Marquee RAD
A vast warehouse showcasing hundreds of local artists, offering a unique art immersion with drinks allowed throughout.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Marquee RAD
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast warehouse showcasing hundreds of local artists, offering a unique art immersion with drinks allowed throughout.
"This is the best gallery complex in town, and it is surrounded by many other excellent smaller galleries."
🚶♀️ Wander with a Drink
Grab a drink from the bar and explore the art at your own pace. You can take it anywhere inside!
⏰ Allow ample time
You can easily spend a full afternoon here exploring all the galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Warehouse of Artistry
Main exhibition space
A vast warehouse transformed into a dynamic art showroom with diverse kiosks and installations.
The Indoor Bar Experience
Central bar area
Enjoy a drink while browsing art; you can take your beverage throughout the entire Marquee.
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Unique Art Installations
Various locations within Marquee
Discover creative displays like upside-down umbrellas on the ceiling and a robot guard.
Local Artist Showcases
Individual gallery kiosks
Explore a wide array of art, from paintings and jewelry to plants and unique crafts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Immersion
Support Local Artisans
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander with a Drink
Grab a drink from the bar and explore the art at your own pace. You can take it anywhere inside!
⏰ Allow ample time
You can easily spend a full afternoon here exploring all the galleries.
🛍️ Support local artists
Many pieces are available for purchase directly from the creators.
💡 Look up!
Don't miss the unique ceiling decorations like upside-down umbrellas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander with a Drink
Grab a drink from the bar and explore the art at your own pace. You can take it anywhere inside!
⏰ Allow ample time
You can easily spend a full afternoon here exploring all the galleries.
🛍️ Support local artists
Many pieces are available for purchase directly from the creators.
💡 Look up!
Don't miss the unique ceiling decorations like upside-down umbrellas.
📍 Check for events
Special events and artist talks can enhance your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Marquee RAD as a standout gallery complex within Asheville's River Arts District, highlighting its impressive scale, diverse collection of local art, and unique atmosphere. The ability to enjoy drinks while exploring is a major draw, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable experience. While some note it's more of a showroom than an active artist workspace, the sheer volume and quality of art make it a must-visit for art lovers and tourists alike.
"Only posting this review to let y’all know that the wonderful marquee antique shop is already almost ready to open nine months after Helene hit them very hard. The Building was completely gutted doors and windows blown out and we went by just last weekend and they already have glass up and they’re working very diligently to get it back open so keep checking back in support local businesses and help out Asheville."
Lindsay Libhart
"This is the best gallery complex in town, and it is surrounded by many other excellent smaller galleries. At a conservative estimate, I would guess that there are at least 200-300 separate artist's galleries under this roof, and Many Excellent artists who display their work here. Extra benefits are that it is across from the Wedge Brewery and 12 Bones BBQ. It is easy to spend a full afternoon here. I love this town!"
brad c
"Marquee is part of the River Art District and the most impressive of what we were able to see so far. That's why Marquee deserves its own review.
Marquee is like a big warehouse full of arts.
When you first walk in, you'd see a robot guard and on the ceiling, there are decorated umbrellas hanging up side down. I like that the ceiling is tall and each kiosks have decent space so it made me feel comfortable and relaxed walking around. There are not a lot of artists in Marquee like other locations because this is more of a showroom than a place for the artists to work at.
They're selling beverages and snacks if you want a small bite. The interesting part is they have a full bar with great decorations, designs and seatings. If you want to take your drinks to wander around and look at art at the same time, you can! Marquee owns the bar so you can walk everywhere inside marque with a drink on your hand. I'd definitely get a drink at the bar if I had more time.
Strongly recommend visiting and hanging out here."
Ngan Nguyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marquee RAD is located within Asheville's River Arts District (RAD). It's easily accessible by car, and there are often parking options nearby, though they can fill up, especially on weekends. Public transportation might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable.
While it's part of the River Arts District, Marquee RAD is a bit of a walk from downtown Asheville. It's best enjoyed as a destination within the RAD, perhaps combined with other nearby galleries and breweries.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking through the RAD to discover its many galleries. Marquee RAD is a central point, and you can easily spend hours exploring the surrounding area.
While Marquee RAD itself is a large showroom, parking is typically available in the surrounding River Arts District. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can become competitive.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for getting to Marquee RAD, especially if you plan on enjoying the bar or don't want to worry about parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Marquee RAD is generally free. It functions as a large art showroom and gallery complex where individual artists or collectives display their work.
Opening hours can vary, but Marquee RAD typically operates during standard business hours, often extending into the early evening. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Marquee RAD. The space is designed to be accessible for visitors to browse and appreciate the art.
Absolutely! Marquee RAD is a showroom for local artists, and many of the pieces displayed are available for purchase. This is a great opportunity to support local talent.
Marquee RAD often hosts events, workshops, and special exhibitions. Following their social media or website is the best way to stay informed about upcoming happenings.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Marquee RAD features a wide variety of art, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, glass art, and more. It's a diverse collection showcasing the talent of numerous local artists.
Yes, Marquee RAD can be a great experience for families. The open layout and diverse art can be engaging for all ages. Some installations, like the robot guard, are particularly interesting for children.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed and encouraged, especially to share your discoveries. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of the artists and their work, and avoid flash photography if it might be disruptive.
Yes, restrooms are typically available within the Marquee RAD complex for visitors.
Marquee RAD stands out with its large warehouse-style space, unique decorative elements like ceiling umbrellas, and the ability to take drinks throughout the entire venue. It feels more like an art experience than a traditional gallery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Marquee RAD has an indoor bar that serves beverages and snacks. You can purchase drinks and enjoy them while you explore the art.
While Marquee RAD has its own bar, it's generally best to consume purchased items within the venue. Bringing outside food and drinks might not be permitted.
The bar at Marquee RAD offers a selection of alcoholic beverages, allowing you to enjoy a drink as you wander through the galleries.
Marquee RAD is conveniently located near popular dining spots in the River Arts District, such as Wedge Brewery and 12 Bones BBQ, offering plenty of options for a meal before or after your visit.
Yes, one of the unique features of Marquee RAD is that you can take your drink from the bar and wander through all the art displays.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the unique installations like the upside-down umbrellas on the ceiling, the robot guard, and the diverse art pieces themselves. The overall ambiance of the warehouse space also makes for great shots.
While personal photography is generally welcome, using a tripod might require permission, especially if it obstructs pathways or other visitors. It's best to be mindful of space and other guests.
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact Marquee RAD management in advance to inquire about any specific guidelines or permissions needed.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial due to the indoor setting. Many visitors capture stunning photos with their smartphones, especially with good lighting.
Check out Instagram and TikTok for inspiration! Creators often share their favorite photo spots and unique angles within Marquee RAD. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific 'kid zones,' the sheer variety of visual stimuli can keep younger visitors entertained. It's a great opportunity to discuss different types of art and encourage observation skills. Plus, the nearby Wedge Brewery and 12 Bones BBQ offer kid-friendly dining options for a full day out.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Take your time to engage with the artists if they are present, and don't hesitate to inquire about purchasing. The direct connection to the creator adds significant value to any acquisition. The proximity to other galleries in the RAD also makes it easy to spend a full day immersed in art.
🥂 Couples & Social Groups
Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Wedge Brewery or 12 Bones BBQ for a complete experience. The unique setting and diverse art provide plenty of talking points, making it a memorable outing for any social group.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marquee RAD Experience: More Than Just Art
One of the most celebrated aspects is the ability to take your drink from the full-service bar and wander throughout the entire complex. This freedom allows you to fully engage with the art without being tethered to a single spot. It transforms the visit into a relaxed social outing as much as an artistic exploration.
This focus on visitor comfort and engagement makes Marquee RAD a standout destination in the River Arts District. It's a place where you can discover incredible local talent, enjoy a beverage, and simply soak in the creative energy of Asheville.
Discovering Local Talent: The Artists of Marquee RAD
The diversity of art on display is remarkable. You can find everything from intricate jewelry and vibrant paintings to unique ceramic pieces and even living plants. This variety ensures that there's something to capture the interest of every visitor, regardless of their artistic preferences.
Supporting these local artisans is a key part of the Marquee RAD experience. Many visitors highlight the opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted items directly from the creators, making it a meaningful way to take a piece of Asheville's art scene home with you.
DIY Marquee Signs: A Creative Trend
Tutorials often involve using design software like Canva to create templates, which are then printed and assembled. Some creators even offer their services for event rentals, highlighting the demand for personalized, illuminated decor.
This DIY aspect, though separate from the Marquee RAD art complex, reflects the broader appeal of illuminated signage and personalized artistic expression, often seen in event planning and home decor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit