As a long-time Asheville resident, I’ve watched this vibrant city evolve into one of the most exciting destinations for art lovers. And as an artist myself, based in the beloved River Artist District, I’ve drawn endless inspiration from the city’s natural beauty and eclectic energy.

Check out my suggested three-day-weekend itinerary to experience Asheville’s magic during your visit.

Day One: Explore Downtown Asheville

Visit the Grove Arcade

Start your adventure at the Grove Arcade, a historic landmark completed in 1929. Designed by Asheville developer Edwin Wiley Grove, the Arcade blends modern shopping concepts with early-20th-century architectural beauty. Inside, you’ll find boutique stores, showcasing local artists, and the Makers Market, an outdoor bazaar where artisans offer handmade jewelry, paintings, clothing and more. It’s a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Asheville’s creative culture. Parking can be tricky on busy weekends, so be sure to check out Asheville’s parking resources.

Street Performers

While out and about, be sure to look for some of Asheville’s best buskers. Performers are out most days from late morning until about 9pm. You may see musical performers, living statues and people who type out poems for you. Prime locations include areas near the Grove Arcade, the Flat Iron statue on Battery Park Avenue, and along Haywood Street. While they don’t sell anything, they do appreciate tips if you enjoy their performances.

Woolworth Walk

Next, head over to Woolworth Walk, a restored building that once housed a Woolworth store. The space is now an art gallery featuring the works of over 170 local artisans, offering paintings, pottery, woodwork, glass, and much more. Take your time exploring the two-story space, which includes rotating exhibits from featured artists.

Drum Circle

If it’s Friday, don’t miss the Asheville Drum Circle in Pritchard Park, just a short walk away. Starting at 6pm, join drummers, dancers and rhythm lovers for this lively community event. Nearby, Jack of the Wood offers great food and live music, featuring local bluegrass and old-time tunes in an Irish pub atmosphere.

Day Two: Dive into Asheville’s Craft Scene

Breakfast

Start your day in the Montford Historic District. The neighborhood offers pleasant walking along shady streets by distinctive Queen Anne, Arts and Crafts and Colonial Revival homes. Set in a former gas sta- tion, All Day Darling at 102 Montford Ave. is the perfect spot for breakfast. This bright and welcoming restaurant offers delicious op- tions, including gluten-free baked goods and creative takes on break- fast classics. It’s an ideal spot to fuel up before a day of art exploration.

.

Center for Craft 

Next, head downtown to the Center for Craft at 67 Broadway St. This unique venue celebrates the impact of craft on humanity, offering exhibitions, a materials collection, a resource library and interactive experiences where you can try your hand at some basic crafts. The center showcases innovative works created from sustainable materials and is a great place to gain a fresh perspective on art.

Glassblowing class at the NC Glass Center

Visit RAD Outpost

Make your way to the RAD Outpost at 24 N Lexington Ave. After the devastation of Hurricane Helene, this space was created to showcase work from artists affected by the flood. It’s a great introduction to the talent in Asheville, with a variety of works on display. Check for hours. From here, you can catch a trolley or drive to the River Arts District (RAD), which is about eight minutes away by car.

Lunch in the River Arts District

Once in the RAD, take a break for lunch. Fresh West Pizza at 342 Depot St. offers delicious wood-fired pizza and fresh salads, while Grey Eagle Taqueria at 185 Clingman Ave. is perfect for taco lovers. Afterward, spend your afternoon exploring the artists’ studios and galleries in the district. You can pick up a map at any of the studio buildings to help you navigate through the district. Be sure to cross the railroad tracks and visit the studios open on the river side of the tracks. These were the locations most impacted by Hurricane Helene. (My studio is located in the Warehouse, just across the tracks.) On the corner of the building you can see markers that show the flood levels for both the 1916 and 2024 floods. Throughout the district, you’ll find a wide range of media and styles, with many artists happy to discuss their work.

Try Your Hand at Glassblowing

If you’re feeling creative, visit the North Carolina Glass Center at 140 Roberts St. You can sign up for a 30-minute class and make a paperweight, pendant or ornament. It’s a fun and hands-on way to engage with Asheville’s arts scene. When the studios begin to close around 5pm, head back downtown for a sunset dinner at one of Asheville’s rooftop restaurants. Hemingway’s Cuba at 15 Page Ave. offers delicious Cuban cuisine, cocktails and unbeatable views of the mountains.

Day Three: Enjoy A Relaxed Day of Art and Culture

Brunch

For a relaxing start to your Sunday, head to Chestnut at 48 Biltmore Ave. for brunch. Known for its locally sourced ingredients, Chestnut offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes. The owners, Joe Scully and Kevin Westmoreland, are dedicated to both their community and the environment. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal. Open for brunch daily from 10am to 2:30pm.

Brunch at Chestnut

Asheville Museum of Art

After brunch, take a short walk to the Asheville Museum of Art at 2 S. Pack Square. Admire the fine collection of 20th- and 21st-century American art, along with rotating exhibitions that highlight both historical and contemporary artists. Open from 11am to 6pm. If you still have time and energy after the museum, hit some of the finest art galleries in the city on Broadway, including Blue Spiral 1, The Haen, American Folk Art Gallery and more.

End with Chocolate

No trip to Asheville would be complete without a visit to the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. Located at 10 S. Pack Square, next to the museum, this cozy spot offers handmade chocolates, truffles, cakes and decadent chocolate beverages. It’s the perfect place to indulge before wrapping up your weekend.