2318 Whispering Spring Drive
Matthews, NC28105

Matthews Lifestyle

Nestled just outside of Charlotte, residents and visitors a delightful blend of history, culture, and the charming town of Matthews, North Carolina, offers outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a long-time local or considering a move to this friendly Southern gem, there’s always something to explore in Matthews. From strolling through historic downtown to enjoying vibrant community festivals, Matthews has a little something for everyone.

A Walk Through History

The heart of Matthews is its historic downtown, where beautifully preserved turn-of-the-century buildings create a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. History buffs and casual visitors alike love wandering through the streets, discovering a variety of unique shops, cozy restaurants, and quaint offices housed in structures dating back to the town’s early days. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, downtown Matthews offers a true step back in time.

A must-see along the walk is the renovated train station and caboose, which serve as a testament to Matthews’ railroad roots. Originally called Stumptown due to the cleared farmland, the town later took on the name Fullwood before settling on Matthews in honor of a railroad director. This deep connection to its past is evident in landmarks like the Matthews Town Hall, a striking colonial-style building housing the town’s library. With its Craftsman-style interior, cozy fireplace, and inviting children’s section featuring a train centerpiece, the library is a favorite for both book lovers and young explorers.

For those eager to dive deeper into the town’s heritage, the Matthews Heritage Museum in the Massey-Clark House provides a fascinating glimpse into local life from the 1800s through the 1940s. This lovingly restored space tells the story of Matthews through exhibits, artifacts, and community-driven preservation efforts.

Savor Fresh Flavors at the Farmers Market

Saturday mornings in Matthews are synonymous with the Farmers Market, where the scent of fresh produce fills the air. Open from spring through fall, and every other Saturday in the winter, the market is a community staple offering farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Local chefs often showcase cooking demonstrations, while live music adds a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect summer tomato or browsing through a cookbook exchange, the market is the perfect place to soak in the town’s vibrant local culture.

Embracing the Great Outdoors

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love about Matthews. As a Certified Wildlife Habitat, the town takes pride in its lush green spaces, walking trails, and active recreational programs.

Stumptown Park, located in the heart of downtown, is a favorite gathering spot for events, concerts, and festivals. Enclosed by a charming brick wall and wrought iron fencing, the park features a large lawn area, a band shell, a playground, and a Veterans Memorial. Throughout the year, it hosts everything from movie nights to the Matthews Alive Festival, the largest Labor Day weekend event in the Southeast.

For those who love a scenic walk or bike ride, the Matthews Greenway offers a two-mile paved path along Four Mile Creek. The trail begins near Matthews Elementary School and stretches to East John Street, providing a picturesque route for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Adding a creative touch to the landscape, local artists have transformed sewer structures along the trail into whimsical public art pieces, including a pair of towering giraffes.

If you’re in the mood for a peaceful retreat, Squirrel Lake Park offers 29 acres of wooded beauty. Tucked between neighborhoods on Pleasant Plains Road, the park’s serene lake, walking trails, and fishing pier make it a favorite for those seeking tranquility. Families can enjoy a picnic in one of the shelters, children can play on the small playground, and disc golf enthusiasts can try their hand at the park’s 12-hole course.

For sports lovers, the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews provides top-tier facilities for soccer, rugby, lacrosse, football, and field hockey. With 11 fields, a stadium, and locker rooms, this venue attracts both local leagues and regional tournaments.

Community Spirit and Festivities

Life in Matthews is filled with celebration, thanks to a packed calendar of community festivals. The Matthews Alive Festival is the crown jewel, drawing thousands for carnival rides, arts and crafts, a parade, live music, and a car show. Throughout the year, residents also enjoy events like Summer Fest, the Fine Art and Master Craft Show, and Beach Fest, which brings the Carolina coast to town with beach music, shag dancing, and a classic car show.

A Thriving Arts Scene

Creativity thrives in Matthews, with several venues dedicated to the arts. The McDowell Arts Center, housed in a converted 1920s agricultural school building, serves as a gallery and classroom space for local artists. The Matthews Community Center and Fullwood Theater, a beautifully restored 1907 school building, hosts performing arts programs, community classes, and productions by the Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts. From painting classes to live theater, there’s no shortage of artistic inspiration in town.

Culinary Delights and Local Dining

Foodies will find plenty to satisfy their cravings in Matthews. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, a casual café, or barbecue, downtown Matthews offers an eclectic mix of eateries. Food lovers also flock to Food Truck Fridays, held at Stumptown Park from March through September. With a rotating selection of gourmet food trucks and live music, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Shopping, Southern Style

Retail therapy is easy to find in Matthews, with shopping destinations ranging from big-box retailers to charming local boutiques. Renfrow Hardware, an old-fashioned store in business for over a century, is a beloved local landmark where wooden floors, a pot-bellied stove, and shelves stocked with hard-to-find items create a nostalgic shopping experience. For everyday needs, Windsor Square, Matthews Festival, and Sycamore Commons offer a variety of shops, including Target, Costco, and Home Depot. Grocery shopping is a breeze, with Harris Teeter, Food Lion, and Aldi conveniently located throughout town.

Experience the Best of Matthews

Whether you’re drawn to Matthews for its rich history, welcoming community, or abundance of outdoor activities, one thing is certain: this small town has a big heart. With its blend of Southern charm, modern amenities, and vibrant local culture, Matthews offers an unbeatable quality of life. So whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through historic downtown, catching a festival at Stumptown Park, or savoring a farm-fresh meal from the Farmers Market, you’re sure to find something special in Matthews, North Carolina.