Asheville summer drinks guide: Breweries, rooftop bars, cocktails and mocktails

Summer in Asheville offers friends the chance to gather and enjoy relaxing evenings on patios and at rooftop bars. From beer and cocktails to mocktails, cider and just about every kind of drink in between.

Asheville is well known for craft beer, but the city’s drink scene has grown far beyond breweries. Visitors and locals can find rooftop bars, distilleries, non-alcoholic bottle shops, sober nightlife, botanical drinks, late-night coffee, kava lounges and restaurants with thoughtful zero-proof options.

Use this guide to plan a summer drink outing in Asheville, whether you’re looking for a brewery patio, a mountain-view rooftop, a cocktail before dinner or a night out that does not revolve around alcohol.

Jump to

• Know before you go
• Breweries, patios and beer gardens
• Rooftop bars and scenic views
• Distilleries and craft cocktails
• Sober nightlife and non-alcoholic drink spots
• Where to shop for non-alcoholic drinks

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Know before you go

Check hours before heading out

Summer hours can change, especially around holidays, private events, weather and staffing. Before making plans around a specific bar, brewery, patio or bottle shop, check the business website or social media for current hours.

Make reservations when needed

Many breweries are casual, but rooftop bars, cocktail lounges and restaurants may recommend or require reservations, especially on weekends.

Patios and rooftops are weather-dependent

Afternoon storms are common in Western North Carolina during summer. If a rooftop view or patio table is the whole point of the outing, check the forecast and have a backup plan.

Don’t assume every patio is dog-friendly

Asheville has many dog-friendly patios, but policies vary by business, food service rules and crowd size. If you plan to bring your dog, check first.

Plan a safe ride

If you’re drinking alcohol, decide on transportation before the first round. Use a designated driver, rideshare, taxi or a walkable route.

Non-alcoholic options are part of the scene

Asheville’s non-alcoholic drink options go well beyond soda and water. The city has dedicated sober spaces, alcohol-free bottle shops, kava, tea, elixirs, mocktails and breweries with NA options, making it easier for mixed groups to go out together.

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Breweries, patios and beer gardens

Asheville’s beer scene is one of the city’s biggest draws, and summer is the season when brewery patios and beer gardens shine. Some spots are best for families and big groups. Others are better for beer fans looking for creative releases or a casual stop before dinner.

Asheville Brewing Company

Location: North Asheville and South Slope
Best for: Casual beer, food, movies and an easygoing local brewery stop
Good to know: Check the location before visiting, since offerings vary.

Asheville Brewing Company is a long-running local brewery with a casual feel, food and beer that works well for groups. The brewery has two locations, including its downtown South Slope brewpup and the original North Asheville location that’s a mashup or brewery and dine-in theater.

New Belgium Brewing

Location: River Arts District
Best for: Large patio space, groups and river-area plans
Good to know: Check current food truck, tour and event information before visiting.

New Belgium Brewing is one of Asheville’s most recognizable brewery stops. Its large outdoor space makes it a practical choice for groups, relaxed afternoons and visitors looking for a brewery experience with room to spread out.

It works especially well as part of a River Arts District or greenway outing. Go earlier in the day for a calmer experience, especially on summer weekends.

One World Brewing West

Best for: West Asheville, live music and mixed drink preferences
Good to know: Check the current event calendar before visiting.

One World Brewing West is a neighborhood-style brewery option that can work well for groups looking for live music, beer and a more relaxed atmosphere outside of Downtown.

It is also a useful choice for mixed groups, especially when some people want beer and others are looking for non-alcoholic choices.

River Arts District Brewing Co.

Location: River Arts District
Best for: River Arts District plans, casual beer and art-district exploring
Good to know: Pair it with galleries, food or a greenway walk.

River Arts District Brewing Co. fits naturally into a summer day built around the River Arts District. It is an ideal choice for anyone who wants a brewery stop as part of a wider afternoon of art, food and walking.

Salt Face Mule Brewing Co.

Location: North Asheville
Best for: Beer, food, mini golf, groups and a more entertainment-focused brewery outing
Good to know: A strong option when you want more than a standard taproom stop.

Salt Face Mule Brewing Co. is one of the more distinctive brewery options in the Asheville area because it combines beer, food and entertainment. The brewery describes itself as an “adult playground” and offers a brewpub setting with mini golf, food and drinks.

This is a good summer choice for groups, families, casual dates or visitors who want a brewery stop with something built into the experience beyond sitting at a table.

Wedge Brewing Co.

Location: River Arts District
Best for: River Arts District energy, outdoor seating
Good to know: Check the specific location before visiting.

Wedge Brewing Co. is a long-running Asheville favorite with strong ties to the River Arts District. Wedge has two locations in the River Arts District making it a good summer stop for beer lovers who want outdoor seating and a laid-back local feel.

Wicked Weed Brew Pub

Best for: Downtown visitors, food and creative beer
Good to know: Dog and patio policies can vary by location.

Wicked Weed is one of Asheville’s best-known brewery names and a popular stop for visitors exploring downtown. It works well for groups that want beer, food and a central location. Wicked Weed is a dog-friendly brewery.

Zillicoah Beer Co.

Location: North Asheville, along the French Broad River
Best for: Riverfront brewery atmosphere, outdoor seating
Good to know: A strong choice when you want a brewery visit with river views.

Zillicoah Beer Co. is one of the more scenic brewery stops in the Asheville area, located on Riverside Drive along the French Broad River. Its riverfront setting makes it a strong summer choice if you want a brewery outing that feels connected to the landscape, not just a taproom stop.

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Rooftop bars and scenic views

Asheville’s rooftops are best in the golden hour, when the heat starts to ease and the mountains catch the last light of the day. Rooftop spots are ideal for visitors, date nights, celebrations and anyone who wants a drink with a view. Check current hours, reservation policies and weather updates before going.

Capella on 9

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Rooftop dining, cocktails, tapas and Blue Ridge mountain views
Good to know: Located atop the AC Hotel Asheville Downtown.

Capella on 9 is a rooftop restaurant and bar in downtown Asheville with cocktails, food and mountain views. It works well for groups that want drinks and small plates in one place, especially before or after a downtown event.

Hemingway’s Cuba

Location: Fourth floor of Cambria Downtown Asheville
Best for: Rooftop cocktails, Cuban food and large patio views
Good to know: Reservations are recommended for peak times.

Hemingway’s Cuba is a rooftop restaurant and bar in downtown Asheville with Cuban food, craft cocktails and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views. The rooftop patio gives this spot a strong summer feel, especially for dinner or drinks with a view.

Soprana Rooftop Cucina

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown
Best for: Rooftop pizza, cocktails, wine and mountain views
Good to know: A good option when the group wants both food and drinks.

Soprana Rooftop Cucina sits on top of Embassy Suites in downtown Asheville and serves brick-oven pizza, seasonal fare, craft beer, wine, spritzes and cocktails with Blue Ridge Mountain views.

The Flat Iron Rooftop

Location: The Flat Iron Hotel, Downtown Asheville
Best for: Rooftop cocktails, hotel atmosphere and downtown views
Good to know: The hotel also has a separate Rooftop Caffé, so check which rooftop experience you want before going.

The Flat Iron Hotel has a rooftop bar and a separate Rooftop Caffé. The rooftop bar gives downtown visitors another hotel-based option for drinks with a view

The Montford Rooftop Bar

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Cocktails, sunset views and a more polished rooftop outing
Good to know: Reservations may help during busy summer evenings.

The Montford Rooftop Bar is a downtown Asheville rooftop known for mountain views, cocktails and a more elevated evening atmosphere. It is a good choice for date nights, celebrations or visitors looking for a scenic drink above the city.

The Observatory

Location: The Restoration Hotel, Downtown Asheville
Best for: Botanical cocktails, lounge seating and downtown mountain views
Good to know: Check current hours and reservation options before going.

The Observatory is the rooftop bar at The Restoration Asheville, with cocktails, relaxed lounge seating and views of downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Roof at The Radical

Location: The Radical Hotel, River Arts District
Best for: French Broad River views, cocktails and a River Arts District outing
Good to know: This is not downtown, but it belongs in the guide as a nearby rooftop option.

The Roof at The Radical is the River Arts District’s only rooftop bar, offering sunset views over the French Broad River.

VISUALS rooftop bar at Burial Beer

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Beer, sunset light and South Slope energy
Good to know: Weekends can be crowded.

Burial’s rooftop gives beer fans a summer view without leaving the brewery scene. It is a good option for people who want creative beer, city energy and a place to linger as the day cools down.

Arrive before sunset if the view is part of the plan.

Wildwood Still

Location: Moxy Asheville Downtown
Best for: Whiskey, cocktails, small plates and a downtown rooftop setting
Good to know: A stronger fit for cocktail and whiskey fans than a casual beer stop.

Wildwood Still is a rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar atop the Moxy Asheville hotel on Biltmore Avenue. Wildwood Still offers a rooftop culinary and cocktail experience with whiskey, bourbon, craft cocktails, beer, wine and small plates.

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Distilleries and craft cocktails

Beer may get much of the attention, but Asheville’s summer drink scene also includes local distilleries, craft cocktail bars, whiskey-focused rooms, neighborhood bars and restaurants with strong drink programs. These spots work well for date nights, small groups, or evenings when you want something beyond a brewery patio.

Check current hours, reservations, menus and age policies before heading out. Cocktail menus can change seasonally, and some distilleries may offer tastings, tours or bottle sales only during certain hours.

Antidote at Chemist Spirits

Location: South Slope
Best for: Craft cocktails, gin, apothecary-style atmosphere and date nights
Good to know: Check current hours and age policies before visiting.

Antidote at Chemist Spirits is a cocktail bar connected to Chemist Spirits, with an early-1900s apothecary-inspired setting and a full bar featuring spirits, wine and beer. It is a strong choice for visitors looking for a polished cocktail stop with a distinctive atmosphere.

The Crow & Quill

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Whiskey, craft cocktails, moody atmosphere and late-night drinks
Good to know: A good option when you want a cocktail bar with character.

The Crow & Quill is a downtown Asheville craft cocktail and whiskey bar known for its antique-filled atmosphere and broad spirits selection.

Cultivated Cocktails

Location: Downtown Asheville and South Asheville
Best for: Local spirits, cocktails, tastings and bottle shopping
Good to know: Check which location fits your plans before visiting.

Cultivated Cocktails is a family-owned Asheville distillery and cocktail tavern producing small-batch spirits and serving cocktails made with its own products. It is a good stop for people who want to try local spirits, order a cocktail and possibly take a bottle home.

Eda Rhyne Distilling Co.

Location: Biltmore Village area
Best for: Appalachian-inspired spirits, amaro, fernet and local botanicals
Good to know: Check current tasting room status and hours before visiting.

Eda Rhyne Distilling Co. is known for spirits shaped by Appalachian botanicals and mountain flavor traditions. Its lineup is especially useful for cocktail fans interested in amaro, fernet and spirits that are uniquely Western North Carolina.

The Golden Pineapple

Location: West Asheville
Best for: Neighborhood cocktails, wine, casual drinks and mixed groups
Good to know: A good choice when you want cocktails without a formal lounge feel.

The Golden Pineapple is a West Asheville neighborhood bar, offering everything from a shot and beer to wine and craft cocktails. It works well if you are looking for a relaxed cocktail stop with a neighborhood feel.

Little Jumbo

Location: North Asheville
Best for: Craft cocktails, neighborhood atmosphere and live jazz
Good to know: Check the schedule if live music is part of the plan.

Little Jumbo is a craft cocktail bar in Asheville’s Five Points area, housed in a former 1920s grocery store. The bar emphasizes cocktails and experience, and it also presents live jazz on Monday and Tuesday nights.

Rye Knot

Location: North Asheville
Best for: Pub food, house-made spirits, beer and whiskey fans
Good to know: Better for a full meal and drinks than a quick tasting stop.

Rye Knot is a North Asheville restaurant, brewery and distillery that serves lunch and dinner and produces spirits on site. It is a practical option for groups that want food, beer, cocktails and locally made spirits in one place.

Sovereign Remedies

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Craft cocktails, dinner, late-night food and a polished downtown outing
Good to know: A strong choice when the plan includes both drinks and food.

Sovereign Remedies is a downtown Asheville craft cocktail bar and restaurant known for elevated drinks, late-night food and a warm, eclectic atmosphere. It works well for date nights, dinner with cocktails or a more intentional downtown drink stop.

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Sober nightlife and non-alcoholic drink spots

A summer drink outing in Asheville does not have to center alcohol. The city has a growing mix of alcohol-free spaces, kava lounges, tea bars, late-night coffee shops and restaurants with non-alcoholic drink options.

Some of these spots are fully alcohol-free. Others serve alcohol but offer thoughtful zero-proof choices for mixed groups. Check current hours, menus and event schedules before going, especially for late-night plans.

Elevated Kava Lounge

Location: West Asheville and downtown Asheville
Best for: Kava, coffee, exotic teas, kombucha and a lounge atmosphere
Good to know: A good choice when you want a social setting without alcohol.

Elevated Kava Lounge serves non-alcoholic beverages including kava, coffee, exotic teas, kombucha, kefir soda, craft sodas and herbal teas. The business describes its West Asheville location as a cozy, artistic setting, and also lists a downtown Asheville location.

Haywood Famous

Location: West Asheville
Best for: Cuban coffee, pastries, late-night socializing and an alcohol-free setting
Good to know: An ideal option when you want a night out without a bar environment.

Haywood Famous serves Cuban coffee and pastries in a welcoming alcohol-free environment. It was created in response to a need for late-night, alcohol-free places for connection in Asheville.

High Climate Tea Company

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Specialty tea, quiet conversation and a slower drink outing
Good to know: Check current hours before going.

High Climate Tea Company offers Chinese loose leaf teas and handmade food, with teas personally sourced and imported by the owner. It is a strong option for readers who want a thoughtful drink experience without a bar atmosphere.

Nightshade

Location: South Slope
Best for: Non-alcoholic nightlife, DJ sets, live music and zero-proof drinks
Good to know: A strong fit for readers looking for nightlife energy without alcohol.

Nightshade describes itself as Asheville’s non-alcoholic nightlife destination in the South Slope, with DJs, live shows and immersive events in an alcohol-free environment. It is a good fit for those who want to go out at night without making alcohol the focus.

NØLO

Location: Asheville
Best for: Non-alcoholic beer, wine, spirits and take-home drinks
Good to know: Best for stocking a picnic, rental house, dinner party or home gathering.

NØLO is a non-alcoholic bottle shop founded in Asheville to offer more choice and inclusion in how people socialize. The shop focuses on non-alcoholic products for sober and sober-curious customers.

Sovereign Kava

Location: Downtown Asheville
Best for: Kava, live music, open mic nights and a social alcohol-free setting
Good to know: Kava is not alcohol, but it can have effects. Ask questions before ordering if you are new to it.

Sovereign Kava describes itself as North Carolina’s first kava bar, serving kava, kava cocktails, kombucha and other options in a social environment. Its also hosts regular live music and events.

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Where to shop for non-alcoholic drinks

Sometimes the best summer drink plan is not a bar or restaurant. Asheville has places to browse, buy or enjoy non-alcoholic beer, wine, spirits, mixers, botanical drinks, craft sodas, kombucha and specialty beverages for a picnic, rental house, dinner party or porch night.

Selections, hours and menus can change, so check current information before visiting.

Plant Bar

Location: West Asheville
Best for: Herbal elixirs, botanical drinks, tea and non-alcoholic options
Good to know: A strong option for readers looking for something beyond standard mocktails.

Asheville Dispensary’s elixir bar has evolved into Plant Bar, with a focus on plant-based drinks and the botanicals behind the bar. It is a good fit for readers looking for alcohol-free drinks with an herbal, tea-based or botanical angle.

Devil’s Foot Beverage

Location: Asheville
Best for: Locally made craft sodas, mixers and non-alcoholic beverages
Good to know: Look for cans around town or check the company’s current local availability.

Devil’s Foot Beverage makes non-alcoholic drinks using organic roots and fruits, giving readers a local option for craft sodas and mixers. It is especially useful for stocking a cooler, picnic, rental house or zero-proof cocktail setup.

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Best times to go for summer drinks in Asheville

Golden hour

Late afternoon into early evening is one of the best times for patios and rooftops. The light is better, temperatures are more comfortable and the mountains often look their best.

Weekday afternoons

If you want a calmer experience, try Tuesday through Thursday before the after-work rush. This is especially helpful at popular breweries and downtown rooftops.

Friday and Saturday nights

Weekend nights bring the most energy, but also the largest crowds. Make reservations where possible, arrive early and have a backup plan.

Sunday afternoons

Sunday can be a good balance: active but often less intense than Saturday night. It works well for patios, breweries and low-key meetups.

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