Nestled between rocky cliffs and the scenic French Broad River, Downtown Marshall remains one of Western NC’s most beloved hidden gems. Stay with us in the heart of downtown and explore the magic of small-town mountain life just outside your door. Just 20 minutes outside of Asheville and a few miles from unparalleled hiking trails, Pisgah National Forestland, river rafting, Hot Springs and more. Step outside the front door and look to the right to see the historic courthouse designed by Richard Sharpe Smith, who also contributed to the design of the Biltmore Estate. To our left, guests will find unparalleled views of the French Broad River as it flows north to the Tennessee border.

Photograph by Baxter Miller from Our State Mag, “A Storied Stay at the Old Marshall Jail” by Ryan Stancil

An 1000 Year Flood: Hurricane Helene

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene swept through the mountains of North Carolina, leaving a path of devastation behind. Our riverside town was not left unscathed, as 27 feet of flood waters rushed through the streets of our small, riverside community.
In the wake of the storm, our town remained steadfast. Just hours after the waters receded back into the river, the streets were filled with something new: our neighbors, friends, and community - with shovels, hugs, and hope.
Our towns rebuild continues today, brick by brick. As we enter a new phase of recovery, our visitors and their support are integral to helping our small-businesses and local infrastructure thrive once again.
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Exploring Town

The following list was compiled pre-flood, locations that have re-opened on this list are noted with a *.

The town of Marshall is rich in history, arts and scenery. A small Appalachian town dedicated to cultivating a creative community while preserving its roots. Downtown is home to family-owned storefronts, art galleries, unique shops and gift stores, restaurants with local fare, charming smiles and sweet summer gardens. Marshall hosts several popular regional festivities throughout the year, like the Annual Mermaid Parade, Marshall Gras, and monthly Third Thursday crawls.

Dining and Drinking

Zadie’s Market - Our bar and restaurant located on the main level, serving lunch, dinner, and brunch Wednesday-Sunday.

*Zuma Coffee - Favorite local cafe and coffee shop, serving breakfast and lunch with daily specials.

*On your Bike Cafe

Star Diner - Upscale American dining for dinner and brunch, reservations recommended

*Mad Co Brewing - Locally owned brewer, taproom, and pizza kitchen with river views and small bites

Main Street Cafe - Quaint breakfast & lunch cafe with outdoor seating

Mal’s Bar - Casual and cool local bar with beer, wine, and non-alchoholic options, pool table, and live music events

Madison Natural Foods Market - Small local grocer and market with a selection of organic food options, locally grown produce and grab and go options.

Downtown Shops

Penland & Sons
* Flow Arts
Main Street Comics & Games
Modern Off-Grid Store
Madison Natural Foods Market

Outdoors and Adventure

French Broad Adventures - Adventures on the river! French Broad Adventures offers guided rafting trips, kayaks, ziplining, and canyoneering expeditions that will be fun for the whole crew. Book in advance. Old Marshall Jail Hotel guests get 10% off when they book online or over the phone.

Sandy Bottom Trail Rides - Explore the high country on horseback. Sandy Bottom offers guided horseback rides along picturesque trails on a private, family-owned ranch.

Spa & Hot Springs

Spa at Capitola Mill - Luxurious spa & sauna house in downtown Marshall, right across the bridge inside the historic and beautifully renovated Capitola Mill. The Spa offers a range of modalities and services in massage, facials & esthetics, reflexology, and bathhouse sauna sessions.

Hot Springs Resort & Spa - A wonderful way to unwind amidst the beauty of Western NC, book an hour at Hot Springs in one of their outdoor hot tubs supplied with natural mineral water directly from underground springs. Located in Hot Springs, NC - about a 20 minute drive from downtown Marshall.

Hikes & Waterfalls

Laurel River Trail
Rich Mountain Fire Tower
Shelton Laurel Backcountry
Max Patch
Paint Rock
Bailey’s Mountain Preserve