Davidson may be an unconventional tourist destination in North Carolina, but this small town is vibrant and full of life. At the heart of the town is Davidson College, of which NBA player Steph Curry is a notable alumnus. In addition, the town has a plethora of intriguing sights and experiences to offer. Downtown Davidson is a hub of activity - its streets are lined with locally owned businesses, such as The Pickled Peach, that simply invite exploration.
This town also boasts an abundance of nature getaways that include Lake Davidson Nature Preserve. The sprawling parks and breathtaking lakes will undoubtedly reinvigorate you. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of the main street as well as the serenity of the outdoors, this destination is perfect for you. Read on for the best things to do in Davidson, North Carolina.
1. Indulge yourself at Davidson Wine Co.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Davidson Wine Co. is the town’s first urban winery. The establishment is chic, with exposed brick walls, dangling ceiling lights, and gorgeous black-and-white tiles. Enjoy a glass of red or white wine that has been crafted with the finest grapes from California, Italy, France, and other regions.
Want something to remember this enchanting experience by? You can create a custom label to place on a bottle of your favourite wine!
Davidson Wine Co.
Address: 121 Depot Street, Davidson, NC 28036
Website: Davidson Wine Co.
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 4pm - 9pm; Thu - Fri: 2pm - 10pm; Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
2. Stroll through Davidson Farmer's Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Davidson Farmers Market runs all year round, providing the spotlight to more than 35 local farmers and producers. Not only can you purchase a basketful of locally grown fruits and vegetables, but you can also procure freshly baked bread, food preserves, hand-crafted soaps, and lovely flowers.
Take this chance to support small local enterprises while you feast your eyes on a rainbow of colours. And while you’re at it, feel free to ask the growers about the fruits of their labour - they’ll be glad to indulge your curiosity!
Davidson Farmer's Market
Address: Town Hall, between Main & Jackson St., Davidson, NC
Website: Davidson Farmer’s Market
Opening hours: Sat: 9am - 12pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
3. Dive into the fun at Lake Norman
As the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, Lake Norman boasts 520 miles (840 kilometres) of captivating shoreline and an abundance of activities for you to revel in. If you want to kick back and relax, book a chartered cruise and glide through the waters while enjoying a meal on board.
If you want more of a thrill, you’ll be spoiled for choice; Lake Norman is a water sports haven! You have the option to paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or jet-ski. Nothing beats a day out on this lake with the sparkling waters for company.
4. Have a fun day out at Roosevelt Wilson Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Roosevelt Wilson Park is a great spot for a relaxed day out with family or friends. Bring the kids to the playground or stroll the cherry tree-lined walkways. Open grassy fields and sheltered pavilions and benches by the water make for picturesque picnic spots. You might even spot some geese as you take a turn around the pond and fountain.
Try your hand at fishing, or simply amble around the boardwalk and admire the sun glinting off the pond.
Roosevelt Wilson Park
Address: 420 Griffith St, Davidson, NC 28036, United States
Website: Roosevelt Wilson Park
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
5. Be one with nature at Fisher Farm
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Davidson might be bustling with food, culture and rich town life, but it certainly has no shortage of green spaces. Fisher Farm is a 200-acre (80.9-hectare) park that offers something for everyone.
For a more laidback time, you can elect to take a stroll along its lush, tree-lined paths - this is perfect for families with children or senior citizens. The park also offers a mountain bike trail that caters to experts and beginners alike. This is a wonderful spot to escape the bustle of town and appreciate nature.
Fisher Farm
Address: 21215 Shearer Rd, Davidson, NC 28036
Website: Fisher Farm
6. Browse the collection at Main Street Books
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Bookworms, rejoice! Main Street Books has been a staple in Davidson since two intrepid ladies established it in 1987. Even if you’re not a bibliophile, this charming independent bookstore will draw you in with its antique bookshelves, original wood floors and quiet reading nooks.
The shop carries an impressive selection of bestsellers, cookbooks, science fiction, children’s literature, adult fiction and history books. The staff is also happy to help out with recommendations.
Main Street Books
Address: 126 S Main St, Davidson, NC 28036, United States
Website: Main Street Books
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
7. Bike through West Branch Rocky River Greenway
The Greenway is a 1.1-mi-long (1.7-km) segment of the Carolina Thread Trail - a great option to get some exercise in and appreciate nature. This mini-trail is paved and winds through a forested area that is along the West Branch Rocky River. Enjoy the shade of the sweet gum and black walnut trees as you trek or bike. Keep an eye out for frogs, other amphibians, woodpeckers and screech owls.
While you’re on this trail, don’t miss the wooden bridge and boardwalk that passes through a lush, fern-covered hillside.
West Branch Rocky River Greenway
Address: Davidson, North Carolina 28036, USA
8. Explore downtown Davidson
Founded almost 200 years ago to support the growing community at Davidson College, downtown Davidson still thrives to this day. Its historic charm and tight-knit community spirit are still alive, with locally owned establishments lining the streets. Pop inside local galleries, craft stores and Katherine and Tom Belk Visual Arts Center.
Enjoy Wagyu beef sliders at Flatiron Kitchen and Taphouse, grandma-style pizzas at Mandolinos Artisan Pizza, farm-to-table sandwiches at The Pickled Peach, and thirst-quenching drinks at Soda Shop.
9. Head to North Harbor Club
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
North Harbor Club is a regatta-themed fine-dining restaurant by the waterfront. If you snag a table on the patio, you’ll have a stunning view of Lake Norman as you eat. The interiors are gorgeously rustic too, with parts of boats with historic value mounted on the walls as decor.
Pan-seared scallops, lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, crab cakes, key lime pie, cheesecake, cocktails and wines - the extensive menu is sure to please. Don’t forget to make a reservation before visiting.
North Harbor Club
Address: 100 N Harbor Pl, Davidson, NC 28036, United States
Website: North Harbor Club
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 9:30pm
10. Watch a Davidson Wildcats football game
The Davidson Wildcats have a long and proud history. Students of Davidson College rallied to form a football club, competing in their first intercollegiate game in 1989 and earning the name “wildcats” for their tenacity. Home games take place in the massive, 6000-seat Richardson Stadium. If you’re a football fan or you’re looking for some thrilling action, book a ticket while you’re in town.
The Wildcats were Pioneer Football League champions, so you’ll be in for a treat!
Davidson Wildcats at Richardson Stadium
Address: 201 Faculty Drive, Davidson NC, 28036
Website: Davidson Wildcats
Experience the ultimate Davidson
From fine dining to the great outdoors, there’s nothing that this town doesn’t offer! Use our carefully curated list of activities to make the best of your time in Davidson.
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