Grove Arcade
A historic 1929 architectural gem in downtown Asheville, offering unique shops, cafes, and a taste of old-world charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Grove Arcade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1929 architectural gem in downtown Asheville, offering unique shops, cafes, and a taste of old-world charm.
"The interior of the building is breathtaking. Definitely worth walking around inside."
📸 Architecture Photo Ops
The building's stunning design is a photographer's dream. Capture the details!
🛍️ Support Local
Many shops feature local artisans and unique goods. Great for souvenirs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Architecture
Throughout the building
Marvel at the 1929 European-inspired design, complete with ornate details, spiral staircases, and a glass roof.
Bebette's Beignets
First floor
Indulge in delicious beignets, a taste of New Orleans right in Asheville.
Battery Park Book Exchange
First floor
A cozy spot for book lovers, offering a unique literary escape with champagne and champagne bar.
Local Artisan Shops
First floor
Discover unique gifts and local crafts from a variety of independent boutiques.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Architecture Photo Ops
The building's stunning design is a photographer's dream. Capture the details!
🛍️ Support Local
Many shops feature local artisans and unique goods. Great for souvenirs!
☕ Coffee & Treats
Grab a coffee or a sweet treat from one of the charming cafes inside.
🚶♀️ Explore All Floors
While the first floor is retail, don't miss the upper floors for a different perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Architecture Photo Ops
The building's stunning design is a photographer's dream. Capture the details!
🛍️ Support Local
Many shops feature local artisans and unique goods. Great for souvenirs!
☕ Coffee & Treats
Grab a coffee or a sweet treat from one of the charming cafes inside.
🚶♀️ Explore All Floors
While the first floor is retail, don't miss the upper floors for a different perspective.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Downtown parking can be challenging; research options beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grove Arcade's breathtaking architecture and unique atmosphere, calling it a must-see in downtown Asheville. While the selection of shops is noted as small, the quality of artisan goods and dining options like Bebette's Beignets are highly appreciated. Some find the upper floors less engaging, and parking can be a challenge.
"The interior of the building is breathtaking. Definitely worth walking around inside. There are several cute boutiques and unique stores. The upper floor is full of offices. This is a great place for good photos, getting a unique gift, or just to get in the AC while exploring downtown Asheville."
Avery Waters
"It’s a beautiful building, but you can’t access any of the upper floors. And the bottom floor doesn’t have much of anything at all. A few boutiques but that’s it. Don’t let your kids be fooled, the building may be called “arcade” but there is nothing similar to an arcade for kids to play games. The only part interesting about this building is the architecture, not worth stopping off of the Trolley Tour either so don’t waste your time unless you just want to look at the architecture for 2 minutes and walk up and down the street at all of the shops."
Brittany LaPrade
"Beautiful shopping mall with beautiful architecture. The shopping mall is very small with few shops, but the place looks beautiful. Not much to do in the mall, there are no major flagship stores, but the mall looks wonderful. There are cafes and some specialty stores around the mall, but that’s it. The area around the mall is enjoyable for walking.
Parking around the mall isn’t free, and the space is quite difficult to find, even in weekdays."
Daniel Judah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Grove Arcade is located in the heart of downtown Asheville, making it easily accessible by foot if you're staying nearby. If driving, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity, though they can be competitive.
Yes, the Grove Arcade is a common stop on Asheville's trolley tours and is accessible via local bus routes that serve the downtown area.
Parking can be challenging. The Cherry Street lot is an option, but many visitors recommend exploring other downtown garages or street parking, especially if arriving during peak times. Be mindful of parking hours and rates.
Absolutely! If your hotel is in downtown Asheville, the Grove Arcade is likely within easy walking distance, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
The main retail floor is generally accessible. Elevators are available to access other levels, though some older architectural elements might present minor challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Grove Arcade itself is free. You only pay for purchases made at the shops or restaurants within.
The building's common areas are typically open daily, but individual shop and restaurant hours can vary. It's best to check the Grove Arcade's official website or individual business hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter and explore the Grove Arcade. It's a public space designed for shopping and sightseeing.
The Grove Arcade also houses apartments, but these are private residences and not accessible to the public for tours.
The Grove Arcade occasionally hosts events, especially around holidays. Check their local listings or social media for any upcoming happenings.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a curated selection of local artisan shops, boutiques, specialty stores, and cafes. It's known for unique gifts and local crafts rather than large chain stores.
Yes, the Grove Arcade features several dining options, including cafes and restaurants. Bebette's Beignets and Carmels are popular choices.
Absolutely! The arcade is a fantastic place to find unique gifts, from handmade jewelry and art to specialty food items and books.
Many visitors rave about the beignets from Bebette's. Coffee shops and bakeries also offer delightful treats.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for souvenir shopping, offering locally made items that reflect Asheville's unique culture.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire interior is a photo opportunity! Focus on the ornate staircases, wrought-iron railings, antique mailboxes, and the light filtering through the glass roof.
Generally, casual photography is welcome. For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the Grove Arcade management beforehand to inquire about any policies or permits.
The unique architecture and natural light make it a beautiful backdrop for portraits, especially during quieter times.
Morning light can be beautiful, especially if you can capture the sunbeams through the glass roof. Weekday mornings offer fewer distractions.
While casual photography is usually fine, be respectful of shoppers and businesses. Avoid blocking pathways or using flash extensively in small shops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Visiting Bebette's Beignets for a sweet treat is often a hit with younger visitors. Keep in mind that the primary focus is on boutique shopping and dining, so manage expectations for active play. The Battery Park Book Exchange can also be a quiet, engaging spot for families who enjoy reading. 💰 Budget Travelers
Parking is the main expense to consider; look for the most economical options or utilize public transport if available. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and capture the best light filtering through the atrium. Don't miss details like the antique mailboxes and intricate stonework for unique shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During its early years, it housed a variety of businesses, from department stores to professional offices, reflecting the bustling spirit of Asheville in the early 20th century. Despite its grand beginnings, the Arcade faced challenges over the decades, including periods of vacancy. However, significant restoration efforts have brought it back to its former glory, preserving its historical charm while adapting it for modern use. Today, it stands as a testament to Asheville's architectural heritage and a vibrant hub for local commerce.
Visitors can still see remnants of its past, such as the original mailboxes, adding to its unique atmosphere. It's important to note that while the building is called an 'arcade,' it doesn't feature traditional arcade games. Instead, its name refers to the architectural style of a covered shopping passage.
Navigating the Shops and Bites
This makes it an ideal spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts that truly represent Asheville's creative spirit. For food lovers, the arcade doesn't disappoint. Bebette's Beignets is a highly recommended stop, offering a taste of New Orleans with their delicious beignets, a tradition celebrated on Tuesdays but available daily.
You can also find cozy cafes perfect for a coffee break or a light snack. Battery Park Book Exchange offers a charming literary escape, complete with champagne, making it a popular spot for a relaxed afternoon. Other eateries provide diverse options, ensuring there's something to satisfy various palates. While the retail offerings are concentrated on the first floor, the overall experience of exploring the arcade's shops and eateries is enhanced by its stunning architectural backdrop.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit