10 Prettiest Downtown Strips In North Carolina
North Carolina's diversity oscillates between the rugged peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the shiny waters of the Atlantic. Between these two notable landscapes lies a cluster of beautiful small towns rich in charm and bubbling with character. Visiting them is a chance to explore the true heart and soul of the Tarheel State, and there is no better point to start doing this than the downtown strips. Condensing historic landmarks, trendy restaurants, local boutiques, and galleries into one small location, they provide busy hubs with plenty of things to see and do.
Whether you are seeking to uncover fascinating facts about the area's history, embark on a casual shopping spree, or indulge in unique traditions, there is no limit to the number of experiences awaiting vacationers. From the historic allure of Mount Airy to the artsy atmosphere in Salisbury, here are some of the prettiest downtown strips in North Carolina.
Davidson
Davidson is a close-knit college town in the Charlotte metropolitan area with a thriving art and culture scene. Its walkable downtown area invites guests to mingle with residents and experience their warm character. Enthusiasts often meet inside the 600-seat Duke Family Performance Hall to watch some of the finest stage presentations, from musicals to drama. Saturday is one of the most lively days in downtown Davidson as vendors converge for the Davidson Farmers' Market.
The town square remains active after hours due to the many restaurants and watering holes in the area. When hungry, you can head to The Pickled Peach for a delicious sandwich. But if you want to sample the nightlife, Hop & Vine Davidson serves some of the best craft beer and fine wine.
Hendersonville
A mere 25 miles from Asheville, Hendersonville is a quaint village in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a picturesque backcountry. However, it also has a thriving Main Street with a playful atmosphere and plenty of family-centric attractions. The Mineral and Lapidary Museum exhibits a quirky mix of gemstones, fossils, and artifacts guaranteed to excite all ages. A short walk from the museum brings you to the Hands On! Children's Museum, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and engage in hands-on activities, events, and programs for learning and entertainment purposes.
There are more opportunities for family-friendly fun at the Appalachian Pinball Museum, which presents access to at least pinball machines and arcade games. For historians, be sure to tour the Henderson County Heritage Museum to browse artifacts, archives, memorabilia, and more.
Kinston
An hour and a half from Raleigh takes you to this lively town in Lenoir County, steeped in cultural heritage, which unravels along its pedestrian-friendly downtown district. The corridor is notably home to the CSS Neuse Museum, where you can witness the relics of the Confederate ironclad that was used during the Civil War. The ship dates back to 1862 and is the state's largest historical exhibit. Towsfolks connect through the arts at the Community Council for the Arts. This cultural hub hosts educational programs and exhibitions by homegrown artists.
The Ellis Planetarium, Health and Science Museum thrusts guests into the wonderful world of science through fascinating exhibits, highlighted by a 24-foot giant dome with the sky projected. Kinston offers several natural areas in the downtown, allowing a break from the crowds to relax on the serene grounds of Neuseway Nature Park.
Lexington
Nicknamed "Barbecue Capital of the World," Lexington promises culinary enthusiasts some of the remarkable tasting experiences in North Carolina. Fortunately, most of the top joints are clustered around the downtown district, and you can tickle your taste buds with authentic Western-style Carolina barbecue at Lexington Barbecue. The Davidson County Historical Museum reminds newcomers of the town's enduring heritage. Housed inside a Greek Revival building, it showcases archives going back to the mid-19th century.
If you're visiting with kids, stop by the Candy Factory for an unlimited sugar rush supply of Red Bird peppermint puffs—the NC staple—candies, chocolates, licorice, and stick candies. Even adults will have a trip down memory lane while sorting out their favorites.
Beaufort
Beaufort is one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, and it charms visitors with its beautiful coastal setting and longstanding maritime heritage. You can see this play out when strolling through the busy downtown area. The Beaufort Historic Site would be a great place to start, and features a collection of old homes that transport you back to the 1700s and 1890s. The historic district also hosts the Old Burying Ground, which harbors almost 300 years of local history.
If you like to meet people and make small talk, you will enjoy shopping at the Olde Beaufort Farmers' Market. Almost 70 local vendors take over Broad Street with different merchandise, resulting in a charged-up social setting. Before leaving, be sure to sample delicious craft beers at Fishtowne Brew House.
New Bern
Popularly known as the Birthplace of Pepsi, New Bern has a rich historical heritage that includes serving as the first state capital. It has multiple landmarks in the downtown district preserving this rich history, including Tryon Palace. This stately complex of mansions was built in the 18th century as the Governor's House and Palace. The New Bern Firemen's Museum stands out for its red-brick facade and is one of the oldest fire companies in North Carolina. It exhibits a curious collection of related relics going back to the 1950s.
Beyond history, the New Bern Civic Theatre is the downtown hub for all things cultural performances. Visitors come here to watch plays, musicals, and other theatrical productions by local talent. Also, you can shop for a few crafts, wares, and produce at the New Bern Farmers Market.
Salisbury
Salisbury is home to multiple historic districts and is dotted with antique structures listed on the National Register, making it one of the most beautiful downtown strips in North Carolina. Walking down its streets feels like a trip down memory lane, with a chance to browse notable sites like the Rowan Museum. This 1800s courthouse is a fine reminder of antebellum buildings remaining in the state. Salisbury boasts an active live theater landscape, and you can find people watching entertaining shows at the Piedmont Players Theatre.
Meanwhile, visual art lovers are welcome to examine intimate works by homegrown creatives at Rail Walk Studios & Gallery. Those who enjoy green spaces flock to the Bell Tower Green, a serene haven with acres of greenery, gardens, and trees providing quiet picnic shelters.
Mount Airy
This adorable community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains has a vibrant downtown area with a rich combination of attractions. There are many places to visit, including the Andy Griffith Museum. Here, fans come to pay tribute to the famous actor by admiring his largest collection of exhibited memorabilia. Historians should plan a tour of the Gertrude Smith House for a glimpse of the 19th century. Sporting a lovely Victorian-Colonial Revival style, the old home still maintains furnishings from the period.
Meanwhile, you can find more about the town's history at the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History. While at it, remember to find a vintage souvenir from Mayberry Antique Mall, which sells everything from toys and glassware to drinkware.
Edenton
This port town in Chowan County is steeped in history, and this is evident from the impressive collection of preserved landmarks in its downtown area. Many of these are clustered around the Edenton State Historic Site, including the 1758 Cupola House and the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, which turns heads with a conspicuous Georgian architecture. Also, a visit to the Penelope Barker House will take you back to the late 18th century.
Movie enthusiasts can get updated on the latest Hollywood releases at Taylor Theater, known to screen first-run movies. Elsewhere, nature lovers feel at home in the tranquil setting of Queen Anne Park, which features lush greenery and stunning water views.
Banner Elk
Banner Elk boasts spectacular outdoor scenery, framed by the towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. But beyond its beautiful backcountry, it is also home to captivating downtown areas with a mix of fun attractions. The town beckons art connoisseurs with professional performances at the Ensemble Stage. This 99-capacity venue hosts a lineup of live shows throughout the year, such as dramas, thrillers, and comedies.
Elsewhere, a lively craft brewery and winery scene promises guests delicious tasting opportunities. While beer lovers meet up at Kettell Beerworks for refreshing pints of in-house-brewed beers, wine enthusiasts can head to Banner Elk Winery and sample award-winning varieties. Finally, Stonewalls Restaurant serves sumptuous steaks and seafood dishes whenever you find yourself in the mood to eat.
Final Thought
The Tarheel State boasts a wealth of beautiful towns that may not have the glitz and glamor of its big cities but prove to be just as exciting to visit. From the unmatched history in Edenton to the lively Main Street in Hendersonville, visitors get an opportunity to explore some of the best downtown strips in North Carolina. Whether a historian, culture connoisseur, or culinary enthusiast, you can find something for your heart's desires without having to leave the urban core of the United States.
