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River Arts District

River Arts District, Asheville, NC, USA

River Arts District

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River Arts District

The River Arts District puts working artists at the center of Asheville's riverfront. Studios and galleries fill former industrial buildings along the French Broad, and murals brighten the walls.

Recommendations

Culture4.7/5

Center for Craft

Calling all craft enthusiasts! Center for Craft in Asheville is a must-visit spot for those who appreciate handmade treasures. Located on Broadway Street, this vibrant hub showcases a variety of craft exhibitions, workshops, and events. Get ready to be inspired and maybe even pick up a new hobby!

Culture4.9/5

North Carolina Glass Center - Asheville, NC

This Asheville glass studio lets you shape hot glass with an instructor, making your own glass piece by hand.

Landmark4.7/5

Foundation Walls Project

Discover the Foundation Walls Project in Asheville, NC, where vibrant murals and community art redefine urban space, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and those seeking inspiration in creativity.

Landmark4.8/5

Pink Dog Creative

Working artists’ studios in Asheville, where you can meet artists and see their work. One tells the stories behind his colorful, imaginative art.

Eat4.4/5

plēb urban winery

Located in the heart of Asheville, plēb urban winery is a traveler's paradise. This quirky spot on Lyman Street boasts an impressive selection of locally-crafted wines. Sip on unique blends while enjoying the lively ambiance and friendly staff. Whether you're a wine aficionado or a casual sipper, plēb promises an unforgettable experience in North Carolina's wine country. Cheers to good times and even better vino!

Eat$$4.5/5

12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER

Renowned for its mouthwatering smoked meats and vibrant atmosphere, 12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER offers a taste of Asheville's culinary charm, making it a must-visit for barbecue lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Eat$$$4.4/5

All Souls Pizza

Eat$$4.7/5

White Duck Taco Shop - Asheville, NC

Get your taste buds ready for a flavor fiesta at White Duck Taco Shop in Asheville! Located at 388 Riverside Dr, this vibrant spot serves up creative and delicious tacos that will make your mouth water. Don't miss out on their outdoor seating and funky atmosphere while enjoying some of the best tacos in town!

Eat$$$$4.5/5

The Bull and Beggar

Eat4.6/5

The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub

The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub is a beloved Asheville gem, renowned for its intimate live music shows and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Southern culture.

Cafe$$$4.6/5

Ultra Coffeebar - River Arts District

Nestled in Asheville, Ultra Coffeebar offers an iconic experience with its exceptional artisanal brews, unique atmosphere, and commitment to sustainable practices, making it a must-visit destination for coffee lovers and local art enthusiasts alike.

Cafe$$4.5/5

High Five Coffee

High Five Coffee in Asheville is renowned for its expertly crafted brews and vibrant community atmosphere, making it an essential stop for coffee lovers and those seeking a cozy gathering spot.

Drink$$$4.7/5

Little Jumbo

Cafe$$4.2/5

Summit Coffee Grove Arcade

As you step into Summit Coffee at Grove Arcade in Asheville, NC, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods fills the air. This cozy cafe offers a wide selection of coffee drinks, from classic lattes to unique specialty blends. The inviting atmosphere and friendly baristas make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of Joe during your visit to Asheville.

Eat$$$4.4/5

Buxton Hall Barbecue

At Buxton Hall Barbecue, savor North Carolina’s rich barbecue tradition with expertly smoked meats and mouthwatering sides, all served in a vibrant, rustic atmosphere that captures the spirit of Asheville’s culinary scene.

Stays

Stay$$$$4.55/5

Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville

Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville features a fitness centre, terrace and shared lounge in Asheville. 3.6 km from Biltmore Estate, the property is also 200 metres away from US Cellular Center. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant or relax in the bar. All units is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a microwave, a coffee machine, a bath or shower and a desk. With a private bathroom, rooms at the hotel also boast free WiFi. The units will provide guests with a fridge. Staff speak English and Spanish at the 24-hour front desk. Green Man Brewery is 800 metres from Cambria Hotel Asheville, while Wedge Brewing is a 17-minute walk away. The nearest airport is Asheville Regional Airport, 18 km from the accommodation.

Stay$$$$4.7/5

AC Hotel Asheville Downtown

AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown is located in the heart of Asheville. Guests can work up a sweat in the on-site fitness centre or grab a bite to eat at one of the 2 on-site restaurants. Complimentary WiFi is provided throughout. Biltmore Estate is 3.7 km away. Rooms feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels. A small refrigerator and coffee maker are provided as well. Guests will enjoy the comfort of a furnished seating area. The hotel features 2,086 sq ft of total meeting space which is perfect for business travelers. Capella on 9 provides handmade cocktails and a tapas-style menu. AC Kitchen Breakfast serves a European inspired breakfast each morning. Innsbruck Mall is 1.5 km from the accommodation, while Wedge Brewing is a 20-minute walk away. The nearest airport is Asheville Regional Airport, 18 km from AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown.

Stay$$$$4.5/5

Hotel Indigo Asheville Downtown by IHG

Hotel Indigo Asheville Downtown by IHG in Asheville offers rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy an American restaurant and bar, serving dinner in a family-friendly ambience. The hotel features a fitness centre, lounge, and outdoor seating area. Additional facilities include a minimarket, coffee shop, and free WiFi. Located in the city centre, the hotel is a short walk from Harrah's Cherokee Centre and the Fine Art Gallery. Nearby attractions include Biltmore Estate (9 km) and Botanical Gardens (2.5 km). Asheville Regional Airport is 19 km away.

Stay$$$4.4/5

DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown

Doubletree by Hilton is located 9.2 km from the Biltmore Estate and is 3 minutes' walk from Downtown Asheville shopping, dining, and entertainment. Free WiFi is offered at the hotel. A 42-inch flat-screen cable TV, coffee machine, and desk are standard in each room at Doubletree by Hilton Asheville Downtown. The private bathroom is equipped with free toiletries and a hairdryer. A 24-hour fitness centre and 24-hour front desk are featured at the property. Montford Rooftop Bar serves premium cocktails and small plates with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy an expansive view of Blue Ridge Mountains with their meal. The Asheville Mall is 4.9 km away, and the nearest airport is Asheville Regional Airport, which is 16 minutes' drive away.

Stay$$$$4.2/5

Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel

This hotel is located in downtown Asheville and is within a 3-minute drive of the Biltmore Estate and Winery. Guest can relax with the perfect combination of a cocktail on our patio. Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel rooms include a sitting area with a flat-screen TV. The rooms have a marble bathroom. The hotel offers room service. Dining options include the Writer's Bistro, which serves fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. The hotel also features the Lobby Lounge open for lunch and dinner. Guests at the Renaissance Asheville can keep up with their fitness routine in the on-site fitness centre. The hotel also offers a gift shop and newspaper stand. The Asheville Renaissance is within a 3-minute drive of Pack Place Education, Arts and Science Center. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is 8 miles from the hotel.

Stay4.6/5

The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton

Industrial-style hotel in downtown Asheville, with rooms in a historic building. An electric teapot waits in the room.

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5

Historic Music Scene Walking Tour in Asheville

Explore Asheville’s Music Scene! Yesterday and Today! We will tell you about Asheville’s connections to members of national and regional Music Halls of Fame. You will learn the local venues for national touring acts, as well as, the spots for our area’s amazing local talent! We will discover Asheville’s historic Grove Arcade, Citizen-Times Building (AKA Citizens Vinyl) and the Flatiron Building. Learn about Asheville’s historic connection to the early days of America’s radio and record industries. After an informative walk around our historic city, the tour will finish at Asheville’s famous Moogseum: A first rate museum to Bob Moog and his historic Moog Synthesizers. Discount tickets will be available to continue your tour with the good folks at the Moogseum. A must see for all serious musicians!

$30.00
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5/5
2 h 30 mins

Big Top E-bike Adventure Tour

See Asheville from the seat of an e-bike on a fun, energetic ride through one of the most colorful cities in the mountains! Led by an experienced guide and circus performer, this tour combines Asheville’s must-see landmarks, fascinating history, incredible views, hidden corners, and wonderfully weird character. After getting everyone comfortable on the bikes, we’ll cruise through downtown and surrounding highlights, stopping along the way for stories, photos, and a closer look at the people and places that shaped Asheville. You’ll hear about everything from the city’s grand architecture and history to its creative culture and circusy past and present. The e-bikes make covering more of Asheville easy and fun, while frequent stops keep it relaxed and engaging. Whether it’s your first visit or you already know Asheville, expect a side of the city you probably haven’t seen! Free youth/passenger bikes! Ages 1+ Contact/message to request and confirm availability - Limited #.

$60.00
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5/5

Eclectic and Electric Asheville E-Bike Tours - Downtown and More!

Discover Asheville the easy way — pedal assist, fat-tire e-bikes, and a local guide who actually knows the good stuff. We're the most affordable e-bike tour in town and we ride on bikes built for comfort on any surface — pavement, gravel, grass, you name it. No rush, no pressure. Great views, great stories, and plenty of stops for photos. Best seat in town, guaranteed.

$60.00
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5/5
3 h

Cocktails, Views and Local Stories in Asheville Rooftop Tour

Step into a different world above Asheville with Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours, voted Best Tour in the 2026 Best of Asheville awards—Gold Winner. Just an elevator ride away, downtown’s rooftops reveal sweeping mountain views and a fresh perspective on the city. This guided three-hour tour brings together three rooftop bars, reserved seating, and a complimentary handcrafted sample cocktail or mocktail, preselected by our rooftop partners, at each stop. Along the way, your local guide shares stories about Asheville’s history, architecture, and transformation, bringing the streets below to life. Relax, take photos, and discover distinctive rooftop spaces while your guide handles the route and arrangements. It’s an inviting way to go beyond typical sightseeing and experience Asheville from above.

$95.00
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5/5
3 h

Escape the 828 Outdoor Escape Room Adventure in Asheville

This isn’t your typical escape room. Escape the 828 turns downtown Asheville into your puzzle-filled playground. Armed with a clue kit, your team will explore the South Slope — solving riddles, discovering hidden gems, and interacting with real places along the way. The City Is the Gameboard: No dark rooms or locked doors — your adventure plays out in Asheville's most vibrant neighborhood. Local Flavors Built In: Clues lead you into real businesses where you'll uncover answers (and maybe a cold beer or sweet treat). Perfect for Groups: Date nights, birthdays, team-building — you'll laugh, compete, and maybe even high-five a bartender. Whether you're a first-timer or puzzle pro, this is a whole new way to experience Asheville — one clue at a time.

$40.00
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5/5
2 h

Private Romantic Walking Tour in Asheville Cultural Heritage

This private walking tour reveals Asheville’s cultural heritage through a romantic and inspiring journey. You will explore historic streets, architectural landmarks, and vibrant public spaces that reflect the city's unique character. You will admire architectural treasures influenced by different eras of design and craftsmanship. Historic districts reveal layers of heritage that showcase a legacy older than many American cities. Each location offers insights into the people and ideas that shaped the community. Peaceful surroundings and cultural landmarks create an elegant setting for couples seeking meaningful experiences. The route blends history, heritage, and timeless atmosphere while revealing Asheville’s enduring cultural identity. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

$259.00
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5/5
6 h

Downtown Asheville & Biltmore Village: Private Full-Day Tour

Explore Asheville, a beautiful, artsy, relaxed and Bohemian city with a small-town vibe in western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountain. Asheville is a beautiful place, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and renowned for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities and stunning mountain vistas. On your private full-day tour, you’ll mix it up with driving between destinations, and strolling around Asheville’s various neighbourhoods to soak up the atmosphere and admire the historic architecture. The Downtown Art District is a lively hub of cafes, galleries and museums, you’ll walk past more than 200 locally-owned shops and galleries where you will find everything from pottery and paintings to essential oils, arts and crafts, clothes and shoes. You’ll be able to admire the contrast between Asheville’s historic architecture like the basilica of Saint Lawrence and the many artists’ studios housed in former factories along with the River Arts District.

$550.00
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4.9/5
3 h

Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views

Join us on a fun-filled and informative electric bike tour of Asheville! Approximately 3-hours long, this e-bike tour is the perfect way to experience the city’s charm and learn about its fascinating history. You’ll see Asheville’s noteworthy architectural gems, take in the stunning scenery from carefully chosen viewpoints, and hear the stories behind Asheville’s best historical sites. The electric pedal assist and throttles on our e-bikes allow you to easily ride up Asheville’s steep hills! Your expert guide will lead you safely through city streets, bike greenways, and quiet, picturesque neighborhood roads. There is no better way to experience how Asheville has changed in recent years, what makes it so special today, and what’s in store for the years ahead than joining the Flying Bike on our award-winning Downtown Asheville E-bike Tour.

$73.83
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4.9/5
1 h

Private Tarot Reading - For Groups or Solo Adventurers

Personalized, one-on-one attention within a group setting can be both nourishing and deeply meaningful. We come to you so there's no need to worry about getting out of the house on time! Note that locations more than 10 miles from downtown Asheville will incur an additional travel fee.

$97.50
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4.9/5
3 h

Asheville Live Music Bus Tour with Brewery Stops

Experience Asheville's craft beer and live music scene like never before on LaZoom's Fender Bender, a one-of-a-kind Live Music Brewery Tour. Ride aboard our iconic purple bus as talented local musicians perform live while you travel to three of Asheville's favorite breweries. At each stop, you'll enjoy time to sample local craft beer, learn about the brewery's history and signature brews, and soak up the atmosphere that has made Asheville one of America's top beer destinations. Between breweries, your entertaining host shares fun stories about Asheville's brewing culture while the live band keeps the party going. It's the perfect experience for craft beer lovers, music fans, and anyone looking for a fun, unforgettable afternoon in Asheville. Ages 21+.

$57.00
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4.9/5
3 h

Guided Asheville E-bike Tour of River Arts, Mountains and Murals

Explore all of Asheville in 3 hours on a thrilling E-bike Guided Adventure! This ride takes you around beautiful sites, historic neighborhoods, the Omni Grove Inn and much more. You'll also see what happened to Asheville from hurricane devastation. Take this tour first to learn the lay of the land, the best spots to visit and all the history of the area. Having a guide is a game changer and E-bikes make it SO MUCH FUN!

$79.00
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4.9/5
1 h 30 mins

Comedy Sightseeing Tour Hey Asheville by LaZoom

November 24 through December 27, LaZoom’s Hey Asheville Comedy Sightseeing Tour puts a hysterical twist on the holidays. See Asheville sights, laugh together and make memories, with just the right dose of seasonal spirit. Ages 13+ LaZoom’s citywide afternoon and evening tours are the best possible introduction to Asheville—even if you’ve lived here for years! Historical and hysterical, our City Tours feature outrageously entertaining tour guides, outlandish comedy skits complete with special appearances, loads of Asheville information, and incredible views of downtown Asheville and the rarely seen but stunningly beautiful Montford neighborhood. Not to mention the burgeoning River Arts District! You’ve never had a ride like this. It’s like a vaudeville show on wheels! Bachelor and bachelorette parties are not allowed on our City and Ghost tours. Please see our live music Fender Bender tour for your group!

$52.00
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4.8/5
1 h 45 mins

Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour

Asheville by Foot’s remarkable guided walking tours will help you make the most of your Asheville experience. Whether you’re visiting Asheville for the first time or the tenth, with Asheville by Foot you’ll develop a deep appreciation for Asheville’s rich history, stunning architecture and unique culture. This is Asheville’s definitive tour, walking or otherwise, and is led by the most knowledgeable guides in the city. Have an amazing experience becoming an Asheville insider as you explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture and unique culture. Enjoy an insider’s access to a number of hidden gems reachable only by foot as you tour one of the country’s most unique cities.

$35.00
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4.8/5
1 h 40 mins

Asheville Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour

There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville! Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated journey, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.” The complete tour (one loop) lasts approximately 90 to 100 minutes. There is an additional 15 minute stop at the Asheville Visitor Center. Tour Highlights include Downtown Asheville, Montford Historic District, The Grove Park Inn and Grove Park Historic District, Thomas Wolfe District, Pack Square and Asheville Art Museum, Grove Arcade, River Arts District, Biltmore Village, and South Slope Brewing District Trolley hours vary by season. April - October (daily, every 30 minutes), November (daily, every 60 minutes), December - February (Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat, every 60 minutes), March (daily, every 60 minutes). *Please Note: Final departures are for re-boarding passengers only.

$41.00
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4.8/5
2 h

Downtown Asheville Tip-Based Sightseeing Walking Tour

Discover the best of Asheville on this 2-Hour Public or Private Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour with Local Guide. As you take in some of the historical city sites and learn about the best places to eat, drink and play, we will provide a map with discounts all over town, including a beer tasting and some free artwork! This tip-based tour allows you to pay what you think it’s worth in the end! You will learn how Asheville became the unique, quirky city you see now and what we are doing to "Keep Asheville Weird." Your Local Guide will lead you along the Urban Trail, passing by top sites such as the S&W cafeteria, Basilica of St Lawrence, and Grove Arcade. Stop along the way for private tour of Leaf Global Arts Center. Tastings are provided by local businesses who provide them when open/available. On the private tours only, we will explore the secret tunnels of Pack's Tavern Restaurant! These tunnels were a part of Asheville's underground clandestine routes used during Prohibition.

$5.00
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4.7/5
2 h

Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour

Experience the spookiest sites of downtown Asheville with your expert local guide. Enjoy hair-raising tales and dark history! Created & owned by Joshua P. Warren, this is Asheville's original and ultimate ghost adventure! See why we've always been rated #1!

$26.95
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4.6/5
3 h

Asheville Rooftop Sunset Tour with Cocktails and Mountain Views

Discover Asheville from above with Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours, voted Best Tour in the 2026 Best of Asheville awards—Gold Winner. This guided three-hour experience blends rooftop culture, mountain scenery, local history, and handcrafted drinks. Visit three carefully selected rooftop bars, enjoying reserved seating and a complimentary handcrafted sample cocktail or mocktail, preselected by our rooftop partners, at each stop. There’s plenty of time to relax, take photos, and soak in panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and downtown skyline. Between stops, your local guide shares engaging stories about Asheville’s history, architecture, and transformation. With the route and rooftop arrangements handled for you, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy the experience. Perfect for couples, friends, and solo travelers, this tour reveals a side of Asheville most visitors never see.

$95.00
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4.5/5
60 h

The Asheville Abyss Ghost Tour: Ashes to Apparitions

Join us for an unforgettable adventure through Asheville’s shadowy streets on our captivating walking ghost tour, where history and hauntings blend seamlessly. Led by a seasoned local guide, this tour takes you to some of the city's most haunted and historic locations. As you wander through atmospheric streets, you'll hear spine-chilling tales of spirits—bootleggers, outlaws, and debutantes—whose lives are etched into Asheville's rich past. Each stop, from the iconic Jackson Building to Pritchard Park, reveals a new layer of mystery, inviting you to explore the darker side of this charming mountain city. While we won’t enter privately owned buildings, you'll stand on ground steeped in ghostly lore. This tour is both entertaining and informative, offering a unique glimpse into Asheville’s haunted history. Gather your courage, bring your curiosity, and join us for an evening filled with chills, thrills, and a touch of history!

$23.40
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4.4/5

Half-Day Moped Tour in Asheville, NC

Start your visit off right and hop on two wheels for some outdoor fun; with the only moped tour in Asheville: Shaka Street Tours. Get the wind in your hair, explore the city, and enjoy the nature that makes this place special. The Shaka Street Tours is one of a kind. We will be taking you all over Asheville. Our ability to scoot around with ease allows us to cover much more area than any other tour in town! Beginning your trip to Asheville by moped is a great way to familiarize youself with what the city has to offer. Shaka tours are personal; you will have a tour guide & a max group of 3. So we’ll be sharing tons of information about the best local spots to check out during and after the tour as well. Whether you have been to Asheville before or it’s your first time. We’re confident you will have an incredible experience while seeing the nature, art, and shops that make Asheville awesome!

$250.00
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4.2/5

Asheville's Historic Smart Phone Guided App (GPS) Walking Tour

Explore Asheville's historic city center at your own pace and schedule on our smart phone guided tour on our walking tour app. Why take this to - Go at your own pace and schedule. The tour NEVER expires. - Stop anytime, get a drink, meal, explore, and continue when ready. - Listen again after taking it in person. - Professionally produced with top notch narration and music to set the atmosphere. We are going to pass many points of interest and I won’t be surprised – or upset – if you want to pause the tour and browse in one of the many unique shops or art galleries or if you want to stop and recharge at one of the great restaurants or bars. I’ll just wait patiently on the sidewalk and when you come back out, we will resume the tour when you are ready. Try doing that on a group tour!! Are you ready? I’ll meet you just outside the Asheville Art Museum at the blue orb at Pack Square.

$9.75
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