Asheville's Best Walking Tour: History, Culture & Hidden Gems
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Overview
The Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour is a great way to see Asheville. Whether visiting for the first time or returning, this tour helps visitors understand Asheville's history, architecture, and culture.
On this walking tour, guests will explore spots like Town Center, Thomas Wolfe's Boarding House, Grove Arcade, YMI Cultural Center, Basilica of Saint Lawrence, and the Pritchard Park Drum Circle. The tour guide will show hidden gems that can only be reached by foot. Expect to learn about Asheville's past and present while seeing its most important places.
This tour includes a tour guide. It does not include anything else. Asheville by Foot is known for its knowledgeable guides and excellent tours.




Highlights
Discover Asheville's Hidden Gems: Explore spots only reachable by foot, uncovering the city's best-kept secrets.
Learn Asheville's Rich History: Understand Asheville's past and present through stories from an expert guide.
See Stunning Architecture: Marvel at Asheville's unique and beautiful buildings.
Experience Local Culture: Immerse in Asheville's unique culture.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally loved this tour, praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to discover Asheville's history and hidden gems. Some found it a bit fast-paced.

Customers loved learning Asheville's history and seeing the buildings.
They enjoyed the guide's stories and knowledge.
Visitors appreciated discovering hidden spots and local culture.
Many felt it was a great way to start their Asheville visit.
Some visitors found the tour moved at a fast pace.
A few wished for more time at certain stops.
The Journey
Town Center
Begin your Asheville exploration at the Town Center, the city's bustling heart. This central locale acts as a perfect launchpad to discover the surrounding shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks that define Asheville's vibrant character.
Thomas Wolfe's Boarding House
Step back in time at the childhood home of Thomas Wolfe, the celebrated American author. This historic boarding house, immortalized in Wolfe's autobiographical novel 'Look Homeward, Angel,' provides a poignant glimpse into the formative years of a literary giant and the turn-of-the-century Asheville that shaped him.
Grove Arcade
Wander through the Grove Arcade, a stunning example of 1920s Gothic Revival architecture. Once a groundbreaking shopping destination, this beautifully restored arcade now houses unique boutiques, art galleries, and eateries, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and contemporary flair.
YMI Cultural Center
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Asheville's African-American community at the YMI Cultural Center. Founded at the turn of the 20th century by prominent African-American business leaders, the YMI continues to serve as a vital community hub, showcasing art, music, and historical exhibits that celebrate the contributions of African Americans to Asheville's identity.
Basilica of Saint Lawrence
Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, Raphael Guastavino's final masterpiece. Renowned for its stunning Catalan tile dome constructed without any structural steel, this basilica stands as a testament to Guastavino's innovative engineering and artistic vision. The interior is breathtaking.
Pritchard Park Drum Circle
Immerse yourself in the rhythmic energy of Asheville's famous Friday night Drum Circle at Pritchard Park. A true embodiment of Asheville's eclectic spirit, this weekly gathering brings together musicians and dancers of all ages and backgrounds for an evening of spontaneous music-making and joyful community connection.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a knowledgeable tour guide. It does not include any food, drinks, or entrance fees. The meeting point is in downtown Asheville. Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. The tour lasts for a few hours. The tour happens rain or shine.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking! Bring water, especially on warm days. Ask your guide questions – they are full of interesting information about Asheville!