This is Asheville's definitive tour, walking or otherwise. 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.
What Will I See?
A few tour highlights:
Asheville Masonic Temple and Scottish Rite Cathedral
Designed by architect Richard Sharpe Smith, the Masonic Temple is one of the most imposing and mysterious buildings in Asheville.
Basilica of St. Lawrence
Designed by renowned architect Raphael Guastavino, it is one of only 85 basilicas in the United States and has the largest freestanding elliptical dome in North America.
Church Street
An ode to the Gothic Revival style, Church Street host three of the city's oldest congregations and most stunning churches.
City Hall & County Courthouse
The Asheville City Hall is one of world's most impressive Art Deco civic structures and is half a duo of public building including the impressive neoclassical Buncombe COunty Courthouse.
First Baptist Church
It was designed by architect Douglas Ellington and built in 1925-1927. It is a four-story, domed, polygonal brick building with Art Deco design influences.
Grove Arcade
The Grove Arcade was the grand dream of E.W. Grove and was planned to be "the most elegant building in America." The largest single building in downtown this Gothic Revival building cannot be missed.
Jackson Building
The Jackson Building is the original skyscraper in Downtown Asheville. Completed in 1924, this 13-story Neo-Gothic structure was aturning point for Asheville. .
Thomas Wolfe Memorial
See the house in which Wolfe grew up and did much of his writing. Wolfe's mother Julia ran it as a boarding house for many years, taking advantage of Asheville tourism boom in the early 20th century.
and much more . . .
How Long?
The tour is an easy 1.5 to 2-hour stroll through downtown Asheville, mostly flat with only two hills and one set of steps.
How Much?
Only $30/adults (18+)
Free/students (17 and under with paying adult)
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
Please note, if you use a wheelchair or other mobility device your guide will gladly adjust the route as best as possible for easier accessibility or we will arrange a private tour, if possible, at no additional cost.
Where to Meet?
The Asheville Insider Tour meets in front of the Asheville Art Museum at 2 S. Pack Sq. Look for your guide near the blue-glass orb.
Weather?
Tours are rain or shine except for severe weather.