Exploring Asheville through the Highlights of Asheville Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour offers a flexible, affordable way to uncover the city’s fascinating past and vibrant arts scene. Priced at $14.99 per person, this tour covers approximately 1.8 miles in 2 to 3 hours, making it perfect for visitors who want to explore at their own pace without the need for a guide. With a rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on three reviews, this tour is praised for its informative storytelling and comprehensive stops, though some find the location sensing can be tricky amid Asheville’s tall buildings.

This tour departs from the Asheville Visitor Center on 36 Montford Ave, with the end point at 1 Page Ave. Once booked, participants receive a separate app by Action that works offline after download, allowing for hands-free navigation. The tour is especially suited for those interested in history, architecture, and local art, with stops that include iconic buildings, sculptures, and notable figures. It’s an excellent choice for extended visits or repeat trips over the course of a year, thanks to the one-time purchase option.

Key Points

Self-guided walking tour covering Asheville’s history, art, and architecture
Price of $14.99 per person, with access valid for 12 months
Duration of 1 to 2 hours, covering 1.8 miles of city streets
Downloadable offline via the Actions Tour Guide App with a unique password
Eight detailed stops, including the Basilica of St. Lawrence and Grove Arcade
Suitable for most travelers, with easy access near public transportation

Starting at the Basilica of Saint Lawrence

The tour begins at the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, an impressive structure built with the influence of Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino. In the early 1890s, Guastavino was working on the vaulted ceiling of Biltmore House in Asheville when he decided to settle here, purchasing property to establish roots. The basilica’s architecture and history set a grand tone for the exploration ahead, offering a glimpse into Asheville’s religious and architectural heritage.

This stop offers a 15-minute window for a thorough look at the basilica, which is admission-free. Its prominent position at the start of the tour allows visitors to appreciate Guastavino’s mastery and the deep roots of Asheville’s architectural scene.

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Discovering Asheville’s Shopping and Art Sculptures

One of the highlights is the Shopping Daze Sculpture, which captures three well-dressed women with a dog in tow. This sculpture commemorates Asheville’s former vibrant shopping district on Haywood Street, symbolizing its ability to bounce back from economic downturns and mall culture. Visitors spend about 15 minutes appreciating this piece.

Further along, the Legacy of Design Sculpture depicts a young boy on stilts, honoring architect Richard Sharp Smith. Crafted by Dennis Smith, this sculpture emphasizes Asheville’s inventive spirit, blending public art with local history. This stop takes around 15 minutes, showcasing the city’s creative side.

Learning Asheville’s Early Civic and Commercial History

The tour features the Civic Pride Sculpture, a replica of a historic bell that once rang at the east end of Pack Square. This bell marked significant moments, including the declaration of independence by the colonies. It serves as a reminder of Asheville’s foundational role in American history.

Next, the Jackson Building, designed by architect Ronald Greene in 1924, is notable as North Carolina’s tallest skyscraper at the time. Its unique architectural features and prominence on the city skyline highlight Asheville’s early 20th-century ambitions.

Exploring Local Literature and Intricate Architecture

A stop at O. Henry’s Office invites visitors to connect with classic American literature. The bronze set of hair, combs, and a pocket watch evoke O. Henry’s story, Gift of the Magi, anchoring Asheville in literary history and adding a personal touch to the tour’s narrative.

The Drhumor Building, affectionately called the Dr. Humor Building, is known for its intricate carvings. Designed by sculptor Frederick Miles, the building features carvings that may depict Asheville residents, blending public art with local stories and giving the structure its distinctive charm.

Asheville’s Commercial Heart: Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade, built by Edwin Grove, is a vibrant shopping and entertainment hub spanning a city block. This historic center of commerce, offering a variety of shops and services, highlights Asheville’s historic downtown vitality. The tour dedicates 15 minutes to exploring this bustling venue.

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Practical Details for Tour Participants

Participants start the tour at the Asheville Visitor Center, and the end point is located at 1 Page Ave. The Actions app ensures offline access, so no cellular signal is needed after the initial download. The self-guided format means there’s no planned guide or group, allowing visitors to pause, skip, or revisit stories at their leisure.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with easy public transportation access nearby. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning at their own pace and appreciate the flexibility of pausing for photos or breaks whenever they wish.

Handling App Performance and User Experience

While the app provides engaging storytelling and comprehensive routes, some users have noted GPS location challenges among Asheville’s tall buildings. In such cases, manual intervention may be needed to navigate between stops. The offline functionality remains a key advantage, ensuring the tour can proceed regardless of Wi-Fi or cell signal issues.

The app’s audio quality and narration receive praise, making the experience enjoyable and easy to follow. However, some reviews mention that bad weather did not affect the offline content but could impact app responsiveness, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $14.99, this self-guided tour offers considerable value for those eager to explore Asheville’s historic sites, iconic buildings, and public art at their own pace. The one-year access makes it suitable for repeat visits or extended stays.

While some minor issues with GPS accuracy have been reported, the rich content, variety of stops, and flexible schedule make this tour a solid choice for history buffs, art lovers, and curious explorers. It’s especially well-suited for independent travelers who prefer exploring without crowds or rigid schedules.

Final Thoughts on the Asheville Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

This tour provides an affordable, flexible way to experience Asheville’s architecture, history, and culture through engaging audio stories. The 8 stops span the city’s early civic history, artistic achievements, and commercial landmarks, giving a well-rounded picture of Asheville’s development.

The downloadable app and offline operation are practical benefits, particularly for those concerned about connectivity. Its moderate length makes it accessible, though those sensitive to GPS accuracy issues should be aware. Overall, it’s a reliable, informative choice for independent travelers who want to discover Asheville at their own speed.

Ready to Book?

Highlights of Asheville Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

4.0

“This was very informative and a concise history that I enjoyed. The weather was very cold and windy which may have have been a factor in that the a…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Dec 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $14.99 per person.

How long does the tour take?
It typically takes 1 to 2 hours and covers 1.8 miles of city streets.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Asheville Visitor Center on 36 Montford Ave and ends at 1 Page Ave.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is designed for most travelers, with no specific age restrictions.

Do I need a guide or group to do this tour?
No, this is a self-guided tour, with no guide required.

What do I need to access the tour?
You download the Actions Tour Guide App and enter a unique password provided by email after booking.

Can I use this tour offline?
Yes, after downloading the content, it works without Wi-Fi or cellular service.

How many stops are included?
There are 8 stops, each with its own story and significance.

Are attraction tickets or reservations needed?
No, this tour does not include entrance tickets to attractions.

What if I experience GPS issues during the tour?
Some users report location sensing problems among Asheville’s tall buildings, which may require manual navigation.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This self-guided Asheville walking tour offers a comprehensive, flexible experience at an accessible price point, making it a practical choice for those keen to explore Asheville’s historic and artistic charm at their own pace.