Discover Asheville’s Beauty: Scenic Driving Tour – North Carolina, United States

EXPERIENCE

Begin your Asheville adventure at the Asheville Visitor Center, where your journey through this vibrant city starts.

As you stroll, you’ll dive into the history of the Cherokee people, learning about their deep-rooted connection to the region and their use of ancient bison trails for hunting, travel, and trade routes.

Continuing through the city, you’ll explore Asheville’s founding and the impact the Civil War had on the area and its residents. Next, marvel at the stunning Basilica of St. Lawrence, and discover the vision behind its architectural beauty. From there, head to the Appalachian Stage, the first of many captivating sculptures along the trail, where you’ll learn about the rich history of Appalachian music and its blend of influences from Irish folk to African American gospel.

As you arrive at the Shopping Daze Sculpture, you’ll uncover Haywood Street’s history as a shopping hotspot and hear about the locals’ efforts to preserve this iconic district from decline. Then, travel back to Asheville’s Gilded Age, when the city transformed into a haven for tuberculosis patients, forever altering its identity.

On Woodfin Street, get acquainted with Asheville native and celebrated author Thomas Wolfe, whose famous novel, Look Homeward, Angel, sparked controversy among his neighbors. As you move along, delve into Asheville’s surprising history of beekeeping and keep an eye out for delicious honey-based treats throughout the city!

Next, you’ll see the Civic Pride Sculpture, where you’ll discover the story of Asheville’s namesake, Samuel Ashe, a man whose life was filled with hardship, perseverance, and legacy. Then, prepare for a thrilling tale of the Boojum, a Sasquatch-like creature with a peculiar fondness for women, as local legends come to life!

As your journey continues, you’ll encounter the Jackson Building, once the tallest skyscraper in North Carolina, and an architectural gem in its own right.

Your tour concludes at the bustling Grove Arcade, a vibrant hub of unique shops and dining spots, where the charm of Asheville comes together in one unforgettable location.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore Asheville’s charming Urban Walking Trail and its scenic
Learn about Asheville’s founding and how it grew into a thriving destination
Marvel at architectural gems like the iconic Basilica of St. Lawrence
Discover the captivating stories behind Asheville’s many unique sculptures
Uncover the life of famed Asheville author Thomas Wolfe and his literary legacy

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