The past, present, and future of African Americans in Asheville is a story of resilience and ingenuity. Learn about this powerful story on Walking and Driving Tours
Hood tours are an intimate, interactive experience guaranteed to leave you looking at this mountain town with new eyes.
A recipient of Tripadvisor’s 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award, chosen directly by our tour patrons as top 10% of attractions worldwide!
Walking Tours
Eagle Street, Downtown
Walking tours explore East End Valley Street in Downtown Asheville, home to shops and galleries featuring merchandise and art from African American artisans and artists, YMI Cultural Center, Stephens Lee Community Center, The Block, and significant African American architecture. More information listed under FAQ’s.
- Thursday – Saturday
- $30/adult; $27/youth ages 4-17 & Senior ages 60+.
Burton Street
Walking tours explore the Burton Street community, one of Asheville’s oldest African American neighborhoods founded by E.W. Pearson in 1912, including the Burton Street Community Peace Garden and Burton Street Community Center – former segregated African American elementary school. More information listed under FAQ’s.
- Thursday – Saturday
- $30/adult; $27/youth ages 4-17 & Senior ages 60+.
Driving Tours
Driving Tour
Driving tour begins at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, visiting significant downtown sites, as well as various sites in neighborhoods throughout the city (Shiloh, Burton Street, Southside, Eastend Valley Street). Each driving tour is different and not guaranteed to visit all of the listed neighborhoods. We conduct driving tours in a 14-passenger bus or 9 passenger van. More information under FAQ’s.
- Thursday – Saturday
- $55/adult; $49.50/youth ages 4-17 & Senior ages 60+
Private Group Tours
Private Group tours are available for groups of 15 or more. Please note that tours are not offered on Sundays. For inquiries, contact us at info@hoodhuggers.com or call 828-275-5305, extension 0. For more details on Private Group Tours for 15 or more guests, please consult our FAQ.
FAQ’s
WHATS THE BEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR TOUR?
Booking your tour online is quick and simple. Our booking software displays all available dates and times for your convenience. Once you book, you will receive an email confirmation.
HOW LONG ARE THE TOURS?
All tours are 90 minutes.
WHERE DOES THE DRIVING TOUR DEPART FROM?
To ensure accurate departure details, verify the information on your booking confirmation.
WHERE DOES THE WALKING TOURS DEPART FROM?
To ensure accurate departure details, verify the information on your booking confirmation.
DO WE OFFER PRIVATE GROUP TOURS?
We provide private group tours from Monday to Saturday, subject to availability of dates and times, with an additional charge for private tours. For booking details, please email info@hoodhuggers.com or call us.
DO YOU OFFER GROUP RATES FOR LARGE PARTIES and SCHOOLS?
Yes, for groups rates of 15 or more.
DOES HOOD HUGGERS OFFER DISCOUNTS?
OUR TOUR DATES AND TOUR TIMES.
Tours are offered from Thursday to Saturday at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 4 PM. Please be aware that tours are not available from Monday to Wednesday.
DO I HAVE TO PRINT OUT OR PICK UP MY TICKETS?
You do not. We always recommend reading over your email confirmation, so you know where and when your tour departs, as well all the other important information from Hood Huggers International, however we use a check in system so all we need is your name.
DO THE TOURS RUN IN INCLEMENT WEATHER?
We will reschedule or issue a gift card if there’s severe thunderstorm, snow and roads are unsafe. We will let you know by text, email or by phone before tour time. Please provide accurate information when booking your tour.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
We will issue a full refund to all cancellations outside of 48 hours’ notice.
No refund If you are late to your tour, we will issue you a gift card or reschedule your tour.
IS THE TOUR APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES?
IS THE VAN OR BUS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Unfortunately, our vehicles are not wheelchair accessible. However, we will do our best to accommodate disabled passengers and can store walker if necessary.
CAN I BRING MY DOGS ON TOURS?
Private tours for dogs are available from Thursday to Saturday, subject to tour time availability.
Service Dogs as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are permitted on all tours. (Please note that therapy dogs and emotional support dogs do not qualify as Service Dogs.).
In addition to Service Dogs, (pet) dogs weighing under 20 pounds are welcome on the tour provided they remain in the owner’s lap during the entire tour. Dogs must be current on rabies and other vaccinations and must be friendly. One per tour allowed.
WALKING TOURS: Service Dogs as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are permitted on all tours. (Please note that therapy dogs and emotional support dogs do not qualify as Service Dogs.).
Must remain on leash and clean up after dog.
NO OTHER ANIMALS ALLOWED ON ANY TOURS!
Have a service animal?
Email or call our office at info@hoodhuggers.com or (828)275-5305 Ext 0 to discuss accommodations.
IS IT APPROPRIATE TO GIVE GRATUITY?
Yes, gratuities are greatly appreciated by our guides and performers.
HOW SHOULD I DRESS?
IS THE BUS AIR CONDITIONED OR HEATED?
History. Art. Poetry. Music. Community green spaces. Vivid voices. Grassroots initiatives. Led by DeWayne Barton, Hood Tours are among the social enterprises housed under the umbrella of Hood Huggers International that practice the CAP Framework.
Building Capacity
Tours spark grassroots economic development in Asheville’s historically African-American neighborhoods, generate economic support for African-American-owned businesses, while building on strengths intrinsic to the community that allow for self-determination and sustainability.
A portion of all proceeds through Hood Huggers International are devoted to community reinvestment.
Testimonials
Youth Leadership: Tours offer employment opportunities for young people.
Tours have been featured in National Geographic, Forbes, Our State magazine, C-SPAN, and various regional publications.