The Foundry Hotel Asheville Review: Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury
Tucked away in the heart of downtown Asheville, The Foundry Hotel Asheville blends industrial history with modern luxury in a way few properties can. As a member of the Hilton Curio Collection, it offers both the charm of a boutique hotel and the benefits of Hilton Honors. This stay was part of the same apartment hunting trip that brought us to Kimpton Hotel Arras, and I was excited to compare both properties for anyone planning a visit—or a move—to Asheville, NC.
Booking The Foundry Hotel Asheville with Points
As part of the Hilton Curio Collection, The Foundry Hotel can be booked using Hilton Honors points. Standard award nights typically range between 70,000 to 100,000 points per night, depending on demand and season. I booked a one-night stay in early April for 80,000 points with no resort fees or additional taxes—just the points. This is a solid redemption, especially when cash rates are around $400 per night on the weekends.
Elite members (Gold or Diamond) also receive complimentary breakfast and potential upgrades, which are always nice value-adds at a boutique-style property.
Location: Quiet Corner of Downtown Asheville
The Foundry Hotel Asheville is located on The Block, Asheville’s historic African-American business district. It’s just a 5-minute walk to the heart of downtown but set on a quieter street that feels tucked away from the bustle.
You’re within walking distance of:
Wicked Weed Brewing (4 minutes)
Pack Square Park (6 minutes)
The Orange Peel music venue (4 minutes)
And countless restaurants, cafes, and art galleries
Parking is valet-only at $35 per night. While there is some street parking in the area, it can be hit or miss.
First Impressions & Check-In Experience
From the outside, The Foundry looks like a piece of Asheville’s history—which it is. The building was originally a steel foundry that helped build the Biltmore Estate. The renovation preserved original brickwork and massive steel beams while blending in modern touches and Southern hospitality.
Check-in was seamless. I was greeted by friendly staff who offered local recommendations and upgraded me to a Premium King Room for being a Hilton Diamond member.
The lobby and common spaces feel like a curated blend of industrial-chic meets mountain lodge, with plush seating, exposed brick, and rotating local art displays.
The Room: Rustic and Refined
My Premium King Room was located in one of the original buildings and featured:
Exposed brick walls and steel beams
Oversized windows with blackout curtains
A large king bed with soft linens
A rainfall shower and luxury toiletries
Nespresso machine and minibar
It felt spacious, quiet, and warm. The blend of historical architecture with clean, modern finishes gave the room a unique personality without sacrificing comfort. Wi-Fi was fast, the HVAC worked quietly, and the bed was genuinely comfortable—no backaches here.
One small downside: lighting was a bit dim at night, which matched the mood but made working at the desk slightly tricky.
Dining at The Foundry: Benne on Eagle
The on-site restaurant, Benne on Eagle, offers Appalachian-Soul cuisine and pays homage to the cultural heritage of the neighborhood. It’s not your typical hotel restaurant—it’s a destination in itself.
My partner and I stopped in for breakfast, which was complimentary thanks to my Diamond status. I tried the “Foundry Breakfast” (eggs, grits, toast, and sausage), and it was delicious. Everything was locally sourced and made to order.
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, Benne on Eagle is worth a visit.
Amenities & Property Features
The Foundry Hotel Asheville keeps things simple and elegant. While it doesn’t have a pool or spa, it offers:
A 24/7 fitness center with Peloton bikes
Fire pits in the courtyard with Adirondack chairs
A cozy library/lounge with board games and books
Valet parking
Free Wi-Fi
There’s also a house car available to take you around downtown Asheville within a short radius (first-come, first-served).
This hotel is all about vibe, design, and intimacy—it’s not a resort, but that’s part of the appeal.
Hilton Honors Elite Recognition
As a Diamond member, I received:
A one-category room upgrade
Two free breakfast vouchers at Benne on Eagle
Late checkout offered (though I didn’t use it)
Welcome water bottles and snacks at check-in
Overall, excellent elite recognition—no hoops to jump through.
Final Verdict: Is The Foundry Hotel Asheville Worth It?
If you’re looking for a stylish, upscale stay in Asheville with character and a sense of place, The Foundry Hotel Asheville delivers. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and even small groups who appreciate a boutique experience over a chain feel.
With high nightly rates, redeeming Hilton Honors points here can give you strong value—especially when combined with elite benefits.
Would I stay here again? Absolutely. It combines history, comfort, and location in a way that’s uniquely Asheville.
Pros:
Beautifully restored historic buildings
Walkable downtown location
Great use of Hilton points
Exceptional on-site restaurant
Strong Hilton Honors elite treatment
Cons:
Valet-only parking
Dim room lighting for working
No pool or spa (if that matters to you)
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