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Asheville's River Arts District (RAD) is a thriving creative community that welcomes visitors. See the work of 700+ artists on display in working studios, galleries, and collectives along the French Broad River. Despite Hurricane Helene's impact, the RAD is coming back strong—with studios reopening, displaced artists finding new spaces, and the creative energy that makes this district special returning full force.
Visit working studios, browse galleries, meet makers, and support Asheville's resilient art community. You'll feet friendly world-class artists who love to show you the process of making their amazing creations. After getting the story behind the art, you can take home the perfect souvenir and expand or begin your art collection—with something in every price range!
(Photo courtesy of 310 Art)
Located just a few miles from downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate, the RAD is a place where you can drive a little or walk a little to visit studios and galleries. Many artists are open throughout the week (more are open on Fridays and Saturdays). Fewer studios open in January-March. Every Saturday, the Upper RAD comes alive with the Saturday Art Market! Browse work from displaced RAD artists set up at Pinegate Renewables (130 Roberts St), 10 AM-5 PM. Studios and galleries throughout the district are open, including Warehouse Studios and Foundation Woodworks.
The "River Arts District" sandwich board signs are easy to spot along the small triangle of streets and avenues with road names such as Clingman, Depot, Haywood, Lyman, Riverside and Roberts. See and download a map at the bottom of this page.
Find many new studios, galleries and restaurants. RAD is home to great restaurants, see our guide for Dining in the River Arts District.
The Wedge Brewing Company, a local’s favorite hangout, has two locations in the River Arts District, 37 Paynes Way and 5 Foundy Street. New Belgium Brewery is just across the river. Daidala Ciders (122 Riverside Drive) is a nomadic cider company focusing on small batch creations, located in The Historic Cotton Mill Studios.
River Arts District, Asheville
The Radical
Innovative boutique lodging in Asheville's River Arts District features creative design and comfortable accommodations. Explore easy access to artist galleries, craft breweries, restaurants, and the scenic French Broad River greenway.
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Black Wall Street AVL
Black Wall Street AVL is a Black business incubator with a mission to help people turn their ideas into reality and to build a supportive community for BIPOC business owners. They provide… More Information
St Claire Art
At this must-stop studio in River Arts District (344 Depot Street, #104), watch Stephen create brilliant paintings that come to life with intense color and contrast. His fascinating “Dialuminism”… More Information
Asheville Art Classes & Lessons
Take an afternoon- or week-long painting or pottery class/workshop in Asheville at studios in and around Asheville. Group or private lessons are designed for beginners and experienced. Take…
Directions to the River Arts District (RAD)
There are many GPS addresses since the RAD covers more than a mile of riverfront. We suggest starting at Riverview Station (191 Lyman Street, Asheville), home to dozens of artists, including 310 Art. Or begin at St. Claire Art at 344 Depot Street. Both locations have large parking areas.
Tips for Exploring the River Arts District in Asheville
- Pick up a map at any of the studios to help you find your way. Artists are located in many buildings in a one-mile radius. It's a treasure hunt!
- The River Arts District is just a few minutes from downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate entrance, so it's very convenient.
- Since this is a transforming industrial area, many of the buildings are converted warehouses. You'll be very surprised to see the amazing art hidden inside these modest and architecturally fun buildings.
- You can walk to many studios, but you'll need to drive around to find all the buildings. Many streets do not have sidewalks. All parking is free but sometimes a challenge to find. Most of the studios are located in four areas (see map below).
- Most artists have a studio plus a gallery, so you can purchase a wide range of art after you see how it's created. The best days to visit to catch artists are Wednesday-Saturday. Some are open seven days a week (usually in the 10 AM-5 PM time range) year-round. Just look for the River Arts sandwich boards.
- Please touch! You'll find a huge variety of art. If you are looking for something in particular, just ask one of the artists. It's a close community and they love to refer to other artists.
- Take an art workshop or hands-on class.
