Downtown Visitor Trends – July 2026

July continued to show strong activity in Downtown Asheville, with approximately 1.2 million non-resident visits, representing a 2.8% increase compared to July 2025 and nearly identical to 2024 levels, down just 0.3%.

Unlike June, which saw a higher single-day visitation peak, July’s activity was more evenly distributed throughout the month. The busiest day occurred on Saturday, July 25, when Downtown recorded approximately 55,200 non-resident visits, followed closely by July 4, which recorded approximately 53,700 visits. The strong performance of multiple days throughout the month highlights that Downtown activity was supported by a broad mix of experiences rather than driven solely by one holiday or event.

July’s visitation patterns also showed stronger daytime activity, with the busiest hour occurring around 3 PM. Activity remained elevated throughout the early afternoon and into the evening, indicating that visitors were visiting Downtown across a broader portion of the day and not just in the evening hours.

These insights, gathered through the Asheville Downtown Improvement District, help guide planning, support local businesses, and inform strategies to maintain a vibrant and active Downtown year-round.