Day trip to Davidson: Explore a bookshop, eat Bolognese, visit a dog park
Downtown Davidson beckons weekend travelers to tour its Main Street, whether for a girls’ weekend or brief romantic getaway. Endearing shops, celebrated eateries and a quaint college campus decorate the town in a vibrant whimsy. Take the short 30-minute drive and check out these must-see spots:
Shop
Nestled on Main Street with a cheery blue exterior, Main Street Books at
126 South Main Street is a bibliophile’s dream. The scent of fresh books greets visitors upon arrival, and antique bookshelves and original wood floors create a comfortable nook to get lost in a small town. Pro Tip: Bring a friend who will lovingly drag you out of there before you spend hundreds of dollars on books.
Channel your inner Joanna Gaines at Honeysuckle Home, where eclectic pieces welcome you into a wonderland of unique decor. Then, complement all of your selections with items from The Rumor Mill Market at
217 Depot Street, which was featured on HGTV’s Tiny House, Big Living.
While on a shopping spree, tour The Village Store at 110 South Main Street, where locals have found gifts, jewelry, and home decor since 1966. The vibrant shop features a large selection of items in a small space, including a sizable Vera Bradley collection.
Featuring more than 35 local farmers and producers, the Davidson Farmers Market at 120 South Main Street is a must-see. The homey gathering space offers live entertainment and special events to educate visitors about the importance of eating local. It’s open every Saturday 8 a.m. – noon.
Stroll
A canopy of trees and winding brick paths provide a haven of relaxation on the College of Davidson campus at 405 North Main Street. Take a seat on one of the benches and enjoy the fresh air while flipping through the pages of your bookstore treasures.
After a short rest on campus, explore a nearby park. Fisher Farm at 21215 Shearer Road offers 200 acres of land naturally populated with wildlife as well as beginner and advanced mountain bike trails. For pet-friendly trails, head to The Preserve Dog Park at 330 O’Henry Avenue to hike and mingle with other furry friends. Wander to the Nature Preserve at 819-731 Jetton Street to stroll along the Sterling Martin Trail or rent a kayak or paddleboard for a quick adventure on Lake Davidson.
Savor
If the hype hasn’t already lured you into Kindred at 131 N Main Street, let me be the one to tell you it’s worth all of the attention its garnered. Whether you sit on the cozy patio under the market lights or among the mid-century modern decor inside, the ambiance creates an unparalleled dining experience.
We stopped in for lunch, greeted with a warm bowl of Conchiglie Alla Bolognese (beef, pork, and parmigiano reggiano) and a Skillet Burger (quick pickles, onion, cheddar cheese, aioli). Their menu constantly changes, but you can see current offerings here.
[Related: Seven stops to make before dinner at Kindred in Davidson]
The charming, old-school exterior of The Soda Shop at 104 South Main Street is as inviting as their menu, packed with comfort food favorites like smothered fries, pimento cheeseburgers and buffalo chicken hoagies. Bring your appetite, but save room for dessert: their floats and sundaes complete the experience.
Dishes at The Pickled Peach (202 South Main Street) reflect a commitment to connecting with the community of Davidson, prepared with fresh ingredients from local vendors. Order the Cornmeal Fried Shrimp ($10.50) for a hearty meal or a Grilled Halloumi Salad ($8.50) for a feel-good bite.
A short walk from the main strip, Whit’s Frozen Custard at 428 South Main Street is worth the quick trek. Create your own Whitser: choose your flavor and specify the mix-ins (select from 30 different options including candies, fruits, and nuts), or enjoy a classic banana split.
Summit Coffee at 128 S Main Street is the ideal spot to take a quick break from walking in a relaxed cafe setting. CharlotteFive writer Jess Bentley recommends a Lavender Latte with a side of their avocado, hummus, or almond butter toasts.
No matter your ideal afternoon, Davidson’s Main Street offers a charming escape from Charlotte’s bustling city life.
This story was originally published April 4, 2019 at 10:03 PM with the headline "Day trip to Davidson: Explore a bookshop, eat Bolognese, visit a dog park."