North Carolina

Signature City Asheville

Program No. 21758RJ
Discover Asheville’s unique qualities as you join experts to explore Art Deco and Arts and Crafts architecture, delve into the arts district and learn the story of this American gem.

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At a Glance

Head for the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to discover the Art Deco architecture, thriving arts scene and unique history that make Asheville a signature American city. Hear expert analysis on the Vanderbilt family’s influence on the city, and learn why the preservation of the downtown makes it a living museum of mid-century architecture. Join experts on explorations of Asheville’s most significant sites and historic properties like the lavish Biltmore Estate, and enjoy the artistic and culinary delights of Asheville’s thriving downtown.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily. Elevations up to 5,722 feet. Getting on/off trolley and bus. Standing for some lectures in museums.

What You'll Learn

  • Experience the best of Asheville on a host of field trips, including an expert-led discovery of the revived River Arts District.
  • Enjoy a daylong visit to the magnificent Biltmore Estate with plenty of time to soak up the home and gardens on your own.
  • Survey Appalachian history and culture at iconic sites like the Blue Ridge Parkway and renowned downtown landmarks, and dine at the historic Grove Park Inn.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Kevan Frasier
Kevan D. Frasier is an Asheville native whose family settled in the area in the late 1700s. A longtime member of the UNC-Ashville faculty and administration, Kevan had a keen ear for absorbing stories of the history of his hometown told by his grandfather, a long-serving detective for the Asheville Police Department. Kevan loves to help people — visitors and locals alike — learn about his lovely mountain town that has been transformed into a trendy small city while holding tight to its traditional roots.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Lee Knight
Lee Knight View biography
Raised in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, Lee is a folk singer, story teller and outdoor leader, performing at concerts, workshops, festivals and schools. He shares his knowledge of the natural world leading hikes, canoe trips and guiding whitewater rafts. Lee has collected and shares Cherokee legends and plays the Cherokee flute and rattle, as well as the Native American drum. He also plays the five-string banjo, guitars and the Appalachian dulcimer.
Profile Image of Kevan Frasier
Kevan Frasier View biography
Kevan D. Frasier is an Asheville native whose family settled in the area in the late 1700s. A longtime member of the UNC-Ashville faculty and administration, Kevan had a keen ear for absorbing stories of the history of his hometown told by his grandfather, a long-serving detective for the Asheville Police Department. Kevan loves to help people — visitors and locals alike — learn about his lovely mountain town that has been transformed into a trendy small city while holding tight to its traditional roots.
Profile Image of Anne Peery
Anne Peery View biography
Anne Peery has traveled extensively in the Southeastern United States. She has served in various leadership roles including the Executive Director of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. Anne holds a B.S. in education from Mississippi State University. She has worked with a volunteer group making medical-grade PPE for first responders in the Big Bend region of Florida.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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