Asheville’s Creative Heart in Motion
For over 30 years, the River Arts District (RAD) has been a destination for art lovers, collectors, and visitors seeking inspiration. Here, you can meet hundreds of artists, watch creativity unfold in real time, take hands-on workshops, and purchase original artwork directly from the creators. The River Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood of historic industrial buildings transformed into an artistic hub. Nestled along the scenic French Broad River, the RAD is just minutes from downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
A Community Reimagined
Today, the RAD continues to evolve following the challenges of Hurricane Helene. Thanks to the strength of our creative community and the generosity of supporters, over 500 artists are back in studios, galleries, and collectives throughout the district. While the landscape is still transforming, the spirit of the RAD has never been stronger.
Visit our thriving creative corridors:
📍 Roberts Street
📍 Artful Way
📍 Clingman Ave. Ext.
📍 Depot Street
📍 River Arts Place
📍 Lyman Street
Help Sustain the Comeback
Your donation helps artists remain in their studios, supports small creative businesses, and strengthens the cultural heartbeat of Asheville. Every contribution makes a lasting impact.
Eat, Drink, Sleep & Experience Asheville’s Creative Side
From morning coffee to late-night music, the RAD offers something for every taste. Many of your favorite spots have reopened, while new ones are joining the mix every month.
Restaurants & Cafés
Afterglow • All Souls Pizza • Baby Bull • The Bull & Beggar • ButterPunk • Crusco • Fresh Wood Fired Pizza • Golden Hour • The Grind • The Grey Eagle • Laurita’s Kitchen Food Truck • PennyCup Coffee • Piccolina • Ultra Coffeebar • Food Trucks @ Foundy Street, Wedge Brewery, & New Belgium Brewery
Breweries & Bars
Anoche • Crucible • Hi-Wire Brewing • New Belgium Brewing • RAD Brewing • WEDGE Brewing • Ultra Coffeebar
Live Music
The Grey Eagle | Asheville’s legendary live music venue
Hotels
The Radical Hotel
Things to Do in the River Arts District
The RAD is alive with creativity every day. Whether you’re an art collector, a casual visitor, or a family exploring Asheville, you’ll find something inspiring to experience.
- Meet the Artists: Visit studios and galleries showcasing painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, glass, textiles, and more.
- See Artists at Work: Watch demonstrations and exhibitions happening daily.
- Take a Workshop or Class: Try your hand at pottery, printmaking, mixed media, or any medium with professional artists.
- Enjoy Live Music & Events: Explore a calendar of concerts, art strolls, and community celebrations.
- Explore the District: Walk, or bike the beautiful French Broad River Greenway, discover murals and public art, and connect with Asheville’s creative soul.
Looking for even more? Check out our Events page, Explore Asheville, and Romantic Asheville.
Experience the Creative Comeback
The River Arts District is open, evolving, and full of life. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see the transformation, you’ll find a renewed energy pulsing through every studio, gallery, and street.
📍 Visit. Engage. Support. Create.
We look forward to welcoming you to the River Arts District — the creative heart of Asheville.
