Fun things to do in Davidson, NC

The quaint town of Davidson, North Carolina is situated near Lake Norman and Charlotte, North Carolina. Davidson is mostly known for being the home of Davidson College but visitors to the historical town will also find that there is plenty to do and see around Davidson such as looking for antiques to summer concerts in the park.

Visit Davidson College

Davidson College is a liberal arts college established in 1837. The college was begun by Presbyterians of North Carolina. Davidson College is unique in that it offers students educational grants instead of student loans. This program allows students to graduate without owing student loans and encourages individuals to continue their education. Students and guests at the college can attend one of the many plays at the college, listen to the Davidson College Symphony, or attend one of the many athletic events. The institution is also home to the prestigious Van Every/Smith Galleries.

Shop at Davidson’s Farmer’s Market

Most people who go to Davidson consider the Davidson Farmer’s Market a “must-see” attraction. The market is open weekly every Saturday and is located near the Davidson Town Hall. Visitors to the market will find everything from fresh produce from local farmers to a variety of meats and cheeses. There are also handmade items from vendors for sale. Even people who have a sweet tooth will find pastries such as homemade cookies and pies. Individuals who cannot get enough of the market may want to consider going to one of the special events held at the market.

Visit Downtown Davidson

When visitors go to downtown Davidson, they cannot help but be taken back by the charming historical buildings that line the streets and the picturesque scenery. Even though it is a small town, it has lots to offer. The downtown area has several specialty shops, restaurants, and a coffee shop. The trip also would not be complete without a stop in some of the galleries and antique shops. During the summer, the town square is alive with the “Concerts on the Green”.

Take the Ghost Walk of Davidson

One of the newer things to do in Davidson is to go on the Ghost Walk of Davidson. The Ghost Walk of Davidson is owned and operated by Virginia Grzech. The tour takes adventurous walkers on an hour and a half to a two-hour tour of Davidson and stops by several historical landmarks. Some of the landmarks include a detailed tour of Davidson College, Davidson Cemetery, and various places downtown. The ghost tour starts at the landmark Soda Shop and features tales of local hauntings and stories from nearby areas.

No matter what type of attraction people choose to do in Davidson, NC, it will certainly be worth the drive. Visitors may want to call ahead of time to check for store hours and vendor times just in case of inclement weather.

Richard Childress Racing Museum

For NASCAR racing fans, a trip to the RCR campus in Welcome is a highlight of their trip to Davidson County. The RCR Museum covers over 47,000 square feet!  In it, you’ll find the original No. 3 race shop, built in 1986, and the original RCR Museum which was built in 1991.  The museum displays over 50 racing vehicles – including 28 examples of the No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolets driven by Dale Earnhardt, 16 video screens that showcase key victories in RCR history, and displays of racing memorabilia, photographs, banners, and trophies. The museum and nearby race shop offer daily tours.

Historic Uptown Lexington

A visit to the streets of Uptown Lexington is a visit to a site that is on the National Register of Historic Places and has recently been accredited as a National Main Street City.  One of the original North Carolina Main Street cities, Lexington serves as the host for events such as Christmas Open House, GroundHawg’s Day, Summer Strolls, and Cruise In’s.   You’ll also find pigs from the wildly successful public art project “Pigs in the City” throughout businesses in the district.

Uptown Lexington is home to over 55 businesses and shops including Conrad & Hinkle Market who still hand cuts meats and makes the best fresh pimiento cheese in the country, The Candy Factory where you can find any candy imaginable, All About Education where you’ll find everything for the classroom and learning, The Olde Homestead which has more Boyd’s Bears and Vera Bradley items than you can envision and, Lanier Hardware Store which looks pretty much as it did in 1940.   You’ll also find unique shops like Chelsea’s Manor, Memory Bears, and Wicked Sports and restaurants like Southern Curiosity, Cafe 35, and the Uptown Grill.  You can shop for all your home furnishings from spots like the Lexington Home Brands Outlet, Silver Needles Golden Threads, Catherine’s Curtains, or our antique shops. Or you can just stop to catch your breath at Designer Sweets or the Black Chicken Coffee.

Downtown Thomasville

The arrival of the railroad led to the founding of Thomasville.  Today, it remains a key influence with tracks dividing the town right down Main Street!  Historic buildings, murals, a restored railroad Depot station, and The Big Chair are other features that set Thomasville apart from many other towns in North Carolina.  Local favorite restaurants include the S & S, the Tville Diner, and the Whistle Stop Café which is widely known for their desserts.  If you’re a shopper, be sure to visit the Thomasville Furniture Outlet, the Thomasville Emporium, Studio 45, and The Frame House.

Downtown Denton

Downtown Denton is a place that seems almost as if time stood still.  You’ll find quaint streets and shops that are located within easy walking distance from each other.   For dining….have lunch on the patio at the Village Restaurant or if you’re really hungry, try the 60-foot buffet at the Classic Restaurant.  The cuisine Buttercup Café, located in a restored gas station, rivals that of restaurants in any larger city.  For shoppers, you’re sure to find something unique at Ivy and Old Lace, Southern Spirit Gallery, Kountry Korner Hardware, or any of the many antique shops.