9 things to see, do and eat in downtown Mount Holly, 30 minutes west of Charlotte

Admittedly, I had only ventured outside my Charlotte bubble when I heard a cookie dough cafe had opened there, but the quaint little Main Street strip ended up dishing out more charm than I anticipated.

I’d say a visit here is best executed on a Saturday morning so you can include the farmers market in your itinerary (May through August, 8 a.m. – noon).

Here are just a few must-see stops in downtown.

Catawba Coffee Co.

Address: 117 N. Main Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Cute little local coffee shop open every day but Sunday

Doughlicious Yummy’s

Address: 114 E. Central Avenue, Mount Holly NC 28120

Unique dessert bar serving up scoops of raw cookie dough like ice cream.

Queen Bee Bakery

Address: 108 S. Main Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Award-winning bakery voted best in Gaston County every year since it opened — four years running.

Brightstar Drive-In

Address: 205 Madora Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Throwback southern diner serving the best burger in town. Pair it with a cherry lemon Sundrop.

Papa Sammy’s Pizza

Family-run pizza kitchen with an impressive homemade daily dessert selection

My Brother’s Bottle at the Picket Fence

Address: 113 W. Central Avenue, Mount Holly NC 28120

Fine wine, craft beer and specialty gift shop

Derr’s Boutique

Address: 121 S. Main Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Women’s boutique featuring clothing, accessories and gifts

The Vintage Nest

Address: 119 S. Main Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Two-level gift shop and furniture store featuring refurbished vintage furniture, home decor and handmade items. They also host DIY workshops and demonstrations.

Create In Us

Address: 104 S. Main Street, Mount Holly NC 28120

Art studio hosting hands-on craft classes for kids and adults