These 12 Charming General Stores In North Carolina Are Pure Nostalgia

Is there anything more charming than an old-fashioned general store? There's just something so utterly delightful about perusing the aisles of an authentic general store, admiring homemade housewares and penny candy. (Or, if you're lucky, opening the cooler for an ice-cold, glass-bottled soda!) And luckily, you can experience all the nostalgia with these twelve general stores in North Carolina.

1. Mast General Store, Valle Crucis

While Mast General Store has expanded to several locations through North Carolina, you can find the original in Valle Crucis. Open since 1883, this is a beloved general store of both North Carolinians and visitors.

2. Rockford General Store, Dobson

Open since 1890, you get everything you'd expect at Rockford General Store: creaky wooden floors, a worn-and-cozy interior, and vintage antiquities galore. This country general store is a must stop -- and come hungry, because their fried apple pies are legendary.

3. Priddy's General Store, Danbury

Priddy's General Store was built in 1888, is a cornerstone of the community. In addition to stocking a healthy supply of housewares, essentials, and penny candy, Priddy’s has live bluegrass Memorial Day Weekend, every Saturday in October and every Friday night in February, and Santa shows up for Christmas in December. It's the place to be in Danbury, North Carolina!

4. Washburn's General Store, Bostic

In the foothills you'll find Washburn's General Store. Established in 1831, the store is recognized as the longest, continually-run family business in North Carolina. Washburn's prides itself on selling high-quality, American-made products -- and more often than not, has something delicious cooking for customers.

5. Trust General Store and Cafe, Hot Springs

Just 25 miles from Asheville you'll find mountainside simplicity at Trust General Store and Cafe. Enjoy a delicious hot lunch after browsing the store, or a cold glass of sweet tea with a creekside view.

6. Saxapahaw General Store

Saxapahaw General Store calls itself "a five-star gas station" -- but that's totally selling this local gem short. Here, you can find the healthiest local food straight from the North Carolina farms, either in the grocery area, or on the dine-in menu (we're told Grandma Barney's Meatloaf Sandwich is worth the drive along!) This general store is a must-stop for any foodie.

7. Switzerland Cafe, Little Switzerland

Next time you're taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, stop at milepost 334 where you'll find Switzerland Cafe -- not just a general store, but a regionally acclaimed restaurant. Switzerland Cafe is on the North Carolina BBQ Trail, so needless to say -- try the BBQ! Please note Switzerland Cafe is only open seasonally, so be sure to check the website before you go!

8. Shiloh General Store, Hamptonville

Shiloh General Store is an Amish food store that's a popular destination for both North Carolinians and travelers. Here, you'll find a wide array of cheeses, spices, baked goods, herbs, meats, children's toys, and Amish wooden furniture. It's a veritable treasure trove!

9. Fred's General Mercantile

From groceries to ski rentals, you can find a lot at Fred's. Open since 1979, Fred's has been a must-stop for winter sports enthusiast visiting North Carolina, as well as those who love a good country store regardless of season. No trip to Beech Mountain is complete without a stop by Fred's!

10. Town Hardware & General Store, Black Mountain

A visit to Town Hardware & General Store is a trip back in time; you'll find woodworking tools, classic toys, gardening supplies, and high-quality housewares. A gem in Black Mountain, stop by Fred's for a unique gift or household item.

11. Davis General Store, Charlotte

It's hard to believe Davis General Store is located just a few miles from the largest city in North Carolina. Entering this old-fashioned store is like entering into a parallel universe. Built in 1908 by two brothers, the legacy of its history remains today. You can choose from a wide variety of farm supplies, Carhartt gear, cookware, and locally made food.

12. M.A Pace General Store, Saluda

Nestled high in the mountains, next to the railroad tracks, you'll find this quaint country store brimming with surprises. Established in 1899, browse unique cider flavors, pick up some candies, or buy hardware products for your next home project. This little store is a total hidden gem.

What are your favorite general stores in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments below! And for a hefty dose of nostalgia, be sure to check out this old-fashioned candy and ice cream shop in North Carolina.