A Look at North Carolina’s Charming Downtowns

Whether you’re considering a home purchase or planning a visit, discover North Carolina’s charming downtowns that serve as vibrant places to visit, especially this holiday season.

Benson, home to around 4,000, is a pleasant and historic community that radiates a timeless feel. Its downtown, the community’s heart, is a thriving slice of small-town paradise. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Downtown Benson’s turn-of-the-century buildings create the look of a bygone era. Housing more than 100 restaurants, shops, and boutique stores, this area is an excellent shopping destination. 

Charlotte’s downtown area, ironically referred to as Uptown Charlotte, is the city’s thriving commercial center with towering skyscrapers and lively streets. Uptown offers much to explore, from art museums and urban parks to cafes, rooftop bars, and globally acclaimed restaurants. The area hosts several entertainment centers and sports venues, including Spectrum Center, home of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. 

Consider Rutherfordton if you lean toward a slower pace. Located in Western North Carolina, this historic enclave embodies a quaint and tranquil community. Surrounded by nature, this city’s delightful downtown has a classic all-American look and houses charming restaurants, historic century-old storefronts, and family businesses that have been around for generations. 

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville entices visitors with its scenery and superb arts scene. This city’s amazing downtown features parks, markets, and farm-to-table restaurants. Downtown Asheville offers over 100 eateries and numerous art galleries. Also, its craft breweries and bars serve tasty beverages late into the night, and the area hosts many public festivals and events throughout the year.

Located west of Asheville, Waynesville is a picturesque city steeped in North Carolina’s renowned scenery. Although this charming town’s outdoor recreation options attract many, Waynesville’s spectacular downtown should not be overlooked. This quaint area exudes a pedestrian-friendly ambiance with its walkable city streets and offers thriving local businesses, delectable farm-to-table restaurants, and a fantastic craft beer scene. 

Located within Western North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains, the picturesque town of Sylva has one of the state’s prettiest downtowns. Restaurants and stores in brick buildings line its Main Street, giving it a distinct appearance. And walking up the stairs to the historic Jackson County Courthouse, an architectural marvel and a defining feature of downtown, provides spectacular views of Sylva and the surrounding mountains. 

Want to see the best North Carolina has to offer this autumn? Check out the state’s premier fall destinations.