Discover the Southwest Region
This 10-county region includes the Charlotte metropolitan area, one of the largest financial centers in the United States and a major international airport hub. Some of the fastest growing towns and cities in the state are found in the Southwest region of North Carolina. Whether you drive or take the Carolinian or the Piedmont train to the region, the small and medium-sized towns and cities are actively engaged in developing livable downtown districts that offer all of the conveniences of neighboring Charlotte, but with the ease, comfort, and charm that smaller towns exude. Walk the streets of these downtowns to take in the architectural style of each community, follow the Carolina Thread Trail to explore the textile history of the region, stroll through the specialty shops, take in a show, dine in the restaurants, and enjoy handcrafted chocolates and the fizzy wild cherry taste of Cheerwine, a uniquely southern soft drink that is native to the region. The Southwest region is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Charlotte Panthers, the Charlotte Hornets, the Uwharrie National Forest, and some of the state’s largest manmade lakes. Sports, cultural venues, outdoor recreation, appealing small towns, and lots of great food and spirits: this region has it all. Whether you spend a day, a week, or a lifetime here, you will always find something new to see and do in the Southwest region of North Carolina.
