Although Davidson, NC is just 30 minutes north of Charlotte, there are no traces of urban city life here. Instead, you’ll find an unadulterated small town. Ample green spaces, lakeside living, college spirit, and locally-owned businesses amount to a quaint and charming setting perfect for an afternoon or weekend getaway.
Where to Eat in Davidson
Davidson Wine Co. – Tucked away on a spur off Davidson’s Main Street, Davidson Wine Co. offers an outstandingly curated wine list. Plus, you can nibble on something from the bistro menu, which includes meat and cheese boards, salads, crostinis and flatbreads, small plates, and sweets.
Kindred – Named one of the top ten restaurants in the nation by Bon Appetit magazine, Kindred is Davidson’s star attraction. Kindred should be at the top of your list for dinner and cocktails in Davidson.
Pickled Peach – The Pickled Peach is the go-to lunch spot in Davidson. With a wide selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches – all made with only the finest farm-to-table ingredients – the Pickled Peach is an excellent choice for a tasty meal in a friendly, family-owned setting.
Famous Toastery – Drive down Main Street on a weekend morning and you’ll spot a crowd waiting outside the Famous Toastery. Once you experience this restaurant’s brunch menu, you’ll understand just what the fuss is about every Saturday and Sunday.
Mandolino’s – At Mandolino’s, you’ll find gourmet deep-dish pizza with creative toppings. The mouthwatering Tupelo Honey pizza, for example, comes topped with ricotta, gorgonzola, fig honey, Calabrian chiles, and thyme.
What to Do in Davidson
Shop
Mine by Sandy – Pop into this boutique for a glamorous and youthful selection of women’s shoes, apparel, and accessories.
Village Store – Since 1966, the Village Store has provided shoppers with quirky and cool gift items, many of which are Davidson or lake themed. There’s something for people of all ages here.
Main Street Books – Main Street Books is easily one of the top five bookstores in North Carolina. Visit for the outstanding selection and cute setting, stay for the bookseller recommendations.
Moxie Mercantile – Also located in Plaza Midwood, Moxie Mercantile’s Davidson location features different inventory, but the same chic gifts and hip decor.
Wooden Stone Gallery – At the Wooden Stone, you’ll discover an assortment of pottery, home goods, canvases, and more created by local artists.
Davidson Provision Co. – The newest addition to Main Street, Davidson Provision Co., is a hub for the many active residents of Davidson. Here, you’ll find community curated inventory, including functional apparel, camping and hiking gear, and nutrition supplements.
Attend a college event
Davidson College was, for many years, the center of Davidson’s culture and activity. Now, the town has established its own identity independent of the college; however, the college remains a critical ingredient for the town’s vibrancy. Check the events calendar when you visit. If there’s a lecture, basketball game (never forget the Davidson Wildcats produced NBA superstar Stephen Curry), or artistic performance, make an effort to attend – you won’t regret it.
Where to Stay in Davidson
Davidson Village Inn – Expect outstanding service, comfortable accommodations, and maybe a ride in the Davidson Village Inn pedicab during your stay. Plus, the Village Inn is across the street from the college and walking distance to all Davidson, NC has to offer.
