Hero - Interior Page Hero Module
Introduction Text
In these locales, you don’t have to worry about finishing your drink before leaving. Simply bring it to your next stop — even if it’s an art gallery, a groovy gift shop or a chocolate factory. Pro tip: When visiting a social district, pay attention to storefront signage that identifies where and when participating patrons can imbibe.
Listicle View
Uptown Social District: Emerge Gallery and Art Center
As the home of the Pitt County Arts Council, Emerge is not just an art gallery but a vibrant community hub. Check out rotating exhibitions and art installations, often showcasing local talent.
Uptown Social District: Pitt Street Brewing Company
Sit under the covered beer garden in the front or romp around the pet-friendly outdoor space in the back and enjoy a few local brews here. The 15-barrel brewing system and craft beer production facility are in full view of the taproom inside this former Coca-Cola Bottling Company building.
Uptown Social District: Crush Vodka Distillery and Cocktail Bar
The Sup Crush, a spritzy fusion of flavored vodka, freshly squeezed citrus and a dash of lemon-lime soda, gets the party started. The drink originated at Sup Dogs, a locally cherished hot dog joint across from the distillery.
Uptown Social District: Native Fine Diner
One part old-school diner, one part upscale canteen, it’s a colorful contrast of nostalgia and innovation. Contemporary takes on classics include Fancy Fries accented with truffles and Gruyère.
Sip N' Stroll Downtown: DECO Raleigh
Pop into this curated collection of fun and funky gifts — including gourmet foods, decor, candles, children’s items, jewelry and home goods — from local independent makers, artisans, crafters and designers.
Sip N' Stroll Downtown: Videri Chocolate Factory
The bean-to-bar chocolatier offers allergen-free confections sourced from fair-trade and organic farms. Witness the chocolate-making process and finish your visit on a sweet note: soft-serve topped with a chocolate cowboy hat and other glorious garnishes.
Sip N' Stroll Downtown: Whiskey Kitchen
Indulge in one of Whiskey Kitchen's specialties, such as the Beer and Loathing with bourbon, amaro, lemon, honey and a splash of IPA. Elevate your experience with kitchen bites, including boiled peanuts or a slice of shoofly pie.
Sip N' Stroll Downtown: Bittersweet
Can’t choose between a cocktail and dessert? You don’t have to. Weekends feature housemade pie with vanilla bean ice cream. (It makes a dreamy match with the toasted almond coffee cocktail.) A to-go window allows for uninterrupted neighborhood perusing.
Catalyst Social District: Stock + Grain Assembly Food Hall
Choices, choices! High Point’s sole food hall features two bars and seven food kiosks. Try Cahoots, a patio bar with Truist Point stadium (home of the High Point Rockers) providing the backdrop.
Catalyst Social District: Nomad Wine Works
The first urban winery in the Triad region resides in a former furniture showroom. Nomad sources grapes, fruit and honey from around the country to make their cider, wine and mead.
Catalyst Social District: The Blooming Board
This boutique charcuterie and cheese shop invites you to gather, graze and shop. Check out the outdoor patio while you reserve a grab-and-go charcuterie board or stay and sip on frosé (all day).
Main Street Social District: Innovation Brewing
A stop on the Jackson County Ale Trail, the brewery sits beside a mountain creek and serves up peak vistas. Hop into the rotating selection of seasonal brews, hard ciders and a house-made ginger ale. Don't forget to order a takeout pizza from Meatballs, which is right next door, to enjoy alongside your brews. (Learn more below.)
Main Street Social District: Meatballs
Santiago and Crystal Guzzetti own multiple hot Italian spots in town. Meatballs is home to inventive pizzas — think pears, walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette as toppings — jazzed up further by zippy drink pairings like the spiced sangria.
Main Street Social District: White Moon Cafe & Dark Moon Cocktail Bar
By day, White Moon welcomes you as a cozy cafe, only to morph into Dark Moon, a hidden cocktail bar nestled within the shop come nightfall. Nosh on avocado toast and other brunch favorites in the a.m., then return for evening delights as you savor cocktails amid a candlelit ambience.
Jackson County Farmers Market
The year-round market invites you to sip, stroll and explore on Saturdays. Browse crafts vendors and artisans from Western North Carolina, peruse handmade pottery and treat yourself to baked goods — all to the tune of live music.
Outdoor NC tip: Always remember to place your trash in garbage bags. Food scraps, cigarette butts and other litter can take years to decompose.
Seek out other sip and stroll areas in The Official 2025 North Carolina Travel Guide.