Pack Square Park
Asheville, NC
Just east of downtown Asheville, Pack Square Park is where the city goes to celebrate, from large-scale festivals to fun weekend markets and events. It’s a lively spot from morning to night, making it a great place to people-watch, enjoy the art and fountains, and chill an afternoon away.
The basics
In the shadow of Asheville’s art deco city hall, the park is an inviting stop and ever-popular hangout with water features, statues, benches, an outdoor stage, urban trail markers, and plenty of green space. It’s especially worth seeing during one of the city’s events, from Art in the Park to Oktoberfest. On warm-weather Fridays, come for the Artisan Market at Pack Square, when it feels like a street party.
Things to know before you go
- Expect people from all walks of life here, from street musicians to proselytizers.
- Restrooms can be found at the on-site Pack Square Pavilion.
- The park’s events are typically free to attend, so feel free to just wander on over.
How to get there
Apart from walking to Pack Square Park from downtown, the best way to get there is via the free Arts AVL trolley, which runs every other Saturday. Otherwise, check out a hop-on, hop-off tour that includes the park, or nab a taxi or rideshare. If you’re driving, you can use one of the area’s parking garages.
When to get there
The best time to hit Pack Square Park is when you’re in the area with some free time. The second-best time is during one of the park’s many events—such as the artisan market on Friday nights in the summer, Art in the Park on the weekends in October, and one-off happenings like Oktoberfest, VeganFest, and more.
Take your pick
Pack Square hosts a lot of excellent events, and while Oktoberfest is a standout, don’t overlook other city favorites. Shindig on the Green is a bluegrass music and dance series that runs on many Saturday nights in the summer—just one more way to catch some culture at this Asheville gem.
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