MAIN TO MAIN TRAIL
The NC Main to Main Trail is a unique way to experience North Carolina communities. Since 1980, the State of North Carolina has been selecting cities and towns of all sizes to carry the distinction of designated North Carolina Main Street communities. These communities are actively engaged in the Main Street America network and are following the Main Street Approach™ to revitalize their downtown districts.
From the Great Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the urban growth of the Piedmont, to the eastern inner banks to the coastal plains, Main Street communities are destinations. Each downtown district features architectural treasures from typical commercial buildings, governmental icons, and cultural attractions. Locally owned shops, restaurants, and spirits offer the communities many unique options. Stroll the tree-lined streets to take in the flavor of the district and gain the perspective of why the locals call their community home.
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The NC Main to Main Trail leads you through the state’s designated Main Street communities, highlighting each town’s best downtown and outdoor experiences, and providing links to the local Main Street program, VisitNC, and the local tourism websites so that you don’t miss a thing as you trek the NC Main to Main Trail.
The Southeast region is comprised of 12 counties that provide direct access to much of the North Carolina beachfront. Home to three U.S. military bases, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Marine Corps Base Camp LeJeune, and the Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point, together comprising the largest employer east of Interstate 95, the Southeast region has a deeply-rooted history of honor and pride. The communities in this region have been actively revitalizing their downtowns for more than 30 years, and that has resulted in vibrant districts where people live, work, play, and explore beautifully renovated buildings and walkable streetscapes that draw visitors. The downtown districts also boast some of the state’s finest chefs preparing regional cuisine, including Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue, Calabash-style seafood, North Carolina oysters, and the fresh catch of the day. Pepsi-Cola was invented in this region, so kick back and have a soft drink. The Southeast Region has a rich railroad and cargo shipping history, agricultural base, and boating culture, and is a nature’s playground for rest, relaxation, and entertainment by the water. The region also serves as the backdrop for many film and television shows. Explore the Cape Lookout National Seashore and Tryon Palace, the first capital of the Colony of North Carolina; follow the NC Oyster Trail; and experience beach music and the jazz, blues, and gospel sounds of the African American Music Trail. There is much to discover. The Southeast region is calling you.