4. Charlotte, North Carolina
This big, bustling Queen City hasn’t forgotten the past that peeks through in well-preserved sites—from North Carolina’s first art museum to celebrated mansions. Charlotte holds tightly to its history, incorporating centuries-old tales into a progressive present in ways that bring true Southern soul to every corner of the metropolis.
Drop by Abode Home to browse the shop of renowned interior designer Mary Tobias Miller, and wander through High Cotton Home Company, an impressive furniture showroom. Cotswold Marketplace touts more than 50 merchants with products ranging from fashion accessories to home décor. Get a taste of the town’s eclectic character at Paper Skyscraper, filled with books, gifts, and stationery.
The culinary scene encompasses gems like Bonterra, serving up creative dishes and fine wine, and Reigning Doughnuts, a walk-up window offering scrumptious baked goods. Haberdish presents Southern comfort food influenced by its mill-town history with a modern spin.
Photography by John O’Hagan
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