Discover the Charms of Downtown Asheville

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-cuse me/my bad]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
• Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [good. and yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [I ain't get-tin' yuh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [can i check out the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to settle up, please
  [I'm ready to settle up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Ring up the Cops!
  [ring up the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc on the horn!
  [get a doc on the horn!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [I'm lookin' to purchase...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [I'm just browsin']
• How much is it?How much does it run?
  [how much does it run?]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [that's steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya budge on the price?
  [can ya budge on the price?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thirty]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomorrah]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [where's the... at?]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can ya point it out (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) rollin' through?
  [when's the next (bus) rollin' through?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Asheville was founded in the early 19th century, with its official establishment recorded in 1797. Originally named Morristown, the town was renamed in 1798 to honor North Carolina Governor Samuel Ashe. The area's natural beauty and strategic location along the French Broad River attracted settlers, leading to its growth as a trading post and transportation hub.

During the Civil War, Asheville served as a significant supply center for the Confederate Army. The construction of railroads in the 1850s enhanced its strategic importance, allowing for the transport of goods and troops. The city’s position made it a target for Union forces, and it was occupied briefly by Union troops in 1865.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of prosperity for Asheville, leading to a flourishing of its architecture. Wealthy industrialists, drawn by the area's natural beauty and health benefits, constructed grand hotels and stately homes. The Biltmore Estate, built by George Washington Vanderbilt II in 1895, is a prime example, influencing local tourism and economy.

As with many American cities, the Great Depression hit Asheville hard, leading to economic decline. However, the city gradually recovered during the New Deal era, with numerous public works projects revitalizing Downtown Asheville. The establishment of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park further boosted tourism in the region.

In the late 20th century, Asheville experienced a cultural renaissance, transforming Downtown into a vibrant arts district. This revival was marked by the establishment of galleries, theaters, and music venues, alongside a burgeoning craft beer scene. The city's commitment to arts and culture attracted artists and creatives, establishing Asheville as a unique cultural hub in the region.

Downtown Asheville is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Asheville. If you are coming from Biltmore Village, take the Biltmore Avenue northbound, which leads directly into downtown. From West Asheville, you can use Haywood Road, which connects to I-240 and brings you into the heart of downtown. Public transportation, including the Asheville Rides transit system, offers regular bus service to downtown from various neighborhoods. The closest airport is Asheville Regional Airport, approximately 20 minutes away by car, with taxi and rideshare options available.

Downtown Asheville is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. The Asheville Rides bus service provides convenient routes throughout the city, including several stops in downtown. For cyclists, there are bike lanes and bike-sharing programs available. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate within the area, providing additional convenience for those who prefer not to walk.

Downtown Asheville is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant. Areas with higher crime rates tend to be on the outskirts of downtown, particularly in poorly lit areas at night. Avoid walking alone late at night in less crowded streets. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist spots.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals such as Mission Hospital are equipped to handle emergencies. It is advisable to carry a form of identification and any necessary medical information. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the downtown area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking. Don't wear overly casual attire if attending upscale restaurants or events. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches or spiritual sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod. Don't engage in overly personal conversations with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local craft beers and farm-to-table dining options. Don't litter or waste food.

To experience Downtown Asheville like a local, explore the River Arts District and visit artist studios. Attend local events and festivals, which are plentiful throughout the year. Check out the Asheville City Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often willing to share their favorite spots and hidden gems. Don't miss the vibrant street performances often found in Pack Square.