10 Reasons You Should Visit Shelby, North Carolina, This Spring
Cleveland County Courthouse; Photo credit: Justin Kase Conder
If you’ve never been to Shelby in Cleveland County, picture the quintessential classic Southern small town and you’ll have a good idea of what to expect. Selected almost 40 years ago as one of the first five cities in the state to be part of the North Carolina Main Street Program, which aimed to revitalize communities and foster economic development, Shelby has undergone many positive changes over the past few decades. The area was first built upon the textile industry and at one point was among the highest cotton-producing regions in the Southeast, says Emily Epley, travel and tourism director for Cleveland County Tourism. Several years ago, the city decided to capitalize further on its history, weaving in the lives of two historic locals: musicians Earl Scruggs and Don Gibson. The result is a modern small town with close ties to its musical heritage through a new museum and theater. Each facility draws in throngs of visitors on its own, but Shelby entices them to stay with much more to see and do in this close-knit community. Take a look.
Shop the Foothills Farmers’ Market
Photo credit: Justin Kase Conder
“We really have one of the best farmers markets,” Whetten says. The open-air, 8,500-square-foot space is packed to the gills with visitors during nice weather, taking place Saturdays from April through October, and some Wednesdays during summer and fall. Everything sold here – from produce and crafts to meat, cheese, fish and bread – is sourced from a 50-mile radius of the county line.
North Carolina Field and Family magazine highlights farms and foods, events and attractions, and interesting people and places throughout the state.
Bullzeye Fence, LLC
February 17, 2024 at 5:54 am
Indeed, the article about Shelby, North Carolina is quite engaging. The town’s rich history, notable landmarks like the Earl Scruggs Center and Don Gibson Theatre, and the delectable Southern cuisine certainly make it an attractive destination 😋😋. It seems like an ideal place for a relaxing getaway. Thank you for sharing this delightful find!