South Slope
This is Asheville's brewery central. I don't live here, but I've spent plenty of evenings brewery hopping with friends. It's where the craft beer scene really comes alive.
Average 1BR
$1,500-$2,500
Walk Score
72 - Very Walkable
Community Feel
Young & Social
Breweries
15+ in walking distance
My Take on South Slope
South Slope is where Asheville's brewery scene really shines. You've got Green Man, Catawba, Hi-Wire, Burial - all within walking distance. The whole area used to be industrial, and they've done a fantastic job converting those old warehouses into brewery spaces with character.
I come here for evening runs sometimes and always see people out having a good time. Food trucks at every brewery, live music many nights, dogs everywhere (which I love). It's got this great energy - people are friendly, everyone's relaxed, there's always something happening.
The crowd tends to be younger, lots of service industry folks, tourists exploring the brewery scene. But honestly, you see all types here. I've brought clients here to show them Asheville's social scene, and it really captures that laid-back, creative vibe the city is known for.
What Makes South Slope Special
Brewery Paradise
The concentration of breweries here is incredible. Green Man, Catawba, Hi-Wire, Burial - all walkable. Plus cocktail spots like Chemist and Sovereign Remedies. It's perfect for brewery hopping with friends.
Always Something Happening
There's always something going on - live music, trivia nights, special events. Banks Ave hosts drag shows and dance parties. It's one of the most active nightlife areas in Asheville.
Inclusive Scene
Banks Ave bar is here, which is fantastic for the LGBTQ+ community. The breweries are all welcoming - I see Pride flags and inclusive vibes everywhere. It's a comfortable place to be yourself.
Food Truck Paradise
Every brewery has rotating food trucks. You can eat your way around the world without leaving the neighborhood. Pro tip: follow the trucks on Instagram to plan your drinking route.
Things to Know
Weekend Energy
Thursday through Sunday gets pretty lively. Multiple venues with music, lots of people out celebrating. If you're looking for quiet weekend nights, this might not be the best fit.
Brewery Temptation
Living here means breweries are always right there. Some folks love having their favorite spots so close, others find it challenging to their routines or budgets. It's something to consider.
Tourist Season Crowds
Weekends get busy, especially in tourist season. Lots of brewery tours and visitors exploring. The local spots can get pretty packed on Saturdays. Weekday evenings tend to be more chill.
Newer Housing Stock
Most housing here is newer construction - lots of apartment complexes built to capitalize on the brewery scene. The prices reflect the location and newness. Sound insulation varies by building.
Making the Most of South Slope
My Brewery Favorites
- Burial - Amazing experimental beers, great atmosphere, very welcoming
- Green Man - One of Asheville's originals, solid beers, nice patio
- Hi-Wire - Fantastic sours and IPAs, fun vibe
- Catawba - Great for live music, lively atmosphere
- Bhramari - The food here is fantastic, period
Non-Beer Options
- Chemist - Incredible cocktails, really creative menu
- Sovereign Remedies - Upscale cocktails, perfect for dates
- Banks Ave - Great LGBTQ+ bar with fantastic events
- Vortex Doughnuts - Amazing donuts, also in Montford
- PennyCup South Slope - Good coffee spot for the morning after
The Scene
- Drag shows and events at Banks Ave
- Live music at multiple venues
- Trivia nights at various breweries
- Food truck rallies
- Dog-friendly everything (I love this)
Finding a Place Here
From what I've seen showing properties here, South Slope housing is mostly newer construction. Lots of apartment complexes built in the last decade, taking advantage of the brewery district location.
What you'll find:
- New apartment complexes ($1,800-2,500 for 1BR)
- Converted spaces above businesses ($1,500-2,000)
- Condos if you're buying ($400k+)
- The occasional house rental (rare, expensive)
The reality:
- Everything's walkable to breweries (blessing/curse)
- Parking is usually included but tight
- You're paying for location, not quality
- Noise is guaranteed Thursday-Sunday
- Your friends will always want to crash at your place
Tips for Living in South Slope
Find Your Rhythm
- • Pick your favorite spots and become a regular
- • Take advantage of the food trucks
- • Join mug clubs for discounts
- • Know when it's busy vs. quiet times
Best Times to Visit
- • Weekday evenings are more relaxed
- • Happy hours have great deals
- • Sunday afternoons are nice and chill
- • Get to know the staff at your favorites
Practical Stuff
- • Nearest real grocery: Ingles on Biltmore
- • Get good earplugs for sleeping
- • Uber/Lyft always available here
- • Join the mug clubs for discounts
Social Life
- • You'll meet everyone at breweries
- • Industry nights = best nights
- • Dogs are conversation starters
- • Great place to meet new people
South Slope Might Be Right If You...
✓ Love brewery culture and craft beer
✓ Enjoy social, energetic neighborhoods
✓ Walking to nightlife is essential
✓ Want to be in the heart of nightlife
Consider Other Neighborhoods If You...
✗ Prefer quieter residential areas
✗ Need consistent quiet for work
✗ Crowds and tourists stress you out
✗ Are watching your budget closely
My Honest Take on South Slope
South Slope is fantastic for what it is - Asheville's brewery district with incredible energy and nightlife. I love coming here with friends, trying new beers, catching live music. It really showcases Asheville's creative, laid-back culture.
For living, it depends on your lifestyle. If you're social, love being where the action is, and don't mind the weekend energy, it could be perfect. Some of my younger clients absolutely love living here - they're walking distance from their favorite spots and there's always something to do.
The key is knowing yourself. If you need quiet evenings and early bedtimes, look elsewhere. But if you want to be in the heart of Asheville's social scene, with great breweries, food trucks, and an inclusive community vibe, South Slope delivers. Plus, Banks Ave being here makes it a great spot for LGBTQ+ nightlife.