River Arts District | Asheville

The River Arts District (RAD) in Asheville, North Carolina, is a dynamic and ever-evolving creative hub situated along the east bank of the French Broad River. Once a neglected industrial zone, it has transformed into a nationally recognized center for the arts, where former warehouses and mills have been revitalized into working studios, galleries, shops, eateries, and public spaces. This district showcases Asheville’s commitment to preserving its industrial heritage while fostering artistic innovation and community engagement.

I. Historical Background

The River Arts District originated as a manufacturing and transportation corridor in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Key landmarks include:

Asheville Cotton Mill (built in 1887), which was one of the earliest and most prominent employers in the city.

Norfolk Southern Railway and nearby warehouses supported the shipping and logistics of the textile and agricultural industries.

As manufacturing declined in the mid-20th century, the buildings fell into disrepair. In the 1970s and 1980s, artists seeking affordable space began converting these old structures into studios. By the 1990s, RAD had grown into a loosely organized arts community, and with the help of urban redevelopment projects and the nonprofit RiverLink, the area was cleaned up, modernized, and equipped with amenities while preserving its industrial aesthetic.

II. Geography and Layout

The River Arts District stretches roughly one mile along the French Broad River, running parallel to the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks and Clingman Avenue. The area includes key streets such as:

Depot Street

Riverside Drive

Lyman Street

Roberts Street

Artful Way

It is divided into several sub-sections, each with distinct clusters of studios, galleries, eateries, and public installations. The Upper RAD area (Depot Street and Clingman Avenue) and the Lower RAD (Riverside Drive and Lyman Street) both have high concentrations of activity.

III. Artistic Culture and Studios

RAD is home to over 300 working artists in dozens of studios and collectives. Artists work in an enormous variety of media:

Paintings (oil, watercolor, acrylic)

Sculpture (metal, wood, stone)

Glassblowing and fused glass

Pottery and ceramics

Textile arts and fiber

Photography and digital art

Mixed media, installation, and performance art

Visitors can walk into many of these working studios, speak directly with artists, observe their creative processes, and purchase original works. Studios range from intimate one-room spaces to sprawling cooperative workshops.

Notable Studios and Galleries

Pink Dog Creative: A large warehouse with multiple artists and changing exhibits.

Curve Studios & Garden: A green, tranquil spot with galleries and sculpture gardens.

Riverview Station: One of the largest buildings in RAD, housing over 60 artists.

Marquee: A unique venue combining vintage antiques, local artwork, and design elements in an immersive, curated setting.

IV. Events and Community Engagement

Second Saturday Art Stroll

Held monthly, this district-wide event includes:

Open studios

Live art demonstrations

Street performances

Food truck gatherings

Music events

These events encourage interaction between artists and visitors and create a festival-like atmosphere.

RAD Studio Stroll (Fall & Spring)

This major biannual event draws thousands of visitors and showcases the full diversity of the district. It's the best time to experience the entire arts scene with guided tours, food vendors, and extended hours.

V. Culinary Scene

RAD also boasts an innovative and varied culinary environment, ranging from artisanal cafes to highly acclaimed restaurants. Many are housed within the same repurposed industrial structures.

Dining Highlights

12 Bones Smokehouse: A legendary barbecue joint known for its ribs and sauces. Famously visited by President Obama.

White Duck Taco Shop: An Asheville original, offering creative global taco fusion in a relaxed riverside setting.

All Souls Pizza: Specializing in wood-fired pizza with a farm-to-table approach.

The Bull & Beggar: A more upscale option with refined takes on Southern and European cuisine.

Wedge Brewing Company: Located in a former warehouse, this brewery offers craft beers in a casual outdoor setting with murals, food trucks, and community seating.

VI. Outdoor Amenities and Public Spaces

The River Arts District sits directly on the French Broad River and integrates seamlessly with outdoor recreation and public green space development.

Wilma Dykeman Greenway

A multi-use paved trail that runs alongside the river, ideal for walking, biking, and jogging.

It connects RAD to other neighborhoods including West Asheville and downtown.

Offers benches, shade trees, art installations, and educational signage.

Art in Public Spaces

Sculptures, murals, and graffiti walls are scattered throughout the district. Artists frequently rotate or update installations, making RAD a living canvas. The area under the Bowen Bridge and near Wedge Studios is especially rich with large-scale street art.

VII. Challenges and Resilience

In September 2024, RAD was heavily impacted by flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, which led to damage of several studios, especially those in the lower elevations near the river. Artists and business owners mobilized quickly, and with city and nonprofit support, many studios reopened within months. Some artists temporarily relocated to Upper RAD locations while restoration continued.

The community’s response showcased the district’s strength, adaptability, and the close-knit nature of its creative population.

VIII. Visitor Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall offers the best weather and most events. Fall foliage and spring blooms make the setting particularly scenic.

Parking: Abundant free parking lots and street spaces throughout the district.

Accessibility: Many buildings are wheelchair-accessible, though some still retain older stairways and entryways due to their industrial heritage.

Transit: The Asheville Rides Transit (ART) bus system stops nearby, and bike/scooter rentals are also available.

Family Friendly: Many venues are welcoming to children, and the greenway offers a safe environment for families.

The River Arts District is more than a collection of galleries — it’s a living cultural landscape where creativity, history, and community converge. Whether you're looking to discover contemporary art, meet passionate creators, explore riverside trails, or indulge in inventive food, RAD offers an immersive experience that reflects Asheville’s unique blend of authenticity and innovation.