Asheville is known for its creative food scene, celebrated breweries, and artisan spirits. Its cocktail culture is just as vibrant. Enter the Asheville Old Fashioned Trail — a self-guided tasting experience curated by The Restoration Asheville. This trail invites you to explore the city through one iconic drink: the Old Fashioned.
Designed for visitors and locals alike, the trail connects several of downtown’s most loved cocktail bars into one walkable experience. Each stop features a signature take on the classic. Expect everything from bold bourbon-forward pours to aromatic, botanical-inspired twists. Every cocktail highlights the craftsmanship behind Asheville’s thriving mixology scene.
Whether you’re planning a getaway or already exploring downtown Asheville, this is one of the most flavorful ways to experience the city.
What Is the Asheville Old Fashioned Trail?
The Asheville Old Fashioned Trail includes seven curated bar destinations. Guests receive a trail map and stamp card from The Restoration Asheville. From there, they visit each participating venue to sample its featured Old Fashioned.
At every stop, you’ll collect a stamp and enjoy a fresh expression of the cocktail. Think local spirits, house-made syrups, seasonal garnishes, and unique preparation styles. After completing your stamp card, return to The Restoration to redeem your reward.
This experience is flexible and easy to enjoy at your own pace. Complete the trail in one night or stretch it across an entire weekend.
Participating Locations on the Trail
The Asheville Old Fashioned Trail blends The Restoration’s on-property lounges with some of downtown’s most iconic cocktail bars.
At The Restoration Asheville
The Watch Kitchen & Spirits is a welcoming gathering place known for its approachable style and beautifully balanced cocktails — making it the perfect starting point for your trail journey.
The Draftsman Bar & Lounge offers darker, whiskey-forward flavors that speak to lovers of bold expressions and rich finishes.
Local Partner Bars
Beyond The Restoration, the trail expands into the neighborhood with visits to:
Each bar adds its own creative spin on the Old Fashioned. Together, they create a flavorful journey through Asheville’s vibrant cocktail culture.
Why Join the Asheville Old Fashioned Trail?
The Asheville Old Fashioned Trail is more than just a bar crawl. It’s:
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A curated way to explore downtown Asheville
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An engaging way to meet locals and discover hidden favorites
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A perfect pairing with romantic getaways, friends’ weekends, or solo adventures
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One of the most unique things to do in Asheville at night
Instead of wandering without a plan, the trail provides both structure and discovery — helping you experience the city’s cocktail scene like a seasoned local.
Make the Old Fashioned Trail Part of Your Stay
There’s no better home base for your cocktail adventure than The Restoration Asheville. With its ideal downtown location, spacious suites, and multiple on-property bars, our boutique hotel puts you steps away from the full trail experience.
Guests can begin and end the evening without needing rideshares — adding convenience and safety while keeping the evening seamlessly relaxed.
Start planning your Asheville escape today.
Looking for more experiences?
Explore our full lineup of curated local adventures here.
Your Passport to Asheville’s Cocktail Culture
From rich bourbon classics to fragrant botanical remixes, the Asheville Old Fashioned Trail celebrates everything that makes the city’s cocktail scene innovative and unforgettable.
Whether you’re sipping your first Old Fashioned or refining your favorite recipe comparison, this trail delivers the ultimate Asheville cocktail experience — one perfectly crafted glass at a time.
