Welcome to the Asheville Walking Tour
Uncover history, art, and more as you walk Asheville’s streets with this self-guided tour. Observe the mastery of structures like the Basilica of St. Lawrence. Learn about the city’s origins, the surprising story of how it became a destination, and how the Civil War impacted the city and its people. As you stroll Asheville’s famous Urban Walking Trail, you’ll see tons of unique sculptures and hear the story they tell about the city. Plus, get to know famous figures from Asheville’s past, like author Thomas Wolfe!
About the Tour
As you stroll along, you’ll learn about the Cherokees’ roots in the region. Find out how they used old bison trails to hunt, travel, and establish trade routes!
As you continue on the Asheville Walking Tour, you’ll revisit the founding of the city and beyond. Hear how the Civil War impact the city and the people living here.
After that, you’ll see the glorious Basilica of St. Lawrence and discover its architect’s vision. Then you’ll come to the Appalachian Stage, the first of many fascinating sculptures along the walking trail. Unearth the history of Appalachian music and its unique influences, from Irish folk music to African American gospel!
Next up is the Shopping Daze Sculpture, which pays tribute to Haywood Street’s history as a shopping destination. As you study this masterpiece, you’ll get the story of locals’ efforts to save the endangered district!
The journey continues back to the Gilded Age, when the city became a haven for tuberculosis patients and Asheville changed forever.
As you proceed onto Woodfin Street, you’ll get to know author Thomas Wolfe, a native of Asheville. Find out he got his inspiration, and why his neighbors simply hated his debut novel, Look Homeward, Angel.
Moving along, learn about Asheville’s history of beekeeping and keep your eyes open for some of the city’s many honey-based treats!
Up next, you’ll see the Civic Pride Sculpture. Here you’ll get to know Asheville’s namesake, Samuel Ashe, and learn his story, full of orphanhood, struggle, and legacy.
After that, get spooked by stories of the boojum, a Sasquatch-like figure with a fondness for women!
And you can’t miss the next stop: It’s the Jackson Building, once the tallest skyscraper in North Carolina!
Finally, you’ll reach the bustling Grove Arcade, home to all kinds of unique shops and dining options. Your tour concludes here.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 230+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Ashville NC Map
Nearby Tours
Driving 8 - 9 Hours 85+ Stories 265+ Mile 
Driving 2-3 hours 45+ stories 35+ miles 
Walking 1-2 Hours 8+ stories 1+ Miles 
Driving 2-3 Hours 70+ Stories 45+ Miles Starting Point
You can begin the tour at the suggested starting location mentioned below:
Asheville Visitor Center, 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA.
Start at the Asheville Visitor Center parking lot at 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
How Does It Work?
- Access your tour: Download the Action Tour Guide app and sign in with the same email used for your website purchase. Your tour will appear under My Tours.
- Download your tour: Download it before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.
- Start your tour: Open My Tours, select your tour, and tap Start Touring when you reach a starting point.
- Listen your way: Use your phone’s speaker or headphones, or connect to your car’s audio system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not currently supported, compatibility is in development.
- GPS-triggered audio: Stories play automatically as you reach each location along the route.
- Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day. Tours are valid forever (one year for Action+).
Asheville Audio Tour
Things to do on the Tour Include:
-
Welcome
-
Asheville’s Early Days
-
The Basilica of St. Lawrence
-
Appalachian Stage
-
Appalachian Music
-
Shopping Daze Sculpture
-
The Gilded Age
-
Marketplace Sculpture
-
A New Plan
-
Markets Galore
-
Legacy of Design Sculpture
-
Richard Sharp Smith
-
The Woodfin House
-
Wolfe's Neighborhood
-
Thomas Wolfe
-
Dixieland
-
A Precocious Child
-
Hometown Hero
-
Curtain Calls
-
On the Move
-
Preserving the Roads
-
Bee City
-
Civic Pride Sculpture
-
Man and Mountain
-
Time Remembered
-
Ellington’s Dream
-
Douglas Ellington
-
Past and Promise
-
Monument Corner
-
The Jackson Building
-
Brick Artisan
-
The Hunt for Will Harris
-
Site of the Eagle Hotel
-
Walk Into History
-
The Vance Monument Site
-
The Demolition of Patton Ave
-
Stepping Out
-
Frederick Miles
-
Celebs of Asheville
-
Asheville's Flatiron Building
-
The River Arts District
-
Grove Arcade
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Asheville’s charm shines bright all year round, but each season offers a unique experience. Spring blooms and summer offers vibrant city life and winter showcases the city’s festive spirit.
Absolutely! From the historical charm of its downtown to the artistic allure of the River Arts District, Asheville’s diverse offerings make it a worthy destination for self-explorers.
Source: Asheville-Attractions
Don’t miss the iconic Biltmore Estate, the historic Grove Arcade, the vibrant Pack Square Park, and the Basilica of Saint Lawrence. For art lovers, the Woolworth Walk and Lexington Glassworks offer a peek into local artistry
Source: Asheville-Places To Go
Many of Asheville’s tours are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring explorers of all abilities can enjoy the city’s offerings.
Yes, the Asheville Walking Tour is ideal for all ages and interests. Its mix of history, art, and culture engages families and individuals.
The Asheville Walking Tour is available year-round. Take into account local weather and seasonal factors when planning your visit to maximize your experience.
The tour follows a set route, but you can stop at your leisure and explore your interests. Customize your experience with flexibility.
Comfortable walking shoes, water, a camera, and a sense of adventure are essentials. Asheville’s weather can be unpredictable, so consider layers and an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.
Definitely! Asheville’s food scene is as diverse as its landscape. From farm-to-table eateries to iconic breweries and chocolate lounges, our self-guided tour brings in the best insights to the city’s culinary delights.
Source: Asheville-Farms & Farmers Market
Some outdoor areas allow pets, but it’s recommended to check individual attraction policies beforehand.
Source: Asheville-Pet-Friendly
Inclusions and Exclusions
Action Tour Guide app: Download the app to access your purchased tour.GPS-triggered audio: Stories and directions play automatically as you reach each location.Tour anytime: Single tours and bundles never expire and can be used anytime. Action+ is an annual subscription that automatically renews each year unless canceled.Narrated stories: Hear local history, culture, and stories from experienced narrators.Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day.Offline access: Download your tour before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.Stories, stops, and directions: Follow the route to key attractions with automatic directions and stories at each location.Transportation: Transportation, parking fees, and tolls are not included.Admission: Entry tickets and reservations are not included. Food and drinks: Meals and drinks are not included.Rental car: A rental car is not included and may be required for driving tours. 
