What to know
While Asheville continues the recovery process from the effects of Tropical Storm Helene, here are resources to check while you are waiting to attend the 38th National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows at the Grove Park Inn. Listed below are updates from The Grove Park Inn, The City of Asheville, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and available airports into North and South Carolina.
Kate is working hard towards February 2025, where plans for meeting in person for the 38th National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows have not changed and all parties are still in agreement to hold the event.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
We are happy to announce that all areas of the Grove Park Inn are now fully reopened to both daytime and overnight guests. “We are now open to both day and overnight guests. Enjoy upscale dining, shopping for all ages, or a relaxing Spa visit before tucking in for a cozy and festive overnight stay.”
“The community of Asheville is the true definition of resilience. We recognize that many in Asheville still face a long road to recovery, and we are committed to providing support to the town we’ve called home for more than 110 years.” – Managing Director of the Grove Park Inn Gary Froeba
The City of Asheville
As of December 2nd, 2024, nearly all residents of Western North Carolina have water services restored. A number of communities surrounding Asheville, including Lake Lure, are starting to receive water services again.
While many roads have been reopened according to DriveNC.gov, a big concern for some tourists has been traveling the I-40. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced that the new estimate to open two-lane traffic again is now the first week of January. The NCDOT website reported the completion of this project will provide enough space for vehicles to travel at 40 mph on one lane in each direction over a 9-mile stretch of the gorge in Tennessee and North Carolina. This configuration will also provide another contractor enough room to safely complete long-term repairs over the coming years.
Over the course of the last two weeks, many Asheville businesses have reopened downtown in addition to the cities of Weaverville and Black Mountain. South Asheville and the Asheville Regional Airport are open. Biltmore Estate has reopened and is welcoming guests for a holiday season of hope and reconnection.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
- I-26
- U.S. 23
- U.S. 25/U.S. 25A
- U.S. 70
- U.S. 74
Alternate Routes:
Travelers may use the following open routes into the Asheville area and Buncombe County:
- From the northwest: I-81 to U.S. 70 to I-26
- From the southwest: I-85 to U.S. 25 to I-26
- From the south: Take U.S. 74 Alt to U.S. 74 East toward Shelby and connect with I-85 to Charlotte
Detours to Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama and Virginia are listed here.
Nearby Carolina airports
As of November 7th, 2024, all airports are operational. Notably Asheville’s airport continues to serve American, Allegiant, Delta, JetBlue, Suncountry and United flights. It is recommended to check your flight status and the status of your destination hotel or sites before you travel.
The Asheville airport is open and operational with American, Allegiant, Delta and United airlines. Passengers should contact their airline for the most up-to-date information about their specific flight status before coming to the airport and check local sites and hotels in the area before travel. Please use this search tool to find restaurants and businesses open in Asheville.
Supporting the artists of Western North Carolina
For the local artists who need support, you can use the following resources to support the artists of Western North Carolina.
The River Arts District suffered massive devastation following Helene. Whole entire studios and buildings have been decimated and artists have lost their art, their supplies, and their equipment. They are working to restore their area. Use this link to find out how you can donate: https://www.riverartsdistrict.com/donate/
The Southern Highland Craft Guild has cancelled their activities and shows for the safety of their artists until further notice, including the October Guild Show. Click here to donate to their fund.
The National Coalition for Arts Preparedness and Emergency Response: https://support.southarts.org/campaign/596128/donate
Mountain Strong for Business Recovery Fund: The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to stand with our businesses through the launch of the Mountain Strong Fund for Business Recovery. This fund is dedicated to providing direct financial assistance to businesses that need help rebuilding and recovering. Together for WNC. Find out more about donating to the Mountain Strong for Business Recovery Fund HERE.
Blue Ridge Public Radio’s list of organizations to donate to