Transportation Options in Asheville, North Carolina
With a population of just under 100,000, Asheville is the largest city in Western North Carolina. Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordered by Pisgah National Forest, its regional footprint remains compact.
Getting Around On Foot
Downtown Asheville is both compact and pedestrian-friendly, offering a network of sidewalks that connect restaurants, hotels, shops, galleries, and parks. The walkable South Slope District, located just south of the downtown core, is easily accessed on foot.
Pack Square Park, positioned at the intersection of Patton, Biltmore, and Broadway Avenues, serves as the centerpiece of downtown and hosts a visitor information center. It also marks the starting point for the Asheville Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile self-guided walking tour that highlights the city’s history with 30 downtown stops, many embellished with whimsical statues or local art. Visitors can find a walking map to assist in their journey.
Located about 1.5 miles southwest of downtown, the River Arts District includes 23 buildings along a one-mile stretch of the French Broad River. Due to traffic considerations, it may be more convenient to drive or use rideshare services from downtown to reach the River Arts District, which consists of distinct clusters of galleries and artists.
Exploring by Car
A car is often unnecessary for a short weekend in downtown and nearby areas like South Slope, where breweries are concentrated. However, for visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway, Biltmore Estate, Pisgah National Forest, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, having your own vehicle is advisable. Eight national rental car companies are available at Asheville Regional Airport.
Downtown boasts over 700 metered parking spots, and free street parking is scarce during the day. Metered street parking costs $1.50 per hour, applicable from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday. City-run parking garages offer the first hour free, then charge $2.50 for the second hour, and $1.25 for each subsequent hour or fraction thereof, capping at $12 per day.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic route along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, winds past Asheville on its way to connect with Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and the east entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Public Transportation: Bus Services
The Asheville Rides Transit (ART) operates 18 bus routes throughout downtown and surrounding areas, including Haywood Road in West Asheville, extending to the town of Black Mountain. Buses typically run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Monday through Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays. A one-way fare is $1 cash; keep in mind that bus drivers do not provide change.
However, it is essential to note that the buses do not stop at the Biltmore Estate, so visitors will need transportation to access this destination.
Trolleys & Tours
For those looking to explore multiple attractions without a car, a narrated Gray Line hop-on hop-off trolley tour is an excellent choice. This tour allows visitors to hop on and off at ten key locations, including Pack Square Park, the Omni Grove Park Inn, and Biltmore Village. One ticket is valid for two consecutive days, with tickets priced at $35 for adults and $14 for children aged 5 to 11.
Various guided tours focus on different aspects of the city, from art to breweries to culinary delights. Notably, Lazoom City Comedy Tours provide a unique experience with a comedian guiding guests through Asheville’s neighborhoods.
Taxi and Rideshare Options
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft services operate within Asheville. If you plan to visit the Biltmore Estate, ensure that your taxi or rideshare is readily available, as no transportation is offered within the estate’s grounds.
Exploring by Bike
Asheville has various opportunities for long-distance cycling and mountain biking, yet biking within downtown poses challenges due to limited bike lanes—less than 10 miles exist currently. Nonetheless, the new two-mile Wilma Dykeman Greenway, running along the French Broad River beside the River Arts District, offers a scenic route. Future plans aim to connect this with additional greenways over the next five years, creating a comprehensive “River to Ridge Greenway Network.”
The Flying Bike offers guided electric-bike tours and rentals, promising a refreshing way to explore the area.
Accessibility in Transportation
The ART buses are ADA-accessible, equipped with lifts, wheelchair-secured areas, and priority seating for those with disabilities. Service animals are permitted on board. For more information on ADA services, visit the ART website.
Moreover, most Gray Line trolleys are wheelchair accessible, though it is advisable to call ahead to ensure arrangements can be made for a smooth experience. The paved sidewalks of the Wilma Dykeman Greenway and the French Broad River Greenway support accessibility for all visitors.
For adaptive outdoor recreation, check the schedule at Catalyst Sports, which runs programs in adaptive mountain biking and rock climbing in the Asheville area. Accessible trails are also available on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
