If you’ve never been to Shelby in Cleveland County, picture the quintessential classic Southern small town and you’ll have a good idea of what to expect. Selected almost 40 years ago as one of the first five cities in the state to be part of the North Carolina Main Street Program, which aimed to revitalize communities and foster economic development, Shelby has undergone many positive changes over the past few decades. The area was first built upon the textile industry and at one point was among the highest cotton-producing regions in the Southeast, says Emily Epley, travel and tourism director for Cleveland County Tourism. Several years ago, the city decided to capitalize further on its history, weaving in the lives of two historic locals: musicians Earl Scruggs and Don Gibson. The result is a modern small town with close ties to its musical heritage through a new museum and theater. Each facility draws in throngs of visitors on its own, but Shelby entices them to stay with much more to see and do in this close-knit community. Take a look.
Take a Ride on City Park Carrousel
One of the few historic carrousels in the country that’s open year round, Shelby’s City Park Carrousel celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019. It features 32 horses, 28 hand-painted scenery panels and a working band organ providing music for rides, which cost a mere 50 cents each. In the same area as the carrousel, kids can also climb aboard the Shelby Rotary Train, a miniature engine with a tunnel and track that was restored in 2000 (that also costs 50 cents a ride!).
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Indeed, the article about Shelby, North Carolina is quite engaging. The town’s rich history, notable landmarks like the Earl Scruggs Center and Don Gibson Theatre, and the delectable Southern cuisine certainly make it an attractive destination 😋😋. It seems like an ideal place for a relaxing getaway. Thank you for sharing this delightful find!