8 Main Streets Where North Carolina Comes Alive

North Carolina is known for its beautiful and diverse landscape. From the Atlantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains, this region covers a vast expanse of land and is filled with charming small towns that embrace the best aspects of the area, from cultural attractions to award-winning restaurants. These eight Main Streets are where North Carolina comes alive. Whether it's hanging out in Mayberry or strolling the waterfront in Beaufort, these distinctive destinations have much to offer for those seeking a memorable getaway.

Belmont

Belmont's downtown is a short drive from Charlotte International Airport, with a traditional aesthetic, a town clock, and brick storefronts. It has a unique history that saw a prosperous boom in the textile industry until the 1970s, when the region began to suffer economic decline. Its proximity to Charlotte spurred a preservation period, however, and now the downtown is a significant draw for many.

This and other local lore can be explored at the Belmont Historical Society, with permanent displays that include furniture, artifacts, photos, and the Belmont Sports Hall of Fame. Downtown is also decorated with public art, including colorful murals, model trains, and wrapped utility boxes. You can take a self-guided tour of the open-air gallery to learn more about the pieces and the artists who created them. Another interesting way to experience the town is to join the Dark Belmont Walking Tour, where the guide tells spooky stories of true crime and shows a unique side of this scenic town.

Banner Elk

Cherokee people initially inhabited picturesque Banner Elk, and today the downtown area is known for relaxing days and unique finds. One of the first stops should be at the Greene, a popular hangout that often hosts live events, like Art on the Greene. The elk statue provides an excellent photo opportunity and should not be missed.

Cultural attractions include the Banner House Museum, which interprets the history of Banner Elk and recounts what life was like in the 19th century. The downtown section is fun and easy to explore on foot, with parks interspersed between the retail shops. Banner Elk Trading Co. is right on Main Street for unique gifts and souvenirs, and Blind Elk Taproom serves up pints on an outdoor patio overlooking the Elk River, which runs right through town.

Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock's downtown is compact, walkable, and filled with galleries and museums. The History Trail walking tour is a living heritage lesson about the town's roots and its vibrant present. The pleasant walk leads past historical homes, like the iconic Miller/Robbins House. It was built in 1903 and was once the home of former mayor and local "Father of Tourism," Grover Robbins, Sr.

Shopping is a pastime here, especially for antique lovers. Antiques on Sunset and Blowing Rock Antiques are just a couple of the shops selling vintage goods, popular among locals and visitors alike. The downtown section includes a combination of historic storefronts and modern amenities, making Blowing Rock a fantastic area for a relaxing retreat with gorgeous scenery and heritage sites.

Mount Airy

Downtown Mount Airy is an homage to Andy Griffith, beloved actor and the town's favorite son. Visitors can experience the district in a replica 1960s Mayberry squad car and visit the Andy Griffith Museum. The museum holds the world's largest collection of Griffith memorabilia and is a must-see for any fan. Or, complete the trip by staying at the actor's childhood home, Andy Griffith's Homeplace.

Another landmark downtown is Snappy Lunch, which was mentioned on the legendary show. It is rumored to have been Griffith's favorite as a child and is famous for its pork chop sandwich. This distinctive town in North Carolina offers a portal to a simpler time, with friendly locals and fun things to see and do.

Franklin

Historic Franklin's downtown section features several museums and the Women's History Trail, a series of markers and exhibits that tell the stories of Macon County women, from pioneers to politicians. The Cherokee people initially inhabited the area and it is now known for its traditional brick storefronts, compact streets, and historic sites. Much of the local history can be explored at the Macon County Historical Museum, located in the Pendergrass Building, one of the oldest in town.

The community hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including live music twice a month with their Pickin' on the Square concert series at the gazebo downtown. Other popular events include the All-American 4th of July celebration, with a community parade, a pet contest, and plenty of family-friendly activities. There is plenty more to do and see in this classic North Carolina town, whether for a weekend or a week-long stay.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a coastal town with a quaint downtown district. The area developed from a 1709 fishing village into a significant seaport the following century. Today, there is a lot of history to explore, and one of the best places to start is the Beaufort Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum. A walking tour will take you through 10 historic homes and structures, including the 1796 Carteret County Courthouse, and the “Old Jail,” built around 1829.

For those looking for a day in nature, kayaking in Taylor Creek fits the bill and provides an ideal way to view this historic town from a different vantage point. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to 34° North for award-winning waterfront dining with a menu that prioritizes local flavors and farm-to-table dishes.

Southport

Historic Southport, on the Cape Fear River, is known for its scenic beauty and downtown shopping district surrounded by 200-year-old oak trees. European exploration of the area dates all the way back to the 16th century when the Spanish first landed, but a lack of good soil and fresh water led to the region being largely left unsettled until it became a fishing village, called Smithville, in the late-1700s. You can envision this history as you stroll through Waterfront Park, complete with a pier and seating for taking in the salty sea breezes.

One of the most popular downtown shops is The Christmas House, a year-round tradition that brings out the kid in everyone. Or, check out the Southport Village Shops for a day of retail therapy in a collection of unique, local boutiques. Walking along the treelined district is one of the best ways to explore this corner of North Carolina in all its historic, coastal glory.

Edenton

Edenton's downtown holds centuries of history, from being the first colonial capital in the 18th century to its Revolutionary War heritage. It is also North Carolina's second-oldest city and features numerous heritage sites, including the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, a designated National Historic Landmark.

Guided tours make this hamlet come alive and include sites like the 1886 Roanoake River Lighthouse on Dock Street, and the Iredell House, which features several historic buildings on the estate, including a carriage house and 19th-century schoolhouse. The best place to start your tour of this picturesque town is at the Visitor's Center on Broad Street. When you've had your fill of history, Broad Street Diner serves up an incredible breakfast, while The Herringbone on Water Street promises a delicious meal with even better views.

North Carolina is a beautiful state to visit, and these eight towns showcase the best aspects of the region. From seaports to historic villages, this diverse area has a lot to offer travelers. Mount Airy is pure, wholesome fun with all the Mayberry references and attractions, while towns like Blowing Rock are as stunning as they are relaxing. Whether seeking an easy weekend soaking in the natural beauty or a fun night on the town, these are eight downtown strips where North Carolina comes alive.