"There'southward zilch to do!" said no 1, e'er, about arts, civilization and nightlife in Asheville.

Fine art is everywhere hither. On the sides of buildings. On the street corners. On the undersides of bridges. In studios in the River Arts District, where more than 200 artists piece of work in paint, pencil, pottery, metallic, cobweb, drinking glass, wax, paper and other mediums in historical buildings along a one-mile stretch of the French Wide River. Want a picayune whimsy with your cultural pursuits? Simply-in-Asheville museums spotlight pinball machines, aluminum Christmas copse and archetype motorcycles.

Performing arts enthusiasts can choose from several theater companies, the Asheville Symphony, Lyric Opera, Flat Stone Playhouse or the free outdoor summer Shakespeare series provided by the Montford Park Players.

In that location's enough of sonic exploration to be washed, from Appalachian ballads and sometime-time picking to trigger-happy funk, sultry soul, edgy hip-hop and far-flung world music. Check out dozens of clubs that feature live music, ranging from blues to jazz to rock & scroll to state. Join the Friday night Drum Circle, an Asheville tradition.

On weekends, outdoor festivals rule, celebrating Asheville'south vibrant mosaic of art, music, dance and food.