Asheville

Budget travelers might consider the Sweet Peas Hostel (23 Rankin Ave., map) downtown, located above the Lexington Avenue Brewery (see local craft beer). There’s a choice of bunk beds, “private pods”—still bunk-like communal sleeping, but with curtains, lockers, and shelving—or private rooms (with shared bath); prices range from $28 to $60. Amenities include a hostel kitchen, free wifi—and saving a fistful of cash. However, we hear it can get noisy so don’t forget your ear plugs.

A well-liked midrange option is the Hotel Indigo (rooms from $162; 151 Haywood St., map), combining modern design—bright colors, clean lines—and mountain views within walking distance of downtown. There’s a fitness center and a locavore restaurant, 151 Boutique Bar & Kitchen, downstairs (bonus: organic, locally roasted coffee!). Also in this budget range is the Renaissance Asheville (doubles from $159; 31 Woodfin St., map) downtown, a handsome, well-located hotel with a heated indoor pool, an inviting lobby bar (with outdoor patio seating to boot), and (yet another) onsite farm-to-table bistro.

On the B&B front, The Lion & the Rose (276 Montford Ave., map), with five rooms starting at $135, is a popular choice, located in the pretty Montford Historic District and beloved for its beautiful breakfasts and 24-hour “guest pantry.” A bit closer to downtown is 1889 WhiteGate Inn & Cottage (173 E. Chestnut St., map), with 11 guest rooms or suites named for famous poets (from $169), three-course breakfasts, and legendary sprawling gardens (and greenhouse).

For classic Asheville luxury, there’s the 104-room Grand Bohemian Hotel (11 Boston Way, map), located within Biltmore Village and featuring sumptuous Tudor-style décor, antique fixtures, hand-carved wooden furniture, and plenty of taxidermy and antler chandeliers. Rooms start around $209.