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North Asheville yard sale (Asheville (Beaver Lake))

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North Asheville yard sale - garage & moving sales - yard estate sale...

North Asheville yard sale. 9am - 2pm. 388 Lakeshore drive. Vintage electronics, antique furniture, wall art, tools, camping and water sport items, trolling motor, children’s toys, arts and craft...

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Aberdeen Place Community

Aberdeen Place is located approximately 12 minutes and less than 6 miles from Downtown Asheville with an abundance of restaurants, art galleries, and shopping. We are also located minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, River Arts District, and Biltmore Village. With easy access to I-26, I-40 and stunning long range mountain views as you turn into the community. This is a must see within the city lim...

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Aberdeen Place is a new home community being built in Asheville, NC by D.R. Horton - Asheville. Aberdeen Place is not yet fully built, but you can find all the information about the new community, floor plans and any available move-in ready homes on realtor.com®. Nearly all of the new home communities on our site offer valuable information about community amenities, services, floor plans and move-in ready homes, including property facts such as square footage and number of beds and baths, as well as property status and price range. To know more about this new home community, contact the builder today!

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Asheville Tourists break ground on McCormick Field restoration project

News release from the Asheville Tourists:

The City of Asheville and the Asheville Tourists, the High-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, officially began the McCormick Field Centennial Restoration & Capital Improvements Project today. This 18-month, $38.5 million project aims to bring McCormick Field in line with Minor League Baseball’s Professional Development League standards, enable the stadium to host events year-round, and enhance the overall experience for baseball fans. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at McCormick Field and featured remarks from Brian DeWine, President of the Asheville Tourists; Mayor Esther Manheimer; Vic Isley of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA); Buncombe County Commissioner Amanda Edwards; and Peter Woodfork, Senior Vice President of Major League Baseball (MLB). The featured speakers were joined by dignitaries from the City of Asheville and Buncombe County and representatives from the Houston Astros who played a significant role in initiating this project. The complete renovation is set to be unveiled in conjunction with Opening Day 2026. “Today’s milestone solidifies that Minor League Baseball will be in Asheville for generations to come”, said Brian DeWine, President of Asheville Tourists. “We are grateful to our partners, the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, and, of course, our great community for making this possible,” said Brian DeWine, President of the Asheville Tourists Baseball Club. The renovation project is the largest single construction project ever undertaken by the City of Asheville in terms of dollar value. Four institutions comprised of the City of Asheville, the BCTDA, the Asheville Tourists Baseball Club, and the Buncombe County Government joined forces to create a funding plan for this massive project. The primary funding partner, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, has committed $22,950,000 over 15 years as part of the first project to receive funding through the Product Development Fund’s debt service opportunity. “This new chapter in McCormick Field’s history is significant for the future of baseball in Asheville and Western North Carolina,” said Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimmer. “This state-of-the-art facility will not only continue to be the home of the Asheville Tourists, but it will also host community-oriented events such as concerts, festivals, and family fun, all year round, providing a gathering place for friends and family. I am proud to stand among many in our city and county who worked to bring this project to fruition, and I can’t wait to attend Opening Day 2026.” The City of Asheville chose EwingCole, a nationally renowned architecture, engineering, interior design, and planning firm, through a competitive process to oversee the design efforts which lasted less than one year. “There is a long, rich history of baseball in Asheville. Legendary players like Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jackie Robinson, and Will Stargell have played at McCormick Field, one of the oldest professional ballparks still in use and an important regional asset.  EwingCole is proud to be the Architect and Engineer for this game-changing renovation which will modernize the players’ facilities, offer new fan amenities, and generate new uses beyond baseball. Following our work with the Phillies’ Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia and BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, our portfolio now includes dozens of ballpark renovations including three other South Atlantic League teams – Brooklyn, Wilmington, and Jersey Shore,” said Craig Schmitt, Project Principal for EwingCole. “This experience, coupled with the unique insight and expertise we have gained over the past 5 years as strategic consultant to MLB auditing compliance with the new facility standards for all 120 MiLB ballparks, will ensure that McCormick Field will remain game-ready for the next generation of players and fans.” Frank L. Blum Construction will manage the project as the Construction Manager at Risk. With 100 years of experience as a construction manager in North Carolina, they aim to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget. “Blum Construction could not be more excited to be a part of this transformative project that will not only bring McCormick Field into compliance with new MLB facility standards but also position the venue as a centerpiece of the Asheville community for generations to come,” said Mark Dunnagan, Executive Vice President at Frank L. Blum Construction. Blum has renovated athletic stadiums across North Carolina, including recently bringing Truist Stadium in Winston-Salem into compliance with MLB standards, and we are pleased to bring key insights gained from those projects to the McCormick Field team. We are also excited that the workforce selected for this project will reflect the makeup of the communities that the stadium serves, boasting over 12% participation by Historically Underutilized Businesses.” McCormick Field will continue to host baseball games for the 2025 Asheville Tourists Baseball season, but some areas will be closed due to ongoing construction. The construction project is expected to be finished by the time the season opens in April 2026. For full construction details and updates, please visit our website . McCormick Field attracts 180,000 attendees annually, with an estimated average of 28% of attendees coming from the five-county area surrounding Buncombe County. The city expects annual visitation to double to 376,200 or 109% by 2029 due to enhanced marketing efforts, increased venue activation outside baseball events, and trend comparisons following similar renovation projects. Renderings

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North Carolina basilica receives $750,000 preservation grant from National Park Service

By Daniel Payne

CNA Staff, Aug 29, 2024 / 12:34 pm

A historic minor basilica in Asheville, North Carolina, has received a $750,000 preservation grant from the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve what the government calls a “cultural and traditional landmark” in the southern part of the city. 

NPS said in an August press release that it was awarding a Save America’s Treasures grant to the preservation fund of the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence the Deacon and Martyr in Asheville. The church is located in the Diocese of Charlotte.

Completed in 1909, the Spanish Renaissance building was elevated to minor basilica status in 1993 by Pope John Paul II. It was built by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino and has been described as his “crowning achievement in American building arts.”

The church has been hailed for its architectural and interior beauty, including what is reportedly one of the largest freestanding elliptical domes in North America.

The interior of the dome boasts an extraordinary layering of the architect’s signature “Guastavino tiles,” a form of the ancient Catalan vault.

NPS said the building “faces serious threat” from “water infiltration that has damaged sections of the masonry on the cornice and parapet walls.”

The restoration grant “will address this threat by conducting probes to determine further structural deterioration, performing structural repairs, and rebuilding the brick masonry, including the parapet walls and cornice,” NPS said.

The Christian girl scouting group dedicated to supporting ‘girls who strive for sainthood’ 

“This work ensures [the] structure may continue to preserve its structural engineering integrity and endure as a cultural and traditional landmark of Asheville’s downtown.”

Mary Everist, the president of the board of the basilica’s preservation fund, told CNA that the award is “a very prestigious grant.”

“You have to have a great deal of national significance to receive this grant, and we received the highest amount they award,” she said.

The total amount required to address all the church’s needs runs in the millions of dollars, Everist noted.

“We have about $6.5 million in costs that will be required to just do the bare minimum of repairs to stop the water coming into the building,” she said. The complete renovation estimate, she said, is about $20 million.

The full repairs, she said, “would include restoration of the stained-glass windows and restoration of the interior. We also don’t have any Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant bathrooms on the campus. And we’d make improvements to the rectory, which is also a building of national significance.”

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The church has raised about $3 million of the needed funds, “which is an incredible amount for a very small parish,” she said. “But of course that left a gap.”

“We’ve secured grants for another million,” she said. “And we’re going to be moving forward with a national campaign. We also have donations from family foundations and regular donors. The goal is to be able to do this preservation without saddling the parish with debt.”

Everist said the parish is “very active” and “very diverse.” It holds four Masses per weekend, including one in Spanish. “We have homeless ministries and street ministries,” she said.

The church boasts several chapels as well as a Mary garden and extensive stained-glass windows. 

Guastavino himself is buried in a crypt within the church. The architect died before the church was completed; his son finished the interior of the building after his death.

The Save America’s Treasures program was established in 1998 “to celebrate America’s premier cultural resources in the new millennium,” NPS says on its website .

The program has distributed more than 1,300 grants totaling more than $300 million to numerous projects across the United States, including Catholic churches.

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Explore Appalachia's rich food culture in new mini documentary, restaurant menu

ASHEVILLE - For nearly 25 years, the Southern and Appalachian ingredients and recipes have been at the core of the farm-to-table restaurant, Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar.

This summer, Chef Eric Gabrynowicz is taking diners to where the food traditions began as the host of Tupelo Honey’s new micro-documentary “A Journey Through Appalachia,” now streaming on the restaurant’s website and YouTube channel.

Gabrynowicz, an Asheville resident, said Tupelo Honey is an introduction to Southern and Appalachian cuisine for many diners.  

Tupelo Honey, which opened in downtown Asheville in 2000, is preparing to open its 23rd location and spans markets across the U.S., from the Carolinas to the Midwest to Boise, Idaho.

“We know they’re curious when we come to a new market,” he said. “We know they want what we do, so let’s teach them a little more about ourselves.”

In addition to in-house training, he said restaurant employees may use “A Journey Through Appalachia” as an educational resource to better communicate with dining room guests, farmers, and vendors outside of the Southern region.

Preserving Southern and Appalachian food traditions

Four regional experts led Gabrynowicz on a week-long tour to learn more about the unique ingredients native to the mountainous region, long-practiced preservation and preparation techniques and other culinary traditions of Southern Appalachia.

Gabrynowicz said Erica Abrams Locklear, PhD., a UNC Asheville professor and author of “Appalachia on the Table: Representing Mountain Food and People,” offered guidance and a wealth of knowledge about Appalachian food traditions.

Mary Thomason, a second-generation basket weaver and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, shared lessons about caring for animals and plants and culinary techniques passed down through generations that have shaped those same institutions.

Bill Best, an 88-year-old seed conservationist and founder of the Sustainable Mountain Agriculture Center, Inc. has been preserving beans for nearly 70 years.

Gabrynowicz said Best, nicknamed the “Johnny Appleseed of Appalachia,” has been integral to saving food heritage in Appalachia and is credited for preserving more than 1,500 varieties of heirloom beans.

More than 50 years ago, Allan Benton, the proprietor of Madisonville, Tennessee-based Benton’s Smoky Mountain Country Hams, began curing country hams using a recipe developed in the old smoke log house behind his childhood home.

Benton has earned a high reputation among top chefs like David Chang, Sean Brock and Tom Colicchio.

Gabrynowicz, who has used Benton’s bacon since 2000 when he worked at three-star restaurants in New York, said a reason for the high-quality meat is the care put into the products and the simple heritage preservation method applied.

“The thing I learned more than anything is that people make the food and culture, and that was humbling to me,” Gabrynowicz said. “Learning from Mary Thomason about pre-contact food and what they did to shape Appalachian food. The Indigenous people and Cherokee tribe especially played an integral part in shaping the way that Allan Benton eventually cured his ham and Bill Best eventually saved his beans.”

Tupelo Honey’s new menu features

In addition to its farm-to-table menu of signature fried sorghum black pepper chicken and collard greens, Tupelo Honey has added two limited edition items honoring the Appalachians, the Sorghum Pork Bowl and the Apple-Achian Shine-Tini cocktail.

The Sorghum Pork Bowl begins with pork confit wrapped in Benton’s country ham prosciutto. It's served over stone-ground goat cheese grits with spinach, a bean medley and chopped bacon, and finished with sorghum black pepper glaze, popped sorghum and chives.

“One of the biggest things about Appalachian cuisine outside of the people but in the cooking method is preservation,” he said. “You see that in a bunch of ways in that dish.”

The Apple-Achian Shine-Tini is made with Old Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine with ginger and three-spice syrups, mixed with apple, pineapple, and lemon juices. It’s served with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top.

Through Nov. 30, proceeds from the Sorghum Pork Bowl will support the guest contributors’ organizations ― UNC Asheville Foundation, Southern Foodways Alliance and Sustainable Mountain Agriculture Center.

Gabrynowicz said “A Journey Through Appalachia” is a snippet of Appalachia and that he hopes to take viewers on more journeys.

“We’re growing into a chain restaurant, and I get the way that’s viewed sometimes but the way we handle and approach our restaurant from a culture and an aspect of care has never changed,” Gabrynowicz said. “We (care) about our community and love it when our community interacts with us like they did in this video.”

“A Journey Through Appalachia”

Stream it at tupelohoneycafe.com/journey-through-appalachia/ or on YouTube .

Info: For more, visit tupelohoneycafe.com and follow @tupelohoneycafe on Instagram.

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Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

13 Shaker Court,  Asheville, NC 28805

Single Family

Randi Beard

Premier Sothebys International Realty

Last updated:

August 30, 2024, 01:22 PM

About This Home

Exquisite newer built home in The GROVE at HAW CREEK! Less than 10 minutes to downtown Asheville, Highland Brewery, Whole Foods, shopping and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Grove at Haw Creek is a boutique neighborhood of high-quality craftsman-style homes in a quiet and serene setting tucked away from it all. 13 Shaker Court offers so many opulent features including open floor plan, hardwood floors, stunning gourmet kitchen, solar panels, 3 car garage, professionally landscaped yard, patio & gazebo w/ hot tub, built in gas outdoor fire pit and spacious screened in back porch. PRIMARY on main makes one level living a breeze. The upper level includes 3 beds, 2 full baths and a bonus room filled with light that could easily be a media room, office or playroom. Custom cabinetry throughout and plenty of storage, sealed crawlspace and stamped concrete driveway. Easy living and so close to town in a wonderful East AVL neighborhood!

Built in 2018

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$316 per Sq. Ft.

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3,027 Sq. Ft.

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Top 100 Asheville Area Art Festivals 2024

Enter the omni grove park inn stay & spa giveaway.

If you love art festivals in Asheville and the surrounding small towns in our Blue Ridge Mountains, this is for you! The western North Carolina art scene is booming, and we are consistently voted one of the biggest art destinations in the country. Each year, more artist studio tours, events, and shows appear. Most are free to attend! Plan your next trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains around one of these.

For the best places to find art any day of the year, see our Asheville Gallery Guide or visit the Folk Art Center with rotating exhibitions. Plus, check out the many artist studios in the River Arts District and the top stops on the  Blue Ridge Craft Trails.

Asheville Art & Crafts Events & Festivals Calendar 2024

February 16-18, 2024: Arts & Crafts Antique Show and Conference  For the past nineteen years, Arts and Crafts enthusiasts—including new collectors, curators, authors, builders, designers, and bungalow owners—have traveled to the Blue Ridge Mountains and The Grove Park Inn for this show.  Read more about the Arts and Crafts Conference .

First Fridays: Downtown Asheville Art Walk  (First Friday of Every Month, April-December) Visit 25 galleries, museums, and jewelry studios within a walkable half-mile radius of downtown, 5-8 PM.  See our Asheville Gallery Guide.

April 27, 2024 : Greening Up the Mountains  Annual street festival in Sylva that features music, art, and craft.  Read more about Greening Up the Mountain.

April 27-28, 2024: Weaverville Art Safari Visit 50+ artists in their studios and galleries throughout the small towns of Weaverville and Barnardsville on a self-guided tour. 10 AM-5 PM. Read more about  Weaverville Art Safari.

April 27, 2024: Fire on the Mountain  Held in Downtown  Spruce Pine  from 10 AM-4 PM featuring vendors, live demonstrations, hands-on tent with rotating teachers, and visiting blacksmiths from around the region and country.

May 3, 2024: Art After Dark Galleries stay open late in downtown  Waynesville  with special events, shows, and music. Events happen on the first Friday of the month from May to December.

May 11, 2024: Lake Lure Arts & Crafts Spring Festival See handmade creations from more than 60 artisans from across the region. Free admission. Across from The Beach at Lake Lure, 2771 Memorial Highway.  Go to our Lake Lure Guide .

May 18, 2024: Saluda Arts Festival Outstanding festival with 100% hand-picked regional artists along Saluda's historic Main Street. See a big diversity of art media and enjoy music representing Americana, blues, folk and contemporary. Watch artist demonstrations. Free. 10 AM-4 PM. Read more about  Saluda Arts Festival.

May 25-26: Art on the Greene Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in  Banner Elk . Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. 10 AM-5 PM.

May 25-26, 2024: Garden Jubilee Festival  Shop from more than 200 plant and craft vendors lining Main Street in Hendersonville. Friday-Sunday, 9 AM-5 PM.  Buy plants, lawn and garden accessories, and arts & crafts.  Read more.  

June 8, 15, 22, 2024: Asheville Art in the Park  See and buy fine arts and crafts from dozens of local artists at Pack Square Park in downtown.  Read more about Art in the Park . 

June 2024: Bluff Mountain Festival This free, family-friendly festival in  Hot Springs  features great old-time and bluegrass music, ballads, clogging and square dance, and a silent auction and raffle of regional artwork, local crafts, vacation packages, and more. 10AM-6PM, includes an array of delicious foods, and ends with a square dance until dark. 

June 7-8, 2024: Cherry Bounce Festival Go to Forest City for music, crafts, food trucks and much more.  See our guide .

June 21-22, 2024: Rhododendron Festivals   Celebration of the famous blooms at Roan Mountain with festivals in Bakersville and in Tennessee.  Read more . 

June 2024: Blue Ridge Heritage Weekend Don't miss this craft fair held on the farm grounds of the Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts with artists, crafters, barn exhibits, music, and food trucks!  Go to their website for details.

July 4, 2024 :  See July 4th Festivals . The top pick for art is  Freedom Fest in Bryson City .

July 6-7, 2024: Maggie Valley Summer Arts & Crafts Show  Find 100+ artisans from across the Southeast at the Festival Grounds.  Read more about Maggie Valley .

July 6-7: Art on the Greene Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in  Banner Elk . Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. 10 AM-5 PM.

July 20, 2024:   Front Street Arts & Crafts Show  A variety of artisans come to the artsy village of  Dillsboro , complete with music and food. 10 AM-4 PM.

August 17-18, 2024: Come to Leicester Studio Tour Take a free, self-guided tour to 20+ studios and shops in Leicester, a community nestled in the mountains near Asheville. A detailed tour map will be available at every tour stop. 10 AM-5 PM.  Go to their website.

July 18-21, 2024: Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands  Find the best-juried work by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, with members throughout the mountain regions of nine states. Admission.  Read more about the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands.

July 26-27, 2024: Hillbilly Jam  Several dozen arts and crafts vendors help celebrate mountain country living at this fun festival in Maggie Valley. 10 AM-10 PM. $10/person.  Go to our Hillbilly Jam Guide .

August 2-3, 2024: Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair   The streets of Burnsville are packed for this longtime, highly popular gathering of artists. Quality crafters display hand-made furniture, wrought iron, blown glass, beaded jewelry, locally-made quilts, homemade jams, and jellies.  See our Mt Mitchell Crafts Fair Guide.

August 3-4: Art on the Greene Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in  Banner Elk . Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. 10 AM-5 PM.

August 9-10, 2024: Waldensian Festival  The small town of Valdese near Morganton has a big street festival with plenty of crafts and arts.  Read more about Valdese .

August 10-11, 2024: Sourwood Festival  200 vendors with original art and gifts at this free street festival in downtown  Black Mountain  to celebrate bees and honey.  Read more .

August 30-September 2, 2024: NC Apple Festival Head to downtown Hendersonville for a four-day celebration with a collection of events with plenty of apples, apple treats, art, and entertainment.  See our NC Apple Festival Guide.

Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 2024: Maggie Valley Summer Arts & Crafts Show  Find 100+ artisans from across the Southeast at the Festival Grounds.  Read more about Maggie Valley .

August 31-September 1, 2024: Art on the Greene Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in  Banner Elk . Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. 10 AM-5 PM.

September 2024: Art in Autumn  Fun outdoor arts and crafts festival in Weaverville that includes 100 juried artists, food, and live music. Free admission and parking. Just 7 miles north of downtown Asheville.  Read more about Art in Autumn.

September 28, 2024: Mountain Heritage Day Outdoor festival at Western Carolina University with sights, sounds, and flavors of yesteryear. Appalachian music and 80 booths of regional art and crafts.  Read more about Mountain Heritage.

September 2024: Art on the Island  A fun fair on Blannahassett Island in the French Broad River in  Marshall . 10 AM-5 PM

October 5, 2024: Colorfest   Dillsboro welcomes 40+ demonstrating artists along Front Street—plus many galleries to browse.  Read more about Dillsboro .

October 5, 12, 19, 2024: Asheville Art in the Park  See and buy fine arts and crafts from dozens of local artists at Pack Square Park in downtown.  Read more about Art in the Park . 

October 2024: Hilltop Fall Festival This big street festival in downtown Rutherfordton has a big variety of crafts and art.  See our Rutherfordton Guide.

October 11-13, 2024: Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival  Held on the beautiful Village Green and Commons during peak color, with 100 artisans and merchants with unique handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry, and much more. Live music.  Read about Cashiers .

October 12, 2024: Church Street Art & Craft Show Main Street in  downtown Waynesville  is transformed into an art & craft marketplace for this one-day event; widely known as one of the finest juried art shows in the region. Live mountain music & clogging, entertainment, food. 10 AM-5 PM.

October 12-13, 2024: Spruce Pine Potter's Market  This unique gathering of the region’s greatest potters and clay artists features wonderful food and beautiful handmade pottery at the historic 31 Cross Street Building in downtown  Spruce Pine . 

October 17-20, 2024: LEAF Festival Celebrate music, discover community, and experience culture in a beautiful lakefront setting near  Black Mountain . 5 Stages of Folk & World, Bluegrass, Blues, African, Celtic and jams with headline performers. Handcrafts, folk art, dancing, Poetry SLAM, healing arts workshops, and camping.  See our LEAF Guide.

October 17-20, 2024: Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands  Find the best-juried work by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, with members throughout the mountain regions of nine states. Admission.  Read more about the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands.

October 19, 2024: Apple Harvest Festival  Plenty of crafts, music, and apples in downtown Waynesville, 10 AM-5 PM.  Read about Waynesville .

October 19-20, 2024: Woolly Worm Festival  Race a worm and browse 100+ art and craft vendors in downtown Banner Elk. Admission.  Read more.

Oct. 19-20, 2024: Maggie Valley Fall Arts & Crafts Show  Find 100 artisans and crafters outdoors at the Festival Grounds, 9 AM-4 PM. Free.  Read about Maggie Valley . October 2024: North Carolina Ceramic Arts Festival See ceramic artists from across the country in  Pack Square Park  in downtown Asheville, 10 AM-5 PM.

Also see more events and festivals for Winter , Spring , Summer , Fall and the Holidays .

• Blue Ridge Craft Trails: Explore Art
• Spring Events & Festivals: Asheville & WNC
• Summer Events & Festivals: Asheville & WNC
• Fall Festivals & Events: Asheville & WNC (September-October)
• Winter Outings, Events & Getaways: Asheville & WNC

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River Arts District, Asheville

Art Galleries in Asheville &…

Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

Asheville Area Art Classes &…

Asheville Glass Blowing & Art

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Explore moving, retirement and real estate options in Asheville and Western North Carolina

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Groups of students, adults, and family or friend groups with children are invited to engage with the Museum! Led by a volunteer educator with Museum staff, our inquiry-based, conversational small-group tours and Virtual Visits introduce the Museum’s galleries and challenge visitors to hone their observation skills. Click to learn more about guided and self-guided tours for pre-k-12 grade, adults, and groups.

Touring Experiences

School Group Tours

Groups of 10+ pre-K–12 students are invited to schedule a tour of the Museum’s Collection and/or our special exhibitions. Our inquiry-based Guided G roup T ours, led by volunteer educators or Museum staff, challenge students to hone their observation skills. The Museum also welcomes instructors to guide their students through our galleries independently through Self-Guided Tours .  

GUIDED GROUP TOURS       SELF-GUIDED TOURS

Adult Tours

Groups of 10–50 adults are invited to schedule a guided tour of the Museum’s Collection or one of our special exhibitions. Our inquiry-based group tours, led by volunteer docents or Museum staff, challenge visitors to hone their observation skills. The Museum welcomes instructors to guide their students through our galleries independently.

Virtual Tours

Groups of adults and pre-K–12 students are invited to schedule an interactive Virtual Visit to the Museum! Led by volunteer docents with Museum staff, our inquiry-based, conversational Virtual Visits introduce the Museum’s galleries and challenge visitors to hone their observation skills. Virtual Visits for adults are available Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm. Virtual Visits last 45–50 minutes. All pre-K–12 Virtual Visits make connections to the NC Standard Course of Study .

DISCOVER VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES

Public Tours

Join docents for tours of the Museum’s Collection and special exhibitions. No reservations are required. Free for Museum Members or included with general admission; registration is not required

VIEW UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Tour Themes

Literacy Through Art

Inspired by the Asheville Art Museum’s K-12 outreach program for WNC counties, Literacy Through Art uses language arts to explore the visual arts, making connections to descriptive and narrative writing techniques and parts of speech. Literacy Through Art visits the Museum’s Collection Hall and selected special exhibitions.

Discovering Art in Asheville

This tour focuses on looking at artworks through the lens of the elements of art and principles of design, using visual-arts and museum vocabulary. Discovering Art in Asheville is used as the foundation for facilitating a group discussion; it also includes the Museum’s Permanent Collection of American art of the 20th and 21st centuries, exploring the connection between art and artists of WNC/Southern Appalachia, Black Mountain College, and the US at large. This tour visits the Collection Hall and selected special exhibitions.

More Than Math

This tour uses mathematical concepts to explore visual art, identifying similarities and differences in lines, shapes, and patterns. This tour visits the Collection Hall and selected special exhibitions.

Extended Tour Art Activities (formerly studio add-on)

Extend your tour with a 45-minute hands-on art activity related to the selected tour theme in the Learning and Engagement art studio, led by AAM’s Teaching Artists at no additional charge. (K-12 Grades). This is encouraged for groups of 30 or more students.

VIEW ALL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS   SUBSCRIBE TO OUR ENEWS

Group Tours

Groups of students or adults are invited to schedule a tour of the Museum’s Collection or special exhibitions. Our inquiry-based group visits, led by volunteer docents or Museum staff, challenge visitors to hone their observation skills.

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Location & Hours

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Tours In Asheville NC

Asheville's premier tour of urban art.

July 7, 2024

Hannah Diffenderfer

June 6, 2024

Mimi Rasmussen

May 5, 2024

Katie Rozycki

Traveler555686

April 4, 2024

Sandy Patino

March 3, 2024

Mural Tours In Asheville NC

Join us on a colorful urban art tour through the River Arts District and Downtown with an amazing collection of murals, graffiti, sculpture, and street art installations. You’ll learn about the creators’ stories and inspirations, local history, and the community businesses that have made Asheville a national tourist destination.

We offer scheduled public group tours every Saturday. Private tours are customized for your group and scheduled daily.

Explore our activities

Walls that Speak-Mountain Mural Tour-River Arts and Downtown Asheville

Creativity abounds in Asheville and our artists love to take to the streets. Join us on a colorful urban art tour through the River Arts District and Downtown Asheville with an amazing collection of murals, graffiti, sculpture, and street art installations. You’ll learn about the creators’ stories and inspirations, local history, and the community businesses that have made Asheville a national tourist destination.

Asheville Art Walk: Street Art Gems of Foundy Street in the River Arts District

Asheville Art Walk : A Graffiti and Mural Tour of the River Arts District

Unleash your inner art explorer on Walk the Line, a guided walking tour through the vibrant graffiti scene of Asheville's River Arts District (RAD)!

Immerse yourself in a world of artistic expression as we navigate the dynamic streets of the RAD, uncovering hidden alleys and showcasing large-scale murals. Our expert guide will peel back the layers, deciphering the messages and techniques behind each piece.

Here's what you can expect:

Discover iconic works by renowned Asheville street artists. Learn the history and evolution of Asheville's graffiti scene. Gain insights into the local artists' inspirations and styles. Explore the cultural significance and impact of street art. Uncover hidden gems tucked away in unexpected corners. Capture Instagram-worthy photos of Asheville's most captivating street art.

Asheville Art Walk is perfect for:

Art enthusiasts curious about the world of graffiti. Visitors seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. Anyone who appreciates the vibrancy and raw energy of urban art.

Join us on the Asheville Art Walk and discover the hidden gems of the River Arts District!

Unveiling the Urban Canvas: A Private Asheville Mural Tour

Asheville Mural Unveiling: A Private Tour for Teams, Families & Celebrations

Transform your next team outing, family reunion, or birthday bash into a unique and unforgettable experience with Asheville Mural Unveiling, a private walking tour celebrating the city's vibrant street art scene!

Unleash creativity and spark connection:

Team Building: Our interactive tour fosters collaboration and communication as your group works together to decipher hidden messages and artistic styles within the murals. Family Fun: Engage all ages with a captivating exploration of Asheville's colorful streets. Capture the excitement of discovery and create lasting memories together. Birthday Celebrations: Make your special day even more unique! This private tour offers a personalized touch and a backdrop for amazing photos to commemorate the occasion.

Tailored to your group:

Flexibility: Customize the tour route and pace to suit your group's interests and abilities. Engaging Guide: Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the history and cultural significance of Asheville's murals, keeping everyone entertained and informed. Photo Opportunities: Stop and capture stunning photos in front of the city's most captivating street art.

Asheville Mural Unveiling is the perfect way to:

Bond with colleagues outside the office. Create lasting memories with loved ones. Experience Asheville's artistic pulse in a fun and interactive way.

Make your next gathering truly special with Asheville Mural Unveiling! Contact us today to book your private tour.

Bride Tribe, Ditch the Veil! Unleash Your Inner Artist on Our Bachelorette Beverage & Art Tour!

Description:

Skip the clichés and raise a glass to creativity! Our Asheville Bachelorette Art and Beverage Tour lets you and your besties explore the city's vibrant street art scene while indulging in the local craft beverage culture.

Immerse yourselves in:

A curated street art tour: Uncover hidden art gems and gain insights into the city's artistic soul from your knowledgeable guide. Asheville's booming beverage scene: Sample delicious craft beers, ciders, or wines – all with a backdrop of stunning murals. Sisterhood and laughter: Celebrate your bride-to-be with unforgettable experiences and photo-worthy moments.

What's Included:

Expertly guided street art tour Tastings at multiple breweries, cideries, or wineries (depending on your preference) Insider knowledge on Asheville's art and beverage scene

Ready to toast with your besties?

Book your tour today and let the artistic adventure begin! (Link to booking page)

Optional Add-on: For added convenience, upgrade your experience with pick-up and drop-off directly at your accommodation (fee based on distance).

Gift the Art of Asheville

Purchase a gift card to be redeemed on any offers! A gift card with a value of your choosing! Valid for any of our offerings

Why choose us?

Discover Street Art And Murals In Asheville

Our local guides are knowledgeable and entertaining. We are passionate about sharing the history of our Asheville Community through our eclectic art tours. Our goal is to provide a sightseeing tour that is fun and educational. We are sure to create fun memories when you visit Asheville!

Bus tours featuring the urban art of Asheville are a great way to see the city and learn about its unique art scene.

Educational

These tours are perfect for those who want to learn more about Asheville's history and culture.

Family-Friendly

Bus tours are a great way to explore Asheville with the whole family.

Things to do in Asheville

Every year, over 1.4 million people will come to Asheville to tour George Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate and hear the fascinating history of his French chateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, there is even more, to enjoy in Western North Carolina. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, raft, and fish on the French Broad River. You can also take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the stunning scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on your Asheville trip.

Take a trip through the way back machine and see over 70 vintage pinball and video games at the Asheville Pinball Museum. Craft beer lovers will find a booming craft beer and cider scene to enjoy on your next Asheville adventure. Comfort food is on many of the menus, including old-fashioned specialties like country ham, cornbread, and beans. The culinary scene of Asheville has recently exploded, with a designation as the number one food destination in the US by Travel and Leisure magazine.

Frequently asked questions

How do i purchase tickets.

You can purchase tickets in 2 ways. Online through our website or by calling (828) 484-1684

How far in advance do we need to book?

You will have a calendar of dates to choose from and can book in advance (or day of) if seats are available. We recommend larger parties book a few weeks ahead. Private and Street Art And Sips tours need to be booked at least 3 days ahead.

Can I sit where I want on the bus?

Yes, but seating is on a first come first serve basis. Every seat has a window view.

Someone has symptoms of COVID can I get a refund?

If you or someone in your party is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, please call our office as soon as possible for a refund or to reschedule.

Is the tour appropriate for all ages. Are babies allowed?

The tour is safe for children of all ages. Children under 4″9 must have an appropriate car seat.

The bus is wheel chair accessible

We have a wheelchair lift and can accommodate one wheelchair per tour.

Can I bring dogs on the bus?

Small dogs (lap dogs) under 20 pounds are welcome on the bus. Dogs over 20 lbs are allowed on the tour with prior permission, and the dog must have a ticket purchased and will be required to sit in a seat with their owner, not blocking the aisles.

Is the bus air conditioned and heated?

Yes, the bus is both heated and air-conditioned and is comfortable every month of the year.

Do the tours run in inclement weather?

Our tours run rain or shine! However, we will cancel the tour if we deem it unsafe to be out on the roads. If we do cancel, we will let you know at least 1 hour prior to the start time. When booking your reservation, please provide us with a number that you could be reached prior to the start of your tour.

Where do we park?

Free parking is available on Foundy Street near the Hands mural.

ART IN ASHEVILLE

Asheville’s Must-See Mural at the Grail: Movie Magic Meets Mountain Street Art

A Passion for Film Gives Birth to One of Asheville's Hidden Gems When the Grail Moviehouse opened in downtown Asheville, owners Davida and Steve Horwitz wanted to incorporate local art into the theater's interior. They commissioned Asheville artist Gus Cutty…

American Cavas: Well-known murals in the United States

Murals in the United States are a vibrant reflection of culture, history, and creativity. From the bustling streets of New York City to the artistic alleys of San Francisco, the country boasts an array of breathtaking murals that captivate viewers.…

North Carolina Murals

The Charlotte art scene is massive and vibrant, and the city is packed with numerous murals and sculptures. There are many resources for self-guided tours including  The Axios Definitive guide to 70+ Street Murals Mapped and Uptown Charlotte Mural Tour-Clio…

See the world from a new perspective .

Your Guide to the Locally Loved

The 15 Fun and Unique Tours in Asheville, NC

I love taking tours when I travel, and I take tours at home when I’m not traveling! Joining tours to explore where you live is like having a special date with a loved one to connect deeper and feel more appreciation each time. 

I consider myself an independent traveler, but I always include a dose of locally operated tours and experiences offered by locals to further explore whatever excites me the most about the destination. 

Asheville is a small city with a population of less than 100,000 – but it has a lot to offer! From its architectural gems and exciting farm-to-table food movement and beer scene to its epic outdoors and talented artists, there is something for everyone here. Asheville is also full of projects, nonprofits, and businesses that form a support network for our underserved communities. 

I’ve compiled a list of tours that reflect all aspects of Asheville’s identity. You’ll see options to explore our city’s history, outdoors , street art, food and beer scene , art shops, and our most famous buildings: The Biltmore House and the Omni Grove Park Inn. But no matter which type of tour you choose, you’re bound to walk away with a deeper understanding of this great city! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Fun and Unique Tours in Asheville, NC

Disclaimer : This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Best Tours in Asheville, NC

1. get to know asheville’s landmarks by taking its most iconic tour.

The purple buses of LaZoom Comedy Tours represent one of the best tours in Asheville and are a city landmark. The first thing I saw when I first visited Asheville from Argentina, looking for a new cool place to live in the United States, was a guy dressed as a nun, riding a bike, and angrily screaming at a purple bus. I instantly knew this was the place for our family to move next. My kids had to grow up near Sister Bad Habit!

These “historical and hysterical” multi-award-winning tours mix comedy, history, and partying on purple buses guided by eccentric characters. The locally owned and operated tour company was founded by two street performers 16 years ago and now offers four tours. 

“Hey Asheville” is a city tour and vaudeville on wheels. “Fender Bender” mixes live music on the bus and beer tasting, making an original, fun Asheville brewery tour. “Ghosted” offers a haunted comedy tour, and “Lil Boogers” is their kid-friendly option (the others have age limits, so please check ahead of time). All the tours are dog friendly!

2. See Asheville’s Top Attractions on the Gray Line Asheville Trolley

The Gray Line Asheville Trolley tour is one of the most popular Asheville tours, and for a good reason. It offers an excellent, award-winning Hop-On Hop-Off Tour that the Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County has endorsed. 

Visitors can listen to the live narration and get off the bus at one of the 10 stops (or all of them!) along the 15-mile route to experience Asheville’s breweries, shops, and the urban scene. Also, tickets are valid for two consecutive days!

This locally owned and operated business also offers a fun ghost tour, covering some of our most famous specters (we have plenty!), including the friendly Tim Burton-like ghost of the Pink Lady of the Grove Park Inn and the mystery of the Nazi agents based in Asheville.

The seasonal Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour includes live music and Christmas caroling while driving past festive holiday decorations in downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village, and the Montford and Grove Park neighborhoods.

3. Explore Downtown on an Asheville Walking Tour 

This self-guided Urban Trail Tour is a free audio tour offered by the City of Asheville and is a great way to get to know the city’s history at your own pace. It starts at Pack Place Park and follows 30 stations marked by cool sculptures. 

AVL Free Walking Tours offers a tip-based Asheville walking tour that ends with a free scoop of ice cream at The Hop . Their haunted tour (not free) starts at the Riverside Cemetery in the historic district of Montford and goes all the way downtown. It’s the only ghost tour that covers this super interesting cemetery.

The Asheville Coffee Tour features six of Asheville’s best coffee and tea shops. It includes short stops at Asheville’s landmarks and lots of caffeine! 

The Asheville Music History Walking Tour explores downtown through the stories of Asheville’s eclectic past and present music scene. It covers the Moogseum (which offers its own tour) and the famous venue The Orange Peel , among other local icons.

Did you know that the Jackson Building, the Battery Park Hotel, and a famous restaurant host ghosts? Last Halloween, my kids and I took the Haunted Asheville Ghost Tour , one of the best Asheville walking tours, and we enjoyed getting a glimpse of the city’s past through these dark stories. 

4. Explore Downtown and Its Surroundings on Wheels

Winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Award, the Tukit Tour Co offers guided tours around downtown on environmentally-friendly, open-air six-seater electric tuk-tuks decorated with LED-lights and equipped with Bluetooth speakers and heated seats. They offer ready-to-go tours and private customized tours. 

The Flying Bike provides electric bike tours around town. The Winter Warm Up E-Bike Tour is perfect for chilly days, and it includes stops at two local restaurants, hot cocoa, apple cider, and a visit to the historic Omni Grove Park Inn. 

Asheville Adventure Company features a scenic Asheville e-bike sunset tour, perfect for photos all year round but especially in the fall. The e-bike tours are kid-friendly if you’re traveling with kids. 

I’ve never taken a Segway tour, but I might because every time I see the Segway riders around my neighborhood, they look so content and relaxed. Moving Sidewalk Segway Tours offers a tour that covers downtown and other areas, like Montford and the greenways in North Asheville. The tour is 10 and up, and training is included! 

Book a stay at The Omni Grove Park Inn

5. Tour Downtown Asheville while Drinking and Pedaling on an Amazing Pubcycle

Amazing Pubcycle is one of the most trendy Asheville tours. The pedal-powered (motor-assisted) trolleys and their festive, laughing riders are becoming a happy downtown landmark. 

The company offers different tours perfect for parties and celebrations, including fun bachelorette parties, but you can also book individual seats. Guests will bring their own and serve their own beer, wine, cider, or seltzer and drink it on a 15-person pedal trolley driven by a certified, funny, and charismatic tour guide. 

Clients are welcome to wear costumes and bring decorations to customize their ride, so you can imagine what a fun sight these bikes are. The most popular offer is the Pub Tour in downtown Asheville which stops at one of Asheville’s best pubs. 

Also, they’re now offering a Trivia Tour on wheels! Riders have to be older than 12. There are 10 pedal seats and room for five non-pedalers. Yes, you do have to pedal, so enjoy your drink and your workout!

6. Embark on an Asheville Scavenger Hunt Tour

This is a fantastic plan for co-workers, friends, or family! Asheville Detours offers personalized team adventures that will bring you around downtown. You’ll follow clues like solving riddles and unscrambling letters while enjoying tasty treats and drinks and participating in fun group activities introducing you to some favorite local businesses. 

Asheville Detours has four offerings, and they can all be customized according to your preferences: The Bachelorette Tour, the Authentic Asheville Detour, the Family Fun Detour, and the Team Building Detour. Each hunt is self-guided and lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

Some stops and treats include eating donuts at the beloved Stay Glazed, tasting honey at Asheville Bee Charmer, group crafting at Fired Up, beer and chocolate tastings, and a champagne toast and private tour at Momentum Gallery.

Also, are you looking for the perfect, most unique Asheville gift? They offer “Authentic Asheville” gift boxes featuring local products, an excellent way to keep spreading the love for local businesses!

7. Learn about Asheville’s African American Residents with this Award-Winning Tour

Hood Huggers International’s mission is to “rebuild Affrilachia through art, environment, and social enterprise.” Affrilachia is a term coined by Frank X Walker referring to African Americans living in Appalachia. 

In this context, Hood Huggers offers walking and driving tours that take visitors through the past and the present of African Americans in Asheville. This initiative won TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award.

Two walking tours cover Eagle Street in downtown Asheville and Burton Street in West Asheville, and the driving tour begins downtown and visits different neighborhoods throughout the city. These Asheville tours cover the history of these communities, current projects, and visions for the future. They are aimed at visitors and locals alike. 

If you take these tours, you’ll learn about the history of Asheville, but you’ll also be supporting the economic development of Asheville’s African American communities and businesses. A portion of all proceeds through Hood Huggers International are reinvested in the community.

8. Get a Sugar High at French Broad Chocolate Company

French Broad Chocolate is one of Asheville’s favorite chocolate shops. Locals and visitors love stopping by the iconic blue building of the French Broad Chocolate Lounge in Pack Square and getting something sweet, from housemade bonbons and ice cream to cookies, cakes, and brownies, and a delicious selection of drinking chocolates.

All of the chocolate is made in their chocolate factory, and they offer a fantastic Bean to Bars Chocolate Factory Tour that covers an introduction to a cocoa farm, the company’s story, and an overview of the process of transforming cocoa beans into a chocolate bar. In addition, there are tastings of cacao in its different forms, including, of course, bonbons! 

French Broad Chocolate also offers tastings, so please check their calendar to see if you can catch one of them. This is an excellent tour for kids. I did it with mine years ago. Children under 7 don’t have to pay for a ticket.

9. Explore the River’s Arts District’s Shops and Art Galleries

There are about 200 studios in the 23 former industrial buildings along this one-mile stretch of the French Broad River called the River’s Arts District (RAD). There are different ways to explore this area, which is also home to excellent restaurants, cafés, and breweries. 

Each Saturday, Mountain Mural Tours offers a popular street art tour that departs from the River’s Art District but also includes downtown and West Asheville. You’ll learn about Asheville’s history while seeing some fantastic local art. Your Instagram account will thank you for that photo of a gigantic Dolly Parton!

Flying Bike Tours ‘ West Asheville River Arts District E-Bike Tour stops at some landmarks, including The Marquee, a design center where you’ll find pieces of art of all kinds, and The Peace Garden, an eclectic, beautiful community garden decorated with works from local artists using repurposed materials.

You’ll also love the free, tip-based walking tour offered by AVL Free Walking Tours and the concept of their photo stroll in the RAD, where you’ll relax while someone else takes care of the pictures in one of Asheville’s most photogenic neighborhoods. 

On the second Saturday of the month , there are special events in the RAD and a free trolley to tour the shops.

10.  Splash Around in One of the Four Oldest Rivers In the World

Some of the best things to do while in Asheville are to spend time outdoors, hike, enjoy the views, and play in the water. Did you know that Asheville’s French Broad River is among the four oldest rivers in the world? 

French Broad Outfitters offers a variety of fun French Broad River floating and kayaking experiences. You’ll love to see Asheville from a different perspective on a warm day and join locals in one of the most beloved Asheville summer activities. They also offer an e-bike Asheville breweries tour and SUP yoga classes.  

Asheville Adventure Company organizes guided whitewater French Broad rafting trips that are family-friendly. Wai Maina Asheville SUP Tours provides stand-up paddleboard tours and experiences that the entire family will love.

Zen Tubing will set you up with everything you’ll need to enjoy your lazy river float along the French Broad River like dozens of locals do on warm days. Of course, you’ll need to bring your bathing suit and sunglasses!

11. Take a Photo Tour to Polish Your Photography Skills (or Get Professional Shots)

Asheville Urban Arts Photo Tours offers professional shots in some of the most beautiful urban settings, including Asheville’s cool murals. There are three tours: Downtown Urban Vibe, the River Arts Tour, and the West Asheville Tour. 

The promise is to take you to “the most Insta-worthy art spots in Asheville.” You’ll receive a full gallery of ready-to-post photos in five days!

WNC Photo Tours provides private photography tours and workshops at the most scenic locations. You’ll learn how to take better photos with your camera or smartphone. Some of their options include photographing elks, a fall color tour, and one-on-one post-procession sessions. They also offer professional photo sessions.

Asheville Photo Tours ‘ excellent offerings cover vistas and waterfalls, private tours customized to your desires, and photographing the fall colors in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you loved your photo tour so much you want to keep learning, they also offer private coaching sessions to work with you to develop your skills and online photo critiques.

12. Walk, Ride, Kayak, or Float to Asheville’s Best Breweries

Asheville (aka Beer City , USA) has more breweries per capita than any other city in the United States. With an average of 28.1 breweries per 100,000 residents and 100 local beers, it’s no wonder this city is a paradise for beer lovers worldwide.

Recognized by National Geographic and TripAdvisor, BREW-ed’s Brewery Tours offers one of the best Asheville brewery tours. These informative, educational walking tours are guided by Cicerone-certified guides. 

These beer experts will take you to some of the best downtown breweries where, besides tasting the local crafts, you’ll learn about the process of making beer and how Asheville’s beer culture has evolved over the years.

Asheville Brews Cruise is Asheville’s original, 16-year-old brewery tour and promises “an ample amount of beer” in its walking and mobile tours. All tours are knowledge-based and include visits to three or four Asheville breweries, tasting samples, lots of information, and fun guides. 

Asheville Adventure Company offers an  E-Bike Brewery Crawl  that combines visits to the most popular breweries, cruising through Asheville’s neighborhoods, and checking out the city’s landmarks. If you are a “go with the flow” type of traveler,  Cedar Rock Adventures ’ Floating Bar Crawl Tour is your best bet!

13.  Eat Your Way through Asheville’s Famous Farm-to-Table Food Scene

Wherever you come from, I’m sure that exploring this city’s food culture is one of the top things on your Asheville to-do list. These tours will make it easier for you to discover the best local experiences. Enjoy!

Asheville Food Tours is the original walking food tour of downtown Asheville, and it covers an impressive list of restaurant partners. A popular tour is The Food Fan, guided by local food influencer Stu Helm and showcasing his favorite restaurants. The Food Fan’s passion for Asheville’s culinary scene is infectious!

Imagine yourself strolling around the forest, gathering edibles, and having them cooked for you at an award-winning restaurant. This experience is possible with No Taste Like Home ’s tours, TripAdvisor’s number one foraging activity in the US and one of the best tours in Asheville. You’ll love this authentic “off-the-eaten-path” Asheville experience!

Another TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner, Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours offers a three-hour, three-rooftop guided bar tour combining some of the best of what makes Asheville irresistible: outstanding food, great drinks, mountain views, and spectacular sunsets. 

14.  Explore the Outdoors With Local Guides

Asheville Hiking Tours offers tours of Asheville’s impressive waterfalls and the best views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Local guides will take you to their favorite spots while telling you about the local history and environment. 

Are you interested in taking a unique wild foraging tour? Asheville Hiking Tours’ excursions include food foraging as well!

Join Asheville Wellness Tours ’ guides for a healing, resetting forest bathing experience, a hike, yoga, and mountain views adventure, or (my favorite) a yoga class with baby goats! Can you imagine a better Asheville tour? I can’t.

Hike Bike Kayak Asheville ‘s personalized tours will show you why Asheville is a favorite outdoor destination. NCLINE Adventures ’ diverse offerings include elopement ceremonies and hiking/fishing trips for couples with different interests. Hike WNC ‘s private Peak-to-Peak Mountain Top Tour offers some of the best views in North Carolina, and it has now added a Blue Ridge Parkway Jeep Tour.

15.  Tour Asheville’s Iconic Biltmore Estate and Omni Grove Park Inn

Visitors with a daytime ticket to visit the Biltmore Estate or overnight guests can participate in the tours offered by the Biltmore . Some tours are self-guided and included with admission, while others have a fee. 

They offer bike riding, wine and chocolate tasting, and rooftop tours. The interesting Biltmore House Backstairs Tour will give you a glimpse of the lives of the people who worked at the house, taking you to the overlooked domestic areas. 

You can visit The Omni Grove Park Inn for the day at no charge (there might be a parking fee depending on the time of the year) and walk around the garden and the buildings, shop around, have dinner, and get to know the history of the most famous Asheville hotel. 

They offer a 45-minute self-guided tour covering the hotel’s early years, the arts and crafts-style furniture collection, and the visit of famous guests (George Gershwin, Harry Houdini, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and even President Obama have stayed here.). Bring your headphones! 

What are your favorite tours in Asheville? Have you done a fantastic Asheville tour that’s not listed here? Please let us know in the comments!

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Laura Bernhein

Born in Argentina, Laura is a journalist who's lived in Asheville for 10 years. She loves all things Asheville, from the vast business scene to the beautiful nonprofits, magical people, and marvelous nature. She loves being involved in projects that are the change she wants to see in the world.

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Asheville Art Studio Tours

Thanks to our Curator Level Corporate Sponsors

As Featured In

Your chance to BE the artist!

Work in multiple art mediums

Options to see art and meet artists in their studio along with an art making experience… all in the same day!

• Experience the River Arts District
• Meet Artists in studio and See Art

Gain insight for further exploration of over 200 art studios

Big Family/Friends Groups, Company/Corporate, Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties, etc.

• Take a walking tour & visit multiple artists, or Make Art

KIDS EXPERIENCE

Let your child be the artist!

Invest in your child’s inner creativity

Take classes together as a family, or plan an art experience for a group of kids!

Founded by a River Arts District Artist, Asheville Art Experience

gives you an inside look into the wonder of what’s happening in Asheville’s thriving arts scene. Whether you are a local or from out of town, the personal connections we have with artists and studios can help you maneuver into the heart of this ever evolving area.

See art. Meet Artists. Make Art.

Book your experience soon to enjoy all that Asheville has to offer in the ARTS!

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Even better than expected Tony gave us an intimate look into the studios. The artists were great and took time to explain their works and processes. It was a behind the scenes, look at the art. We visited several studios that I hadn’t known about, even after many trips to Asheville. 2 hours is the right amount of time for the tour, you still have lots of time to tour the RAD on your own.

Fantastic tour! Jason took us on outstanding art studio tour of the River Arts District. We met some eclectic, talented artists who worked in many different formats: glass, wood, painting and more. We loved the tour and learned a lot about the district’s history and art techniques.

Artsy Excellent walking tour that gave us a bit of history along with seeing various artist workshops and meeting some artists. Great way to learn the area, and experience this quickly growing and expanding neighborhood. Tony was our guide and was very knowledgeable and fun to speak with and learn from -and is himself an artist there.

Wonderful taste of the RAD Our large group wanted to get a taste of the River Arts District during our short time in Asheville. I contacted Asheville Art Studio Tours well before our trip and was able to customize the tour for our group. John was very helpful and accommodating. This tour is the perfect way to get a peek at the area. Tony guided us through a variety of studios and gave us a brief history of the area. We were able to talk with a few artists and watch them working. I highly recommend this tour, especially if your time is Asheville is limited. Don’t miss the River Arts District – it’s a special place!

Excellent intro to River Arts District A friend and I had heard about the River Arts District (RAD) but really didn’t know much else. Our guide Tony, also an artist, oriented us and led us through the district over two hours, providing background, wonderful back-stories on various artists, art, and architecture. We took “deep dives” in an assortment of galleries covering oils/acrylics, pottery, glass, and metal. I look forward to going back to RAD – and highly recommend the tour!!

Call or Text Us : 828-575-4553

Email Us : [email protected]

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Downtown Asheville Art District

• Asheville, NC 28801
• Region: Downtown

Take a self-guided tour of the Downtown Asheville Art District (DAAD) and explore the fine art and studio crafts found in the district's more than 20 galleries and museums. DAAD's Gallery Guide will help you along the way; you'll find the guides at all member galleries and at various locations throughout Asheville.

Don't miss First Friday Art Walks from 5-8 p.m. beginning in April and continuing through December. The stroll is a perfect activity after an early dinner or a great way to work up an appetite before enjoying a meal at one of Asheville's award-winning restaurants.

For Visitors

For Planners

For Partners

ARTS AVL TROLLEY

Explore Asheville’s Art Scene

Ride the free   ArtsAVL Trolley linking the Downtown and River Arts Districts with two overlapping loops every Second Saturday from 12-6 pm.

INTERACTIVE LIVE TROLLEY MAP

During ArtsAVL Trolley hours, the current location of the trolleys will appear on the map. Explore the map by dragging and zooming to the location of your choice, and refresh the page to see the most current trolley locations. A list of stop locations is available below the map.

Downtown Loop

• Pack Square Stop (near Asheville Art Museum)
• The Block Stop (near LEAF Global Arts)
• Pritchard Park Stop (near Ten Thousand Villages)
• Coxe Avenue Stop (near Rabbit Rabbit)
• Wedge Studios Stop  (near Hofman Studios)
• Grove Arcade Stop (near Citizen Vinyl)
• Broadway Arts District Stop (near Center for Craft)

RIVER ARTS Loop

• Clingman Roundabout Stop (near Odyssey Gallery)
• Depot Street Stop (near NorthLight Studios)
• North Riverview Station Stop (near Art Garden)
• Foundy Street Stop (near Grail Moviehouse)
• South Riverview Station Stop (near Newstock Pantry)
• River Arts Place Stop (near Curve Studios)
• Cotton Mill Studios Stop (near Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food)
• Craven Street Stop (near New Belgium)
• W. Haywood Street Stop (near Riverside Studios)

Trolley loops take 20-25 minutes. You can get on or off the trolley at any stop. See our ArtsAVL Trolley FAQ page for more details.

Questions? Email us at [email protected] .

Nearby Attractions

Interested is seeing your business added to this list? Learn more here .

DOWNTOWN ARTS DISTRICT

Pack square stop.

• Asheville Art Museum
• Blue Spiral 1
• American Folk Arts & Framing
• Mast General Store
• Lexington Glassworks

The Block Stop

• The Foundry Hotel
• LEAF Global Arts

Pritchard Park Stop

• Ten Thousand Villages

Coxe Avenue Stop

• Rabbit Rabbit

Grove Arcade Stop

• Citizen Vinyl

Broadway Arts District Stop

• Center for Craft

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

Wedge studios stop.

• Hofman Studios
• North Carolina Glass Center
• Odyssey Gallery of Ceramic Arts
• The Grey Eagle

Depot Street Stop

• NorthLight Studios
• Pink Dog Creative

North Riverview Station Stop

• Riverview Station

Foundy Street Stop

• Grail Moviehouse

South Riverview Station Stop

• Newstock Pantry

River Arts Place Stop

• Curve Studios

Cotton Mill Studios Stop

• Second Gear
• Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food
• Cotton Mill Studios

Craven Street Stop

• New Belgium Brewing
• Small Batch Glass Company

W. Haywood Street Stop

• Riverside Studios

Trolley Sponsors

Interested in becoming a trolley sponsor? Email [email protected] to learn more.

WITH ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FROM

Art Garden , Asheville Art Museum , Center for Craft , Citizen Vinyl , Curve Studios , The Foundry Hotel , Grail Moviehouse, Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food , Hofman Studios, LEAF Global Arts , Mast General Store , Newstock Pantry ,  NorthLight Studios , Odyssey Gallery of Ceramic Arts , Rabbit Rabbit , Riverside Studios , Ten Thousand Villages

The Asheville Murals Walking Tour

Asheville has an amazing collection of outdoor murals. Some are easy to find and others hidden in places that only the best guides know where to find. Enjoy a great urban hike across downtown Asheville discovering this extraordinary art form and learning more about Asheville's downtown neighborhoods along the way.

What Will I See?

Guests will see some 40 different murals and art installations on the tour, including works by noted area artists Lara Nguyen, Jeremy Russell, Scott Allred, and Spagnola, to name but a few. Some murals are several stories high and others only a few inches.

To see some of these amazing works of art, this tour takes you into some back corners and alleys of downtown.  You will go to locations that are accessible only by foot many of which even locals haven't seen before. At the end of this tour, you'll have tons of Instagram-worthy photos to share with your friends.

The tour is an easy 1.5 to 2-hour urban hike through downtown Asheville.

Only $30/adults (18+)

Free/students (17 and under with paying adult)

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

This tour is not readily wheelchair accessible. There is a fair amount of incline and some rough surfaces.

Where to Meet?

The Asheville Murals Tour meets beside the front steps of the Asheville Masonic Temple at 80 Broadway.

Tours are rain or shine except for severe weather.