Matthews North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Matthews, North Carolina.
1. Matthews Heritage Museum
HISTORICAL GEM DOWNTOWN
The Matthews Heritage Museum invites visitors to step back in time as they enter the award-winning facility housed in the 1879 Massey-Clark House, one of the oldest structures in historic Matthews. This small museum is filled to the brim with local artifacts and history, featuring curated exhibits ranging from the town's cotton farming days to a recreation of the local bank using original items. Passionate volunteer docents provide context about the community, ensuring visitors leave with a greater appreciation for the town and a better understanding of its history.
2. Matthews Community Farmers' Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Matthews Community Farmers' Market operates every Saturday morning in downtown Matthews, rain or shine, offering a producer-only market where everything originates within fifty miles of the downtown marketplace. Vendors carry a variety of goods from fresh produce to local meat to prepared foods, making it possible to stock up for the week with quality local items. The market operates on two seasonal schedules and shoppers are advised to arrive early for the best selection as popular vendors often sell out quickly.
3. Colonel Francis Beatty Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Colonel Francis Beatty Park offers visitors a spacious outdoor recreation area in Matthews with multiple amenities for active individuals and families. The park features a scenic lake, walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities that cater to visitors of all ages. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while fitness-minded visitors can take advantage of the various recreational opportunities available throughout the year.
4. Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts
COMMUNITY THEATER HUB
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts serves as a vibrant cultural center where local talent shines through regular theatrical productions. The venue offers acting classes for children and performance opportunities for more seasoned thespians, creating a multi-generational approach to community theater. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly shows throughout the year in this charming small-town theater that has become a cornerstone of Matthews' cultural scene.
5. Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse and Grill
IRISH-ENGLISH PUB EXPERIENCE
Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse and Grill creates a community gathering space with its Irish/English joint atmosphere and heady beer selection in downtown Matthews. The restaurant features classic pub fare along with a rotating selection of craft beers that appeal to casual diners and beer enthusiasts alike. Its welcoming environment makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience Matthews' growing dining scene.
6. Sardis Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GREEN SPACE
Sardis Park provides a peaceful retreat for Matthews residents and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors in a well-maintained setting. The park offers playground equipment, walking paths, and open green spaces perfect for picnics and casual recreation. Its accessible location makes it an ideal spot for families seeking a quick outdoor adventure without traveling far from Matthews' downtown area.
7. Purser-Hulsey Park and Trails
NATURE AND HIKING
Purser-Hulsey Park and Trails offers nature enthusiasts a network of well-maintained paths through natural landscapes in Matthews. Hikers and walkers can explore the scenic trails that wind through wooded areas, providing a peaceful escape from urban surroundings. The park's natural setting makes it popular for bird watching, photography, and those seeking a quiet outdoor experience close to town.
8. Elevation Church
MODERN WORSHIP CENTER
Elevation Church Matthews campus welcomes visitors to experience contemporary worship in a dynamic, community-focused environment. The church features modern architecture, state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, and a welcoming atmosphere for attendees of all backgrounds. Visitors appreciate both in-person services and online worship opportunities that connect the Matthews location to the broader Elevation Church network.
9. Jon'Ric International Wellness & Salt Spa
RELAXATION AND REJUVENATION
Jon'Ric International Wellness & Salt Spa offers visitors a comprehensive wellness experience with a variety of spa services in a tranquil Matthews setting. The spa specializes in salt therapy treatments alongside traditional massage, facial, and body treatments designed to promote relaxation and well-being. Guests can escape the stresses of everyday life while enjoying professional services in an upscale yet welcoming environment.
10. Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration
HISTORICAL ITEM PRESERVATION
Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration showcases the meticulous craft of preserving historical items and artwork in Matthews. Visitors can observe skilled artisans working to restore antiques, furniture, and art pieces to their former glory using traditional techniques. The establishment serves as both a working restoration studio and an interesting attraction for those interested in historical preservation and craftsmanship.
11. Charlotte's Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Tour
REGIONAL HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Charlotte's Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region's rich history and culture on eco-friendly carts, easily accessible from Matthews. Visitors can experience significant historical sites while knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about Charlotte's development and Southern heritage. The popular tour offers a convenient way for Matthews visitors to understand the broader historical context of the area without venturing far from town.
12. Charlotte Comedy City Tour
ENTERTAINING URBAN EXPLORATION
Charlotte Comedy City Tour combines historical information with humor for a unique exploration of the Charlotte area, a short drive from Matthews. The entertaining guides present local history and landmarks with a comedic twist that keeps visitors engaged throughout the experience. This popular tour offers Matthews visitors a lighthearted way to discover nearby Charlotte's urban landscape and cultural highlights.
13. Dead Funny Ghost Tour Of Charlotte
SPOOKY HISTORICAL EXCURSION
Dead Funny Ghost Tour Of Charlotte leads brave visitors through reportedly haunted locations while sharing eerie tales of the city's supernatural history, just a short drive from Matthews. The tour combines historical facts with ghost stories that have been passed down through generations, creating an atmosphere that's both educational and spine-tingling. Participants enjoy the unique after-dark perspective of Charlotte's historic districts while learning about the mysterious occurrences that have shaped local lore.
14. Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour
PARANORMAL HISTORY WALK
Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour invites Matthews visitors to explore the darker side of nearby Charlotte's history through guided walks of allegedly haunted locations. Lantern-carrying guides lead participants through historic districts while sharing authenticated ghost stories and unexplained phenomena connected to the sites. The walking format allows visitors to absorb the historic atmosphere while learning about the supernatural legends that have become intertwined with Charlotte's cultural identity.
15. 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte
MODERN CITY EXPLORATION
90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte offers Matthews visitors an exciting way to experience nearby Charlotte's urban landscape using modern transportation technology. Riders glide through historic uptown neighborhoods on Segways while guides provide interesting historical context and contemporary information about the city. The tour combines the novelty of Segway transportation with educational content, creating a memorable experience for Matthews visitors looking to explore beyond their immediate surroundings.