12 things to do in downtown Asheville
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Asheville’s beautiful downtown district is the central gathering place of tourists visiting nearby attractions like The Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and hikes within the gorgeous Pisgah National Forest. As the downtown offers a host of unique amenities of its’ own including many local restaurants, independent coffeeshops, galleries, and more than 200 locally owned shops, it’s no wonder that most tourists end up here at least once during their vacation. Living in Asheville for several years, I frequently strolled the downtown in search of the best food, drinks, and galleries. Check out my to-do list for new visitors!
1. Enjoy a great cup of coffee at High Five
It’s easy to find a great local coffeehouse downtown. High Five is my personal favorite as they serve delicious Counter Culture coffee (a renowned roaster based in Durham) and fantastic double seeded bagels (try the homemade veggie cream cheese!). The ambiance is beautiful (brick walls and hardwood floors) and the baristas are friendly. I have tried over a dozen coffeeshops in the city and High Five is the one I come back to most often.
My full guide to downtown coffeeshops
2. Explore the works of 170+ local artists at Woolworth Walk
Asheville’s vibrant art scene has landed it the appropriate nickname of “San Francisco of the East.” Not only is the city home to many art galleries, but there are numerous creative festivals and markets throughout the year. At any given time of the year, it’s easy to find some type of art event. The best art attraction downtown, Woolworth Walk, features unique works from over 170 local artists. Prices range from totally affordable to splurge worthy, meaning there is something for every art lover. I have found so many unique gifts here. Also on-site is a retro 50’s style soda fountain.
3. Sip on champagne in a lovely library-like setting at Battery Park
Bibliophiles and wine lovers alike will want to look no further than Battery Park Book Exchange. This wine/champagne bar/book shop is located in the heart of downtown inside the historic Grove Arcade building. Here you can browse through thousands upon thousands of used and rare books all while enjoying beautiful architecture and decor, along with the finest wine and champagne. The setting is gorgeous and the collection massive. I really love the historical booksy vibe here – the perfect setting for a date! Coffee and tea and light snacks also available.
4. Treat yourself to a high quality hot cocoa at French Broad
Just a short drive from downtown lies the French Broad Chocolate Lounge, where you can sign up for a tour and learn more about the process of making chocolate. At the downtown cafe, chocolate lovers can enjoy their pick amongst a variety of drinking chocolates, hand made truffles, and house made decadent desserts. Their signature Liquid Truffles (high quality rich velvety drinking chocolate) are a treat like no other). Try the Buddha (Dark Chocolate). Be prepared for a long line most weekends – don’t worry it is worth the long wait!
5. Enjoy retro gaming at the Asheville Pinball Museum
Take a step back in time to the heyday of arcade and pinball gaming. Leave the cell phone at home and enjoy some fun old-fashioned pinball, arcade, and old school gaming systems like Nintendo. The retro decor/vibe here will really bring you back to the 80’s. A good thing in my opinion! For the budget conscious, it’s a fun and affordable activity which will only set you back $15 for unlimited game play. The Pinball Museum is a wonderful throwback for anyone who loves nostalgic old style gaming. Note – reservations are not taken and the line can often be very long.
6. Treat your weary feet to a luxury soak
Wake Foot Sanctuary, although quite pricey, is a luxurious treat for your feet and mind after a long day of hiking. The luxury foot spa is located inside the beautiful Grove Arcade building. The setting is super relaxed and tranquil. Here you can escape all the tourist crowds in exchange for some R&R in a beautiful zen-like spa setting. A variety of soaks are available including a relaxing lavender chamomile and a detoxing white clay. Do try the Salty beach rose featuring a heavenly combo of jasmine, rose salts, and lavender. For extra pampering, add on a hand and/or foot massage. I typically save this luxury for birthdays and anniversaries due to the price, but it’s a great splurge!
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