ALLISON SCOTT
Currently serving as the Director of Impact and Innovation at the Campaign for Southern Equality (southernequality.org), Allison Scott is an advocate for LGBTQ issues across the Southeast. Her career has included positions in the corporate world as well as working for nonprofit organizations regarding equality for LGBTQ people at the local, state, and national level.
Allison Scott (Photo: Liz Williams)
If you moved from somewhere else, what influenced your decision to move here?
I’m a fifth generation local and have always maintained my permanent home in Asheville.
What are your favorite places to go for a cocktail and/or dinner?
Nine Mile, Salsa’s and La Bodega by Cúrate are some of my long-time favorites. I’ve yet to find anything at these three places I don’t like!
What cultural attractions or events are a must see for visitors?
During September our city hosts the Blue Ridge Pride Festival and it brings in thousands of people to celebrate from the surrounding areas. For live shows, The Orange Peel is home to some of the largest music and comedy acts in the country. Meanwhile, Scandals LGBTQ nightclub has been around for over 35 years and it’s where many of us in the community have visited at least a few times in our lives.
A friend is coming to Asheville for the first time. Please describe the perfect weekend.
I would start with one of the many roof top bars to catch the sunset and enjoy the view of the mountains. The South Slope section of downtown is also not to be missed. It’s full of eclectic and welcoming spaces that regularly hold drag brunches, and it is also known for its craft beer scene, where you can spend most of the night bouncing from venue to venue.
Scandals Nightclub Asheville
What are the best places to truly enjoy the natural beauty of the area?
I suggest going for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and stopping at the overlooks to see Asheville nestled in amongst the surrounding mountains. If you keep heading north for 30 minutes you will get to Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi. Here you will have easy access to hundreds of hiking and biking trails.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Photo: Robert H Ellis)
What is your favorite time of year and why?
I’m a summer baby, so my favorite is in July-August. Tubing down the river with family and friends while listening to music and enjoying snacks is my favorite mini-vacation that only requires an afternoon. Then go eat outside at one of the restaurants downtown while listening to the live music. It’s like going away for a trip without ever leaving home.
What’s one locally made product you would suggest visitors should bring back for their friends or family?
Asheville’s art scene is one of the best anywhere, so I suggest heading down to the River Arts District and picking up something made by a local artist.
Please finish this sentence: Don’t leave Asheville without…
Watching a sunset from The Omni Grove Park Inn.
