Things To Do
in Matthews

Matthews is a town located in North Carolina, United States. It is known for its charming downtown area with local shops and restaurants. The town has a suburban feel with a mix of residential neighborhoods and green spaces.

Matthews is also conveniently located near Charlotte, offering easy access to city amenities and cultural attractions.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Matthews
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Matthews Community Farmers Market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and local crafts. Stroll through the charming downtown area, taking in the unique shops and cafes.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to Squirrel Lake Park for a relaxing afternoon of picnicking or walking along the beautiful trails. Enjoy the nature views and perhaps feed the ducks at the pond.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant featuring southern cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Art & Culture
morning
:

Visit the Matthews Heritage Museum to learn about the local history and culture of the area. Enjoy the exhibits and get a glimpse of Matthews's past.

afternoon
:

Afterward, take a drive to nearby art galleries showcasing local artists. Spend some time browsing and perhaps find a unique piece of art to take home.

evening
:

Finish the day by attending a live performance or concert at the Matthews Playhouse. Enjoy dinner at a local bistro before the show starts.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong sense of community with friendly residents
  • Access to quality schools and family-friendly activities
  • Proximity to Charlotte offers urban amenities and job opportunities
  • Parks and recreational facilities for outdoor activities
  • Low crime rate compared to larger urban areas
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Growing traffic congestion due to population increase
  • Some residents may feel it lacks cultural diversity
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options

Best Activities in Matthews

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Matthews Greenway

Enjoy walking, biking, or running on the scenic trails of Matthews Greenway, offering a peaceful outdoor experience.

Squirrel Lake Park

Spend a day at Squirrel Lake Park engaging in activities like picnicking, fishing, or playing on the playgrounds and fields.

Four Mile Creek Greenway

Explore the natural beauty of Matthews by walking or biking along the Four Mile Creek Greenway, which features picturesque landscapes and wildlife.

Tours

Uncover the best of Matthews with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Matthews

Visit one of these nice places.

Matthews Heritage Trail

Scenic trail with picturesque views, perfect for photography

Squirrel Lake Park

Beautiful park with a lake offering great photo opportunities

Four Mile Creek Greenway

Scenic greenway with picturesque views along the creek

Food in Matthews

Matthews, located in the United States, offers a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional Southern cuisine and modern dining options.

Matthews Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Southern Fried Chicken

A classic dish featuring juicy, crispy fried chicken served with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens. Can be found at Mac's Speed Shop.

Must-Try!

Barbecue Pulled Pork

Slow-cooked, smoky pulled pork served with tangy barbecue sauce, often accompanied by hushpuppies and coleslaw. Available at The Dreamchaser's Brewery.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Matthews better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Matthews Community Farmers' Market

A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and homemade treats. Perfect for exploring and trying different snacks and bites.

Weather

Located in the southeastern part of the United States, this region experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average highs often reaching into the upper 80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 30-35 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, providing a brief respite from the heat. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the upper 30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 3-12 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is rare but possible, and when it does occur, it's usually light. Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and lower humidity levels, making them particularly pleasant times of the year. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with late summer and early fall often seeing the highest precipitation levels. Overall, the climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Matthews, United States, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.

Use polite language and manners

Politeness is valued in Matthews, so using phrases such as 'please' and 'thank you' is important in interactions with others.

Be punctual

Punctuality is appreciated in Matthews, so it's important to be on time for appointments and social engagements.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Matthews with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in Matthews involves a variety of factors, including crime rates, community programs, and local law enforcement efforts. The town has generally been known for its low crime rates compared to national averages, with most incidents being related to property crime rather than violent crime. The local police department actively engages with the community through initiatives aimed at crime prevention and community safety, such as neighborhood watch programs and public safety seminars. Additionally, the town fosters a strong sense of community, which often contributes to perceptions of safety among residents. Residents can also benefit from well-lit public areas, community policing efforts, and active participation in local safety events that promote awareness and preparedness. The overall environment typically encourages a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an appealing place for families and individuals looking for a safe community. However, as with any area, it's always advisable to stay informed about current safety issues and neighborhood dynamics. Engaging with local resources, attending community meetings, and staying connected with law enforcement updates can further enhance personal safety and community engagement.

Tipping in Matthews

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Matthews, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip service providers such as waitstaff at restaurants, bartenders, taxi drivers, and tour guides. The standard tip amount is usually around 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment

Payment practices in Matthews, United States, are typically in the form of cash, credit/debit cards, or digital payments. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are also increasingly common. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for tipping or small purchases at local establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Matthews.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Visiting Matthews in spring, you can expect pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking.

Summer

In the summer, Matthews offers warm weather with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and attending outdoor events and festivals.

Fall

During the fall, Matthews showcases beautiful foliage, perfect for scenic drives, apple picking, and enjoying cooler temperatures for outdoor excursions.

Winter

Winter in Matthews brings a serene atmosphere, ideal for holiday celebrations, cozy fireside gatherings, and possibly some snow activities depending on the year.

Matthews at Night

Despite its small-town charm, nightlife in Matthews offers a variety of activities that cater to both residents and visitors alike. There are several bars and pubs where people gather to enjoy drinks, live music, and good company. Popular spots like Seaboard Taproom & Wine Bar and Temple Mojo Growler Shop provide an inviting atmosphere for craft beer enthusiasts and wine lovers. For those who enjoy live entertainment, certain venues host local bands and artists, creating a vibrant music scene. Additionally, Matthews has several restaurants that remain open late, offering everything from casual eats to more sophisticated dining options. Beyond the bars and eateries, the downtown area features seasonal events and festivals that add to the nightlife experience. Events like the Matthews Alive Festival and Food Truck Fridays create a lively atmosphere and offer unique opportunities to socialize and enjoy local culture. Altogether, the nightlife in this suburb of Charlotte strikes a pleasant balance between relaxed and lively, with plenty of options to suit a range of preferences.

Hiking in Matthews

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Squirrel Lake Park

A serene park offering walking trails, scenic views, and access to nature.

Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve

Features numerous trails through lush forests and wetlands, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

McAlpine Creek Park

A park with a network of trails, ideal for hiking, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors.

Crowders Mountain State Park

Located a bit further away, this park offers challenging hikes with stunning mountain vistas.

Latta Plantation Nature Preserve

Offers several trails through diverse ecosystems, including lakes and wooded areas.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Matthews through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Matthews by plane.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

The primary airport serving the Charlotte area, located approximately 20 miles from Matthews, providing extensive domestic and international flights.

Greensboro International Airport (GBO)

Located about 85 miles from Matthews, this airport serves as an important hub in North Carolina, with flights to various destinations.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Located approximately 150 miles from Matthews, it is the main airport serving the Raleigh-Durham area, with a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY)

Situated about 115 miles from Matthews, this airport provides regional service and connects to major hubs.

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

Located around 130 miles from Matthews, it serves the Asheville area and provides various flight connections.

Walkability

Walkability in a community refers to how friendly an area is to walking, encompassing factors such as pedestrian infrastructure, accessibility to amenities, safety, and overall urban design. In many suburban areas like Matthews, North Carolina, walkability tends to be influenced by the layout of neighborhoods, availability of sidewalks, crosswalks, and green spaces. In Matthews, residents often find a mix of commercial and residential areas, which can contribute to walkability. The town has made efforts to enhance pedestrian access and includes certain areas that are easily navigable on foot. Key aspects such as proximity to parks, shops, restaurants, and schools play a significant role in walkability. However, like many suburban settings, there are parts of Matthews where walking may be less convenient due to car-centric design. Street connectivity, traffic patterns, and the presence of pedestrian-friendly zones determine how easy it is for residents to walk to local businesses or recreational areas. Overall, while Matthews offers some walkable pockets, the experience can vary greatly depending on the specific neighborhood and available infrastructure. Community initiatives often aim to improve walkability, promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle for residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Comprising the largest racial demographic group in Matthews, primarily of European descent.

Black or African American

The second largest racial group in Matthews, with a significant community representing African ancestry.

Hispanic or Latino

A growing demographic group in Matthews, encompassing individuals of various Spanish-speaking origins.

Asian

A smaller group that includes individuals with origins from East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.

Two or more races

Individuals identifying with more than one racial category, representing a diverse subset of the population.

Native American

A very small demographic group with indigenous ancestry from North America.

Pacific Islander

A minor demographic group in Matthews, consisting of individuals from the Pacific Islands.

The Soul of Matthews

Discover the essence of Matthews through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A team sport where two teams compete to score points by shooting a basketball through the opposing team's hoop.

Soccer

A popular team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net using any part of their body except their arms and hands.

Baseball

A bat-and-ball game played between two opposing teams, where the objective is to score runs by hitting a pitched ball and running around a series of bases.

Football

A team sport played with an oval ball, where two teams compete to score points by advancing the ball into the opponent's end zone.

Tennis

A racket sport that can be played individually or in pairs, where players hit a ball over a net and attempt to score points by placing the ball in the opponent's court.

Traffic

Traffic in Matthews can vary widely depending on the time of day and local events. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, congestion can occur, especially along major roads like East Independence Boulevard (US 74) and Interstate 485, which are key routes for commuters heading to and from nearby Charlotte. The town's growing population has resulted in increased vehicle traffic, leading to more frequent delays and longer commute times. Construction projects or road maintenance can also impact traffic flow. Side streets in residential areas might see more activity as drivers seek to avoid congested main roads. Public transportation options in Matthews include buses, but many residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. This reliance contributes to traffic volume and can increase the likelihood of bottlenecks during busy periods. Overall, while Matthews offers a charming suburban environment, traffic management remains a challenge as the area continues to develop.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matthews.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Matthews cater to vegetarians and vegans, with plant-based dishes like quinoa bowls at Nourish and veggie burgers at Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse and Grill.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Peculiar Rabbit or explore the varied menu of gluten-free items at The Improper Pig.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Matthews with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

In this suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, healthcare services are robust and cater to a diverse population. The area features a mix of large healthcare systems and local clinics, providing a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, urgent care, and preventive health services. Residents have access to nearby hospitals affiliated with major healthcare providers, ensuring comprehensive emergency and inpatient care. The local healthcare network includes family medicine practitioners, pediatricians, and specialists in various fields, making it convenient for families to find the appropriate care. In addition to traditional medical services, the community also offers complementary health options such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and holistic health services. This variety ensures that residents can find both conventional and alternative treatments to suit their preferences. Public health initiatives and local organizations work to promote health education and wellness programs, addressing the community's specific needs, including chronic disease management, nutritional education, and mental health services. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this region aims to provide accessible and quality care, balancing traditional medical practices with innovative wellness approaches.

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