Need a charming small-town vibe just minutes from the city? Head to Matthews! Located southeast of Charlotte, Matthews blends Southern hospitality, walkable downtown streets, and vibrant community events. Whether you're strolling the farmers market, exploring parks, or dining at local favorites, Matthews is a delightful suburban escape with big heart.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Matthews is during the spring and fall (April–June and September–October), when mild temperatures are perfect for festivals, outdoor dining, and exploring parks in full bloom or colorful foliage.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Matthews is located along U.S. Route 74 and I-485, just 25 minutes southeast of Uptown Charlotte.
  • By Air: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is about 30–35 minutes away by car.
  • By Public Transit: Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers bus service between Charlotte and Matthews via several routes.

Where to Stay

  • Hampton Inn by Hilton Charlotte/Matthews – Comfortable stay with complimentary breakfast and a pool, conveniently located near shopping and dining.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Cozy, family-friendly lodging with free Wi-Fi and Southern hospitality.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Waverly – A more upscale option nearby with modern amenities and easy access to South Charlotte.

Top Attractions

⮕ Step Back in Time at the Matthews Heritage Museum

Step Back in Time at the Matthews Heritage Museum

© Matthews Heritage Museum

The Matthews Heritage Museum is located inside of the Massey-Clark House, which is one of the downtown area’s oldest buildings, dating back to the year 1880. The museum takes visitors back in time through several different exhibit galleries. The Early Commerce Gallery offers a look at the town’s early days as a rail town, while the Lifestyles Gallery explores what life was like in Matthews before running water and electricity. In the Community Gallery, the Matthews Heritage Museum lets guests discover an array of activities that once took place at the town’s drug store and other local establishments.

232 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 704-708-4996

⮕ Play or Cheer at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews

Play or Cheer at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews

© JJAVA/stock.adobe.com

The Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews offers opportunities for a wide variety of sports and recreation activities in Matthews, North Carolina. This regional park and sports facility includes a 2,500-seat stadium, two grass athletic fields, and nine synthetic turf fields. The numerous multi-purpose fields are able to accommodate an array of different sports, such as rugby, field hockey, football, lacrosse, soccer, and more. Other amenities at the Sportsplex include around two miles of paved trails and playgrounds for children. There is also a ninety-person conference room and locker rooms in the two-story field house at the stadium.

2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 980-314-7539

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

⮕ Discover Timeless Craftsmanship at Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration

Discover Timeless Craftsmanship at Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration

© Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration

Precious Restoration Art and Antique Restoration was established in the former rail town of Matthews, North Carolina in 2004 and is a family-owned and operated business with more than forty combined years of experience through the father-and-son owner team in providing top quality antique and art restorations and repair. The business specializes in restoration and repair of sculpture, paintings, pottery, and other types of fine art, as well as antiquities. Precious Restoration Art and Antique Restoration, which helps make treasures stand “the test of time,” also sells a variety of items, including books, vinyls, turntables, and several other vintage items.

315 W John St, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 704-965-0074

⮕ Sample Local and Global Brews at Carolina Beer Temple

Sample Local and Global Brews at Carolina Beer Temple

© Carolina Beer Temple

The Carolina Beer Temple is an independently owned place with a focus on craft beer, maintaining a loyalty to the craft beers made by local breweries. Situated in downtown Matthews, the unique beer destination is both a bar for craft beer and a craft beer store. The Carolina Beer Temple is fiercely dedicated to carrying only beers produced by independently owned breweries and serves a wide variety of craft beer from its 26 rotating taps. It particularly supports the craft beer scene of North Carolina and aims to provide the best selection of the state’s craft brews.

195 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 704-246-8196

Where to Eat

⮕ Dine on Burgers and Southern Favorites at CharBar No.7

Dine on Burgers and Southern Favorites at CharBar No.7

© CharBar No.7

CharBar No.7 has a number of different locations throughout the state of North Carolina, including one in the town of Matthews. The restaurant has a focus on comfort food and has an upscale sports bar atmosphere with several wide-screen televisions around the dining room and bar. Appetizers on the menu include options like blackened chicken nachos, buffalo dip, chili, and fried pickles, while entrees include steaks, an assortment of sandwiches and burgers, fish and chips, ribs, and more. The menu also includes a good choice of salads, including sirloin, salmon, grilled, shrimp, classic salads, and build-your-own salad options.

3118 Fincher Farm Rd, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 704-814-0208

⮕ Savor Cheese, Wine, and Charcuterie at The Loyalist Market

Savor Cheese, Wine, and Charcuterie at The Loyalist Market

© The Loyalist Market

The Loyalist Market in Matthews, North Carolina is a “cut-to-order charcuterie and cheese shop with an emphasis on regional and local cheese makers. At any particular time, the market carries around twenty types of charcuteries and forty artisanal cheeses. Along with the charcuteries and cheese for sale, The Loyalist Market also features a cheese bar with an array of wine and beer, full service sandwich shops, and more than sixty local products in the retail market. The market is dedicated to offering the highest quality humanely-raised, non-GMO, and organic products they can find and support local businesses.

435 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, Phone: 704-814-9866

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Four Mile Creek Greenway – Walk or bike this peaceful trail that winds through woods and wetlands.
  • Matthews Community Farmers Market – The largest producer-only market in the region, open Saturdays year-round.
  • Stumptown Park – Central green space that hosts concerts, festivals, and movie nights.

More Places to Eat

  • Grace O’Malley’s – Irish pub fare and live music in a laid-back setting downtown.
  • Stacks Kitchen – Popular brunch and breakfast spot serving Southern-style comfort food.
  • Mac’s Speed Shop – BBQ, burgers, and beer in a biker-style bar with outdoor seating.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Matthews Alive Festival (Labor Day Weekend) – Huge community celebration with a parade, rides, music, and food vendors.
  • Food Truck Fridays (Spring–Fall) – Held in Stumptown Park with rotating food trucks and live music.
  • Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (December) – Festive night with lights, caroling, and visits with Santa in downtown Matthews.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Matthews, North Carolina:

  • Charlotte (25 min) – Explore museums, sports, breweries, and a vibrant food scene in North Carolina’s largest city.
  • McAlpine Creek Park (15 min) – Great for birding, fishing, or trail running along wooded greenways.
  • Reed Gold Mine (30 min) – Tour the site of America’s first gold discovery and pan for gold yourself!
  • Waxhaw (20 min) – Visit this artsy small town known for antiques, historic charm, and great coffee shops.
  • Mint Hill (15 min) – Enjoy local parks, small museums, and family-friendly events in this nearby suburb.

FAQ:

  • Where is Matthews, North Carolina located?
    • Matthews is located between the cities of Monroe and Charlotte, making it a convenient destination for visitors.
  • How has Matthews evolved over time?
    • Originally a sleepy railway town, Matthews has grown into a bustling town with plenty of activities for visitors and locals alike.
  • What historic attractions can visitors explore in Matthews?
    • The town's history is well preserved in its downtown district, where visitors can explore a local history museum and an old rail car.
  • Are there good dining and entertainment options in Matthews?
    • Yes! The downtown district is home to restaurants, bars, and other attractions.
  • What are must-visit spots in Matthews for specific interests?
    • Beer lovers should visit the Carolina Beer Temple for a great selection of brews.
    • History enthusiasts should explore the Matthews Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s past.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Hampton Inn Charlotte/Matthews – A comfortable stay with great amenities. Visit Squirrel Lake Park – Enjoy walking trails, fishing, and picnic areas.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and sunny, great for outdoor activities. Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte/Matthews – A modern stay with easy access to the city. Explore Four Mile Creek Greenway – A scenic trail for walking and biking.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Matthews – A convenient and cozy stay. Visit the Matthews Heritage Museum – Learn about the town's rich history.

Plan Your Trip


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