With its stunning mountain locale and eclectic mix of art, music, food and heritage that can only be found in the Western Carolinas, Asheville is a year-round magnet for people the world over in search of a one-of-a-kind vacation experience that satisfies all the senses. In addition to be being outdoorsy-types, foodies and history buffs, visitors to the area may often be business executives, talented professionals and investors, among others, which is an ideal audience to experience our economic strengths. As a destination that lives up to its buzzy reputation, tourism investment in the area is able to support all areas of our economy, including workforce attraction, city development and our most innovative industries and ventures. In fact, tourism is the second largest driver of economic growth in the region, behind healthcare. Learn more about the role tourism plays in Asheville’s economic development strategy.