Coffee, crepes, cookies and a cheese shop: 6 ways to spend a day in Matthews for under $50
Downtown Matthews is about 12 miles from Charlotte’s center city. A charming town with its own aesthetic, there’s always something to do in the suburban outpost with a family-friendly vibe.
With plenty of locally owned shops, restaurants and activities (we can’t forget about Saturday mornings at the Matthews Farmers Market), downtown Matthews is the place you visit and want to stay for a while.
When you want to visit a small town that has a rich history, spend some time exploring with these six things to do in Matthews for less than $50 a day:
Slow down with a cup of coffee in downtown Matthews
Location: Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply, 225 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105
Spend the morning on Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply’s patio, which is surrounded by a white picket fence. It’s the place where everyone visits for “slow culture coffee” and to experience a moment of calm during the day. The menu options include classic and signature coffees and shakes, smoothies, ice cream and more. While you’re there, order a 10 oz. The Great Pumpkin Latte, a cinnamon spiced pumpkin drink.
Cost: $4.50+ tax and tip
Spend time outdoors
Location: Stumptown Park, 120 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105
Enjoy the scene as you walk through downtown Matthews toward Stumptown Park. Festivals, concerts, events and more happen at this 0.9 acre park. There’s plenty of open grass, a stage, an outdoor grill and picnic area and more.
Cost: Free
Where to eat lunch in Matthews
Location: Royal Cafe and Crêperie, 131 Matthews Station St, Matthews, NC 28105
For lunch, take a trip to France without having to board a plane. Royal Cafe and Crêperie is where you should go to taste sweet and savory classic crepes with a twist. The menu includes breakfast, entree and dessert crepes. There’s also an option for you to create your own crepe masterpiece (with a little guidance from the chef, if needed). Order the Smoky Chipotle Chicken Crepe ($10), which comes with grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, tomato, lettuce, onion and chipotle aioli. Coffee and tea are also on the menu, so you can add a Sweet Chai Latte for $3.65.
Cost: $13.65+ tax and tip
Grab dessert
Location: Great Harvest Bread Co., 110 Matthews Station St #1d, Matthews, NC 28105
Pop over to Great Harvest Bread Co. and pick out a sweet treat for dessert to top off your lunch. The bakery carries specialty breads and baked goods with a seasonal menu. We’d go for a cookie, with choices including salted caramel, peanut butter, ginger or oatmeal raisin.
Cost: $2.85 plus tax
Go back in time
Location: Matthews Heritage Museum, 232 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105
Spend the afternoon exploring one of the oldest buildings in the area. Matthews Heritage Museum is located inside the 1879 Massey-Clark House. You can learn about the history of the railroad, see the original bank interior of the Bank of Matthews, listen to telephone switchboard stories and more.
Cost: Free
Where to eat dinner in Matthews
Location: The Loyalist Market, 435 N Trade St #102, Matthews, NC 28105
End the evening with dinner at a place that’s known for its local and regional cut-to-order cheese selection. The Loyalist Market is more than artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. Visitors can try made-to-order sandwiches, beer, wine and more. Order the Veggin’ Out, which comes with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, roasted red pepper, olive oil and pesto. It’s served on ciabatta bread and with kettle chips or organic mixed greens ($9.50). Pair your dinner with a glass of Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California ($11).
Cost: 20.50+ tax and tip
Total cost for your day in downtown Matthews: $41.50+ taxes and tips.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in July 2022 and has been updated. Information was contributed by Heidi Finley.
This story was originally published October 19, 2023 at 6:45 AM.
