AVL Lit Tours

I took the AVL Lit Map tour recently and had an excellent experience. Sarah did a fantastic job sharing facts and stories about both well known authors as well as smaller local authors. I would absolutely recommend this tour for both people who know very little about the literary history of Asheville (myself) as well as those who know a bit more. Questions are encouraged and the guides know so much about the history of the area. The content was a good mix of the history of Asheville's literary history, culture, architecture, and local legends.

I think the walking tour format was more enjoyable than a bus tour might have been. Being able to walk through the park, by the local shops, and stopping and seeing the buildings up close definitely helped me feel more connected to the city. I've been to Asheville more than a dozen times and only now feel like I actually know a bit about the area instead of just being a "tourist". For those concerned about the walk being a physical activity, I can report that it was easily managable. The frequent stops allowed everyone to catch their breath, so even if you're not in the best of shape (like me) you're not going to feel overworked. I know one stop that had steps also had elevator access. I you have questions about wheelchair access or other mobility concerns, maybe call ahead? There may have been another section with steps, too.

There are three parking garages withing 2 blocks, so parking is a breeze. And when you finish the tour, you're right in the heart of downtown so there is plenty of places to stop and eat. Overall, A+ experience. Easily the best tour of a city I've done.