From an ice rink with a bar to St. Louis-style pizza, 5 ways to experience Pineville for less than $50 a day.
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Downtown vibes
If you’ve lived in Charlotte for long enough, you already know one of the best parts about road trips involves passing through the charming small towns across the Carolinas. We actually have so many quaint towns and cities that even a Carolinas native may not have visited them all. Explore them in this series.
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Just 13 miles from Uptown is one of many small town downtowns near Charlotte. In historic downtown Pineville, you’ll not only find a tight-knit community, but you’ll also find locally owned shops, restaurants and more.
If you’re looking for a new way to spend a day, here are 5 things to do in Pineville for less than $50 a day:
Start the day with donuts
Location: MJ Donuts, 325 S Polk St, Pineville, NC 28134
This quaint shop is a couple of minutes from Main Street in downtown Pineville. The earlier you arrive at MJ Donuts, the better — because once it runs out of your favorite doughnut, that’s it for the day. Don’t leave without trying the Boston Creme donut ($2.75). Pro tip: On a good day, the worker filling your order might throw in a few glazed doughnut holes for free.
Cost: $2.75+ tax and tip
Go on a hunt for antiques
Location: Christie’s on Main Antiques Mall, 318 Main St, Pineville, NC 28134
This gem, which opened in 2014, has an array of treasures for you to explore. While at Christie’s on Main Antiques Mall, indulge in window shopping as you search through antiques that are more than 100 years old. The shop is known for its vintage costume jewelry collection and has many other items, such as furniture, tea sets, records and more.
Cost: Free, unless something catches your eye.
[READ NEXT: On the hunt for unique treasures? 11 best antique shops in the Charlotte area]
Eat lunch at a local spot in Pineville
Location: Lula Bánh Mì and Bakery, 10400 Centrum Pkwy A, Pineville, NC 28134
Take a break, relax and unwind in the heart of Pineville while you enjoy a sandwich from Lula Bánh Mì and Bakery. At Lula, guests can choose from a variety of breakfast and lunch options. Order the Grilled Pork Banh Mi ($7.50), plus chips and a drink ($2.50) and one of its freshly made macarons ($2.50).
Cost: $15+ tax and tip
Spend time on the ice
Location: Pineville Ice House, 400 Towne Centre Blvd, Pineville, NC 28134
Spend the afternoon getting active and having fun at Pineville Ice House. The ice house is home to a rink that’s comparable to NHL rinks. There’s also a pro shop, a restaurant and bar and more. Public skate admission includes rental skates and skating for the entire session ($15). Be sure to check the calendar to learn more about public skate options and details.
Cost: $15+ tax
Eat St. Louis-style pizza in Pineville
Location: Margaux’s Wine, Pizza & Market, 316 Main St, Pineville, NC 28134
End your day of exploring Pineville with pizza at Margaux’s Wine, Pizza & Market outdoor seating area. The restaurant opened last year in Pineville and has been the go-to place in the area for St. Louis-style pizza. Other menu options include charcuterie and cheese boards, calzones, salad, sandwiches and more. You can also shop the market for a variety of seasonal items. Order the Margauxʼs Southern Heat pizza — grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, house blend of cheeses, red onions, and jalapeños. It’s served with a side of ranch ($16.50).
Cost: $16.50+ tax and tip
Total cost for your day in downtown Pineville: $49.25 + tax and tip.
[READ NEXT: New 2-story restaurant opening in downtown Pineville with extensive cocktail menu]
This story was originally published August 10, 2022 at 5:45 AM.