From North Carolina history to hot air balloons, we think Statesville is a wonderful small-town escape. There are so many fun and unique things to do in Statesville that you can easily spend an entire weekend exploring!
Our guide will share just how you can do that, with some area history to accompany the seasonal events and year-round fun that keep Statesville on our bucket list.
If you need to find something specific in this guide, we’ve organized it into the following sections:
- Where is Statesville?
- A Quick History of Statesville
- Where to Stay
- Annual Events
- Things to Do in Statesville This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
- Outdoors
- Restaurants in Statesville
- Where to Drink (Responsibly)
You can skip ahead to any of these sections or continue reading a condensed set of facts about Statesville.
Whether you’re a new resident, a frequent visitor, or a local, we’re leaving no detail behind. If you live in the Statesville area and are wondering, “What are the best things to do near me?” we think this NC travel guide will help you out!
Read More: Central North Carolina (and 100+ Amazing Places to Visit)
Where is Statesville, North Carolina?
Statesville is in Iredell County, near some of North Carolina’s largest cities:
For example, Statesville is about 50 minutes north of Charlotte, 45 minutes southwest of Winston-Salem, and about 1 hour 10 minutes southwest of Greensboro.
The Iredell County seat is 1-1/2 hours from Asheville and just over two hours from Raleigh.
Read More: Day Trips in North Carolina
The History of Statesville (and Iredell County)
Before we share everything to do in Statesville today, it’s important to understand the town’s history.
- Statesville was born with the construction of Fort Dobbs in 1755 and was officially established in 1789.
- Soon after 1788, Iredell County was named after James Iredell, an Associate Justice of the first Supreme Court.
- In 1833, Statesville began laying railroad tracks, serving as an important connection between North Carolina’s Piedmont and the rest of the South. The railroad was an integral part of Statesville’s economic future, and soon, it became the leader in tobacco production, whiskey, and distribution of roots and herbs.
- The last railroad stop before heading west, Statesville, became known as the “liquor capital of the world” in the late 1800s. There were over 250 legal stills in Iredell County before the ban on alcohol took place, but after prohibition, Statesville fell on hard times.
- A long 70 years later, the liquor ban was lifted. Today, only one distillery (Southern Distilling) keeps this legacy alive.
For more on the area’s distillery (and history and cultural sites to visit), scroll down to our “Things to Do in Statesville This Weekend” section.
Read More: Day Trips from Greensboro
Where to Stay in Statesville, NC
Today, there are some exciting places to stay in Statesville, and here are some of our favorites.
- The Inn on Front Street (317 W Front St, Statesville, NC)
- We were graciously hosted by the Inn on Front Street during the Full Bloom Film Festival and fell in love with just how beautiful and quiet it was. It was an excellent place to stay in Statesville, especially if you plan on walking around downtown for all of your adventures!
- It is a historic bed and breakfast, built in 1917, which was newly renovated and opened in 2005.
- The main house is perfect for business travelers, romantic couples, and weekend getaways, and the Carriage House is ideal for families. The prices are reasonable, and a full breakfast is available daily.
- Sonesta Select Hotels Statesville (1215 E Garner Bagnal Blvd, Statesville, NC)
- If you are looking for a hotel option in Statesville, the newly renovated Sonesta is an excellent location!
- This recently renovated hotel is conveniently located near I-77, is pet-friendly, and has a local restaurant (Red Buffalo Bar and Grill) to meet all of your travel needs.
Annual Events in Statesville
The Iredell County seat is fun throughout the year, but we think these fun things to do in Statesville NC belong on your annual calendar:
- Carolina BalloonFest: Roughly 50 hot air balloons and pilots from around the world convene in the skies for the Carolina BalloonFest, which is held every year in October.
- Full Bloom Film Festival: This annual event in Statesville happens every September and brings filmmakers from across the globe to showcase their films. It is a weekend of impactful stories, celebrating the arts, and getting to know Statesville!
- Art Crawl: Twice a year, local artists and businesses fill up Historic Downtown Statesville for an evening of fun, shopping, and community gathering.
- Friday After Five: Friday After Five is a fun and free concert series during the summer in Statesville! Come by for music and dancing!
- Pumpkin Fest: Celebrate all things Fall at the Statesville Pumpkin Fest! Downtown Statesville comes alive every November with music, food, and a pumpkin pie eating contest.
Read More: Day Trips from Charlotte
Things to Do in Statesville, NC This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
Those annual events are worth a spot on everyone’s calendars. Here are even more things to do in Statesville this weekend and throughout the year!
Downtown Statesville
Statesville has a walkable and beautiful downtown, which is fantastic for those who want to park and take their time exploring! Here are some local businesses and things you can do while visiting Statesville.
Rachel’s Crafty Corner
Address: 106 S Center St
Website
Are you a crafty person!? Then Rachel’s Crafty Corner is the perfect spot for you. Rachel has a fantastic selection of projects, from wooden signs to paint-your-own pottery. It’s also home to Statesville’s only splatter room! The store also has a variety of handcrafted products by local artists worth checking out!
The Wandering Crow Bookshop
Address: 108 W Broad St, Statesville, NC
Website
A locally owned bookshop for every kind of reader! The space is described as a little moody, whimsical, but always inviting. You might even catch a signed copy of our North Carolina Bucket List book in the local authors section!!!
The Hidden Spa
Address: 206 Cooper St Ste 111, Statesville, NC
Website
massages to infrared saunas, unwind and relax at The Hidden Spa. Iredell County’s best medi-day spa! From customized facials and relaxing
History & Culture Sites
Fort Dobbs Historic Site
Address: 438 Fort Dobbs Rd, Statesville, NC
Website
Travel back in time to what was an important outpost for British settlers during the French and Indian War. Fort Dobbs State Historic Site consists of the fort, 19th-century log structures, and a mile-long outdoor trail.
The fort was reconstructed for historical accuracy because of its popularity as one of Statesville, NC’s best things to do. Events often feature live reenactments. This is the only historic site in North Carolina for the French and Indian War.
Statesville Historical Collection
Address: 117 Center St, Statesville, NC
Website
Find the soul of Statesville in its history. Small-town heritage is incredibly important, but too often the stories from smaller communities are overshadowed by larger “broader historical narratives.”
The collection was started in the 1960s by Steve Hill, a teenager passionate about collecting local memorabilia. The first public display was in 2013 in a balloon factory warehouse before it outgrew the space.
Exhibits and items in the collection include historical newspapers dating back to the 1860s, government documents from the 1780s, Tom Dooley items and memorabilia, and even the original Woolworth Counter from the Statesville sit-in on March 15, 1960.
The Statesville Woolworth Sit-in occurred on March 15, 1960. Four student teachers from the Unity School (Charles Hart, Margaret Glenn Johnson, Nannie Houston Potts, and Shirley Ruth Moten Imes) sat peacefully for 45 minutes at the Woolworth’s counter in what is now The Holland Building.
In February 2026, the NC African American Heritage Commission added a civil rights marker on the sidewalk to commemorate the event.
Read More: Important Places to Visit and Learn About Black History in North Carolina
Iredell Museums
Address: 134 Court St, Statesville, NC
Website
Full of interactive exhibits for both children and adults, Iredell Museums has been an integral part of Statesville’s community since 1956. Providing important local history, Iredell Museums offers wonderful rotating exhibits and programs for visitors and community members alike.
Get hands-on with history, science, and art at Iredell Museums!
Read More: The NC Museum of History in Raleigh (+7 Things We Love About It!)
Historic Sharpe House
Address: 402 S Center St, Statesville, NC
Website
Home of Statesville’s first mayor, the Historic Sharpe House is a testament to perseverance and Southern grace during the post-Civil War era. Private tours are available by appointment in this beautiful home built in 1866.
The monthly events held at the Historic Sharpe House are what really make this a wonderful place to visit in Statesville!
Read More: 20+ Awesome Museums in Charlotte and Nearby!
Outdoor Things to Do in Statesville
Statesville is surrounded by some interesting places, both popular and bucket list-worthy!
Lake Norman State Park
Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, and parts of it are managed as a state park. One popular access point is in Troutman, just south of Statesville and north of Mooresville.
There are campgrounds, boat access launches, and a public swimming beach at Lake Norman State Park.
From the Troutman Visitors Center, travelers can explore several trails, including the kid-friendly Dragonfly Trail or the adventure-filled Itusi Trail, which is perfect for biking and hiking.
Read More: 25+ Great Things to Do in Lake Norman (Nearby Towns and Parks)
Balloon Ride with Big Oh! Balloons
Address: 399 W Page Hager Rd, Cleveland, NC
Website
Flying in a hot air balloon above the beautiful landscape of Iredell County belongs on your North Carolina bucket list! Owned by pilots Charles Page and Kristie Darling for over 36 years, Big Oh! Balloons provide adventure and memories that will last a lifetime!
The balloon flight will cover anywhere from 2 to 10 miles, depending on the wind speed and direction. On a clear day, you can see Charlotte and its surroundings, Winston-Salem, and even Pilot Mountain at either sunrise or sunset!
Read More: 25+ Great Lakes in North Carolina (+ Our Top 5 Picks)
Pick Scuppernong and Muscadine grapes
Did you know that North Carolina’s official state fruit is the Scuppernong grape? Picking these delicious muscadine grapes is one of the most popular things to do in Statesville during August and September.
We picked our own at Hazy Red Vineyard‘s two-acre property. The family-owned vineyard features a variety of grapes that are perfect for picking with the whole family.
Another great place to pick muscadine grapes is Grietje’s Garden Vineyard, part of the larger agritourism facility Rocky Ridge Farm. Grietje’s Garden also has u-pick blueberries, blackberries, and self-produced products like juice, jelly, and honey.
Read More: Map of Where to Pick Muscadine Grapes
Farmer’s Daughter at Keeper Creek
Address: 1679 Triplett Rd, Mount Ulla
Website
One thing that I love about North Carolina is our abundance of u-pick farms! The Farmer’s Daughter at Keeper Creek is a family-run farm and farm stand with no-spray/organic blackberries, blueberries, and lavender! They also have a self-serve farm stand with organic produce and local goods.
Tips: Check ahead of time to see if the fields are open for picking, wear closed-toed shoes for walking around the farm, and pick earlier in the day to avoid the heat.
Rescue Ranch
Address: 1424 Turnersburg Hwy, Statesville, NC
Website
Rescue Ranch is a non-profit animal welfare organization with 87 dedicated acres. Founded by NASCAR driver Ryan Newman and Krissie Newman, Rescue Ranch offers tours and hands-on learning about animal care.
This isn’t a petting zoo or an animal experience; Rescue Ranch really focuses on education. Tours must be booked in advance, and a personal guide must be included to provide detailed information about the education facility.
If you cannot schedule a tour, they also have an amazing playground facility for $3 per child!
BigLeaf Slopes
Address: 341 Twin Oaks Rd, Statesville, NC
Website
Perfect for mountain biking and hiking, BigLeaf Slopes Park offers miles of trails lined with beautiful Big Leaf Magnolias.
Built by collaboration between Iredell County and the Tarheel Trailblazers, the 104 acres of designated parkland were developed largely by volunteer efforts.
Statesville Greenway
Part of the Carolina Thread Trail, the Statesville Greenway is a paved path that weaves through Iredell County. Following Fourth Creek, several access points and passages go under roads and through neighborhoods.
This trail is a perfect outdoor activity in Statesville with kids and the whole family can go on a bike, walk, or run!
Emerald Hollow Mine
Address: 484 Emerald Hollow Mine Dr, Hiddenite, NC
Website
Only 25 minutes from downtown Statesville, you will find a family-friendly mine with over sixty different types of naturally occurring gems. While many search for emeralds, sapphires, or amethyst, one of the rarest gemstones is found at Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite.
Prices vary by gem size and type, and the mine’s visiting hours are weather-dependent. Sifting through the buckets is a fun, family-oriented activity in Statesville!
Where to Eat in Statesville
From casual eats to upscale dining, there are plenty of delicious restaurants in Statesville.
- For breakfast all week long, check out the newly opened Gracie Rae’s (108 W Broad St, Statesville, NC! Owned by Jason Cole and Andi Chadwick, who are also the restaurateurs behind Twisted Oak, Broad Street Burger, and The Quarter. These are breakfast plates worth bragging about.
- Red Buffalo Bar and Grill (1215 E Garner Bagnal Blvd, Statesville, NC) brings their successful brewery to a new concept at the Sonesta Select Hotel. You’ll find the same great brews at this second location paired with classic comfort food. Wings, cheese curds, house-made clam chowder, and even a roast beef on a kimmelweck roll that’s worth bragging about!
- Delicious NY-style handmade pizza, calzones, and sandwiches are available at Foxy Roxy Pizza (216 W Broad St, Statesville, NC). They can deliver your pizza to local businesses including The Wine Maestro, The Watering Hole, FTW!, Red Buffalo, and Rachel’s Crafty Corner! Note: Gluten-free pizzas available too!
- If you are in a burger mood, then you must chow down at Broad Street Burger (111 E Broad St, Statesville, NC), D’Laney’s Sports Bar (114 W Broad St, Statesville, NC), or local legend Jay Bee’s Hot Dogs (320 Mocksville Hwy, Statesville, NC)!
- If you are searching for a date night restaurant in Statesville, we highly recommend Twisted Oak Bar and Grill (121 N Center St, Suite 104, Statesville, NC) or 220 Cafe (220 S Center St, Statesville, NC) for fantastic food and atmosphere.
- Another great spot for drinks and vibes is The Quarter (124 Landmark Alley, Statesville, NC), a New Orleans-style speakeasy! They have great oysters, cocktails, and Cajun bites.
- Want the most amazing gelato in North Carolina? Statesville’s The Gondolier (212 S Center St, Statesville, NC) makes their gelato and waffle cones fresh with interesting flavors! Don’t pass on the tiramisu flavor if they have it in the case!
- For brunch (and lunch and dinner!), check out The Bristol Cafe (110 Court St, Statesville, NC). They provide upscale Southern food and delicious drinks in a relaxed environment.
- Fresh ingredients and traditional Japanese dishes are available at Katana Kitchen in West Statesville (132 Beechnut Ln, Statesville, NC). The portions are huge, and the menu offers a wide selection for everyone.
You can see we loved the Statesville food scene and will share more soon!
Drinks in Statesville
Note: Please drink responsibly and arrange for a designated driver when visiting these establishments.
Southern Distilling Company
Address: 211 Jennings Rd, Statesville, NC
Website
Southern Distilling Company is a grain-to-glass distillery and one of the Southeast’s largest craft distillers. Its sourcing most of its grain from local farmers to make whiskey exemplifies the 100-year-old Statesville tradition of distilling in North Carolina.
Southern Distilling Company produces bourbon, rye whiskey, and brandy in its 25,000-square-foot facility on 20 acres, which houses the tallest stainless-steel-and-copper still in North Carolina.
One of their newest experiences includes handpicking a bourbon barrel to bottle yourself! The Cask to Cork experience includes a private tour of the facility, where you learn about the history of liquor and distilling in Statesville, and your own personal bottle of single cask bourbon to take home!
I had a ton of fun learning, tasting, and seeing exactly how Southern Distilling makes its award-winning craft liquors.
Read More: Distilleries in North Carolina
Red Buffalo Brewing Co
Address: 108 N Center St, Statesville, NC
Website
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. was born the way most amazing craft breweries are: in a garage fermenting old-world-style beer with an innovative twist.
The vibe at Red Buffalo is just as important as the hops—with live music and a chill, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a place to share a couple of pints and laugh with friends.
Make sure to check out their newest location inside the Sonesta, Red Buffalo Bar and Grill, where they also make elevated pub food alongside their delicious craft beers.
Read More: The Best North Carolina Breweries
Wine Maestro
Address: 121 W Broad St, Statesville, NC
Website
Want to shop local but don’t know what kind of wine you’re looking for? This is where wine enthusiasts need to go!
Wine Maestro in downtown Statesville carries over 800 wines from around the world. We even had an excellent conversation with the owner about North Carolina wines, and I was pleasantly surprised to see a great selection of my favorite NC wines!
Their ten craft beer taps and a large selection of packaged beers also make this the place in Statesville for all your alcohol needs!
Read More: 20 Awesome Wineries near Charlotte (Vineyards Within 2 Hours)
Pizano DeLuca Family Vineyards
Address: 337 Laurel Creek Rd, Statesville, NC
Website
Family-owned by a husband-and-wife team (Gabi Pizano and Jon DeLuca), this new North Carolina winery focuses on regenerative farming practices to cultivate the best-tasting grapes for superb wines. They use sheep at the vineyard to help manage vegetation instead of tilling or chemicals. Minimal intervention goes from the field to the winery, too! No fining and only minimal filtration.
The winery is family and dog-friendly! Just keep in mind that it is a working farm, which means they do have dogs, sheep, and chickens on the property. You can also bring a picnic, or they have delectable charcuteries available for purchase.
From family gatherings with great food and wine to extensive travel through Europe, Gabi and Jon dedicate their wines to their grandparents, who laid the foundation for a love of family, food, and wine.
Daveste’ Vineyards
Address: 155 Lytton Farm Rd, Troutman, NC
Website
The first vineyard in Iredell County, Davesté Vineyards, started on 52 acres with a beautiful barn, tasting room, and art gallery. The property is absolutely stunning, with plenty of green spaces for a picnic.
Artisanal cheeses are available for a perfect picnic supplement. We felt like Davesté Vineyards was very family-friendly and an ideal place to spend an afternoon with quality North Carolina wine.
Read More: 25 Wonderful Wineries Near Asheville (Vineyards Within 2 Hours)
Ready for these Fun Things to Do in Statesville?
Whether you are coming to Statesville to ride in a hot air balloon or looking for a quiet escape from the city, there are plenty of fun, unique, and bucket-list-worthy things to do in Statesville.
Sip on delicious brews or learn about whiskey, pick muscadines, or chow down on legendary foot-long hot dogs. There are so many ways to enjoy Statesville, and we hope you share your experiences with us!
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below, or tell us by email what you found while exploring Statesville and how you liked it!
Don’t forget to share your Statesville adventures in our North Carolina Travel Facebook Group!
More Things to Do in Statesville (and Nearby)
We’ve featured more adventures in Statesville (and nearby) in our NC travel guides collection. Here are a few of them:
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