A GUIDE TO THE RIVER ARTS DISTRICT, ASHEVILLE NC (WHY, WHAT, AND HOW)

Paintings adorn the walls, sculptures stand proud in gardens, murals form the backsplashes to bars, and graffiti wraps around the revitalized warehouses and brick buildings of the region. 

What is the River Arts District in Asheville?

The River Arts District, or RAD for short, is the artistic heart of Asheville. In the late 1800s it was the industrial heart of the city. 

Why visit the River Arts District (especially with kids)

Any art enthusiasts or collectors on a getaway to Asheville, you will love diving into this blossoming eclectic, home-grown art scene. 

How to experience the River Arts District, Asheville

Plan your itinerary around where you want to eat, have coffee, and a craft brew or urban wine – and at what times. 

Things to do in the River Arts District

I’ll move down from the most northern green hub down to the southern blue. We started in the purple district and, with this decision, missed the Green district! 

RAD Green Hub (Riverside Drive) 1. Asheville Cotton Mills Studios

It’s now one of the busiest studios in the district with eight studio spaces filled with natural light that is dream of all artists. 

White Duck Taco Shop, Hatchery Studio

High on the list of foodies visiting Asheville is the White Duck Taco Shop, a colorful, sunlit space that sells $3 fish tacos to rave about. 

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