Asheville's Flat Iron Hotel Just Got Crowned a Global Gem

Asheville --  Seriously, this is the kind of news that makes you want to high-five strangers on the street! That stunning Flat Iron building downtown, the one that looks like it was plucked right out of a classic movie scene?

Well, it's not just a pretty face anymore – The Flat Iron Hotel has officially been named one of the best new hotels in the entire world by the travel gurus at Travel + Leisure!

Their much-hyped "It List" for 2025 dropped last Wednesday, April 16th, and our very own Flat Iron landed a spot among just 100 hotels globally. Think about that for a second. Out of all the swanky, cool, and brand-new places to stay popping up everywhere, Asheville's Flat Iron made the cut. It's a massive deal and honestly, pretty darn thrilling for our corner of the world.

We've all seen that iconic wedge shape that's been part of the Asheville skyline since way back in the late 1920s. It's got history in its bones. And what the folks behind The Flat Iron Hotel have done is nothing short of magical. They haven't just slapped a fresh coat of paint on it; they've breathed new life into the place, keeping that gorgeous Art Deco soul while layering in all the modern comforts and style you could want. Stepping inside feels like you've stumbled into a really cool, elegant party that also feels completely welcoming. With 71 rooms, it’s got that just-right boutique vibe.

But let's talk about the fun stuff inside! This hotel isn't shy about embracing Asheville's favorite pastime: eating and drinking well. Luminosa, their Italian restaurant on the ground floor, is already getting serious buzz. Imagine wood-fired deliciousness with a distinct local accent – they're really tapping into the flavors of our region in a fresh way. And you absolutely have to hit the rooftop bar. The drinks are fantastic, but the real star? Those jaw-dropping, endless views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, there's a hidden speakeasy, the Red Ribbon Society, for when you're feeling a little adventurous and want a perfectly mixed cocktail in a cool, low-key setting.

What makes The Flat Iron's spot on this list extra sweet is how it connects you to everything we adore about Asheville. Walk out the front door, and you're smack-dab in the middle of downtown. You can wander over to the unique shops, explore the incredible array of independent art galleries (maybe even head down to the River Arts District!), or just soak in the street performance energy that makes our sidewalks so vibrant.

And the food and drink scene? Forget about it. From The Flat Iron, you're perfectly positioned to dive headfirst into "Beer City USA." Hop between breweries, sample incredible cuisine from our ridiculously talented chefs, and discover why Asheville is constantly on everyone's culinary radar.

Let's not forget the mountains that hug our city. Easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway means stunning scenic drives are just minutes away. Chasing waterfalls, hitting a hiking trail with incredible views, or spending a day exploring the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate – it’s all right here, and The Flat Iron makes for a pretty swanky home base.

This recognition by Travel + Leisure isn't just about a building; it feels like a celebration of Asheville itself – our history, our creativity, our resilience. It's a signal to the world that this mountain town with a big heart and an even bigger personality is home to places that stand out on a global scale.

So yeah, we're a little excited. The Flat Iron Hotel isn't just a place to stay anymore; it's a highlight, a destination, and a fantastic reason for folks from everywhere to come experience the magic of Asheville. Go check it out, grab a drink with that view, and feel the pride of having a world-class spot right here at home. It's pretty awesome.

Flat Iron Hotel is located @ 20 Battery Park Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes