5 Ways to Beat the Heat in Downtown Asheville

Visiting downtown Asheville this summer?  With record breaking heat throughout the country you’ll probably be looking for a way to cool off while exploring downtown.  Here are some fun ways to beat the heat in downtown Asheville, NC.

Enjoy a moment of reverence

The Basilica of St. Lawrence

Visit the historic Basilica of St. Lawrence.  This historic building was built in 1905 and designed by Raphael Guastavino.  The art and architecture are breathtaking. Thankfully in more recent years it has been outfitted with very cool A/C.  Most days the Basilica is open for self guided tours, just check the schedule so you don’t show up during mass or someone’s wedding.

Enjoy the Cinema

We all know you can count on a movie theater for nice cool AC.  Check out the Fine Arts Theater’s selection of art and independent films.  Try a matinee and save wandering around downtown for the cooler evening hours.  Click here for current show schedule.

Enjoy a moment of Ecstasy

The Chocolate Fetish has been handcrafting artisan chocolates in downtown Asheville since 1986.  You can count on the AC always being cranked up to keep the overwhelming selection of chocolates happy.  If you really want to cool off try one of their Chocolate Covered Frozen Bananas.  Available in milk or dark chocolate with or without pecans Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas are a healthier option than ice cream when you are craving a frozen summertime treat.  Be sure to walk around back through the Haywood Park Hotel’s air conditioned atrium and see the chocolatiers creating the delectable treats.  Tours are also available with more info here.

Enjoy a Splash

Who says playing in fountains is just for kids?  When the heat index is nearing 100 degrees an old fashioned romp in the fountain is the perfect way to cool off.  Visit Splasheville, an interactive water fountain at Pack Square Park.  Let the summer sun dry you off while relaxing on the rolling green field in the park.  Visit during a special event and you’ll be treated to free live music as well.   The fountain generally runs daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. April through November.

Enjoy a moment of retail therapy

Downtown Asheville is full of unique locally owned places to shop.  What better way to spend a hot day downtown than exploring the shops located inside the air conditioned historic building of the Grove Arcade.   Most shops are opened 6 days a week 11-6 and there are many delicious restaurants close by.

Grove Arcade