Neon Icon: The Mountaineer Inn
The sign for this motel is something many travelers to Asheville probably remember from their youth, stuck in the back seat of the Ford between Grandma and a hostile sibling. A huge neon hillbilly looms over the motel entrance on Tunnel Road, offering a bit of Southern hospitality to weary tourists.
If you don't mind being sucked into a World War II-era time warp (the hotel was built in 1939 and not much has changed), this is a good budget choice not far from Asheville attractions. It's family-owned, breakfast is included, there's (surprise!) wireless Internet access, and double rooms start at $55.
The Mountaineer Inn —155 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805
828-254-5331, www.mtinnasheville.homestead.com
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