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Basilica of Saint Lawrence - Pause here. To our left is the impressive Basilica of St. Lawrence. This basilica owes its existence to Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino. In the early 1890s, Guastavino was commissioned to work on a vaulted ceiling for the Biltmore house in Asheville. But while here, he decided he loved the place too much to leave! He bought property and set down roots.
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Shopping Daze Sculpture - See that statue depicting three well-dressed women with a dog in tow? That’s Shopping Daze! This sculpture commemorated Haywood Street’s history as a desirable and unique shopping destination. I think it can also represent Asheville’s ability to bounce back after its lively shopping district was hindered by debt and mall culture.
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Legacy of Design Sculpture - The ‘Legacy of Design’ sculpture stands up here, depicting a young boy on stilts. This piece was made to honor the inventive architect Richard Sharp Smith. I’ll dive deeper into Smith’s life in a moment, but first, you should know a thing or two about the sculptor of this piece, Dennis Smith.
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Civic Pride Sculpture - The bell up here is a replica of the one that used to stand at the east end of Pack square, which rang out during important moments in Asheville’s early history. What kinds of events? Well, how about when the colonies declared their independence from Great Britain!
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The Jackson Building - In 1924 architect Ronald Greene was commissioned to create the Jackson Building. It’s the one directly to our right! This was the tallest skyscraper in North Carolina at the time of its construction, and boasts some very unique features.
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O. Henry’s Office - Do you see that bronze lock of hair, combs, and pocket watch set into the concrete around this plaque? If you’re a classic literature buff, you might recall what these all have in common. They’re from the famous O. Henry short story “Gift of the Magi”!
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Drhumor Building - To our left stands the amazingly intricate Drhumor Building! Humorously given the nickname of the ‘Dr. Humor building,’ this structure owes its beauty to sculptor Frederick Miles. What many people don’t know is that these carvings might actually be based on real Asheville residents!
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Grove Arcade - Coming up on our left is the Grove Arcade. Built by Edwin Grove, this bustling center of commerce stretches over a block and offers just about anything your heart desires.
- Full itinerary with travel tips, professionally narrated stories, videos, text content, and hidden gems.
- Offline GPS Map & route with no need for cell signal or wifi. Stop-to-stop directions provided.
- Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free experience with full-day support via Call, Chat, or Email.
- Access through the Tour Guide App. A link and Password will be provided for your tours.
- Use the tour any day, anytime. Valid for multiple days and future trips. Does not expire.
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Discover a fusion of historical narratives, artworks, and anecdotes as you peruse the avenues of Asheville. Admire architecturally stunning creations such as the Basilica of St. Lawrence. Gain insight into the city’s origins, post American Revolutionary War, and understand the profound effects of the Civil War on Asheville and its slave population. Proceed to observe a variety of distinctive sculptures, including the Marketplace Sculpture, and become acquainted with notable individuals like renowned author Thomas Wolfe, while experiencing the diverse River Arts District.
Here’s the procedure: In less than 30 minutes, we’ll impart a unique code and an app. Install the app, input the code, and download the tour. Once you’re at the first stop, initiate the app and adhere to the directions! For optimal enjoyment, abide by our suggested itinerary and speed limit.
There’s no expiry date — the tour is accessible from the moment you confirm your booking till eternity!
This doesn’t serve as an admission ticket to attractions encountered along the journey. Verify operating hours prior to your visit.
- How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
- How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action’s Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Amazing savings: Walking Tours: While each person typically needs their tour, couples or small groups can share one using split headphones.
- Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It’s perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
- Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
- Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
- Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
- Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app’s features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
