May 24, 2022
Before Mt. Pleasant was Mt. Pleasant, it was Mount Comfort. In the 18th century, this land offered rest, respite and a meal for weary travelers, and the town eventually sprouted in the 1830s.
That’s when it became Mt. Pleasant, named for its picturesque views. For nearly a century, it was a rural area of farms, trading posts and seminaries. Then, mills and manufacturing led to the town’s economic growth.
Fast-forward to today, and Mt. Pleasant has grown a great deal since its days as Mount Comfort. But one thing remains true: Whether people come to stay or just pass through, it’s a town that still offers rest, respite and plenty of tasty meals.
As the smallest town in Cabarrus County, Mt. Pleasant retains that small-town charm that visitors and residents have always loved. Despite its size, it offers so much to do. Come for a visit and stay to eat, drink, play, shop and learn. This town’s long history was built on just that. Here, we explore a few of the best things to do in Mt. Pleasant.
Eat and Drink
73 & Main
Enjoy a side of history with your meal. 73 & Main is an American restaurant and pub housed in the restored Mt. Pleasant Hosiery Mill, which was built more than a century ago. An on-site nano-brewery, Old Well Brewery, makes sure that no one goes thirsty.
Southern Grace Distilleries
Southern Grace Distilleries is the first distillery in the country that’s located within a former prison. You can come to this small-batch distillery simply to enjoy the drinks, or you can schedule a one-of-a-kind tour of the prison. Get a look behind the scenes on the Behind Bars Tour or be immersed in the process with the Barrel House Tasting or Bourbon Experience.
Café Lentz
Café Lentz makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away and dropped in a European café. Lounge on the outdoor patio while savoring a latte and a flatbread or one (or two) of its signature cheddar biscuits. Or enjoy your meal indoors amid the work of local artists. The café offers a nice selection of local beer and wines as well.
Play
Buffalo Creek Preserve Trail
Enjoy some nature therapy in this nature preserve that spans nearly 400 acres. The Buffalo Creek Preserve Trail is a moderate, 2.1-mile trail that leads you through oak-savanna and farmland. You’ll be rewarded for your hike with a beautiful view from a high bluff over Adams Creek.
Shop
White Owl Antique Mall
Set aside some time for this Mt. Pleasant attraction. With 100,000 square feet of space, White Owl Antique Mall isn’t a place you’ll just pop in and out of. Spend some time looking through the items — the albums, the toys, the jewelry, the furniture — and find a keepsake to bring home.
Ruffin’s Roost
If you love the farmhouse chic style (who doesn’t?), Ruffin’s Roost is your place. This decor style blends with so many others, from rustic to contemporary, that the unique items you’ll find here will become conversation pieces in your home.
Cline’s Country Antiques
The owner of Cline’s Country Antiques, Donald Cline, stresses this isn’t a “prissy” place for shopping. Come ready to rummage for treasure! This Mt. Pleasant attraction is as much a place for music fans as antique fans: The Avett Brothers filmed their music video for “February Seven” right here in the antique yard.
Learn
Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum
Get a glimpse into mid-19th century life in Cabarrus County. The Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum building has witnessed much of the county’s history — it began as the main building of the Western Carolina Male Academy in 1852. Learn about the county’s rich history. Bonus: Admission is free.
Ready To Visit Mt. Pleasant?
As you plan your getaway, check out even more fun things to do in Mt. Pleasant.
