the street to Provisions Mercantile in the heart of West Asheville to scoop up some local merch, local snacks & drinks for a picnic. With the windows down, and music up, we’d ride out to Bearwallow Mountain Trail. It’s perfection…. A one-mile hike up, perfect panoramic views, and then a quick hike back down.

For lunch, we’d hit 12 Bones BBQ in South Asheville. The BBQ sandwich, collards, and a beer outside on the picnic tables makes it even better.

Now I’d fight every force to not take a nap, and lock-in on maximizing the afternoon. we’d drive downtown and park at the Aloft parking deck. we’d grab one Pernicious at Wicked Weed and stumble our way up the street for a flight at Sparky’s Bardega. Then it’s time to get serious. It’s time for the South Slope.

We’d park near Buxton Avenue and dart over to Burial to grab a beer, hear some music, and get my mind right. If for any crazy reason, I’m hungry, I’d walk over to PIE.ZAA to get one massive slice of pizza. Then we’d just walk the block and hop into any of the amazing spots that make up the South Slope.

We’d walk down to South Slope Cheese and grab a bottle of wine and French Broad Chocolate for a late night treat.

As the sun sets, we’d mosey over to any of our rooftop bars for a spectacular sunset view, and then end up at the Orange Peel or Rabbit Rabbit whichever has the very best music going on that night.

We would officially end the evening with an Old Fashioned cocktail from Antidote. I’d crawl into bed and smile reminiscing on such a beautiful day with great friends in Asheville, NC.

- Matt Wright