History

From it's beginning as a frontier outpost in the mountains of western North Carolina, Asheville was transformed by the railroad industry in the late 1800s into a luxury spa and resort center. Asheville's beauty and clear mountain air attracted artists, dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and affluent visitors from around the world such as George Vanderbilt who built the grand and enduring Biltmore Estate. Today, Asheville, often called "The Land of the Sky", is a thriving cultural and entertainment center known for it's luxury resorts, beautiful Art Deco architecture, thriving art scene, outdoor recreation, and simply as one the best places to live.

History Links

Downtown History
Asheville History

Local History

Asheville Urban Trail

A 1.7 mile walking tour featuring 30 sculptures and depicting the history of downtown Asheville through 5 distinct time periods.  Guided tours on weekends. 
www.ashevillearts.com says, “Perfect for the history buff or architecture lover”.

Biltmore Estate

America’s largest home with gardens, a winery, shopping and dining. The American Institute of Architects named Biltmore to its list of the top ten architectural wonders.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The acclaimed novelist’s boyhood home and setting for his 1929 novel, Look Homeward Angel.