Asheville: Downtown E-Bike Tour With St. Lawrence Basilica

Asheville’s downtown district offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The Downtown E-Bike Tour promises to unveil this captivating city through a thrilling electric bike adventure. Participants will explore the iconic Basilica of St. Lawrence, admire panoramic views from the Omni Grove Park Inn, and enjoy the vibrant South Slope neighborhood. With expert guidance and a small group size, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover Asheville’s hidden gems.

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Key Points

The 3-hour Downtown E-Bike Tour in Asheville includes a visit to the Basilica of St. Lawrence, featuring the largest unsupported dome in North America.
The tour takes participants through historic neighborhoods like Montford, showcasing Asheville’s grand old homes and vibrant culture.
Riders can enjoy panoramic views from the Omni Grove Park Inn’s Sunset Terrace, while guides provide insights into the city’s art-deco architecture.
The tour is limited to 6 participants, with electric bikes and helmets provided, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback highlighting the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Downtown E-Bike Tour in Asheville offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the city’s architectural gems and stunning scenery.

Explore Asheville’s architectural wonders and captivating scenery on a unique Downtown E-Bike Tour.

This 3-hour tour is limited to 6 people and conducted in English. Priced at $84.75 per person, the tour includes an electric bike, helmet, and complimentary amenities.

Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. The tour highlights include visiting the Basilica of St. Lawrence, riding through historic neighborhoods, and taking in panoramic views from the Omni Grove Park Inn.

The operator provides a reservation option to pay later.

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Exploring Asheville’s Architectural Gems

On the Downtown E-Bike Tour, visitors can explore Asheville’s architectural gems and stunning scenery.

The tour includes a visit to the Basilica of St. Lawrence, featuring the largest unsupported dome in North America. Participants will also ride through the historic Montford neighborhood, known for its grand old homes.

The tour culminates with a climb to the Omni Grove Park Inn, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the Sunset Terrace.

Throughout the journey, the guides share insights into Asheville’s history, highlighting the city’s art-deco architecture and vibrant culture.

Visiting the Basilica of St. Lawrence

A highlight of the Downtown E-Bike Tour is the visit to the Basilica of St. Lawrence. This architectural gem features the largest unsupported dome in North America, a remarkable feat of engineering.

Riders will marvel at the basilica’s stunning Renaissance-style design, with its ornate façade and intricate details. Inside, the vast interior space is filled with natural light, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

The guide will share the history and significance of this iconic landmark, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for Asheville’s rich architectural heritage. This stop on the tour is a true highlight, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.

Riding Through South Slope and Montford

After exploring the architectural splendor of the Basilica of St. Lawrence, the e-bike tour continues through the vibrant South Slope and Montford neighborhoods. The group navigates through a mix of breweries, art galleries, and historic homes, seeing Asheville’s diverse cultural landscape.

| Neighborhood | Highlights |

| — | — |

| South Slope | Known for its thriving craft beer scene, art galleries, and trendy restaurants |

| Montford | Features grand, historic homes and a charming, walkable atmosphere |

| Reed Creek Greenway | Provides a scenic, car-free route past the UNC Asheville campus |

| Glenns Creek Greenway | Offers a peaceful, tree-lined path winding through the city |

The tour offers a unique perspective, allowing participants to explore Asheville’s eclectic neighborhoods and appreciate the city’s blend of old and new.

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Discovering the Omni Grove Park Inn

As the e-bike tour climbs towards the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, participants are treated to panoramic views of Asheville’s stunning landscape.

The iconic resort, built in 1913, sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Riders pedal past the grand stone entrance and up to the Sunset Terrace, where they can take in the breathtaking vistas.

The tour guide shares the history of the Omni Grove Park Inn, known for its impressive Arts and Crafts architecture and famous guests, including multiple U.S. presidents.

With ample time to explore the grounds, the group soaks in the serene atmosphere before continuing their e-bike adventure.

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Exploring Pack Square’s Art-Deco Architecture

Descending from the Omni Grove Park Inn, the e-bike tour continues its exploration of Asheville’s architectural heritage, arriving at the vibrant Pack Square.

The group marvels at the art-deco styling of the imposing Buncombe County Courthouse and the adjacent City Hall building. The guides recount the square’s history as the heart of Asheville, from its early days as a town common to its current role as a hub for cultural events and community gatherings.

Riders pause to admire the striking details and proportions that define the art-deco aesthetic, gaining a deeper appreciation for Asheville’s architectural treasures.

Equipment and Safety Considerations

The Downtown E-Bike Tour provides participants with all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Riders are outfitted with electric bikes, helmets, and optional front baskets. A rear cargo bag comes equipped with a rain poncho, ensuring preparedness for any weather.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 350 lbs due to the bike’s weight capacity limitations. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, and gloves.

The legal age to operate the e-bikes is 16, and children aged 1-15 can ride as passengers for free.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Downtown E-Bike Tour in Asheville.

With an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 11 reviews, the tour has earned consistent praise.

The Downtown E-Bike Tour in Asheville boasts an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 11 overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Standout highlights include:

Knowledgeable and friendly guides who enhance the overall experience.
Effective tour management, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
The opportunity to explore Asheville’s architectural gems and stunning scenery.
The unique experience of visiting the Basilica of St. Lawrence, home to the largest unsupported dome in North America.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade to an Electric Mountain Bike on the Tour?

No, the tour does not offer electric mountain bike upgrades. It specifically provides electric bikes designed for city riding, which are better suited for the tour’s urban environment and routes.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall price of $84.75 per person is already quite reasonable for the 3-hour experience and includes various amenities. The company may consider introducing discounts in the future.

Can I Bring My Own Bike Helmet Instead of Using the Provided One?

You can bring your own bike helmet instead of using the provided one. The tour company allows participants to use their personal helmets as long as they meet safety standards and fit properly.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Cargo Bag?

There is no specified weight limit for the cargo bag provided on the tour. However, it’s designed to carry basic personal items like a camera, gloves, and extra layers. Anything heavier may overburden the bike’s electrical system.

Can I Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a dedicated lunch stop, but participants are free to take breaks and explore restaurants during the route at their own pace. Riders can stop for a quick bite to eat as desired.

The Sum Up

The Downtown E-Bike Tour in Asheville offers a unique and engaging way to discover the city’s architectural marvels. Participants can explore the Basilica of St. Lawrence, the historic Montford neighborhood, and the vibrant South Slope, all while enjoying panoramic views from the Omni Grove Park Inn. With knowledgeable guides, electric bikes, and a limited group size, this tour provides an enriching and memorable experience for anyone interested in Asheville’s rich history and stunning architecture.