Picture Yourself in Caldwell County

With a thriving downtown and an appreciation for history and art, the City of Lenoir offers entertainment and relaxation in a small-town atmosphere. A stroll through downtown Lenoir is an art lover's dream — the Smithsonian celebrates its permanent public outdoor sculpture collection as the largest per capita in the nation. Regular events such as the Blackberry Festival, cycling events, bluegrass jams, Saturday night concerts, cruise-in car shows and the Sculpture Celebration foster community spirit.

Lenoir’s downtown is warm and inviting, filled with eateries and unique stores, including a wine shop, bookstore, coffee house, bike shop, farmers market and ice cream shop. Several antique stores and gift shops invite leisurely browsing. There are more than 50 Christmas tree farms in the Lenoir area.

Creative energy thrives in Lenoir. From the entrepreneurs who made Lenoir the furniture manufacturing center of the South to the employees of local biotech and cyberspace industries, Lenoir has always been a place where people forge partnerships to build a better future.

Granite Falls, named for the falls and giant granite boulders on Gunpowder Creek, is overflowing with Southern hospitality. Enjoy a concert in the park or grab a cup of coffee with a friend. Downtown visitors will delight in the world’s largest collection of soda pop memorabilia housed in Antique Vending Company’s showroom. Granite Falls lays claim to the second oldest home in Caldwell County, now converted into the Granite Falls History and Transportation Museum.

A large slab of granite, unique architecture and a town clock are centerpieces of downtown, which are flanked by delightful locally-owned shops and eateries.

“It’s a New Home Town.” Hudson's downtown features a mix of mom-and-pop businesses and eateries. The HUB Station is a unique asset featuring both arts and business centers. The HUB aims to inspire a coworking community for artists, small businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs. At the arts center, visitors can enjoy theater performances and exhibits.

The Hudson Community Development Association sponsors a full calendar of events throughout the year. Favorites include the Butterfly Festival, annual March of the Cross, Easter Egg Hunt, Fourth of July Kiddie Car Parade, Memorial Day Service, Man and Woman of the Year banquet, Thanksgiving Eve service, annual Tree Lighting Service, Christmas Parade, Pickin' in the Park music series and New Year's Eve dance celebration. 

Hudson is home to many of Caldwell County's industrial leaders, such as Lay Z Boy Furniture, Shurtape Technologies, Shuford Mills and Sealed Air Corporation. Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute (CCC&TI) is one of Hudson’s most recognizable landmarks from US 321.

Known as the “Biggest Little Town in the Foothills,” Sawmills retains its Southern small-town charm that makes residents and visitors alike feel warmly welcomed and at home.

The Sawmills Farmers Market is a summertime staple, and Lake Rhodhiss is a short trip from downtown. The town operates two parks—Veteran’s Park on Lake Rhodhiss, featuring a paved walking trail and fishing pier, and Baird Drive Park, featuring a picnic area, walking track, playground and athletic fields. Several events are scheduled in Baird Drive Park throughout the year to help small businesses grow and families spend time together.