The small towns around the state are the real backbone of North Carolina. But with the influx of more and more people moving South and to the East Coast, many small towns are growing in leaps and bounds. The tiny city of Saluda, on the other hand, has somehow managed to retain their small town, vintage charm.

Although technically a city, as the books go, Saluda is a tiny little town near the South Carolina border in Western North Carolina.
Flickr/Todd Martin
In the last 100 years, the population of Saluda has gone from 246 to a whopping 706 residents (Wikipedia estimates). And while Saluda may be small, it offers some big rewards for those seeking to spend some time in a place where life seems much less complicated. Let's check out some of the highlights of this charming little city:
TripAdvisor/Nicole B
Thompson's Store and Ward's Grill, 24 Main Street
TripAdvisir/cheryl h
Take a step back in time in North Carolina's oldest grocery story, circa 1890. While you're there, have a bite to eat at Ward's Grill, an old fashioned counter diner. Their cheeseburgers and milkshakes never disappoint!
Saluda Gem Mine, 101 E Main Street
TripAdvisor/management
Have a blast searching for your own gems at this local favorite, or choose from those already mined and polished and available for purchase in the gift shop. The store also specializes in soy candles.
M.A. Pace General Store, 60 E Main Street
Tripadvisor/pollyp65
Sit and relax in this old fashioned country store located right on Main Street. You'll find everything from groceries to hardware in this store that has been open since 1899.
Somewhere In Time, 70 E Main Street
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
Don't let the exterior fool you. This vintage store has the BEST ice cream in town. Plus, it has a huge array of vintage items to select from. Benches are located outside the front door if you want to sit on Main Street, enjoy your cold dessert, and watch the world go by.
Tubing!
TripAdvisor/Mommy2R
Unplug from your devices (and the world) for a morning or afternoon of tubing near Saluda. There are a couple of local vendors that will make sure you have a fantastic experience.
Perason Falls Glen, 2748 Pearson Falls Road
TripAdvisor/Mike
Grab some subs and water, and head out on a short hike to Pearson Falls in Saluda. The hike is short, family-friendly, and has a huge payoff at the end when you reach the waterfall.
The Purple Onion, 16 E Main Street
TripAdvisor/management
Enjoy the fresh seasonal selections, while dining inside surrounded by exposed brick walls in this historic Saluda building — or enjoy the fresh country air in their charming courtyard. Where ever you sit, you can't go wrong at The Purple Onion.
Saluda Grade Cafe, 40 E Main Street
Facebook/Saluda Grade Cafe
Celebrating 20 years in 2018, the Saluda Grade Cafe is a local staple in Saluda. The menu features American and new American cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients.
Coon Dog Day, July 7, 2018
Saluda NC
For the past 50 years people have been flocking to the tiny town for the annual Coon Dog Festival. In 2018, an estimated 10,000 people will attend this event that is fun for the entire family.
If you're longing for the good old days, then a visit to Saluda is the perfect way to access those feelings from way back when.
Facebook/M.A. Pace General Store

To learn more about Saluda, visit their tourism website. It has so much helpful information!

You’re always in for a treat in North Carolina’s small towns. Check out the world class biscuits found in this North Carolina town.

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