The Grove House has a history of hosting community meetings and events. It was built as the central YWCA in 1924 and, over the next 44 years, the building provided educational and fitness programs, entertained servicemen with dances and dinners during WWII, and hosted Eleanor Roosevelt as she spoke to an integrated audience on behalf of the United Nations. The building also offered the area’s first integrated swimming classes in the indoor pool, which is now used for storage. The YWCA moved to the South French Broad location in 1964, and the Newfound School opened in the building on Grove in 1970. For the next seven years, the school offered diverse and creative education for 9th -12th grades.

Art Fryer bought the building in 1977, and soon began Cahoots Restaurant which stayed open until 1990. Scandals Nightclub opened in 1982 in the old gymnasium. Scandals is a landmark for many Asheville natives and tourists, known for its large dance floor and cabaret shows. Getaways opened off of the main bar in 1986, and featured televisions playing music videos. This bar offered a “get-away” from the livelier main club area, and also provided a place to come during the week to meet friends or watch sporting events. In the mid 1990s the Boiler Room opened. With its distinct industrial feel, it offered the perfect place for live underground music. Then in 2002, the top floor bar was opened as Club Eleven, the area’s first non-smoking venue. This space, now known as Eleven on Grove is the place to dance and offers salsa and mambo, tango, ballroom, and line dancing on different nights. This space, along with the beautiful penthouse is also available for special events such as receptions and corporate parties.

Now “The Grove House: All Under One Roof” continues to increase its community presence under the current owners, Jeff and Sherrie Davis, who strive to meet the needs of the city by providing a favorite celebration and nightlife venue. The Grove House staff is committed to maintaining the foundation that the business has been built upon while evolving to meet the changing needs of its patrons and the larger community.

As you may have guessed, with such a diverse history, the building also plays host to many spirits from the past. The newest addition to the building is Grove House Ghost Tours, which include history and ghost stories while being guided through the building during off hours. Many have already witnessed the paranormal activity in this amazing place, and now you can experience it first-hand.

You may be looking for lively dancing into the wee hours, or a place to listen to great live music. Maybe a smoke-free atmosphere to spend an intimate night with friends trying a few new dance steps is more your style or perhaps you’re looking for the perfect place to host that special occasion. Whatever your preference may be, The Grove House looks forward to welcoming you.

 

Eleven on Grove is not only the place to dance, but the place to celebrate.   The club, along with the Penthouse Suite, is the perfect venue for wedding receptions, corporate parties, or private events. Our beautiful space, along with knowledgeable staff, will help transform your ideas into an event to remember!