How to Plan Your Lonely Planet Experiences Private Walking Tour of Asheville

If you’re planning a trip to Asheville and wondering what to do, booking a private walking tour with Lonely Planet Experiences might be the perfect introduction to this beautiful city in North Carolina. This tour includes a visit to downtown Asheville and the River Arts District art galleries, a farmer’s market, and the famous Biltmore Village where your guide will teach you about the city’s history and culture along the way. Plus, you’ll get an opportunity to sample a local beer from a craft brewery. Here’s a guide on how to plan your tour with Lonely Planet Experiences:

Step 1: Booking Your Tour

Booking your tour is simple, and all you need to do is go to the Viator website by clicking here and make your payment via PayPal or credit card. The cost includes a friendly professional tour guide for your own private group, plenty of time to take photos of your favorite places, and a beer or soft drink per person in the South Slope Brewing District. Additionally, the tour comes with the cost of transportation on the day if required, but food and additional drinks are not included (although your guide will be happy to recommend favorites along the way). Do note that this tour offers a private tour for just you and your party.

Step 2: Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is the Asheville Art Museum, located at 2 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801. We highly recommend a centrally located start point for the tour. If you need transportation, the cost is already included in your ticket price.

Step 3: Preparing for Your Tour

Before booking the tour, make sure you pack accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour. If you plan to visit during summer, don’t forget to wear sunscreen and carry an umbrella in case of rain. Also, charge your camera or phone to capture unforgettable moments.

Step 4: The Tour Itself

The tour takes around three hours and starts at the Asheville Art Museum. Your guide will take you through the streets of downtown Asheville, pointing out interesting landmarks and providing you with valuable information about the history and culture of the city. From there, you’ll head to the River Arts District art galleries and visit a farmer’s market where you can buy artisanal products from local makers.Finally, you’ll visit Biltmore Village to learn about the town’s founder George Vanderbilt, Asheville’s most famous attraction – the Biltmore Estate. Along the way, you can stop by for a beer or a soft drink at South Slope Brewing District (included in your ticket price).

Step 5: Tips for Planning the Rest of Your Trip

Your guide on this tour is a local expert and can provide you with excellent advice on what to do next in Asheville. At the end of the tour, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations about restaurants, museums, or other attractions. Additionally, take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about this beautiful city and its hidden gems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning your Lonely Planet Experiences Private Walking Tour of Asheville is easy, and it’s a fantastic way to explore the town’s rich history and culture. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared for the tour and make the most of your time in Asheville. The tour comes with a local expert guide, a chance to taste local beer, and a private party with your group, which guarantees that the experience will be unique and unforgettable. So, book your tour today and get ready for an exciting adventure in Asheville.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the City: Asheville

Asheville is a beautiful city in North Carolina that draws tens of thousands of visitors every year. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that there are so many questions about Asheville. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the most frequently asked questions about Asheville and provide answers based on expert research and personal experience.

1. What are the top attractions in Asheville?

Asheville has a lot of amazing attractions that are sure to delight any traveler. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, you can’t go wrong with a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway or a trip to the stunning Biltmore Estate. If you’re interested in art and culture, check out the Asheville Art Museum, the Folk Art Center, or the River Arts District. For a more quirky experience, visit the Asheville Pinball Museum or take a tour of the city’s many breweries.

2. What’s the best time of year to visit Asheville?

Asheville is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit really depends on your preferences. If you love outdoor activities, spring and fall are great times to visit because of the mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. If you prefer warmer weather, summer can be a great time to visit as long as you’re prepared for the occasional thunderstorm. Winter is also a great time to visit if you enjoy skiing, as there are many great ski resorts in the area.

3. What’s the food like in Asheville?

Asheville has a vibrant food scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. If you’re looking for traditional southern cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. Must-try dishes include biscuits and gravy, BBQ, and fried chicken. You’ll also find plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, as well as a thriving craft beer and cider scene.

4. What’s the weather like in Asheville?

Asheville has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with highs in the 80s and occasional thunderstorms. Fall is a popular time to visit because of the stunning fall foliage, mild temperatures, and lower humidity. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it’s a great time to visit the nearby ski resorts. Spring is mild and pleasant, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and trees.

5. What’s the music scene like in Asheville?

Asheville has a rich music scene that caters to many different genres and tastes. You’ll find everything from bluegrass and folk music to punk rock and heavy metal. Some popular music venues in Asheville include The Orange Peel, The Grey Eagle, and Isis Music Hall. There are also many music festivals held in Asheville throughout the year, including LEAF Festival and the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival.

6. What are some fun things to do in Asheville with kids?

Asheville is a great place to visit with kids, as there are many family-friendly activities and attractions. Some popular options include:- Visiting the Asheville Zoo at WNC Nature Center

– Exploring the hands-on exhibits at the Asheville Museum of Science

– Taking a tour of the Biltmore Estate (which offers a special kids’ audio tour)

– Going on a hike in one of the nearby national parks or forests

– Trying out the kid-friendly rides and attractions at the Fun Depot

7. What are some outdoor activities to do in Asheville?

Asheville is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Some popular options include:- Hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway or in the nearby Pisgah National Forest

– Taking a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

– Kayaking or tubing on the French Broad River

– Going on a hot air balloon ride over the mountains

– Trying out the zipline courses or the aerial adventure park at Navitat

8. What’s the history of Asheville?

Asheville has a rich history that dates back thousands of years to the indigenous peoples who first called the region home. In the 1700s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, and Asheville was officially founded in 1797. The city played an important role in the Civil War as a major supplier of Confederate troops and resources. Throughout the 20th century, Asheville experienced periods of growth and decline, but it has emerged as a thriving cultural hub in recent years.

9. What’s the nightlife like in Asheville?

Asheville has a lively and eclectic nightlife scene that caters to many different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer live music, craft beer, cocktails, or dancing, you’ll find plenty of options in Asheville. Some popular nightlife spots in Asheville include The Orange Peel, The One Stop, and Wicked Weed Brewing.

10. Are there any festivals or events in Asheville?

Asheville is known for its many festivals and events throughout the year. Some popular events include:- The Asheville Fringe Arts Festival (January)

– The Asheville Beer Week (May)

– LEAF Festival (May and October)

– The Mountain Dance and Folk Festival (August)

– The National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn (November)

– The Biltmore Christmas Celebration (November and December)

Conclusion

We hope this blog post has answered some of your most pressing questions about Asheville. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, art and culture, or local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant mountain city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Asheville

Asheville, located in western North Carolina, is a vibrant city that attracts visitors from around the world. The city has a rich history, a thriving arts scene, and a variety of outdoor activities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Asheville.

Step 1: Visit the Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate, a 250-room French Renaissance chateau built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, is the most visited attraction in Asheville. It’s a great place to start your Asheville tour.You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the Vanderbilt family and their lavish lifestyle. There are also beautiful gardens to explore, including a rose garden and a greenhouse.

Step 2: Explore Downtown Asheville

Downtown Asheville is a trendy and vibrant area with plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars. You can start by walking around and taking in the street art and architecture.One highlight of downtown is the Grove Arcade, a historic building that now houses shops and restaurants. There’s also the Vance Monument, a 65-foot obelisk that honors Zebulon Vance, a North Carolina governor and senator.

Step 3: Go on a Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which means that there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Some popular hiking trails include the Looking Glass Rock Trail, the Graveyard Fields Trail, and the Mount Mitchell Trail.Not only will you get beautiful views of the mountains, but you’ll also see wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Step 4: Visit the River Arts District

The River Arts District, located just outside of downtown, is a haven for artists and art-lovers. The district is home to over 200 artists, who have studios in historic buildings along the French Broad River.You can take a self-guided tour of the studios and galleries, and meet the artists who work there. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can make a day of it.

Step 5: Take a Beer Tour

Asheville is known for its craft beer, with over 30 breweries in the area. You can take a beer tour to visit some of the best breweries and learn about the brewing process.One popular beer tour is the Asheville Brews Cruise, which takes you to several breweries and includes a tasting of their beers. Many of the breweries also have food trucks or restaurants, so you can enjoy a meal with your beer.

Step 6: Visit the Folk Art Center

The Folk Art Center, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, showcases the work of Southern Appalachian craftspeople. You can see handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more.There are also demonstrations and workshops, where you can learn about the crafts and techniques used by the artists. It’s a great place to find unique, handcrafted gifts to take home.

Step 7: Relax in a Hot Spring

The North Carolina mountains are home to several natural hot springs, where you can soak in mineral-rich water and relax. The closest hot springs to Asheville are the Hot Springs Resort and Spa, which offers private soaking tubs and outdoor pools.Remember to make a reservation ahead of time, and bring a swimsuit and a towel. It’s a great way to end your Asheville tour.

Conclusion

Asheville is a wonderful city to visit, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Asheville. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and have fun!