Downtown Asheville Arts District (DAAD)

The Downtown Asheville Arts District (DAAD) emerged in the 1990s as part of the city’s downtown revitalization, driven by a wave of new, locally owned businesses. In 1999, a group of art galleries formalized the district by establishing the Downtown Gallery Association. Today, more than 20 galleries and museums are part of the DAAD, offering visitors a rich tapestry of artistic experiences. Strolling through the district, one can explore a diverse range of visual arts, from contemporary works to traditional crafts, all set within the vibrant, historic streets of Asheville.