S&W Building - grayscale photo of people walking on train station
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S&W Building

4.6
·491k reviews·Asheville, United States

Experience stunning Art Deco architecture and enjoy classic comfort food at the historic S&W Building.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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S&W Building - grayscale photo of people walking on train station

S&W Building

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience stunning Art Deco architecture and enjoy classic comfort food at the historic S&W Building.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for architecture buffs and foodies alike, blending history with delicious eats."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍽️ Savor the Cafeteria

Don't miss the classic S&W Cafeteria experience; it's a taste of history! :forkandknife:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Food Hall

The S&W Food Hall has diverse options, perfect for a quick bite or a full meal. :pizza:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Marvel at the stunning Art Deco design and intricate details of this iconic building. A true feast for the eyes!

S&W Cafeteria Experience

S&W Cafeteria Experience

Step back in time with a meal at the classic S&W Cafeteria, a beloved local institution.

S&W Food Hall Delights

S&W Food Hall Delights

Explore a diverse range of culinary options at the vibrant S&W Food Hall, perfect for every palate.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting during off-peak hours. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are often less busy, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Check their website for any special events or closures before you go.

Know Before You Go

The S&W Building offers a unique glimpse into history. Familiarize yourself with its architectural significance and any specific exhibits or areas you wish to explore to maximize your visit. Comfortable shoes are a must!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Late weekday afternoons
Why
Enjoy before closing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍S&W Market in Downtown Asheville is a beatifully restored art-deco building built in 1929. Even if you don’t go in for the food, seeing the building is totally worth it! #asheville #ashevillenc #downtownasheville #foodhall #artdeco
@olyasworld
59 likes • 2.7K views

🍽️ Savor the Cafeteria

Don't miss the classic S&W Cafeteria experience; it's a taste of history! :forkandknife:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Food Hall

The S&W Food Hall has diverse options, perfect for a quick bite or a full meal. :pizza:

Great options in a beautiful building. #asheville #onethingtotry #foodhall #artdeco #cider #foodie #northcarolina #thingstodoinasheville #ashevillefoodies
@atmarousas
2.5K likes • 123.2K views
Step inside a piece of Asheville history 🏛️ The S&W Market & Taproom is more than just a food hall—it’s an iconic Art Deco landmark reimagined for modern-day foodies and craft beer lovers. Located in the beautifully restored 1929 S&W Building in downtown Asheville, this space brings together local bites, Highland Brewing’s downtown taproom, and an upstairs event venue—Circa 29. 🍽️ Home to some of ...
@carolinabucketlist
90 likes • 3.7K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Details

The Art Deco details are stunning; bring your camera! :camerawithflash:

Have you heard of this lounge under the S&W Building? I hadn’t either until I went to an Asheville Young Professionals Meet & Greet. Circa 29 is the perfect space to host events—tucked away, stylish, and full of character. It’s got that speakeasy vibe with just the right amount of charm. Whether you’re networking, celebrating, or just looking for a cool spot to gather, this hidden gem is worth che...
@bellflower_management
14 likes • 979 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍽️ Savor the Cafeteria

Don't miss the classic S&W Cafeteria experience; it's a taste of history! :forkandknife:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Food Hall

The S&W Food Hall has diverse options, perfect for a quick bite or a full meal. :pizza:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Details

The Art Deco details are stunning; bring your camera! :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the S&W Building for its stunning Art Deco architecture and the nostalgic charm of its cafeteria. The food hall offers a modern culinary contrast, providing diverse options. Some find parking challenging, and the cafeteria can get busy during peak hours.

What People Like

Beautiful Art Deco architecture
Nostalgic cafeteria experience
Diverse food hall options

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The S&W Building is accessible via public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

Limited street parking is available, and there are also paid parking garages in the vicinity. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transportation to avoid parking hassles.

From downtown, you can take a direct bus route or a short taxi/rideshare. The journey is typically under 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the S&W Building itself is generally free, allowing you to admire its architecture. However, specific exhibits or events might require tickets. It's best to check their official website for current information.

Opening hours can vary, especially for the S&W Cafeteria and S&W Food Hall. Typically, the building is open during business hours, but it's recommended to verify the exact times on their official website before your visit.

There is no admission fee to enter the S&W Cafeteria or S&W Food Hall. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase.

While self-guided exploration is common, inquire with the building management or local historical societies about any available guided tours that might offer deeper insights into its history and architecture.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The S&W Building is renowned for its stunning Art Deco architecture, including intricate detailing, grand spaces, and historical elements. You can also experience the S&W Cafeteria and the S&W Food Hall.

Most public areas of the S&W Building are designed to be accessible. However, it's always a good idea to contact the building management directly for specific accessibility details regarding any particular areas or facilities.

To fully appreciate the architecture and perhaps enjoy a meal, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If you plan to dine extensively or attend an event, you might need more time.

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas, and it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors.

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

The S&W Cafeteria offers classic comfort food, often served cafeteria-style. Expect dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and traditional Southern fare. It's a nostalgic dining experience.

The S&W Food Hall provides a variety of cuisines from different vendors, offering everything from quick snacks to more substantial meals. It's a great spot if you're with a group with diverse tastes.

The S&W Cafeteria might have limited vegetarian options. The S&W Food Hall, with its multiple vendors, is more likely to offer a wider range of vegetarian and vegan choices.

The S&W Cafeteria is known for being relatively affordable. The S&W Food Hall prices can vary depending on the vendor, but generally offer good value for the quality.

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the grand entrances, ornate ceilings, and unique Art Deco fixtures. The S&W Cafeteria's vintage aesthetic also makes for great shots.

Professional photography or commercial shoots usually require prior permission and may involve fees. It's best to contact the building management to inquire about their policy.

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the architectural details without harsh shadows. Late afternoon can also offer warm, inviting light.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The S&W Building offers a unique outing for families. While the architecture itself might be a bit abstract for very young children, the S&W Cafeteria can be a fun experience, allowing kids to choose their own meals cafeteria-style. The S&W Food Hall is also a great option, with diverse choices to satisfy picky eaters. Encourage kids to spot interesting details in the architecture, turning it into a visual scavenger hunt.

Consider visiting during less crowded times to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The open spaces can be good for kids to move around a bit, but always supervise them closely. It’s a chance to introduce them to a piece of history in a relaxed, accessible environment.

💰 Budget Travelers

The S&W Building is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers. Entry to the building is typically free, allowing you to soak in the impressive Art Deco architecture without spending a dime. For dining, the S&W Cafeteria offers affordable and hearty meals, providing great value for money. The S&W Food Hall also has numerous vendors with budget-friendly options, making it easy to eat well without breaking the bank.

Focus on exploring the public areas and enjoying the visual splendor of the building. Pack your own water bottle to save on drink costs. By prioritizing free exploration and affordable dining, you can have a rich and memorable experience at the S&W Building on a tight budget.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of the S&W Building

The S&W Building is a celebrated example of Art Deco architecture, a style that flourished in the 1920s and 1930s. Its design is characterized by geometric patterns, bold ornamentation, and a sense of glamour and modernity. Visitors often marvel at the intricate detailing, from the stylized motifs to the grand scale of its public spaces. The building’s facade and interior elements showcase the era's optimism and artistic flair, making it a significant landmark for architecture enthusiasts.

When exploring, pay close attention to the decorative elements, such as the use of polished metals, rich woods, and vibrant color palettes. These details contribute to the building's unique character and historical significance. Many find the experience of simply walking through its halls to be a journey back in time, appreciating the craftsmanship and design principles of a bygone era. It’s a place where history and art converge beautifully.

For those interested in the history of the S&W Building, understanding its original purpose and subsequent renovations can add another layer of appreciation. The building often served as a hub for commerce and social gathering, reflecting the dynamism of the city during its peak. Its preservation ensures that future generations can experience this architectural gem.

A Culinary Journey: S&W Cafeteria and Food Hall

The S&W Cafeteria is a beloved institution, offering a nostalgic dining experience that transports visitors back in time. Known for its classic comfort food served cafeteria-style, it’s a place where you can find traditional dishes that evoke a sense of home. The ambiance itself is part of the charm, with vintage decor and a friendly, bustling atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a taste of authentic, no-frills American cuisine.

Complementing the cafeteria is the S&W Food Hall, a more contemporary culinary destination. This vibrant space features a diverse array of vendors, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving international flavors, gourmet snacks, or quick bites, the food hall offers something for everyone. It’s a fantastic option for groups with varied dietary needs or for those who enjoy exploring different culinary offerings in one convenient location.

Both the S&W Cafeteria and the S&W Food Hall provide excellent opportunities to experience local flavors and enjoy a meal within the historic S&W Building. They are not just places to eat, but integral parts of the building's ongoing legacy, offering visitors a chance to connect with the community and its culinary traditions.

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