Asheville True Crime Tour

If you’re drawn to stories of mystery and mayhem, the Asheville True Crime Tour offers a pretty unique way to get to know the city—by exploring its darker side. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-organized experience that’s both intriguing and accessible. For anyone interested in a blend of local history and true crime, it’s worth considering.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its affordable price—at just under $20 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend an hour. Plus, the compact duration makes it a perfect addition to a busy day of sightseeing, without feeling like a huge time commitment. On the flip side, keep in mind that it’s a walking tour, so be prepared for some light strolling. This experience suits those who appreciate storytelling with a darker twist, especially if you’re curious about Asheville’s infamous past.

One thing to note is that, given its focus on intense stories of murder and mayhem, it might not be for everyone—particularly those sensitive to graphic details or looking for family-friendly activities. But if you’re a history buff or love a good ghost story with a dark edge, this tour offers a fascinating look at Asheville’s notorious tales. It’s also a solid choice if you’re traveling solo or with a small group, as it caters to a maximum of 25 travelers.

Key Points

• Affordable price point: Less than $20, making it an accessible way to explore Asheville’s darker stories.
• Concise duration: About an hour, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Location-based storytelling: Stops include notable sites like Battery Park Hotel and Buncombe County Courthouse.
• Engaging host: Based on reviews, guides like Gloria are praised for their storytelling and enthusiasm.
• Dark history focus: Covers infamous murders, unsolved crimes, and tales of mountain justice.
• Limited physical activity: Mainly a walking tour with no additional costs for admission.

What to Expect on the Asheville True Crime Tour

The itinerary is straightforward, centered around exploring Asheville’s most notorious crime sites. Starting at The Times Bar & Coffee Shop at 4 pm, the tour takes you through a walk around the city’s historic parts, visiting locations tied to Asheville’s most unusual and sinister stories.

Stops and Storytelling

You’ll visit a variety of significant landmarks such as the Battery Park Hotel, the Buncombe County Courthouse, and the Public Service Building. These sites aren’t just pretty buildings—they’re steeped in tales of murder, mystery, and mountain justice. The stories often focus on infamous cases, including Asheville’s most notorious serial killer, as well as unsolved murders that still intrigue locals and visitors alike.

From the reviews, one standout aspect is the storytelling quality. The guide, Gloria, apparently has a knack for bringing these stories to life, making the past feel immediate and vivid. The stories aren’t just recited—they’re told with a sense of drama and history that keeps listeners engaged.

The Dark Side of Asheville

You might find yourself fascinated by the cases from the hotel or the city’s dark history of justice gone wrong. These stories aren’t sugar-coated; they reveal the gritty, sometimes grim realities of Asheville’s past. For instance, the murder cases discussed are described as “fascinating,” and the stories aren’t just about the crimes—they’re about the context and the people involved.

What You’re Paying For

At $19.89 per person, this tour offers good value. It’s a guided walk that doesn’t include admission fees to any of the sites, but the storytelling and atmosphere are the main attractions. The use of mobile tickets also means no fuss with paper tickets or complicated check-ins.

The Group Size and Logistics

With a cap of 25 people, the tour feels intimate enough for personal storytelling but lively enough to keep things interesting. It starts at 4 pm, so it’s perfect if you want an early evening activity—especially in the warmer months when the city is lively.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour’s location near public transportation makes it convenient to access. Service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many. Bottled water isn’t included, so bring some if you think you’ll need it during the walk.

Our Take on the Experience

While it’s a quick hour, the Asheville True Crime Tour packs a punch in terms of storytelling and local color. The price and duration make it a low-risk, high-interest activity—ideal for those curious about Asheville’s darker tales without committing to a full-day tour or paying high prices.

We loved the way the stories are curated to highlight the most intriguing and eerie cases, giving you a snapshot of the city’s more sinister past. The reviews only reinforce that the guide’s storytelling can truly bring history back to life—something that’s often missing from more dry, informational tours.

However, it’s important to note that the content can be intense, and it’s definitely aimed at an adult audience or those comfortable with crime stories. If you’re expecting a light-hearted ghost walk or family-friendly outing, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy true crime stories, are interested in Asheville’s history, or are just looking for a different way to see the city, this tour is a good pick. It’s especially suited for solo travelers or small groups who want a guided experience packed into an hour. It won’t be overly physically demanding, and the price is right for the content provided.

Travelers who love storytelling, dark history, and a bit of suspense will likely find this tour both entertaining and educational. But if you prefer a more laid-back, less intense experience, or are traveling with children, you might want to skip it.

FAQs

How long is the Asheville True Crime Tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but engaging activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Times Bar & Coffee Shop on Patton Ave and ends back at the same spot.

What time does the tour start?
The tour kicks off at 4:00 pm.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, bookings are usually made 16 days in advance and are confirmed at the time of booking.

Is there any extra cost during the tour?
No, the tour price covers the guide and storytelling. You’ll need to bring bottled water if desired, as it’s not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves stories of murder and may be intense, so it’s best suited for adults or older teens comfortable with crime tales.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring a full refund if plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Asheville True Crime Tour offers an interesting and affordable way to explore a different side of the city. Its storytelling focus makes it stand out from typical sightseeing, and it’s a great choice if you’re curious about Asheville’s darker history or love a good crime story. While it’s not a family-friendly outing or a leisurely sightseeing tour, it’s perfect for those who appreciate history with a gritty twist.

For anyone looking to add a unique, story-driven experience to their Asheville visit, this tour is worth considering. It’s a quick, engaging way to learn about some of the city’s most infamous tales—and, surprisingly, it might leave you looking at Asheville in a whole new light.

Enjoy exploring Asheville’s shadowy past—just remember to bring your curiosity (and maybe a flashlight).