Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour
What's included
Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
This is the center of town and our starting point.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The boarding house where the noted American author grew up.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
One of the great shopping arcades built in the 1920 in the Gothic Revival style.
4
Important community cultural center that was built by the African-American business community at the turn of the 20th Century.
5
The final architectural masterpiece of Raphael Guastavino.
6
Home of Asheville’s famous Friday night Drum Circle.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
111 reviews
5★
104
4★
3
3★
1
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.8
344 reviews
5★
305
4★
20
3★
10
2★
5
1★
4
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We meet at the blue glass sphere in front of the Asheville Art Museum on Pack Square.
About Asheville
Asheville is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving arts scene, and rich history. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and culture seekers, offering a unique blend of mountain charm and urban sophistication.
Top Attractions
Biltmore Estate
America's largest home, built by George Vanderbilt in 1895, offers a glimpse into the Gilded Age. The estate includes a mansion, gardens, and winery.
Historical/Architecture
4-6 hours
Moderate to Expensive ($60-$100 per adult)
Blue Ridge Parkway
A scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Free
River Arts District
A vibrant arts district with over 200 artists' studios, galleries, and murals, located in a historic industrial area along the French Broad River.
Cultural/Arts
2-4 hours
Free to explore, costs vary for purchases and tours
Asheville Pinball Museum
A unique museum featuring over 100 playable pinball machines and arcade games from the 1960s to the present.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Budget ($15 per adult)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Biscuits and Gravy
A classic Southern breakfast dish featuring fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Slow-cooked, tender pulled pork served on a bun with coleslaw and BBQ sauce.
Lunch
Contains gluten (unless served on a lettuce wrap)
Fried Chicken and Waffles
Crispy fried chicken served with sweet, fluffy waffles and maple syrup.
Dinner
Contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Zip-lining
Whitewater rafting
Spa treatments
Yoga and meditation
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
September to November
Fall is the most popular time to visit Asheville due to the vibrant fall foliage, pleasant temperatures, and various festivals. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's cultural attractions.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Asheville is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs or handling cash in public
- • Avoid sharing personal information with strangers
Getting there
By air
- Asheville Regional Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train
Amtrak Asheville Station
By bus
Asheville Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with routes connecting major attractions, downtown, and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Asheville
Montford
West Asheville
Day trips
Chimney Rock State Park
25 miles (40 km) from Asheville • Half-day to full day
A stunning state park featuring a 315-foot chimney rock formation, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. The park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
50 miles (80 km) from Asheville • Full day to overnight
One of the most visited national parks in the U.S., offering stunning mountain landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails. The park is known for its waterfalls, scenic drives, and historic cabins.
Hendersonville
20 miles (32 km) from Asheville • Half-day to full day
A charming, historic town located in the heart of Western North Carolina's apple country. Hendersonville is known for its historic downtown, local shops, and apple orchards.
Festivals
LEAF Festival • October
Asheville Wine & Food Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit the Biltmore Estate early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful lighting for photos
- Explore the River Arts District on a weekend to catch studio tours and see artists at work
- Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views and photo opportunities
- Try local craft beers at one of Asheville's many breweries, such as Wicked Weed Brewing or New Belgium Brewing
- Sample farm-to-table cuisine at one of Asheville's many innovative, eclectic restaurants
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
