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Meet Matt
Hey, I'm Matt. As a Charlotte-based content creator for Visit North Carolina (be sure to follow us!), my job is essentially to road trip around the state and capture its best-kept secrets. I love living in North Carolina for its variety, where you’re never too far from the beach, mountains and everything in between. My insider perspective is fueled by a passion for storytelling, photography and chasing adventures — exploring it all so you can see why you need to experience too.
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The Newsagent's
Start your weekend adventure through the Piedmont at The Newsagent's downtown. A true haven for nostalgia seekers, this eclectic shop is packed with hundreds of physical books, vintage games and vinyl records. Pop in to hunt for a rare find or stay awhile and unwind in the cozy upstairs lounge. We love a new, throwback experience. Did someone say Tiger Beat?
What to expect: The Newsagents offers an in-house coffee shop in the midst of the vibes so you can fuel up while you browse.
The Pour House
Trading an upstairs lounge for an upstairs record shop, downtown Raleigh is also home to The Pour House. Finding this hidden gem is half the adventure: Slip through a side door, navigate a narrow hallway, and climb the stairs to uncover a massive collection of physical music. Get lost in the stacks and maybe even score a rare colored vinyl pressing — and by night, it's also a vibrant independent music hall.
Heights House Hotel
Plan to stay overnight at Heights House Hotel, a beautiful, charming, restored boutique property where it truly feels like they thought of every detail. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or simply need a quiet space to recharge, the uniquely designed rooms and historic atmosphere offer a perfect retreat — check out that tub in the room we stayed in! Wind down your evening with a craft cocktail in the intimate downstairs parlor and wake up to a peaceful breakfast before hitting the road.
Before you check out: Stop by the in-house vintage market. It’s home to many unique finds. Trust me, it’ll enhance an already-great stay.
Chet Miller
Take a short drive west into downtown Durham to explore Chet Miller. Nestled in a highly walkable shopping district, this eclectic boutique is the ultimate destination for unique gifts, curated home goods and quirky curiosities. You never know exactly what you might uncover. I even stumbled upon a vintage hotel sign for sale during my visit!
Be on the lookout: How many sea-related things can you find throughout the store?
Saltbox Seafood Joint
Let’s talk lunch. In the mood for North Carolina-caught seafood? Saltbox Seafood Joint is a casual, must-stop restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Ricky Moore. No frills, just really good food. With a menu that changes daily, you’re sure to find something new to try with each visit.
What to order: I snagged the fried catfish sandwich and homemade sweet tea.
Plan your visit
Explore Durham like a local with insider Chef Ricky Moore
Flyleaf Books
Hop on I-40 West for a short drive to Chapel Hill and spend the afternoon at Flyleaf Books. It’s a popular independent bookstore offering a cozy, feel-good atmosphere, hundreds of great reads, an expansive used book section and author events.
Breakaway Cafe
Start your second day at Breakaway Cafe, located just south of Chapel Hill. Grab brunch and coffee before you hit the road in this cycling-themed café. You can’t go wrong. Also — if you want a quick detour south before heading to the Triad area, head to the Railroad House Museum in Sanford. Originally home to Sanford's first mayor, it’s now a great stop to dive into the region’s rich railroad roots. Fun fact: Built in 1872, this house is older than the city itself!
What to order: The Breakaway Breakfast that includes eggs, grilled bread, blistered tomatoes, marinated kale and breakfast potatoes.
Hudson’s Hill
From Chapel Hill, take a scenic hour-long drive north to Greensboro to discover Hudson’s Hill. This unique boutique specializes in carefully curated heritage clothing, leather goods and accessories. The shop's aesthetic perfectly blends vintage Americana with a rugged, life-on-the-road spirit. From broken-in denim seeking new adventures to a selection of candles that will remind you you’re never too far from the North Carolina mountains.
Archdale Antiques
Next stop: High Point for a trip to Archdale Antiques. Tucked between the classic vendor stalls and vintage treasures, you’ll find a true North Carolina hidden gem — the “Star Wars Store.” It's absolutely packed with rare memorabilia and collectibles from a galaxy far, far away. May the Force (and the willpower to not buy everything in sight) be with you.
Little Sally by Thomas Dambo
Trolls have taken over North Carolina! Cap off your weekend road trip just down the road with a whimsical little nature walk in High Point. Hidden between the trees off Green Drive, you’ll stumble upon Little Sally — a massive, 18-foot-tall troll sculpture crafted entirely from recycled wood by artist Thomas Dambo. She's one of several trolls hiding across the state, making this the perfect, magical finale to your weekend adventure.
Pro tip: Make sure you bring your camera. This stop is larger-than-life.
Follow along with Matt
Find your own nostalgic hidden gems this summer.