Concord, North Carolina has been recognized by HGTV as one of the most charming small downtowns in America. The selection is part of a list compiled by Erin Gifford and Lynn Coulter, which highlights 40 towns across the country known for their inviting historic districts, unique local culture, and attractive streetscapes.
The article notes that Concord’s downtown features a vibrant street art scene, including a tribute mural on Union Street dedicated to The Avett Brothers, a folk rock band originally from Concord. Visitors are drawn to the area’s boutique shops, art galleries, and preserved historic architecture. The retro-style Cabarrus Creamery is also mentioned as a popular spot for ice cream.
Additional attractions include the historic Cabarrus County Courthouse, where visitors can view different architectural styles and curated art galleries. Memorial Garden on Spring Street offers year-round gardens situated on land purchased in 1804 for the First Presbyterian Church of Concord’s original log cabin sanctuary.
The authors state: “Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets. Many small downtowns are located in beautiful settings or have stunning views. Others welcome visitors with lively festivals, delicious foods or a nostalgic atmosphere.”
“In creating this list of the best small downtowns in America (and it was tough to narrow this list to 40), we looked for vibrant towns that invite you in and encourage you to stay and explore. Caution: You may want to add all of them to your travel bucket list,” according to Gifford and Coulter.
Concord is located about 30 minutes northeast of Charlotte.
