Issue 088 July the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 88 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

In This Issue

Mountain Get-A-Ways & Boutique Destinations

Panoramic Views In The Piedmont

Page 17

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

GO GASTON. GET OUTSIDE.

GO PADDLE.

Goat Island Park 305 Greenwood Pl. Cramerton, NC 704-824-4231 Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park 1400 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 704-825-8191 Mountain Island Park 400 Mountain Island Rd. Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-3931 Rankin Lake Park 1750 Rankin Lake Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-6849 Riverside Marina 1500 River Dr. Belmont, NC 704-813-4591 Riverside Park & Green Way 75 Riverside Dr. Cramerton, NC 704-824-4231 R. Y. McAden Take-out 119 Willow Dr. McAdenville, NC Spencer Mountain 200 Stanley-Spencer Mtn. Rd. Spencer Mountain, NC South Fork River Park 4185 Mountain View St. Gastonia, NC 704-922-2160 Sun's Up Scuba 900 S. Fork Village Dr. Belmont, NC 704-829-3455 Tailrace Marina 1010 Marina Village Dr. Mount Holly, NC 704-827-0000 Tuckaseegee Park 165 Broome St. Mt. Holly, NC 704-951-3006 US National Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy.

Charlotte, NC 704-391-3900

GASTON COUNTY VISITOR CENTER 620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044

ONLINE VISITORS GUIDE #gogaston | gogaston.org theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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July 2018 Issue 88

the

W

e Tell you where to go!

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find local & regional events and destinations in the Destination Magazine™ that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.”

The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you are seeking new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find a new experience every month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara McMillan, Project 543, Leah Hughes, RootsRated Media Contributing Photographers: Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Paul Newton, Sam Dean, Todd Bush

The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMag. com ©2018 All rights reserved. Photodude.net LLC Publisher, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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Contents DayTrip Destinations

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Grazing Gaston County

8

Impossible Things Are Happening Every Day.

11

Hendersonville Street Dances Hit The Century Mark

13

Beech Mountain Throwback Music Weekend

14

Panoramic Views In The Piedmont 17 Arrange A Custom Tour Of N.C. Wine Country

18

Historic Outdoor Drama Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary! 19 Blue Ridge Mountains Summer Theater Packages

21

Destination Distillery

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Boutique Inn For A Boutique Destination

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Make Tracks To Sidetracked, Morganton’s Latest Brewery

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Regional Events & Destinations

Don’t take the same old journey.

Be somewhere genuine.

Be somewhere amazing.

Be changed.

playanydaygetawaycation

Call for your complimentary

800.828.4244

Getaway Guide

visithendersonvillenc.org5

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Beech Mountain Bike Park Opens Sat June 2nd 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604. www.beechmountainresort.com

Red , W h ite A nd B lueg r a s s Festival Wed July 4th–Sat 7th C a t a w b a M e a d o w s Pa r k , 7 0 1 Sanford Dr, Morganton, NC 28655.

Bring your family and come enjoy Mile High Fourth of July Fri June great music and make memories.

29th–Wed July 4th Towns of Ban- www.discoverburkecounty.com ner Elk & Beech Mountain Sizzling cool fireworks a mile high in the Grandfather Mountain Highland sky. www.milehighfourth.com Games and Gathering O’ Scottish Clans Thu July 12th–Sun 15th Beach Party and Bonfire with Grandfather Mountain, Grandfather the Traveling Danbur ys Sun Mountain, Linville, NC 28646. The July 1st 6pm–10pm Hanging Rock Grandfather Games are considered Lake on the beach, 1790 Hanging America’s grandest Games because Rock Park Rd, Danbury, NC 27016. of the spectacular mountain setting The lake will be open late for this that is so reminiscent of Scotland. one day. Bonfire on the beach. www.gmhg.org Bring your own chair or beach blanket. A Food-Truck will be here Nor t h Ca rol i na Blackber r y selling food. www.ncparks.gov/ Festival Fri July 13th–Sat 14th hanging-rock-state-park/ Lenoir City Main Street, 801 West Ave NW, Lenoir, NC 28645. Bring Fourth Of July Celebration At the whole family out for a country The U.S. National Whitewater festival including the world’s largCenter Tue July 3rd–Wed 4th est blackberry cobbler patchwork, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, blackberry eating contests, black Charlotte, NC 28214. Musical per- “beer ”y beer garden, colossal formances on the River Jam Stage cobbler parade brigade, bites, will take place in the afternoon and brews and blues, an evening of evening of each day, followed by a everything blackberry, live music, firework display www.usnwc.org recipe contests and much more. www.ncblackberryfestival.com Music On Main Street Special 4Th Of July Celebration Concert Bourbon Saturday Series Sat July Wed July 4th 5:30pm–9:30pm 21st 12pm–7pm Southern Distilling Hendersonville Visitor Center, Company, 211 Jennings Rd, States5 0 8 5 , 2 0 1 S M a i n S t , H e n d e r - ville, NC 28625. It’s Summertime!! sonville, NC 28792. Enjoy the Join us for a fantastic day of good concert and fireworks from the food, complimentar y music and comfort of your chair at Music Bourbon Tours & Tastings! Book On Main Street from 7-9:30pm your tour in advance at www. www.visithendersonvillenc.org southerndistillingcompany.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Sunday Bash!! Sun July 22nd 12pm–6pm Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr, Statesville, NC 28677. We’ll have the Bob Karney Calendar Girls, Lancaster’s BBQ & Beer, Anna’s Sweet Treats, Raffles, killer deals inside & Rockie Lynn Rocking it out!

North Carolina Watermelon Festival Sat July 28th 9am–4pm Riverside Drive, Riverside Dr, Fair Bluff, NC 28439. Craf ts, food, entertainment, parade, rides and a variety of watermelon-related contests. Consider tubing down the Lumber River or enjoy other river events. Riverside Drive is closed off for this fun-filled annual event. www.ncwatermelonfestival.org

Something to do on

Sunday & Monday – Saturday too!

The Barrel Elegant Casual Wine Room

NOW OPEN 1082 Brawley School Road Mooresville, NC 28117

(704) 663-0058

www.LKNBarrel.com

LAKE NORMAN COTTAGE

Rural Hill Summer Food Truck Rally Sat July 28th 4pm–8pm Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.

Music, Food, NC Beer & Wine www.ruralhill.com

Waterfront Gift Shop Wine Room

Reevestock Music Festival Fri Aug 3rd–Sat 4th 340 Hawthorne Rd, Elkin, NC 28621. Music for all ages, food and drinks available by your favorite restaurants. www.reevestock.com

200-A North Harbor Place Davidson, NC 28036 (next door to North Harbor Club Restaurant)

Throwback 2018 Fri Aug 3rd 7pm– 9:30pm Beech Mountain Brewing Company Taproom & Grill, 1007 B e e c h M o u n t a i n P k w y, B e e c h Mountain, NC 2860. Throwback 2018 Music Weekend! August 3,4,& 5 Music from the 60’s, 70’s, & the 80’s. www.beechmtn.com Visit NCTDM.com for the complete destination calendar from your phone, tablet or desktop.

(704) 237-3629 www.LKNCottage.com

The Cabin

RUSTIC - Craft Beer - Groups - Cigars

MUSIC ALL WEEKEND! 400-A North Harbor Place Davidson, NC 28036

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

(next door to the Lake Norman Cottage)

(704) 237-3629 www.LKNCabin.com

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Grazing Gaston County

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hough most people discover Gaston County through its lakes, rivers, and mountains, t he la id- bac k dow ntow n s a nd creative cuisine make Gaston a weekend destination, with locally owned coffee shops, restaurants, a nd bre wer ie s rol l i n g out t he southern hospitality. Check out G a ston C ou nt y ’s top ne w a nd trending spots to stop for a bite or a brew on your next visit.

Before hitting the peaks and paddles of Gaston County, stop at Famous Toaster y for a hearty breakfast. Ser vice is quick and friendly, with an oversized menu

of breakfast staples like eggs Benedict, omelets, French toast, a n d f l a p j a c k s . Yo u c a n e n j o y burgers, salads, and sandwiches for lunch. Get there early to grab a sunny spot on the outdoor patio.

Stop by Gaston County’s sweet shops for a post-hike reward.

See Jane Bake in downtown McAdenville is a feast for the eyes, with artistically decorated cakes and cupcakes, brownies, and cookies. Watch its Instagram feed for when the softball-size cinnamon rolls and key lime tarts come out of the oven. Mt. Holly ’s Queen Bee Baker y is Continued On Page 25

Omelet Bar Every Sunday Brunch Downtown Davidson NC

The Healthy Choice For Mexican Food www.MestizoContemporaryMexican.com – 704•997•5933

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Regional Events & Destinations

A MerchAnt collective venue

homeheartandsoul.com

UNIQUE HOME DECOR, GIFTS, FURNITURE, APPAREL, & JEWELRY

20901 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031

(704) 892-4743

When location, comfort and true hospitality really matters!

www.davidsoninn.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

(704) 892-8044 9

visitvaldese.com | 888-VALDESE

July 13-August 11, 2018 Fridays & Saturdays 7:45pm Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre Valdese NC

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oldcolonyplayers.com | 828.522.1150 Regional Events & Destinations

Impossible Things Are Happening Every Day.

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nd if you never saw yourself swooning over a veggie burger… meat lovers, think

again.

I had the pleasure of visiting Duckworth’s Kitchen & Taphouse, the new restaurant concept in the Duckworth’s Grill location on Park Road, last month and decided to give their Impossible Burger a fair shot. It’s an all-natural potato-based patty, drizzled with a savory sauce, topped with fresh tomato, lettuce, and onions, nested under a toasty brioche bun. I don’t know if I’m more shocked about how GOOD it was, or that it looked and tasted better than a beef burger – despite being 100% meatless.

I’ve been a loyal fan of Duckworth’s for quite some time and although they’re making some menu changes, trust me – they’re not trying to fix what isn’t broken. It’s still the same great service, fun atmosphere, quality cocktails, and more awardwinning beers on tap than you can count. But with a slightly smaller menu focusing on core specialties and crowd-favorites, their selections have evolved into something more authentic and more intentional.

Still think you’ll be able to find Apparently, it was only supposed a plant-based burger this good to be a ‘monthly special,’ but the somewhere else in the city?

Impossible Burger was so popular, it’s been added to the menu permaIt’s not probable; not possible. nently. (See? I told you impossible Duckworth’s Kitchen & Taphouse things are happening every day.)

4435 Park Road Charlotte, NC 28209 www.duckworths.com

S

ummit Place of Mooresville is a senior living community offering assisted living as well as Five Star’s award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery program for people with Alzheimer’s or related dementias, rehabilitation services, and respite/short stays, all in one location.

704-799-2712 ~ www.SummitPlaceOfMooresville.com 128 Brawley School Road Mooresville, NC 28117

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Beech Mountain Brewing Company Taproom & Grill

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Suggested $5 donation per show

Regional Events & Destinations

Hendersonville Street Dances Hit The Century Mark

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n Monday nights in the summer, dancers take to Main Street in downtown Hendersonville. Bluegrass tunes twang from the Visitor Center stage. Men in blue jeans twirl women in colorful skirts as the square dance caller signals the steps. Clogging teams stomp out a rhythm. Attendees watch and smile as they tap their feet, and some get up and join in the fun.

home the soldiers that they danced in the street. The dances grew in popularity during the 1940s and ’50s when Hendersonville became a stopover for big bands traveling between New York and Florida. The mountain town was growing as a summer retreat for vacationers to escape the heat and humidity of lower elevations, so bands stopped in Hendersonville to play for the tourists.

Hendersonville’s Street Dance tradition celebrates its 100th anniversary July 9 with a special commemoration. The dances then continue each Monday night through Aug. 13.

“In the 1940s and ’50s there was more music going on in Hendersonville than you could shake a stick at,” says Pat Corn. “The Street Dances were what you did on Monday nights.”

“The Street Dances are part of Hendersonville’s identity,” says Beth Carden, executive director of the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority. “We are fortunate to have this long-standing tradition that helps us preserve our mountain heritage and share it with visitors.”

Corn, a Hendersonville native who now plays and teaches music in Sevierville, Tennessee, attended his first Street Dance at age 3 and was mesmerized by the musicians.

Hendersonville also became a hotbed for organized clogging and was one of the first places in the As World War I ended in 1918, lo- country where cloggers performed cal folks were so excited to welcome choreographed routines.

Continued On Page 30

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Beech Mountain Throwback Music Weekend

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he Beech Mountain Brewing Company Taproom and Grill is the venue for the Beech Mountain Throwback Music Weekend, August 3rd, 4th and 5th.

This family-friendly event takes place over three days, with a suggested donation of $5 per performance as a fundraiser for the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. The Beech Mountain Throwback Music Weekend features music from the 60’s and 70’s, with some 80’s thrown in for good measure. Spoon Bread, a Jerry Garcia/Grateful Dead tribute band, will kick things off at on Friday August 3rd at 7pm. On Saturday, August 4th, Clockworx will take the stage at 7pm for some 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s rock and roll covers.

Sunday the 5th will cap the event off at 1pm with a performance by the GB’s, a Winston-Salem-based band featuring Beatles covers and other British Invasion-American Pop hits from the 60’s and 70’s.

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Skybar, 5506 Photo:Todd Bush

For some added fun, Fred’s General Mercantile will be hosting the annual Crafts on the Green from 9am to 4pm on Saturday August 4th.

Go to www.beechmtn.com for more information.

Summer on Beech Mountain provides lots of other opportunities to hear great live music. Saturday afternoon performances at the S k y b a r, 5 5 0 6 , S u m m e r S u n s e t Concerts on Sunday evenings at Fred’s General Mercantile and the Concerts on the Lawn on Sunday evenings at the Beech Alpen Inn are all traditions. This year, the Beech Mountain Resort will also host outdoor concerts by Trampled

by Turtles at 6:30pm on July 14th, and Yonder Mountain String Band at 6:30pm on August 11th. Tickets for those two concerts are online at www.beechmountainresort.com.

Regional Events & Destinations

Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

RANDYMARIONCADILLAC.COM Visit Randy Marion Cadillac for all your service, parts and accessory needs

220 W. Plaza Drive I-77, Exit 36, Hwy.150

Open 7:30 am - 8:00 pm Weekdays 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturday

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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ESCAPE. UNWIND. INDULGE. BannerElk.com

CASUAL & FINE DINING COZY LODGING OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SHOPPING & GALLERIES

Panoramic Views In The Piedmont

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he challenges of this 4.3 mile loop trail, along the eastern most mountains in North Carolina, are rewarding once you experience views from the highest peak of the Sauratown Mountains in Stokes County. Take in the highest elevation and breathtaking panoramic view from the Lookout Tower, on top of Moore’s Knob, reaching an elevation of 2,579 feet. L ocated in Hanging Rock State Park, just a short drive from the triad, and a scenic two hour j o u r n e y f r o m t h e Tr i a n g l e o r Charlotte areas.

Signage on the railing of the tower identify points of interest in all directions, and provide history about the Mountain Range and State Park. Looking for a relaxing stroll or an exciting, grueling hike with grand vistas or intimate, stunning waterfalls, thick laurel forests or wide-open meadows?

This park with an extensive 20-plus mile trail system can definitely provide it. Find out for yourself

why those who visit proclaim this as North Carolina’s best kept secret of mesmerizing natural beauty, charming rural landscapes, and quaint downtown areas.

Pe r f e c t f o r a d a y t r i p , b u t ideal for a weekend of adventure, campsites fill up fast. Local vacation rentals and cabins provide visitors a taste of unique stylings and charm that Stokes County has to offer. Book a stay at a restored 1881 Mill, log cabin, Old Farmhouse Inn, or the lodge at Singletree. Each location offering a unique view of the mountains, enjoyed best sitting on the lawn, as the setting sun highlights the rocky features. Plan your getaway at hangingrock.com The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. Experience hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing and more. Enjoy a leisurely float down the Dan River by canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or tube. www.hangingrock.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Arrange A Custom Tour Of N.C. Wine Country

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n your next visit to Surr y County in Yadkin Valley wine country, let someone else do the driving and sit back and enjoy the experience. Four tour operators offer customizable trips along the Surry County Wine Trail.

Yadkin Valley Wine Tours has three options, ranging from a chauffeured Mercedes sedan for two people to a half-bus shuttle that can accommodate 14 to an extended shuttle with space for 30 people.

The four options are: Frog Holler Wine Tours in Elkin, Heart & Soul Wine Tours in Mount Airy, Parkway Wine Tours in Mount Airy and Yadkin Valley Wine Tours in Elkin.

Heart & Soul Wine Tours is a boutique service for folks staying at the Heart & Soul Bed and Breakfast in Mount Airy. This elegant option takes you to wineries in a restored 1939 Fleetwood Imperial stretch E a c h o f t h e s e w i n e t o u r limousine. operators offers something unique to make your visit to All tour operators work with North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley a c u s t o m e r s t o d e t e r m i n e t h e memorable experience, and they number of wineries to visit, and can accommodate a range of group they can also help with specific sizes from two to 30. winery recommendations based on personal preferences. Overall, the Frog Holler offers tours for up Surry County Wine Trail features to four people in a Hummer H3, or 15 Yadkin Valley wineries offering groups up to 12 in a shuttle bus. a variety of experiences.

Parkway Wine Tours has provided customized wine tours since 2009 for groups from two to 20. Their For more information about wine fleet includes executive sedans, tour options in Surry County, as well as lodging in the vineyards, SUVs, a 15-passenger van and a go to www.YadkinValleyNC.com.

20-passenger shuttle.

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Regional Events & Destinations

Historic Outdoor Drama Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary!

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years ago, a small band of weary travelers from a distant land stepped off a train and onto the soil now known as the charming Town of Valdese, NC. The history of these people, the Waldenses of the Cottian Alps between

France and Italy, is a story of struggle, persecution and faith which is both timeless and timely for all who seek to live, love, and remain faithful to their calling as people of God. Their struggles and triumphs are chronicled in the 4th longest running outdoor Continued On Page 30

www.duckworths.com

Ballantyne Charlotte Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Fonta Flora State Trail Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Linville Gorge Trail • Mountains to Sea Trail

CALL US AT THE VISITORS CENTER IN DOWNTOWN MORGANTON FOR MORE INFORMATION: 888-462-2921

www.discoverburkecounty.com

Blue Ridge Mountains Summer Theater Packages Photo:Todd Bush

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ool temperatures, cozy accommodations and great theater await this summer in the mountain resort town of Banner Elk.

includes: Red, White & Tuna (June 29-July 6), Slow Dance on the Killing Ground (July 27-Aug. 4), and Weekend Comedy (Aug. 17-25).

A trio of Banner Elk accommodations have teamed up with the professional theater troupe Ensemble Stage to offer theater packages that start at just $119. Each package includes one night of lodging for two, a pair of tickets to an Ensemble Stage performance and discount dining coupons for the popular Banner Elk Café.

Lodging options for the packages are the Azalea Inn Bed & Breakfast, Best Western Mountain Lodge and the Perry House Bed & Breakfast.

Booking a package involves two easy steps. First, pick the date of the show you wish to attend, then contact your choice from the lodging options and request a Banner Elk Theater The packages are centered around Package.

Ensemble Stage, which relocated from Blowing Rock to Banner Elk in 2017 Once the package is booked, your and operates out of the refurbishing accommodation will set aside two auditorium of the Historic Banner Elk show tickets to be presented to you at School. check-in. If possible, please book at least seven days in advance.

Ensemble Stage offers intimate, professional theater. Shows range For more info on the packages, from comedies to dramas to murder go to www.BannerElk.com mysteries. This summer ’s lineup or call 844-824-6777.

SMOKEY

J’S BBQ

LE A WHO LOT OF IS MEMPH WITH A INA CAROL TWIST

215 S. Broad St. Mooresville, NC eatsmokeyjsbbq.com 704-746-9173 theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Destination Distillery

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his summer, do yourself a favor and stop in for a tour and tasting at Southern Distilling Company, one of the largest craft distilleries in the nation, located in beautiful Statesville, North Carolina, once nicknamed the “liquor capital of the world”. The destination distillery is conveniently located right off of Exit 54 on I-77, one exit north of the I-40/I-77 interchange.

while seated at the bespoke flame oak bar in the tastefully appointed 3,000-square-foot Tasting Room & Gift Shop.

Join us for Good Music, Good Food & a Southern Good Time at our next two Bourbon Saturday Series events at the distillery this summer.

Mark Your Calendars - Our 2nd Annual Fall Celebration at Southern Tours are hosted Monday through Distilling Company is scheduled for Saturday from 10a.m. until 6 p.m. The Saturday, October 6th!

Behind-the-Scenes Tour & Tasting ($15/person) runs at the top of each hour, with the last tour beginning at 5p.m. Be sure to add this 45-minute tour to your bucket list! From mash cooking to spirits distilling and barreling, come learn about the region’s rich distilling legacy and experience the whiskey-making process. If you only have 15 or 20 minutes to spare, choose the Short-and-Sweet Tour & Tasting instead ($10/person). Save time and reserve your spot, book your tour in advance at SouthernDistilling.com.

The fine Southern Star product line has earned a total of sixteen awards to-date, including a recent Double Gold! All tours conclude with a tasting of award-winning Southern Star Bourbon Whiskeys, White Whiskey and the newly released Double Shot Coffee Bourbon Cream Liqueur,

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Southern Distilling Company 211 Jennings Rd Statesville, North Carolina, NC 28625 SouthernDistilling.com- 6pm

Regional Events & Destinations

WHAT’S FOR DINNER? One Month Of Meals In One Hour

Introductory Offer: Six 3 Serving Meals OR Three 6 Serving Meals

8495

Taste How Easy Homemade Can Be Order Online

Assemble in our Store

Cook at Home

Savor Moments

6276 Towncenter Drive • Clemmons, NC 27012 • 336-766-0644 DreamDinners.nctdm.com • www.dreamdinners.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Boutique Inn For A Boutique Destination

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he town of Davidson is nationally known for many reasons.

Davidson College with its highly rated liberal arts and sports programs. Several nationally recognized restaurants. One of the fastest growing regions in the country for craft beer. Residing on Lake Norman, the largest human-made lake in North Carolina offering all types of water recreation and relaxation.

Fisher Far m and L ake Nor man State Park for Hiking and Biking.

An entirely “strollable” downtown with shopping, a coffee shop, a soda shop, galleries, bookstores and a bike shop with rentals. But most of all, Davidson is known as “charming.” Have you ever stayed in the heart of charming?

and pastries. Indulge yourself and pair handcrafted chocolate from Davidson’s South Main Sweet Shop with a North Carolina wine or a locally brewed beer. And when its time to see the sights in the area forget Uber, request that Davidson You can. Quite literally in the Inn’s pedicab show you around this heart of Davidson is the Davidson charming community.

Village Inn. During your stay, please take T h e D a v i d s o n V i l l a g e I n n advantage of the exclusive savings is a boutique hotel with well- offered to guests of the Davidson appointed rooms and suites. You Village Inn. Discounts on historical will experience all the comfort dining, theatre, pedicures, pamperand exceptional customer service ing, pedal destinations and paddling you can expect from an intimate adventures!

European Inn. Enjoy amenities like a genuinely continental breakfast, afternoon tea featuring locally sourced coffee

Davidson Village Inn 117 Depot Street Davidson, NC, 28036 (800) 892-0796 www.davidsoninn.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Grazing Gaston County Continued From Page 8

voted Best in Gaston year after year for creative cake flavors like cher r y lemon Sundrop, Andes mint chocolate chip, almond joy, and orange crush. Pick from cake pops, candies, and more than 20 varieties of cookies in their display case.

Original brick, natural wood, and steel beams of Table & Market let you know you’re dining in the historic 1800s mill that put McAdenville on the map. Upscale entrees like pan-seared salmon and charbroiled filet are prepared with southern flair, while salads, burgers, and sandwiches offer casual options.

Rivermen Brewing Company in Belmont has launched a menu of fresh and locally sourced salads, flatbreads, and tapas that rival its beer in terms of quality and creativity. Pork jowl tacos, anchovy fries, and wild mushroom ramen are just a sampling of their creative small plates. Signature IPAs and 20 rotating taps round out the taproom and patio menu.

Written by Ann Gibson for RootsRated Media in partnership with Gaston County Gov.

Gaston County is located just west of Charlotte, NC in the Piedmont section of North Carolina. Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip including museums, botanical gardens, extreme sports, hiking, dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.gogaston.org

“THE MUSEUM THAT RUNS”

Wheels Through Time Museum

62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Make Tracks To Sidetracked, Morganton’s Latest Brewery

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n April 14, Sidetracked Taproom officially became Sidetracked Brewer y. The accelerated business plan was made possible by Morganton’s growing appreciation of craft beer and a partnership with veteran brewer Joseph Ackerman.

The theme comes from Sidetracked’s proximity to the Morganton Railway Depot Museum and the train tracks that brought prosperity to Morganton a century ago.

So far, the six flagship beers are the Cross Tie Brown, Whistleblower Sour, Light Rail Blonde, Thomas the Dank Engine New England IPA , Bessemer Process Pale Ale and the Weizenbahn Hefeweizen.

The Bessemer Process was the first affordable steel-producing process that made railways possible, while Weizenbahn is a German term that means wheat railway.

batches, the Sidetracked idea is to do recognizable beers that are very drinkable. To that end, he makes a flagship IPA in the New England style which is less bitter than traditional West Coast style IPAs. Sidetracked Brewer y has just over 3,000 square feet of space.

A warm interior is designed with wood, iron and metal, including footrails made from vintage railroad irons. There is a ping-pong room at the back, as well as a covered back patio overlooking a courtyard.

“ We a r e f i l l i n g a n i c h e i n Morganton and rounding out the beer selection in town,” Ackerman A c k e r m a n ’ s p h i l o s o p h y i s said. brewing high-quality traditional beers for the local market. His Sidetracked Brewery is open five i n t e r e s t i s k e e n l y l o c a l , n o t days a week. Hours are 3-10 p.m. distributing across North Carolina Tuesday to Thursday and 1-11 p.m. or the Southeast. To that end, he Fridays and Saturdays. The brewery stressed to the Murrays that the occasionally hosts live music on business name should be “brewery” weekends. and not “brewing company.”

While Ackerman will get creative from time to time with small

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For more on Craft Brew Destinations in Burke County, call (888) 462-2921, or go online to: discoverburkecounty.com.

Regional Events & Destinations

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Boat Slips Available!

828.478.3078

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SUMMER SAVINGS AT RMX JULY SPECIALS $50 OFF Bullet Spray In Bed Liners 30% OFF All Oakley Products 10% OFF AMSOIL Products 10% OFF Lift/Leveling Kits 10% OFF All Tonneau Covers 10% OFF All Exhaust Systems TAKE OFF WHEEL & TIRE PACKAGES STARTING AT $999.99 209 W. Plaza Dr. Moorsville NC 28117 • 704-235-6800 • M-F 8am-8pm Sat 8am-4pm www.facebook.com/ RandyMarionRMX

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Lake Norman Brewers Trail LKNBT

LKNBrewersTrail.com is your source for what’s going on at the breweries around Lake Norman.

Featured Partners

Ghostface Brewing

We offer up to 20 beers, ciders & meads on tap, with a selection of rotating styles, some available on nitro. We also have wine.

We also offer a selection of tasty flatbread pizzas and other special dishes from Davidson Pizza Company located right in our tasting room.

427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 – www.ghostfacebrewing.com

D9 Brewing Company

A craft microbrewery located north of Charlotte in Cornelius, North Carolina.

From homebrew parties in our neighborhoods, to our first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for our Fanatical Ales™ propelled us to open our current 10 barrel production brewery. We are re-imagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer.

11138-C Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 – www.d9brewing.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Digital content is available on desktop, tablet and phone

Surry County Wine Trail Visit 15 Wineries In The Heart Of North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365 Request free map at YadkinValleyNC.com29

Hendersonville Street Dance Continued From Page 13

Admission to the Street Dances is free. Beginner instruction starts at To d a y t h e S t r e e t D a n c e s 6:30 p.m., and dances start at 7pm. showcase bands playing traditional Appalachian bluegrass, and each week a different clogging team learn more about the Street per for ms. Beginners gather 30 To Dances and other summer acminutes before the dances to learn tivities in Hendersonville, go to basic square dance steps from the www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or call (800) 828-4244. longtime local caller.

Historic Outdoor Drama Continued From Page 19

drama in North Carolina, “From This Day Forward.” This year we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the production at the Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre in Valdese.

The cast of “From This Day Forward” is made up of the highest caliber of actors of all ages and experience levels. One of the highlights for our cast is visiting the Waldensian Heritage Museum and the Waldensian Cemetery in town to “get to know” the characters they portray in the production. We take very seriously the charge we have to tell the story of these brave people – real people who fought to stay alive throughout centuries of religious persecution and worked hard to embrace the American ideals of hard work, justice and freedom. In fact, it was their dedication to religious freedom that led them to come to America and establish the Town of Valdese.

We have a young, visionary director for this season, Matthew Boerger.

Matthew is a resident of Valdese and has been a cast member for five years running previous to taking on the mantle of director. Matthew states, “The history of the Waldensian people is one of hardship, persecution, and

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steadfast faith. In the theatre production “From This Day Forward”, we strive to tell this story with the utmost respect. This season’s cast brings an entirely different energy, creating new dynamics in the show that help to bring a fresh perspective to the remarkable story of the Waldensians.

I believe the audience will feel the hard work, dedication, and honest respect our cast and crew have put into creating this powerful story, and will perhaps walk away with something new from our interpretation.”

It must be noted that because this stor y is a real stor y of faith and persecution, “From This Day Forward” is not recommended for young audiences. Children under the age of 10 should not attend without the consent and presence of a parent or guardian.

The Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre is fully handicap accessible and we welcome anyone who would like to come and enjoy our story with us. The show runs on Friday and Saturday nights only from July 13 through August 11, 2018. For more information, please visit our website, oldcolonyplayers.com or call (828) 522-1150. We strive to make your stay in Valdese a pleasant and memorable experience.

Regional Events & Destinations

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HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

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dinner

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full bar

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good times

OFF I-77 @ EXIT 33 • 117 TRADE COURT (MOORESVILLE) 7 0 4 7 9 9 1 1 1 0 • www.jeffreyslkn.com