Everyone in and around Asheville shares a secret. It's the best part of living here, the feeling we share but can't always express. This secret thrill hits you whenever you realize there's a mountain out your window. It comes with a careless glance from a moving car. A look rivets your attention on ridges and peaks that roll like waves across the afternoon sky. The mountains are a big reason why most of us don't ever want to leave.

Surrounded by the majesty and charm of the Blue Ridge Mountains, something in the way Asheville has evolved over the years helps it to maintain its strong heritage but at the same time opens its arms to innovation. Recipient of an All-America City Award in 1997, Asheville has more than lived up to these designations by striving for the best in education, health care, transportation, artistic and recreational opportunities.

Over the years, the renovation of old buildings and careful construction of new ones have maintained a delicate balance. In fact, historic downtown Asheville is a booming central business district; recognized for the finest collection of art deco buildings this side of Miami Beach.

Diverse housing options are an important factor in the quality of life. As Asheville's economy grows, the selection of housing is keeping pace. New developments beyond the city limits complement established neighborhoods surrounding the central business district.

We invite you to continue on our Asheville community tour and you will quickly discover why "Most of the folks who come here don't ever want to leave."