Choose wisely. Connect locally.Add your business 
Matthews began in the early 1800s as a cotton-farming settlement nicknamed Stumptown, for the tree stumps left behind when land was cleared for fields. It later took the name Fullwood after its postmaster and served as a stagecoach stop between Charlotte and Monroe. When the railroad arrived in 1874, the town grew around the depot, and in 1879 it was incorporated as Matthews, named for railroad director Edward Matthews.
Today Matthews is a leafy suburb of Charlotte that has kept a real small-town center. Trade Street's historic storefronts hold cafes, shops and restaurants, the Matthews Community Farmers Market draws crowds on Saturday mornings, and Stumptown Park hosts concerts and the Matthews Alive festival over Labor Day weekend, known for one of the biggest Labor Day parades in the Southeast.
The town's history is kept at the Matthews Heritage Museum, while the Sportsplex at Matthews is home to the Stumptown Athletic soccer club. Green spaces such as the Four Mile Creek Greenway and Squirrel Lake Park make it easy to get outdoors close to town.
Matthews' compact historic downtown along Trade Street keeps late 1800s and early 1900s buildings from its railroad days, now with restaurants, cafes, shops and the town hall. It hosts concerts and festivals in warm months. It is easy to walk, and free parking is available in public lots.
A long-running market on Trade Street in downtown Matthews where all vendors grow or make what they sell within about 50 miles. Expect seasonal produce, eggs, meat, baked goods, flowers and crafts. It is busiest on Saturday mornings from spring to fall; arrive early for the best choice.
Housed in the historic Massey-Clark House near downtown, this small museum covers the town's history from its early farming and railroad days, with artifacts, photographs and changing displays. Admission is free; it is staffed by volunteers with limited hours, so check before visiting.
A small town-center park beside the town hall, named for Matthews' early nickname of Stumptown. It has a stage for summer concerts, lawns, a playground and a fountain. It is the main gathering place for festivals and holiday events. Bring a chair or blanket for the Friday evening concerts.
A town park in Matthews with a small lake, a walking path around the water, a playground, picnic shelters and a fishing pier. It is a quiet spot for a short walk or a picnic with children. Fishing requires a license, and ducks and geese are common around the shoreline.
A paved greenway in Matthews that follows Four Mile Creek through woods and wetlands, with boardwalks, bridges and benches along the way. It is a favorite for walking, running, cycling and birdwatching close to downtown. Trailheads have small parking lots; weekday mornings are the quietest time to go.
A large Mecklenburg County sports complex with a championship soccer stadium and numerous fields used for youth and adult tournaments, plus walking paths and playgrounds. Many regional soccer and lacrosse events are held here. Spectators are welcome; bring chairs and sun protection on tournament days.
A large Labor Day weekend festival in downtown Matthews with a parade, live music stages, carnival rides, food vendors and arts and crafts. It is run by volunteers and supports local charities. Expect big crowds and road closures, and use the shuttle or walk in from outlying parking.
A community theater based in Matthews that stages musicals, plays and youth productions throughout the year in the town's performing arts space. Shows are affordable and family friendly, with many local actors. Buy tickets in advance for popular musicals, which often sell out on weekends.
No reviews yet. Been to Matthews? Be the first to share your experience.
Share what you loved, what to skip and tips for other travelers.
Log in to write a reviewBeen to Matthews? Add your best shots to the gallery.
Log in to add photos
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
Photo: Jon Platek, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Dclemens1971, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
Photo: Bobby Brandon, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: StacyLevyStudio, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
Photo: BusinessEditorUSA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: BusinessEditorUSA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Property of PLCMC, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
Photo: Bobby Brandon, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Jon Platek, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Marketingrequests1952, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: trukdotcom, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0