Location: Downtown Asheville
Top Things to do in Downtown Asheville
Countries
The 6 Best Sights & Landmarks in Downtown Asheville, North Carolina (NC)
If you’re into eating locally and supporting sustainable agriculture, go to Asheville—and eat, eat, eat. This town of less than 100,000 people has 17 farmers’ markets, and the local restaurant scene is all about taking advantage of the seasonal produce sold there. And don’t miss the area’s microbreweries.
Restaurants in Asheville
1. Urban Trail
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 211 reviews
Learn about Asheville's architecture and historic past on this unique 1.7-mile walking tour, which includes delightful sculptures along the way, including Thomas Wolfe's size 13 bronzed shoes. Tour leaders or audiotapes are available to guide you.
Reviewed By lisafQ7961LS
I learned about the Urban Trail on TA after a couple of days seeing downtown, the brewery district, The River Arts area and the Candlelight tour at the Biltmore. This tour takes you off the beaten path (and slightly away from the crowds) and gives you great insight into Asheville, its neighborhoods and its history. Wish we had done it sooner since some of the areas were really cool but we ran out of time. As a bonus, a docent waiting for her tour to assemble at the Basilica approached us and gave us a quick but informative highlight of this amazing structure. Great timing because this was one of the audios that never loaded due to buffering. I highly recommend this online tour.
2. The Health Adventure
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 27 reviews
3. Pack Square
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 236 reviews
Reviewed By liamsgrma - Virginia Beach, United States
the French Broad chocolate lounge is the place to go for your chocolate cravings and sweet tooth, I would suggest go for dinner at Packs tavern first make sure to leave room for (great food and service) then take the short about two block walk to the french broad for dessert
4. Grove Arcade
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 940 reviews
Grove Arcade is a beautifully preserved historical building in the heart of Downtown Asheville that represents the heart and character of the town. It’s rich history and ornate architecture combined with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants offer patrons a full-day immersion into Asheville lifestyle and culture.
Reviewed By 72DonnaW - Kennesaw, United States
We visited Grove Arcade early on a Monday morning. We hadn’t given a lot of thought to what we wanted to see on our day in Asheville, but having found the Arcade through Yelp, and being a sucker for historical sites of all kinds, we made a bee-line for it, at 9am. Most shops in the Arcade do not open until 10 or 11, as we discovered. This did not dissuade us, however, and we walked about looking at the architecture. There are informative signs throughout about the history of Grove Arcade, and its founder, Dr. Grove. As we wandered, we came across the most knowledgeable security guard we have ever met. He spent nigh on 20 minutes giving us the historical background and details on the architecture of the Arcade. He knew in amazing detail the history of Asheville, as well as information about the artisans who built both local Biltmore Estate sand Grove. Turns out there was a bit of a rivalry between Dr. Grove and George Vanderbilt! He also recommended other sites to visit, and good places to take photographs. We wandered close by seeking out a coffee, and returned at opening time for the shops. The assemblage of stores at Grove is impressive, including several home furnishings stores, many shops featuring local craft items, gems and jewelry, and apparel. There is also a bookstore/champagne bar! Everything at Grove is unique, and it is a perfect place to find gifts for the people you love! On the outside perimeter of Grove there are many unique restaurants, as well. The most impressive thing about Grove Arcade, however, is its architecture. Finished with gorgeous carved travertine and limestone, its interiors rival some of the most elegant work done at Biltmore Estate. According to our security guard friend, the top three levels of the building are currently luxury apartments, while its second level houses office suites. The full-sized lions flanking its entrance are gorgeous and provide an excellent photo opportunity. Grove Arcade is a shopper’s paradise as well as a historical treasure. Be sure to chat with its security guards, as well; you never do know what you’re going to learn, and from whom!
5. Vance Monument
6. YMI Cultural Center
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 3 reviews
