Asheville offers a rich selection of gift shops that showcase local art, crafts, and unique finds. Whether you’re visiting the city or looking for a special souvenir, the variety of shops provides plenty of options to explore.

If you want to find the best places to buy meaningful and distinctive gifts in Asheville, these five gift shops stand out for their quality and character. I’ve gathered a list that highlights stores known for their local craftsmanship and creative offerings.

1) L.O.F.T. of Asheville

I stopped by L.O.F.T. of Asheville and found it to be a charming spot filled with unique and thoughtful gifts. The shop offers a mix of books, novelty items, and souvenirs that are perfect for anyone looking for something different or locally inspired. The layout is cozy, making it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed.

The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, ready to help me find gifts that balanced creativity and practicality. I appreciated that they also provide an online shopping option with clear delivery details and occasional free shipping, which is convenient if you can’t visit in person.

The store’s location on Broadway puts it right in Asheville’s downtown vibe, making it easy to add this stop to a day of exploring the city. They keep the atmosphere relaxed, inviting you to take your time selecting from their carefully curated collection.

Rating: 4.7 (830 reviews)
Location: 53 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801
Contact: (828) 259-9303
Website: Visit Website

2) Asheville Emporium

I recently explored Asheville Emporium and found it to be a vibrant spot full of unique gifts and local art. The shop has a well-curated selection of souvenirs and interesting boutique items that caught my eye. It feels like a place that constantly updates its offerings to keep things fresh.

One of the highlights for me was the charm bar, where you can create personalized jewelry. They also have a section to customize apparel, which adds a hands-on experience to the usual gift shopping. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, perfect for browsing at leisure.

The store recently moved to a new location on Biltmore Avenue, right next to the Asheville Art Museum. This spot makes it easy to combine a visit to the museum with a stop for gifts. Staff there were helpful and friendly when I asked for recommendations.

Overall, Asheville Emporium offers more than just shopping. It’s a place to connect with local creativity and discover something unique whether you’re a visitor or a local.

Rating: 4.5 (327 reviews)
Location: 4 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Contact: (828) 785-5722
Website: Visit Website

3) Ten Thousand Villages in Asheville

I found Ten Thousand Villages to be a calm and inviting gift shop with a meaningful focus. The store offers a collection of fair-trade crafts and home goods sourced from countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Each item carries a story that goes beyond just being decorative or functional.

While browsing, I noticed a variety of handmade ceramics, woven baskets, and glassware, all with vibrant colors and unique patterns. The staff was knowledgeable about the origins of each piece, which added to the shopping experience. It felt good to know that my purchases supported artisans and their communities worldwide.

The selection is perfect for those looking for gifts that stand out and carry a message of ethical craftsmanship. Prices varied, but many items seemed fairly priced for their quality and story. The location in downtown Asheville makes it easily accessible when exploring the area.

Rating: 4.8 (86 reviews)
Location: 10 College St, Asheville, NC 28801
Contact: (828) 254-8374
Website: Visit Website

4) Dolce Vita

I found Dolce Vita to be a charming gift shop nestled in downtown Asheville. The space is inviting and well-organized, making it easy to browse through unique, locally inspired items. It has a carefully curated selection of gifts that show attention to quality and detail.

The staff were friendly and knowledgeable when I visited. They helped me find thoughtful souvenirs that felt personal and special without feeling touristy. The shop’s atmosphere is relaxed, encouraging a slow, enjoyable shopping experience.

Dolce Vita offers a variety of handcrafted goods, including art, jewelry, and home decor. The downtown location makes it a convenient stop if you’re exploring the city center. It’s clear this shop aims to support local creators and independent artists.

Rating: 4.9 (70 reviews)
Location: 34 Wall St #201, Asheville, NC 28801
Contact: (828) 253-1584
Website: Visit Website

5) Asheville Raven and Crone

I found Asheville Raven and Crone to be a well-curated metaphysical supply store with a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The shop offers a range of items from herbs and teas to spell books and ritual supplies. It felt like a thoughtful space for anyone interested in spiritual or magical practices.

One of the highlights was their special Sabbat Boxes. They create these themed boxes for seasonal celebrations like Samhain. Each box includes carefully selected items such as incense, candles, soaps, and other ritual tools designed to support personal rituals or meditations.

The staff were knowledgeable and approachable, ready to answer questions about the various products. I appreciated how the shop blends practical supplies with more unique, locally made items. It’s clear they aim to support both beginners and experienced practitioners.

Rating: 4.8 (709 reviews)
Location: 640 Merrimon Ave #207, Asheville, NC
Contact: (828) 424-7868
Website: Visit Website

How to Choose the Perfect Asheville Gift Shop

Finding the right gift shop in Asheville means balancing convenience, selection, and quality. I focus on shops that offer a good location, a variety of unique items, and strong ties to local artisans to ensure meaningful purchases.

Location Considerations

When I pick a gift shop, location matters. Downtown Asheville is a prime spot with several shops close to popular attractions, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing. Shops on streets like Biltmore Avenue and Wall Street offer easy access and a lively atmosphere.

Parking availability and store hours also influence my choice. I prefer shops that are open during both weekdays and weekends to fit my schedule. Proximity to restaurants or cafes can enhance the experience by allowing a break during shopping.

Gift Variety and Uniqueness

I look for shops that offer more than typical souvenirs. Ideal shops carry a mix of handcrafted jewelry, art, home decor, and specialty items you can’t find elsewhere. This variety helps me find gifts suited to different tastes and occasions.

Some stores feature curated collections of locally inspired or eco-friendly products. I value shops that highlight individual craftsmen or artists, as this guarantees a distinct selection. A balance between practicality and creativity in the product range is crucial for me.

Supporting Local Artisans

Supporting local artisans is a key factor I consider. Asheville is known for its vibrant craft scene, so I prioritize shops deeply connected to local creators. This ensures my purchase contributes directly to the community and promotes authentic regional art.

I check if the shop openly displays information about the makers or the process behind the products. Shops that maintain long-term relationships with local artists often provide higher quality and more meaningful items. This interaction enriches my shopping experience and the value of the gifts.

Tips for a Memorable Shopping Experience

Planning your visit to Asheville’s gift shops involves timing and thoughtful gift selection. Knowing when to shop can help avoid crowds and uncover fresh inventory. Adding personal touches to gifts enhances their value and creates lasting memories.

Best Times to Visit

I find weekdays, especially mid-mornings, the ideal time to explore Asheville’s gift shops. Stores are less busy, giving me space to browse carefully and talk with shop owners. Early spring and fall bring new seasonal items, so visiting then increases the chance of discovering unique gifts.

Downtown Asheville is walkable, allowing easy access between shops. Weekends tend to be crowded, so if I’m after a quieter experience or personalized service, I avoid those days. Holiday seasons can be great for festive merchandise, but I prepare for busy streets and limited parking.

Personalizing Your Gifts

I always look for opportunities to customize gifts in Asheville’s artisan shops. Whether it’s engraved jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, or locally made specialty foods, adding a personal touch turns a simple gift into something meaningful.

Many stores offer gift-wrapping or can include a note, which I request to make the presentation special. I also ask about gift sets or bundles featuring local products; these often come ready to impress without extra effort. It’s worth investing a little time in customization—it’s what makes a gift memorable.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!