On Saturday mornings, the Salisbury Farmers’ Market offers some of Rowan County’s freshest local produce from mid-April through mid-December. Even if you’re not in the market for fresh fruits, vegetables, or local meat and dairy, it’s worth a stop by the Railwalk Pavilion to shop the seasonal baked goods, crafts, and fresh-cut flowers. Check out the market’s Facebook page to see what’s currently in season.

Have a little free time in the afternoon? Spend part of it at the 1854 Courthouse, which now houses a small gallery and rotating exhibits (as well as the offices for Rowan Museum Inc). Dedicated local museums like this offer an up-close look at your destination for an experience you won’t find anywhere else. The museum occupies the first floor of the courthouse building, and we managed to explore its contents in about forty minutes, although you could breeze through or linger longer if you like.

Note: the museum is currently only open Friday-Sunday.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a bit of a novice, a stop at Waterworks Visual Art Center is a must. The gallery offers a glimpse at local contemporary art without pretentiousness, and the center’s many educational opportunities ensure the next generation will carry the (undoubtedly beautifully crafted) torch.

Need a fun gift or souvenir? For a little bit of everything, Local Focal Marketplace & Antiques is your spot. This marketplace features more than 100 vendors selling local, handmade, boutique, or vintage items for your home, wardrobe, or belly.

A must-visit!

A chic plant boutique that also offers wine slushes to enjoy in-store or to-go!

Great local book store with shelves full of good reads for the choosing!

Cute local coffee shop with baked goods and lots of drink options!

Don’t let the name fool you, this place is really nice and has everything from breakfast sandwiches, pastries, popcorn, snack food and of course lots of coffee choices!

CASH ONLY

Hap’s Grill may be tiny but it isn’t hard to find – it’s the alley-sized spot on Main Street with a line out the door at the top of this post! This local favorite has a small but mighty menu of hamburgers and hotdogs at reasonable prices (it’s also an excellent place to pick up a glass bottle of Cheerwine!). Chili made in-house, mustard, and onions are the go-to toppings here, and they don’t skimp!

This downtown Salisbury spot opened in 2016 and offers a flagship line of ales, lagers, and porters – but they’re always tinkering, so there’s a good chance something fun and funky will be available during your visit. The patio is the place to be on a beautiful day, and you can bring in your own food or order from one of their rotating food trucks (if available). Can’t sit still? New Sarum Brewing is part of Salisbury’s Social District, so feel free to ask for a beer to-go.

Just a quick walk across the train tracks deposits you at Yummi Banh Mi Street Side Cafè, a strip mall spot that would be considered unassuming if it weren’t for the bold, colorful murals out front. Good Asian food if you’re looking for some pho.

A visit to Tita’s Cake House is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth (they also serve coffee. The specialty here is the Love Cake, a Chilean cake with crispy layers held together by jellies and cream. Makes for a sweet ending to a day in downtown Salisbury.