When looking for a unique place to visit, a small town should be the first place on the list. Every small town has its own personality. Every small town also has its own quirky way of setting things up. The most exciting thing about a small town is that no two are ever going to be the same. So if an original experience is what you want, jump in your car and head to a small town where unique communities make the difference and your visit makes a difference to the community.
Let’s take Garner, North Carolina as an example of what visiting a small town can look like. Many Main Street businesses are close to railroads as that was an important part of how people connected. Garner built up along a railroad but only on one side of the track. You will actually be able to park right at the track to get to the business of your choice. Garner hosts a smaller downtown but it is a mighty one. You can stroll along and look in business windows and grab a coffee, tea, or beer. Lunch sandwiches and baked goods are available too. There are also hidden treasures tucked in behind the scenes. Look closely and you’ll find a spot to do yoga and sip wine, buy a plant, order a sign and a sizeable venue to either get married in or hold a large family celebration. Food trucks randomly show up along Main Street and in back parking lots. Garner also hosts free concerts in May, June, August and September and two food truck events. And of course there is art everywhere.
The town is very walk-able and you can easily go down Main Street and into the neighborhoods. Walk west and you will make your way to the Garner History Museum. Walk east and you will find the Polar Ice House where lots of ice hockey gets practiced. Look across the street north and you’ll notice a large historical white house called Banks Bed and Breakfast where weekend guests can get a small town stay and community members can use the parlor for events. The street that parallels Main Street is unique in that it was North Carolina’s first paved highway!
Garner also conveniently borders Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina. This means you have easy access to big city experiences too. So the next time you are looking for something a little different, more laid back and unique to itself, head over to a small town where your travel dollars make the most impact on local communities. www.downtowngarner.com Happy venturing!
Mary
