Asheville - River Arts District - Worth checking out - Asheville - TravBuddy

I had recently read a New York Times article about the Asheville River Arts District, and when I was on the Blue Ridge Parkway recently I decided to check it out. I found  a map on the internet: http://www.bellavistaart.com/xhtml/ContactUsMap.htm and dropped in on a Friday afternoon. If you like to see local artists, a great art gallery and have some nice food then you might want to check it out. I was surprised at how friendly and helpful the people were. Tip: ask them for the map of the area, they are always updating it with their hours and descriptions of the artist studios. I was very impressed with the Porcelain at the 'Cravens Handbuilt Porcelain' studio, and the pottery at 'Potter's Mark', but the the most impressive place I visited was the contemporary art gallery located in the heart of the River Arts District: 'Bella Vista Art'.

Another nice thing about the area was the great food at the little cafe:  'Clingman Ave. Cafe', and the BBQ and ribs at the 12Bones restuarant.

All-round I had a great day and even brought back some art to remind me of my trip.