Discover downtown Asheville at your own pace with a smartphone GPS walking tour. Follow narrated stops from Pack Square to Thomas Wolfe’s footprints and pause anytime to explore shops, galleries, and cafés.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out from the blue orb at Pack Square and the city opens like a map written in brick and brass—streets that once echoed with horse hooves now hum with craft breweries and gallery doors.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60–80 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking on pavement for up to 80 minutes.
Wildlife
History
Asheville’s downtown expanded with 19th-century railroad connections and blossomed into a cultural hub—figures like Thomas Wolfe and later the preservation and arts movements shaped its present-day identity.
Conservation
Walking tours concentrate visitor impact in public corridors—support local shops, dispose of waste properly, and avoid obstructing sidewalks to minimize strain on downtown infrastructure.
Reserve your spot on the Asheville's Historic Smart Phone Guided App (GPS) Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Charge your phone
Fully charge your smartphone and bring a small power bank—the tour relies on GPS and audio which drain batteries quickly.
Use headphones
Bring comfortable in-ear headphones for clear narration and to hear ambient audio in busy streets.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect 60–80 minutes of walking on sidewalks and short stair sections—supportive shoes reduce fatigue.
Time your visit
Mid-morning weekdays are best to avoid festival crowds and college-traffic in the central business district.
Smartphone with GPS
Runs the app, provides narration and maps for the route.
Portable battery pack
Keeps your phone powered for GPS and audio if you extend or repeat the tour.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes help on paved streets and short steps encountered along the route.
Light daypack or crossbody bag
Carries water, wallet, and purchases while keeping hands free to use the phone.