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Exploring the River Arts District (RAD) near downtown Asheville and Biltmore is so much fun. Meet 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 all price ranges! Discover 200 artists in 22 buildings, creating high-quality fine art of every variety.
Artists are located in converted warehouses and industrial buildings along the French Broad River, just a few miles from downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate. Drive a little, 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.
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
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… read more
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 opportunities for professional development through programs, events, mentoring, and coaching with support from their partners.
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”… read more
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” process allows light to pass through layers of paint, reflecting off metal. Open Mon-Sat 10 AM-5 PM.
Mark Bettis Studio & Gallery
This beautiful contemporary art gallery includes paintings, ceramics, glass, and sculpture work. A must-see for art lovers! See the website for upcoming shows featuring local and national artists… read more
This beautiful contemporary art gallery includes paintings, ceramics, glass, and sculpture work. A must-see for art lovers! See the website for upcoming shows featuring local and national artists from the gallery. 123 Roberts Street, Asheville, NC 28801
Asheville Art Classes & Lessons
Take an afternoon- or week-long painting or pottery class/workshop in Asheville at studios in the River Arts District. Group or private lessons are designed for beginners and experienced. Take… read more
Take an afternoon- or week-long painting or pottery class/workshop in Asheville at studios in the River Arts District. Group or private lessons are designed for beginners and experienced. Take home a souvenir of art that your create!
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 25 building 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).
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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.
River Arts District Map
