The historic Grove Arcade is a 1930s-style shopping gallery that hosts a variety of shops, restaurants and art galleries. The largest building in downtown Asheville, with 269,000 square feet, the Grove Arcade was renovated in 2002 to incorporate several architectural styles of the era with archways and balconies for a unique shopping experience.
Parking and public transportation at the Grove Arcade
Visitors can park in one of the many metered parking spaces adjacent to the Grove Arcade or across the street at the Wall Street Parking Garage. Asheville transit has bus stops at the Wall Street Garage as well as on Haywood Street and O'Henry Avenue.
Best and worst time to go to the Grove Arcade
The best time to visit the Arcade is when the most of the shops are open: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission to the Grove Arcade
There is no admission fee to the Grove Arcade.
Must see/do at the Grove Arcade
The distinct architecture is a primary draw to the Grove Arcade, but visitors can also view regional artwork, enjoy a treat at True Confections, or browse the extensive book collection at the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champaign Bar.
Other places to visit near the Grove Arcade
The Grove Arcade is across the street from the Asheville Pinball Museum, within walking distance of Pack Square Park, the U.S. Cellular Center, and a variety of downtown shops, dozens of restaurants and museums.
Insider tip for visitors to the Grove Arcade
Although the ground level is most visited by the public, the second floor of the Grove Arcade hosts several local offices, and the upper levels house luxury apartments. Buncombe County also provides free wireless internet to the downtown district, which includes the Arcade.
Author's bio: Carolyn B. Fraiser is a freelance journalist, photographer, and publications specialist in Asheville, North Carolina. Follow her on Twitter @carolynbfraiser.