Small towns in North Carolina are pocket sanctuaries away from our daily duties. If you seek a stress-free place, about 3,600 residents already know that Rutherfordton is one of the most peaceful places to live in North Carolina. Rated as one of the great retirement spots and recognized as a North Carolina Small Town of the Year, this charming, historic space was established in 1787. Here you are invited to uncover history, discover greenways and parks, appreciate the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and celebrate the small-town happiness. Let’s take a look at one of the best North Carolina small towns.

Welcome to Main Street or U.S. Route 221 in Rutherfordton, North Carolina.
small towns in north carolina
Brian Stansberry (photographer), CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Are you shopping for that perfect gift? Find clothing, artwork, antiques, or something pretty for your home among the unique shops and boutiques.
For some refreshments, drop into Main Street Coffee & Ice Cream for a delicious latte or one of your favorite flavors of ice cream in a single, double, or triple cone.
Main Street Coffee & Ice Cream, 185 N Main St, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, USA
Rutherford Town Rising/Facebook
This eclectic place is so inviting, especially after a long hike or when some of the delicious cinnamon rolls are coming out of the oven - which is why we visit.
Investments are made into health and well-being by building city parks and the Purple Martin Greenway, the town's first natural trail system.
small towns in north carolina
Purple Martin Greenway/Facebook
This 4.5-mile out-and-back trail is located just off U.S. Hwy 221, south of downtown, allowing a way to destress in one of the peaceful towns in NC.

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Another choice for breathing the fresh mountain air is the 13.6-mile point-to-point Thermal Belt Rail Trail, an easy route with benches, picnic tables, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms along the way.
small towns in north carolina
Thermal Belt Rail-Trail, Rutherfordton, NC, USA
john kurtz/AllTrails
The paved trail from Gilkey to Forest City has two designated spaces in the parking lot off of Oak Springs Road, both of which are van-accessible.
We recommend the self-guided historic walking tour, featuring 32 structures, including The Firehouse Inn which was built in 1925.
small towns in north carolina
Firehouse Inn, 134 N Washington St, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, USA
The Firehouse Inn/Facebook
Now a bed and breakfast, the inn was once home to Rutherfordton City Hall and the Fire Department. Download the historic tour map and visit the sites. You can also make reservations at the Firehouse Inn on Expedia.com.
Pay attention to upcoming concerts and festivals at Main Street Park.
South Main Street, S Main St, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, USA
Rutherford Town Rising/Facebook
What is more fun than shimmering lights twinkling to the swing of jazz as you dance the night away?
Stick around and you'll find many reasons to celebrate this pleasant town with the residents cheering you on!
small towns in north carolina
Rutherford Town Rising/Facebook

Discover more on the Town of Rutherfordton Facebook page. Have you been to the charming town? If so, please share your experience in the comments below.

For some more fun in Rutherfordton, visit the General Store at Cherry Mountain Farm.

Visit The General Store At Cherry Mountain Farm In North Carolina For Shopping You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

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More to Explore

Small Towns In North Carolina

Carolyn Harmon | April 11, 2024

What are some of the best small towns in North Carolina?

  • Ocracoke Island: Plan a trip back to nature at this enchanted town's magical beaches. From pretty harbors to historic sites, and fresh seafood that you will crave - this place is worth a visit.
  • Bryson City: This picturesque community frequently appears on “Most Beautiful Small Town In North Carolina” lists and for good reason. You'll find waterfalls, mountains, lakes, boiled peanuts, and some unique boutiques to find memorabilia.
  • Brevard: From finding one of the biggest toy stores in the country to handcrafted pottery, a variety of experiences exist in this charming town. One of the most interesting finds is the White Squirrel Institute.
  • Wilkesboro: A welcome is offered here at the award-winning Northwest North Carolina Visitor Center, complete with a crackling fireplace in the colder months. St. Paul's Episcopal Church showcases some of the best Gothic architecture in the land!

Where are some of the most peaceful towns in North Carolina?

  • Davidson: Nature preserves, bookstores, and yoga are just some of the peaceful places available in Davidson. It's also part of the stunning Lake Norman area and home to the liberal arts Davidson College, featuring cultural events all year.
  • Pinehurst: The Pinehurst Resort features golf on one of the most beautiful courses in the country. The Sandhills Farmers Market is a big draw, featuring locally grown produce, flowers, and arts and crafts.

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South Main Street, S Main St, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, USA