Things To Do
in Matthews

Matthews, located just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, is a charming suburban town known for its vibrant community and rich history. With a mix of outdoor parks, local shops, and family-friendly activities, Matthews offers a relaxing retreat for visitors. The town's close proximity to Charlotte allows easy access to the city's amenities while retaining a small-town feel.

Matthews is also famous for its annual events and festivals, showcasing local culture and cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Matthews
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Matthews Heritage Museum to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Matthews Community Center for some recreational activities or take a stroll through Squirrel Lake Park to enjoy nature.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and then catch a live music performance at a nearby venue.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a hearty brunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, then visit the nearby Four Mile Creek Greenway for a scenic walk.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shopping scene at Matthews Festival and buy some unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Finish the day with a movie at the local cinema or participate in trivia night at a local pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$12
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🛏️Hotel Night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities.
  • Close proximity to Charlotte for urban amenities.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options are limited.
  • Can be humid and hot in the summer months.

Places to Visit in Matthews

Visit one of these nice places.

Matthews Community Center

The center features beautiful landscaping and architectural elements perfect for family photos.

Squirrel Lake Park

A picturesque park with a lake, picnic areas, and walking trails, offering stunning sunset views.

Matthews Heritage Museum

Historical buildings and artifacts provide great backdrops for photography enthusiasts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Matthews

Matthews boasts a diverse culinary scene that highlights Southern comfort food, fresh local produce, and unique dining experiences.

Matthews Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Catfish

A Southern classic, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.

Must-Try!

Barbecue Ribs

Tender, slow-cooked ribs with a tangy sauce, a must-try for meat lovers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Matthews Farmers Market

Open on Saturdays, this market features local produce, crafts, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Matthews experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, offering moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Southerners value politeness, so greetings and friendly conversation are appreciated.

Dress Code

Casual attire is common, but upscale dining may require smart casual dress.

Respect for Personal Space

It's important to respect personal space and avoid being overly intrusive.

Safety Guide

Safety

Matthews is generally a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services are readily available, and it's advisable to know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Matthews

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It's customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, but carrying cash for small vendors is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, ideal for enjoying water activities and local ice cream shops.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional frost, great for holiday events and indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Matthews at Night

Matthews has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of family-friendly venues and adult-oriented options. Bars and pubs often feature live music, trivia nights, and karaoke, while some local restaurants offer late-night dining. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, there are cozy coffee shops that stay open late, perfect for unwinding with friends.

Hiking in Matthews

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lake Norman State Park

About a 30-minute drive from Matthews, this park offers beautiful trails along the lake and through wooded areas.

Crowders Mountain State Park

Located approximately 40 minutes away, this park features challenging trails and stunning mountain views.

Airports

How to reach Matthews by plane.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Located about 20 miles from Matthews, this is the primary airport serving the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Matthews is moderately walkable, with many amenities within walking distance in the downtown area. Sidewalks are present in most residential and commercial areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some neighborhoods may require a car to access more distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families with children live in Matthews, contributing to the community-oriented atmosphere.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Charlotte, Matthews attracts young professionals seeking a quieter living environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football games are popular, drawing large crowds during the fall.

Basketball

With several local teams, basketball is a favored sport, especially during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Matthews can be congested during peak hours, especially near major intersections. Public transportation options include buses, but many residents rely on personal vehicles. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matthews.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Matthews provide gluten-free menus and accommodations.

Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly

Several eateries cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, with fresh local ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is readily available in Matthews, with several clinics and hospitals in the area. The Novant Health Matthews Medical Center provides comprehensive services, including emergency care. Residents and visitors can expect quality healthcare with a variety of specialists available.

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