These 9 Towns in North Carolina Have Bustling Main Streets
North Carolina is a charming southern state that blends numerous elements ranging from breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage to a vibrant past rich in sensational stories. These elements make the state an irresistible port of call for visitors in the southern United States. As a result, the downtowns in the state are always active, hosting prime attractions like museums, historic landmarks, and art galleries. The downtowns are also home to numerous shops where tourists can purchase supplies for trips outdoors, restaurants for good eats, and gift shops for souvenirs. From the seaside downtown of Southport to the magnificent Blowing Rock, here are 9 towns with the best main streets in North Carolina.
Bryson City
Bryson City is a small, quaint town favored by nature as it borders the Great Smoky Mountains and Nantahala National Forest. In addition to the green mountains on the horizon, the main street is a beautiful spot to wine, dine, relax, shop, and roam. Visitors can start with a delicious breakfast at Everett Street Diner. Next, stop by Gallery Zella to browse paintings, sculptures, and photographs of local artists or buy a book in an art shop at One Twenty Main. Visit the Swain Heritage Museum in a historic courthouse to glimpse at the iconic past of Swain County and the town through visual exhibits. From downtown, follow Deep Creek Trail to Indian Creek Falls and explore other waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a splendid taste of the outdoors.
Belmont
The college town of Belmont in Gaston County was once a textile industry hub but lost that status after a while. However, the town retained its business character, which is why it currently boasts a vibrant main street brimming with diverse storefronts. Roam this main street to relish its sights and sounds, and shop for antiques at the Piccolo Antique Mall or Catawba River Antique Mall. Take a break from shopping to relish the delectable tastes of gelato at Bumblebee Creamery or enjoy lunch at Honeycomb Café. Along Catawba River Street, visitors can learn about the town’s heritage at the Belmont Historical Society House Museum through various displays, photos, and artifacts. Afterward, relax with scenic views of the Catawba River at the Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park, featuring picnic shelters, a kayak launch ramp, and a walking path.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough is the county seat of Orange County and lies along the Eno River, where it charms visitors as a melting pot of arts and history. Hence, the main street is decorated with art galleries like Hillsborough Gallery of Arts and Skylight Gallery, where creative masterpieces will keep visitors hooked. Hop these galleries and then experience fine dining at Saratoga Grill with seafood, steak, and cocktails, or enjoy Italian cuisine at Antonia’s Restaurant. History aficionados can visit the Orange County Historical Museum to immerse in the county’s roots or head to the Burwell School Historic Site to see an early 19th-century house. Don’t miss a walk on the Hillsborough River Walk that runs for three miles along Eno River through lush greenery and stunning natural views.
Beaufort
Beaufort is one of America's coolest small towns with an ever-vibrant main street. One could spend an entire vacation on this street just enjoying everything from arts to food, history, and fashion. For history lovers, the North Carolina Maritime Museum is in this part of town and is the best place to learn about the maritime history of North Carolina. For foodies, delicious seafood and other local favorites are always available at the seaside Front Street Grill or Moonrakers. Meanwhile, the Mattie King David Art Gallery invites all art enthusiasts to come explore the impressive works of local and regional artists inspired by the coast. After a satisfying exploration of the downtown area, visitors can always head to Rachel Carson Reserve to explore small islands full of beautiful birds, wild horses, gray foxes, raccoons, and other mammals.
Banner Elk
Banner Elk is a small town with big outdoor charms and a bustling main street where tourists can easily lose track of time. A bright morning in this town center can kick off on a nourishing note at Banner Elk Café with coffee, while lunch is always great at Prime 21 Steakhouse. Art lovers can feel at home at Banner Elk Artist Gallery, exploring various paintings and artworks, while Ensemble Stage Theatre offers captivating shows and plays. Visitors here can also peek into the life and times of the 1800s in the North Carolina Mountain region at Banner House Museum from the lens of various artifacts and exhibits. On the outdoors, the nearby Grandfather Mountain State Park is by far the biggest attraction in Banner Elk as it is home to around 12 miles of hiking trails, mostly along craggy cliffs. Meanwhile, taking a scenic walk on the nearby Mile-high Swinging Bridge, America’s highest suspension footbridge, is a must for adventurous visitors to Grandfather Mountain.
Franklin
Franklin, the county seat of Macon County, is one of nature’s beloved towns in North Carolina, positioned within the lush and majestic Nantahala National Forest. As a gateway to one of North Carolina’s largest forests, the main street is naturally a major stop. Once in this lively business hub with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors are invited to stop by Uptown Gallery to browse the works of local artists and then pick antiques at Attic Antiques. Next, peek into the county's history through Civil War exhibits and Native American artifacts at the Macon County Historical Museum. The Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center is another must-visit historical attraction in the area where visitors can learn about the Scottish Highland dress known as Tartans and the Kilts. When done exploring the downtown, storm the National Forest to hike its numerous trails, float on the Nantahala River, and see waterfalls such as Whitewater and Cullasaja Falls.
Blowing Rock
The naturally endowed town of Blowing Rock is within the Blue Ridge Mountains, where it spoils tourists with fascinating outdoor attractions. However, a trip to its beautiful and active Main Street is a must before heading outdoors. Once here, grab a cup of coffee at Spice & Tea Exchange and enjoy sandwiches at Say Cheese. Visit Martin House Gallery to explore its seasonal and rotating exhibits and get a gift for a loved one at Neaco. Proceed to the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum, where American arts, local history, and Appalachian cultures come alive in various exhibits and programs. Afterward, step away from the downtown and head to the 4,000-foot Blowing Rock to marvel at the iconic formation and the scenery. More outdoor experiences like fishing, hiking, and picnicking are available at Bass Lake, with views of Flat Manor above it.
Washington
Washington is a laid-back and lovely town in Beaufort County, along the banks of the Pamlico River, featuring a lively main street where tourists wine, dine, and shop. Visit this downtown and start with crushed potatoes and other culinary delights at the Mulberry House, or savor farm-to-table meals at Blu Farm to Table. Visit the River Walk Gallery to see the creative works of dozens of local artists reflecting the town’s coastal scenery, and stop by the Turnage Theatre to enjoy a show. For history buffs, visit the Washington Waterfront Underground Museum to see various relics, memorabilia, and exhibits related to the town’s railroad heritage. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, built in 1822, is another historic attraction visitors can check out before venturing outdoors to explore the Goose Creek State Park. This park has a Live Oak Trail that overlaps the Pamlico River, a swim beach, a boat ramp, and picnic shelters. Don't miss the Washington Waterfront Docks, where you can enjoy river views and boat around.
Southport
Southport is a majestic town near the mouth of Cape Fear River in Brunswick County, with a vibrant main street full of beautiful sights and exciting things to do. First off, the Ricky Evans Gallery is in this part of town, just a few blocks from the waterfront, and features stunning paintings and sculptures. For more art adventures, head to the Artshak Studio/Gallery and then go to Bambini’s Pizzeria for some of the best pizzas in town or head to the Fishy Fishy Café to enjoy delicious seafood in a waterfront setting. Proceed to the North Carolina Maritime Museum to see exhibits on shipwrecks, military conflicts, and fishing activities. Meanwhile, Keziah Park is in this town center and invites visitors to enjoy picnics and see the Indian Trail Tree, which is said to be over 800 years old. Visit the Amuzu Theatre afterward to have a thrilling cinematic experience or watch a show, and head outdoors to walk and fish on the Southport Fishing Pier.
There is something always special about the main streets in the small towns of North Carolina. From the street's bustling scenes of tourists shopping and the well-laid-out storefronts to the beautiful facades of art galleries, these main streets leave memorable feelings in the hearts of visitors. They have everything for every kind of tourist, including restaurants, cafes, boutiques, galleries, bars, grills and more. Explore the nooks and crannies of these downtowns, sniff the aroma of culinary delights in their creation process, shop for souvenirs, and feel at home; it promises to be an exciting experience.
