Asheville, a charming city nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, has long been a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and culture-seekers alike. But what if you don’t have a car? Can you still explore all that this vibrant city has to offer? The answer is a resounding yes! With its efficient public transportation system, walkable streets, and an array of alternative transportation options, Asheville welcomes you with open arms, offering a multitude of possibilities to navigate its bustling streets and discover its hidden gems. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, leave your car behind and embark on an adventure to uncover the true essence of Asheville.
Public Transportation
Bus System
Asheville Redefines Transit (ART) is the primary bus system in Asheville, and it offers a convenient and reliable way to get around the city for residents and visitors alike. The ART buses serve various neighborhoods and key destinations, making it easy to reach your desired location. With a fleet of modern and comfortable buses, the ART system ensures a pleasant and efficient travel experience. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city, or simply running errands, the ART bus system is a great option for getting around Asheville without a car.
Biking
Bike-Friendly Infrastructure
Asheville is a bike-friendly city, with a network of bike lanes and dedicated paths that make cycling a safe and enjoyable mode of transportation. The city has made significant efforts to improve its biking infrastructure, making it easier and more convenient for cyclists to navigate the streets. From designated bike lanes to shared roads, Asheville’s bike-friendly infrastructure ensures that you can pedal your way around town safely and efficiently.
Bike Rental Options
If you don’t have your own bike but still want to explore Asheville on two wheels, don’t worry! The city offers a range of bike rental options to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a traditional bike, a mountain bike, or even an electric bike, there are rental shops throughout Asheville where you can easily rent a bike for a few hours or the entire day. With affordable rates and flexible rental periods, biking in Asheville has never been more accessible.
Walking
Pedestrian-Friendly Streets
Exploring Asheville on foot is a fantastic way to truly immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm. The downtown area is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, filled with vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or briskly walking to your destination, you’ll find Asheville’s streets safe and accommodating for pedestrians.
Sidewalks and Crosswalks
To further enhance the walking experience, Asheville boasts well-maintained sidewalks and clearly marked crosswalks throughout the city. These pedestrian infrastructure elements ensure that you can navigate the streets with ease and peace of mind. Whether you’re walking downtown or in the residential neighborhoods, you can confidently explore Asheville on foot, knowing that the city has prioritized pedestrian safety and convenience.
Rideshare Services
Uber
Uber, the popular rideshare service, operates in Asheville, providing a convenient and reliable option for getting around the city. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can request a ride and have a driver pick you up from your location within minutes. Whether you need a ride to the airport, want to explore the nearby attractions, or simply prefer the convenience of a door-to-door service, Uber is readily available in Asheville to cater to your transportation needs.
Lyft
Like Uber, Lyft is another rideshare service that operates in Asheville. With a user-friendly app and a large network of drivers, Lyft offers a convenient and efficient way to move around the city. Whether you’re a visitor looking to explore the city or a resident needing a quick and reliable ride, Lyft is a fantastic option to consider. The competitive pricing and high-quality service make Lyft a popular choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional taxi services.
Taxi Services
Local Taxi Companies
If you prefer a more traditional mode of transportation, Asheville has several local taxi companies that are available to take you to your desired destination. These taxi services offer a convenient option for those who prefer to arrange a ride in advance or are looking for a more personalized experience. With experienced drivers who know the city well, taxi services in Asheville can help you reach your destination quickly and comfortably.
Scooter Rentals
Electric Scooter Rentals
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Asheville is no exception. With electric scooter rental services available throughout the city, you can enjoy the freedom and thrill of zipping around Asheville in a convenient and eco-friendly way. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, renting an electric scooter allows you to explore the city at your own pace and experience the charming streets and vibrant neighborhoods in a unique way.
Hotel Shuttles
Shuttle Services Provided by Hotels
Many hotels in Asheville offer shuttle services for their guests, making it even easier to get around the city without a car. These hotel shuttles typically operate within a certain radius, providing convenient transportation to popular attractions, shopping areas, and dining establishments. If you’re staying at a hotel in Asheville, be sure to inquire about their shuttle service to take advantage of this convenient transportation option.
Trolley Tours
Historic Trolley Tours
For a unique and immersive experience of Asheville’s history and charm, consider taking a historic trolley tour. These guided tours take you through the city’s historic districts, providing fascinating insights into Asheville’s past while offering a convenient and comfortable means of transportation. Sit back and relax as you journey through time aboard a charming trolley, exploring the city’s notable landmarks and hearing captivating stories from knowledgeable tour guides.
Appalachian Regional Transportation System (ARTS)
Regional Bus Service
In addition to the local bus system, Asheville also offers the Appalachian Regional Transportation System (ARTS), a regional bus service that connects Asheville with surrounding towns and communities. Whether you’re planning a day trip to a nearby town or need to travel between cities in the region, ARTS provides a convenient and affordable transportation option. With regular schedules and comfortable buses, ARTS enables you to explore beyond Asheville and discover the beauty and charm of the surrounding areas.
Carsharing
Car Rental Services
Although the focus of this article is on alternative transportation options, it’s worth mentioning that car rental services are readily available in Asheville. If you find yourself needing a car for a specific trip or activity, numerous car rental companies operate in the city, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs.
Car Club Memberships
For those who occasionally need a car but don’t want the hassle of ownership, car club memberships are a fantastic option. Car clubs in Asheville allow you to access a fleet of vehicles whenever you need them, with the convenience of booking a car for a few hours or a few days. With flexible membership options and reasonable rates, car clubs offer the best of both worlds – the convenience of having a car when you need it without the responsibilities of ownership.
In conclusion, getting around Asheville without a car is not only possible but also convenient and enjoyable. With a robust public transportation system, bike-friendly infrastructure, rideshare services, pedestrian-friendly streets, and various other transportation options, you have plenty of choices to explore the vibrant city of Asheville. So leave your car behind and embrace the alternative modes of transportation that Asheville has to offer – you won’t be disappointed!