Imagine winding through Asheville’s sun-dappled neighborhoods as twinkling holiday lights cast a warm glow on historic homes and scenic streets. For about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you and your loved ones can enjoy a fully guided tour that captures the spirit of Asheville’s holiday season — a cheerful blend of festive charm, mountain beauty, and cozy cheer. Priced at just $59 per person, this experience is designed to make you feel like a local celebrating the season in style.

What we particularly love about this tour is how friendly guides bring the experience alive, sharing stories and making you laugh along the way. The choice of transportation — whether open-air jeep or a unique military transport vehicle — adds an element of adventure that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a fun, relaxed way to see Asheville’s holiday sparkle. Plus, the inclusion of hot chocolate in thermal mugs and festive Christmas music makes the whole journey feel warm and joyful.

One thing to consider is that this tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s best suited for those who want a lively, evening activity without a lengthy commitment. This experience is especially ideal for holiday lovers who enjoy visual displays, cheerful atmospheres, and a bit of mountain magic. If you’re looking for an authentic, fun way to get into the Christmas spirit, this tour offers a delightful snapshot of Asheville during its most enchanting time of year.

Festive neighborhoods beautifully decorated with holiday lights and charming homes
Guided experience with friendly, knowledgeable storytellers
Two transportation options: open-air jeeps or a custom-built military vehicle
Includes warm hot chocolate served in thermal mugs and Christmas tunes for added cheer
Perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxed, fun holiday activity
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind

What’s Included and How it Works

Starting at the Asheville Visitor Center at 6:30 pm, the tour is designed to be a relaxed, scenic exploration of the city’s most beautifully decorated neighborhoods. You can expect the guide to lead the way through Asheville’s festive streets while sharing stories that highlight local traditions and holiday sights. The tour lasts about 90 minutes, making it a manageable way to enjoy the evening without feeling rushed.

The small group size, capped at 11 travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and engaging. This means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions or share your own holiday memories. Whether you prefer the open-air Jeep, offering a more outdoorsy feel, or the custom-built military transport vehicle, which adds an adventurous twist, both options promise a fun ride through Asheville’s most decorated areas.

The Transportation Options: Jeep or Military Vehicle

The choice of transportation is worth noting. The open-air Jeep offers a classic, breezy way to experience the sights, especially if the weather cooperates. It’s a bit more interactive, allowing you to feel fully immersed in the outdoor ambiance. On the other hand, the military transport vehicle is larger and more unique, providing a comfortable, adventure-packed ride that’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids or simply want a different perspective.

This flexibility means you can tailor the experience to your group’s preferences, making it suitable for a range of ages and comfort levels. It also adds a layer of excitement that makes the tour stand out from typical bus or trolley rides.

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What You’ll See and Experience

As you cruise through Asheville’s decorated neighborhoods, you’ll see warm lights, cozy blankets, and dazzling displays that showcase the city’s holiday spirit. The guides often share stories and insights about the homes and traditions, turning a simple drive into a storytelling adventure.

The highlight is the visual spectacle — streets aglow with thousands of lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The tour’s emphasis on authentic local displays gives you a genuine feel of how Asheville celebrates the season. Since the tour is fully guided, you’ll benefit from knowledgeable commentary that adds context and fun facts to the sights.

The Festive Touches: Hot Chocolate & Music

A thoughtful detail that elevates this tour is the inclusion of complimentary hot chocolate served in thermal mugs. It’s an ideal touch that keeps everyone warm and adds to the cozy holiday vibe. Pairing this with festive Christmas music played along the route makes for a cheerful, immersive experience that truly captures the holiday spirit.

These small touches turn an outdoor tour into a warm, memorable event suitable for all ages. We loved how these details create a sense of togetherness and holiday magic, making the two-hour journey feel both festive and special.

Authentic Reviews and What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews speak volumes about the tour’s appeal. One traveler, Nakesha, called it a highlight of her trip, praising the friendly and knowledgeable guide who made the experience fun, funny, and unforgettable. She emphasizes the personal touch and the positive energy that guides bring, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Another reviewer appreciates how beautiful the neighborhoods are during the holidays, and the sparkling lights truly bring out Asheville’s charm. This confirms that, beyond just seeing the lights, the tour offers a sense of community and festive warmth that many travelers cherish.

Value for Money

At $59 per person, this tour offers a great value for a relaxing, guided evening activity. It’s more than just a sightseeing ride — it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Asheville’s holiday ambiance without the hassle of parking or navigating alone. The inclusion of hot chocolate and music adds to the value, making it feel like a complete festive experience.

Compared with other holiday activities, this tour provides a comfortable, engaging way to enjoy the season’s beauty, especially for those who prefer a guided, intimate experience rather than large crowds or self-guided walks.

This experience is ideal for families looking for a cozy, fun activity, couples wanting a romantic yet festive outing, or groups of friends celebrating together. It’s perfect for those who enjoy holiday lights, storytelling, and authentic local displays. If you’re traveling with children, the small group size and adventure vehicle options will keep everyone entertained.

It’s especially suited for visitors who value friendly guides and a personalized experience that isn’t just about looking at lights but about feeling part of Asheville’s holiday spirit.

The Asheville Holiday Season City Tour combines scenic beauty, festive cheer, and personal touches in a way that makes it a standout holiday activity. The friendly guides and interactive transportation options create a memorable, authentic experience that captures Asheville’s charm during its most magical time of year.

While it’s a short tour, the warmth of hot chocolate, joyful music, and twinkling neighborhoods leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a special someone, this tour offers a gentle, joyful way to celebrate the season in Asheville.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, fun-filled way to see Asheville’s holiday lights and hear local stories, this tour is an excellent choice. It combines value, authenticity, and festive delight — making it a highlight of any winter visit.

How long is the Asheville Holiday Season City Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable but delightful evening activity.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at the Asheville Visitor Center located at 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.

What transportation options are available?
You can choose between open-air Jeeps or a custom-built giant military transport vehicle, adding adventure and comfort based on your preference.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the small group size and fun, lively atmosphere make it a good choice for families, especially with the option of the larger vehicle for greater comfort.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket price includes guided touring, hot chocolate served in thermal mugs, and festive Christmas music.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the activity is near public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of friendly guides, beautiful decorated neighborhoods, and added festive touches like hot chocolate and music make it a memorable way to celebrate Asheville’s holiday season.

Whether you’re in Asheville for a weekend or just passing through during the holiday season, this guided tour offers an authentic, cheerful way to soak up the city’s festive spirit.