Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to Salisbury, NC
Are you looking for a fun-filled drive that doesn't involve typical tourist destinations? If you're planning a drive from Charlotte to Salisbury, North Carolina, we've got some surprises for you! The drive should take about 44 minutes and covers roughly 42.9 miles. But, if you're in the mood for a slightly extended journey, we recommend stopping at the places mentioned below.
Our Halfway Point: Concord, NC
Concord is the perfect place to take a break from your drive. This small town has a lot of history. The iconic Tiger Stadium, which was built in 1937 and served as the home field for the Concord High School football team until 1972, is located in the downtown area and is worth taking a look at. The Carolina Renaissance Festival, which is held in Concord every year in October, is also a must-see. Don't forget to spend some time strolling down Union Street, where you'll find some fantastic boutiques and antique shops.
1. Cabarrus County Courthouse
Located in the heart of downtown Concord, the Cabarrus County Courthouse gets our top billing. The court, which was built in 1876, is a beautiful example of the second empire style architecture. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, and there are also museums within the courthouse that detail the history of the region. You can't leave Concord without stopping here.
Favorite Food: Downtown Sweets
2. Reed Gold Mine
A little more than ten minutes outside of Concord, you'll find Reed Gold Mine. This historic mine played a significant role in the gold rush, and in 1799, the first documented gold find in the United States was discovered at this site. Visitors can take guided tours, witness a live gold panning demonstration, and enjoy the numerous hiking trails on the grounds.
Favorite Food: Yakiniku Japanese BBQ & Sushi
3. Stanback Educational Forest
About a twenty-minute drive from Concord, Stanback Educational Forest is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy nature. With designated hiking trails and beautiful outdoor views, this stop-off is perfect for those who love to get away from the city hustle and bustle.
Favorite Food: Mary's Grill
4. China Grove Roller Mill
The China Grove Roller Mill is only a ten-minute drive from Stanback Forest. This site is a fantastic spot for history buffs, as it has been preserved to show the way that mills functioned in the early 1900s. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the mill and learn about the milling process.
Favorite Food: South Main Sweets
5. North Carolina Transportation Museum
The North Carolina Transportation Museum is located in Spencer, which is just a 5-minute drive from Salisbury. The museum has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is located on the former site of a Southern Railway steam locomotive repair facility. The transportation collection covers many different modes of transportation, but the train section is the highlight of the museum. Visitors can enjoy a ride on one of the many restored trains or take a behind the scenes tour.
Favorite Food: Hap's Grill
Why You Should Take this Trip
Getting off the beaten path and exploring undiscovered hidden gems is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. Taking a drive from Charlotte to Salisbury provides visitors with unexpected highlights that many tourists don't experience. From historic sites to award-winning food, this trip has something for everyone. Not to mention, you can take in the beautiful North Carolina landscape at your own pace. So, next time you're feeling adventurous, don't forget to pack your sense of adventure and take the wide-open road trip from Charlotte to Salisbury!