Go shopping in downtown Asheville
The shopping areas in Downtown Asheville offer a unique blend of local artistry, vintage finds, and modern retail experiences. Known for its vibrant culture and independent businesses, the city provides visitors and residents with diverse shopping options. This article explores the most notable shopping districts, highlighting their specialties and contributions to the local economy.
Historic Shopping Districts
The Grove Arcade
One of Asheville’s most iconic shopping spots, Grove Arcade, is a historic marketplace featuring local boutiques, artisan shops, and gourmet restaurants. Established in the 1920s, this architectural masterpiece houses boutique retailers, art galleries, and gourmet eateries.
Specialties: Handmade jewelry, local art, boutique fashion.
Popular Stores: Enter the Earth (gem and mineral shop), Battery Park Book Exchange (bookstore and wine bar), and Wake Foot Sanctuary for a relaxing experience.
Lexington Avenue
Known for its bohemian shopping scene, Lexington Avenue is home to independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, and quirky local businesses. This area is perfect for those looking for one-of-a-kind finds and unique fashion pieces. Highlights:- Vintage clothing and thrift stores such as Hip Replacements.
- Books and News great source of rare books and magazines
- Izzy’s Coffee offers a unique look into what many consider old school Asheville because it’s been around since before Asheville became a hip town
- Mela Indian Restaurant was the first Indian restaurant in Asheville. Now that Indian cuisine is very trendy, we now have 5 Indian restaurants in downtown Asheville!
Art Galleries and Handcrafted Goods
Woolworth Walk
A must-visit destination for art lovers, Woolworth Walk is a historic building turned into an art gallery and market, showcasing works from local artists. Visitors can find an array of handcrafted goods, from paintings to jewelry and home decor.
- Offers local arts and crafts.
- Features an old-fashioned soda fountain with classic American treats.
- Home to various artisan shops selling handmade gifts
Lexington Glassworks
For those interested in artisanal shopping, Lexington Glassworks is a must-visit. This working glassblowing studio features live demonstrations and unique glass art pieces.- Offers a variety of handblown glass home decor and gifts.
- Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase their handcrafted items.
- Specializes in handcrafted goods and unique, colorful glass creations.
Unique Boutiques and Local Businesses
Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
This cozy bookstore doubles as a champagne and wine bar, offering book lovers a chance to browse rare and used books while enjoying a glass of wine.
Specialties: Rare books, local literature, unique gifts.
Cozy ambiance with live music and a coffee bar.
Ideal for book lovers seeking a relaxing shopping experience.
Asheville Kress Emporium
A must-visit for unique gifts, the Asheville Emporium features a mix of locally made crafts, souvenirs, and vintage Asheville memorabilia.
Downtown Outdoor Market
Asheville City Market is a MUST on Saturday mornings ( April- October)
A vibrant outdoor market that features local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Shoppers can find a diverse selection of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and gourmet food items.
Products Available: Fresh produce, local crafts, baked goods, artisan cheese, artisan pastries, pottery, music and a great community vibe.
and the best is that you support small businesses and sustainable shopping.
Visit downtown Asheville, and please make a comment with YOUR FAVORITE downtown attraction!
Despite changes in consumer behavior and economic challenges, the city remains a premier shopping destination with a diverse mix of boutiques, markets, and galleries that celebrate its unique culture and history.
This beautiful city is now open and in need of your support, downtown Asheville has many restaurants, boutiques, galleries and microbreweries for you to discover and enjoy, while you help many local independent businesses.
THE CITY IS OPEN, IN NEED OF TOURISM, AND WAITING FOR YOU TO DISCOVER ITS ATTRACTIONS WHILE SUPPORTING LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS.
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