Asheville tourism expected to rebound following Hurricane Helene

CHARLOTTE, NC — Economic optimism is booming in western North Carolina. 

Businesses in Asheville are expecting tourism to fully rebound following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

It’s been six months since the deadly storm ripped through the Western part of the state.

According to  Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Board of Directors, recovery efforts have shown improvements.

Economic analysts are forecasting a rebound this fall driven by travel demand and a potential increase in domestic travel.

Visitor spending is expected to increase 3.5 percent this year followed by a stronger growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2026. 

“It’s really important for us as residents to go out and spend in our community.

Invite our friends and family to come back to our community and spend, and also invite visitors from all over the country to come and support our creative economy,” Explore Asheville CEO Vic Isley said. 

In an effort to boost tourism — one of the hardest hit areas in Asheville, the River Arts District, is hosting an event called “Rad Renaissance” on May 10th.