Highlights of Asheville Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

3 Reviews4.00 out of 5 stars Based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Asheville, USA
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Loading Options

1 to 2 hours (Approx.)
Mobile Ticket
Instant Confirmation

Overview

Uncover a blend of history, art, and stories as you walk Asheville’s streets. Observe the mastery of structures like the Basilica of St. Lawrence. Learn about the city’s post-Revolutionary War origins and how the raging Civil War impacted Asheville and its slaves. Then see an array of unique sculptures as you continue, such as the Marketplace Sculpture. You’ll also get to meet figures such as famed author Thomas Wolfe and see the eclectic River Arts District.

After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.

New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Asheville Visitor Center, 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Open in Google Maps

After booking, search your email for "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow instructions NOW with Wi-Fi/data. Don't wait until onsite. What to bring: Charged smartphone, Power Bank, Headphones, & downloaded tour app.

End point

1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Description

Stop At: Basilica of Saint Lawrence, 97 Haywood St, Asheville, North Carolina 28801

Pause here. To our left is the impressive Basilica of St. Lawrence. This basilica owes its existence to Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino. In the early 1890s, Guastavino was commissioned to work on a vaulted ceiling for the Biltmore house in Asheville. But while here, he decided he loved the place too much to leave! He bought property and set down roots.

Note:- This tour is 1.8 miles long and covers all its essentials in 2-3 hours.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Shopping Daze Sculpture, 85-99 W Walnut St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

See that statue depicting three well-dressed women with a dog in tow? That’s Shopping Daze! This sculpture commemorated Haywood Street’s history as a desirable and unique shopping destination. I think it can also represent Asheville’s ability to bounce back after its lively shopping district was hindered by debt and mall culture.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Legacy of Design Sculpture, 54 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

The ‘Legacy of Design’ sculpture stands up here, depicting a young boy on stilts. This piece was made to honor the inventive architect Richard Sharp Smith. I’ll dive deeper into Smith’s life in a moment, but first, you should know a thing or two about the sculptor of this piece, Dennis Smith.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Civic Pride Sculpture, 2-8 N Market St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

The bell up here is a replica of the one that used to stand at the east end of Pack square, which rang out during important moments in Asheville’s early history. What kinds of events? Well, how about when the colonies declared their independence from Great Britain!

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: The Jackson Building, 22 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

In 1924 architect Ronald Greene was commissioned to create the Jackson Building. It’s the one directly to our right! This was the tallest skyscraper in North Carolina at the time of its construction, and boasts some very unique features.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: O. Henry's Office, 25-45 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Do you see that bronze lock of hair, combs, and pocket watch set into the concrete around this plaque? If you’re a classic literature buff, you might recall what these all have in common. They’re from the famous O. Henry short story “Gift of the Magi”!

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Drhumor Building, 47 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

To our left stands the amazingly intricate Drhumor Building! Humorously given the nickname of the ‘Dr. Humor building,’ this structure owes its beauty to sculptor Frederick Miles. What many people don’t know is that these carvings might actually be based on real Asheville residents!

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Grove Arcade, 1 Page Ave, Asheville, North Carolina 28801

Coming up on our left is the Grove Arcade. Built by Edwin Grove, this bustling center of commerce stretches over a block and offers just about anything your heart desires.

Duration: 15 minutes

Read full description

What To Expect

  • Reservations are REQUIRED for all bookings
  • Book Your Package On-Line and Receive Your Confirmation
  • Departure point: Detailed check-in instructions - including the address and parking information if applicable - will be included in your final confirmation email.
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours (Approx.)
  • Departure Time:
    Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
    Highlights of Asheville Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
    8/9/2023 - 1/2/2026
    Monday - Sunday :09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Return Details:

    1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

What's Included

  • Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
  • Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
  • Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup not offered
  • Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
See 5 More

What To Bring

  • Confirmation Voucher (printed or mobile)
  • Any required or suggested items listed on your confirmation email.
  • A Smile!

Additional Info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email with instructions. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the separate app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular.
  • How to start the tour: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
  • Walking Tours: couples can share one using headphones.
  • Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It's perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
  • Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
  • Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
  • Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
  • Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
  • Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
  • Minimum Mobile OS Requirement: iOS 14 or later / Android 9 (Pie) or later. It is compatible with iPad models that have a GPS chip.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-267535P34

Reviews

4.00
3 reviews

Average 4.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
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