5 Reasons To Visit the South Slope Neighborhood in Asheville
At the beginning of the 20th century, this area of Asheville was known as Buxton Hill and was the site of several schools. It gradually transformed into a hub of manufacturers, car dealers and repair shops. Coxe Avenue was the first noticeably wider street built with automobiles in mind in the 1920’s. Buxton Hill was demolished in 1926 and the area transformed over the years into the South Slope.
Today, this neighborhood is a wonderful place to wander around and discover a variety of food, drinks, desserts, art, music and more fun things to do. We’ve had our brick and mortar space in the South Slope for one year now and feel lucky to be a part of the transformation of the neighborhood.
1. The Drinks
Nine breweries, two distilleries and a cidery make the South Slope the perfect place to quench your thirst. From sour beers at Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium, to craft cocktails at the opulent Antidote bar, every drink you’re looking for can be found just a few footsteps away. If you’re looking to bring something home as a gift, stop into the Tasty Beverage Company and grab a six-pack of craft beer to go.
2. The Food
With both old standbys and newcomers, the restaurant options in the South Slope continue to grow. Most recently, The High Test Deli & Sweet Shop opened its doors, offering soups, salads, sandwiches at hard to beat prices. Other favorites are Buxton Hall Barbeque (a collaboration of two beloved Asheville chefs and James Beard Award nominees) and Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company– where one of our favorite menu items, the veggie-friendly Sweet Pea Spinach Burger, isn’t even pizza.
3. The Sweets
Vortex Doughnuts, Sunshine Sammies, and the French Broad Chocolate’s newly opened Cookies & Creamery, offering both ice cream and baked goodies, are the highlights of the South Slope for anyone with a sweet tooth. Also, be sure to check out the assorted pies on the dessert menu at Buxton Hall Barbeque, and the over-the-top “frozen ice cream sandwiches” at High-Test Deli and Sweet Shop!
4. The Art
As the home of the Asheville Area Arts Council’s The Refinery Creator Space, ZaPow Art Gallery, and Tracey Morgan Gallery, the South Slope proves that the River Arts District isn’t the only art destination in town. Lexington Glassworks has glass blowing demonstrations and handmade pieces to fit any budget. And if anyone needs proof of the kind of impact art can make, you should check out Open Hearts Arts Center, a local non-profit that supports the creativity of differently-abled adults through classes, exhibits, and sales of their work. While you’re exploring the streets, keep your eyes open for the art surrounding you outside- street art in the neighborhood is diverse and plentiful. In fact, a South Slope “Mural Trail” is in the works!
5. The Fun
From electric bike rentals and tours with The Flying Bike to a hot sauna and cold plunge experience at Bada Batsu, there is something for everyone. If you’re a sports fan, you can catch one of the much-talked-about women’s semi-pro soccer games with Asheville City Soccer Club, or enjoy a baseball game and post-game fireworks with the Asheville Tourists. Nighttime is lively as well! Don’t miss out on Urban Orchard’s free outdoor concerts every 3rd Saturday or Latin music by DJ Malinalli every 1st and 3rd Fridays! Ben’s Tune Up also has regular offerings, so check out their calendar to support some great local music.