We will be in Asheville Aug. 22 and 23 ( after the eclipse, not during it). Beyond Biltmore what's interesting/worth visiting. We like history, art, architecture, food, etc. Is it worthwhile staying downtown--hotel suggestions welcome.

Joe

Topping this for you; we will be in town in October so interested in the replies you receive.

There are a jillion threads for a search

We enjoyed our stay at the Doubletree - short walk to Biltmore Village for shopping/dining/very short drive to downtown & Biltmore Estate.
Things to do: Rooftop architectural tour of Biltmore Estate is interesting, in addition to the general tours - shop the extremely talented woodworkers, weavers, pottery workers, jewelry makers (ask locals where to find particular shops); we visited the Grove Arcade, among other places - for spectacular views, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping at the Folk Art Center along the way - go on a "BrewsCruise" tour of local breweries (drinks/food at each location) - shop antique stores/visit local small museum/attend the playhouse in the nearby small town of Hendersonville - visit the local Farmer's Markets for unique finds - go ziplining thru the forests - visit "Explore Asheville" for more ideas.