Have an awesome weekend with the 21 Best Fun Things to Do in Matthews, NC! This weekend, find lots of cool stuff to do in Matthews, NC, for free, and also explore exciting things to do nearby. Take relaxed strolls through charming farmers’ markets and check out the lively arts scene. Our guide has everything you need. The guide will show you the most exciting attractions and experiences in Matthews, NC. If you live here, visit, or want a special date night, Matthews is a great place to discover hidden gems, try local favorites, and enjoy outdoor activities… Start your awesome weekend adventure now!
List of Best Fun Things to Do in Matthews
Here is a list of the best Fun Things to Do in Matthews nearby.
- Four Mile Creek Greenway
- Elevation Church
- Squirrel Lake Park
- Fountain Rock Park
- Sportsplex at Matthews
- Emerald Lake Golf Club
- Matthews Playhouse
- Royal Cafe and Crêperie
- Monkey Joe’s
- Point Blank Range
- Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply
- Mindful Escapes Escape Rooms
- Stumptown Park
- Painting with a Twist
- Paint Ur Peace
- The Magic Canvas
- Painted Tree Boutiques – Matthews
- Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration
- Seaboard Brewing, Taproom, & Wine Bar
- Charlotte Mecklenburg Library – Matthews
- Matthews Community Farmers Market
Four Mile Creek Greenway
Four Mile Creek Greenway is a beautiful outdoor destination in Matthews, North Carolina. It’s a 2.1-mile long path that’s ideal for walking and biking, with a moderate level of difficulty, and takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete. The greenway has many fun features, including a water feature for kids and dogs. It also connects to Squirrel Lake Park, which has a playground, fairy trails, a lake with ducks, and restrooms.
Along the greenway, you might see animals like beavers, deer, and birds. The path is accessible to everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, and it’s open from sunrise to sunset. If you’re looking for free and fun things to do in Matthews NC, Four Mile Creek Greenway is a great option enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Neighborhood: Matthews, North Carolina
Address: 5803 Bevington Pl, Charlotte, NC 28277, United States
Contact: +1 980-314-1000
Elevation Church
Elevation Church in Matthews, North Carolina, is a welcoming community of believers committed to following Christ’s teachings and fostering spiritual growth. Whether you’re a lifelong Christian or new to your faith journey, Elevation Church provides an inclusive environment for all. They offer online services for those unable to attend in person, and their eGroups and eKidz programs offer opportunities for adults and children to connect, learn, and grow in their faith.
Additionally, the church provides volunteer opportunities and is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring inclusivity. In essence, Elevation Church is a fantastic place for faith-based activities and free, engaging experiences in Matthews, offering a warm community and a range of programs to participate in.
Location: Charlotte
Address: 11416 E Independence Blvd suite n, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-748-0274
Squirrel Lake Park
Squirrel Lake Park in Matthews, North Carolina is a scenic 36-acre park suitable for all ages. It offers a wide range of activities, including a playground for kids, fishing at a pond with a fishing pier, and various outdoor exploration opportunities. The park features walking, jogging, and biking trails for exercise, a 12-hole disc golf course for enthusiasts, picnic areas with shelters, cornhole boards for games, and well-maintained restrooms.
While there isn’t direct public transportation, you can reach the park via a nearby CATS bus stop, making it a convenient and cost-free destination for residents and visitors in Matthews.
Location: Ashley Creek subdivision
Address: 1631 Pleasant Plains Rd, Matthews, NC 28105, USA
Contact: +1 704-708-1260
Fountain Rock Park
Fountain Rock Park, located in Matthews, North Carolina, is a 22.5-acre nature sanctuary that is a must-visit for locals and tourists. The park has a lot to offer, including a nature center that tells visitors about the history and ecology of the area. The park has wetlands, limestone quarries, and local wildlife that visitors can explore. It is a place for family outings, with a playground for kids and a serene quarry pond filled with turtles and fish.
Furthermore, the park has walking, jogging, and biking trails for those who love the outdoors. The park has wheelchair-friendly facilities, making it accessible to everyone. Visitors can also explore the park’s historical lime kiln and quarry, which offer stunning views. With its wide range of activities, Fountain Rock Park is a great place to enjoy nature and have fun with family and friends, all free.
Location: Saluda Street, East Main Street, Elizabeth Lane, and East Black Street
Address: 311 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-847-4411
Sportsplex at Matthews
Sportsplex at Matthews in Matthews, North Carolina, is a vast sports complex primarily focused on soccer but offers various enjoyable activities for visitors and locals. Found at 2425 Sports Parkway, Matthews, NC, 28105, the complex is home to 12 full-sized soccer fields, making it a hub for organized and recreational sports. The facility features a 2,300-seat stadium used for soccer and other events.
Moreover, it also boasts two playgrounds for kids, walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and picnic areas with tables and grills for gatherings. The complex is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity. In essence, Sportsplex at Matthews is an excellent place to relish the outdoors with its soccer fields, stadium, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing an array of free, sports-oriented fun for those who love outdoor activities.
Location: Sports Parkway
Address: 2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 980-314-7539
Emerald Lake Golf Club
Emerald Lake Golf Club, nestled in Matthews, North Carolina, is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers. This acclaimed golf course is renowned for its pristine greens, setting the standard among public golf clubs in the Charlotte region. It offers a dynamic and engaging golf experience, with water hazards on multiple holes adding an exciting challenge for golfers.
In addition to golfing, the club features a well-stocked golf shop and practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area for skill improvement. Beyond golf, Emerald Lake Golf Club serves as an exceptional venue for weddings and events, accommodating up to 200 guests in a picturesque setting and ensuring unforgettable moments.
Location: Mecklenburg County.
Address: 9750 Tournament Dr, Matthews, NC 28104, United States
Contact: +1 704-882-7888
Matthews Playhouse
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts, a community-based non-profit theater in Matthews, North Carolina, offers theater productions, classes, and camps to enrich the lives of children and families. They provide sensory-friendly performances and a variety of summer camps. In addition to Matthews Playhouse, there are several free and fun things to do in Matthews.
You can visit Four Mile Creek Greenway, explore Squirrel Lake Park, and check out Seaboard Taproom & Wine Bar. Upcoming performances at Matthews Playhouse include “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and “Around the World in 80 Days.” Discounts are available for groups, students, seniors, and military members. Schools and educators can request field trip assistance funds.
Location: Matthews, North Carolina
Address: 100 E McDowell St, Matthews, NC 28105, USA
Contact: +1 704-846-8343
Royal Cafe and Crêperie
Royal Cafe and Crêperie, a charming café in Matthews, North Carolina, offers a delightful menu featuring sweet and savory crepes, specialty coffees, and loose-leaf tea. They prioritize high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and provide a creative twist to healthy food. What sets them apart is the opportunity for customers to become their chefs, crafting custom crepe recipes from a list of ingredients.
The café’s cozy atmosphere at 131 Matthews Station St is perfect for enjoying crepes with friends and family. Moreover, it’s an ideal romantic date night in Matthews, offering a cozy and intimate setting. After your crepe experience, you can explore the nearby Four Mile Creek Greenway or check out local shops in downtown Matthews, making it a versatile dining destination.
Location: Depot Shopping Center
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Address: 131 Matthews Station St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 980-701-0566
Monkey Joe’s
Monkey Joe’s in Matthews, North Carolina, is a vibrant indoor play place and party venue perfect for children up to 12 years old. The entertainment hub boasts giant inflatable jumps, exciting slides, jungle-themed play areas, and arcade games, along with a dedicated toddler zone catering to younger kids. Families can also celebrate special occasions like birthdays in style, thanks to the private party rooms and party packages accommodating up to 24 kids.
Additionally, there’s a variety of concessions available, from pizza to hot dogs. While primarily designed for children, Monkey Joe’s can also offer a unique and playful date night experience in Matthews. Couples can engage in friendly arcade game competitions or race down the inflatable slides for a lighthearted and entertaining evening.
Location: Greylyn Business Park 1
Address: 9129 Monroe Rd #145, Charlotte, NC 28270, United States
Contact: +1 980-321-7881
Point Blank Range
Point Blank Range in Matthews, North Carolina, offers touch-screen-controlled shooting facilities with safety requirements. If you bring your gun, remember that shotguns can only use slugs. In Matthews, free activities include parks like Squirrel Lake Park, Four Mile Creek Greenway, Matthews Farmers Market, Stumptown Park, and a free disc golf course. For shooting enthusiasts, Point Blank Range is a great choice.
Moreover, understanding “point-blank range” is crucial; it’s the distance a firearm hits a target without adjusting for bullet drop. Factors like ballistics, target size, and sight height affect this range. Maximum point-blank range (MPBR) is the farthest a bullet can travel without straying from the point of aim, determined by firearm characteristics and ammunition.
Neighborhood: Matthews
Address: 10726 Monroe Rd, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-899-5898
Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply
Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply is a welcoming coffee shop in downtown Matthews, North Carolina. They offer a calming atmosphere and top-notch service. You can enjoy a variety of local coffee selections, including cold brews and loose-leaf teas. Brakeman’s partners with Haerfest Coffee to create their “Brakeman’s Blend,” which changes seasonally.
Also, they have a Feature Coffee Program with high-quality, single-origin coffees. So, if you seek a hospitable coffee experience, Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply is the place to be, offering a delightful menu of classic and signature coffee drinks. Popular options include the Ticket Please, Matcha Latte, Lavender Latte, LoCoMocha, and Queen Bee Latte.
Location: Downtown Matthews
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No delivery
Address: 225 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-841-7867
Mindful Escapes Escape Rooms
Mindful Escapes Escape Rooms, situated in Matthews, North Carolina, introduces three captivating themes designed to engage and challenge players. Receiving positive feedback on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Yelp, customers commend the rooms. They find them both stimulating and enjoyable. This solidifies Mindful Escapes as a top choice for entertaining adventures. In Matthews, the establishment offers a unique escape room experience with three distinct themes.
Nearby lodging options, such as Sleep Inn Matthews and Courtyard Charlotte Matthews, vary in price from $85.00 to $231.00. Additionally, Escape Tactic® in Charlotte stands out as a premier escape room experience in the region, recognized for its immersive designs and being the largest escape room in Charlotte with over 8,000 square feet. Explore firsthand what people are raving about!
Neighborhood: Mint Hill Rd
Address: 11229 E Independence Blvd Suite E, Matthews, NC 28105
Contact: +1 (704) 708-8717
Stumptown Park
Stumptown Park is a delightful 9-acre park located in the heart of downtown Matthews, North Carolina. This park is a hub of year-round activities, hosting concerts and special events. It boasts a performance stage with a dance floor, making it a popular venue for music festivals and outdoor gatherings. Stumptown Park offers various amenities. These include open grass areas, a sand volleyball court, an outdoor grill, and a picnic area.
Additionally, there’s a children’s playground. Stumptown Park is an excellent option for those looking for a serene outdoor area in downtown Matthews. It offers a wonderful setting for picnics, games, and various outdoor activities. Plus, it hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year, such as free summer movies and concerts, making it a vibrant and welcoming community space.
Location: Matthews, North Charlotte
Address: 120 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-321-7275
Painting with a Twist
Painting with a Twist in Matthews, North Carolina, is your go-to destination for a delightful and creative experience. This unique wine and paint studio offers classes suitable for all ages and skill levels, providing step-by-step instructions and all necessary supplies. It’s not just for regular classes; it’s also a perfect place to host private events like birthdays, bachelorette parties, and team-building activities.
Additionally, they support fundraising for local and national non-profit organizations. With numerous studios across the United States, finding one nearby is convenient. Painting with a Twist is the top choice for those seeking a fun way to express their artistic talents while enjoying wine or beer.
Location: Sharon Corners
Address: 4724 Sharon Rd Ste J, Charlotte, NC 28210-3389
Contact: +1 980-224-7760
Paint Ur Peace
Paint Ur Peace is a delightful pottery and canvas painting studio in Matthews, offering a creative outlet for all ages, from 5 to “alive.” You can let your artistic spirit soar by painting your pottery, canvases, wine glasses, wooden pallets, fabric, and even getting Henna tattoos. They provide options, from pottery walk-ins to scheduled appointments for canvas painting, wine glass decoration, tote bags, and Henna tattoos.
Once your masterpiece is complete, it’s carefully glazed and fired in their custom kiln overnight. The BYOB (Bring Your Beer/Wine) policy adds a fun twist to the creative process. This inviting space is perfect for celebrating birthdays, a memorable night out with friends, or even inclusive classrooms to foster positive behavior and socialization.
Location: Matthews, North Carolina,
Address: 10020 Monroe Rd #120, Charlotte, NC 28270, United States
Contact: +1 980-313-5553
The Magic Canvas
The Magic Canvas is a fantastic place for people of all ages to unleash their creativity and have fun. They offer daily painting classes led by skilled instructors, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while exploring your artistic side. If you have kids, they also have art classes and camps with exciting themes like Princess Tea Parties and magical performances by world-famous magicians.
The Magic Canvas is a venue for private events like team-building activities and bridal showers, with beverage options to suit everyone. They even have special sessions for kids to create their masterpieces and Magic Activity Packs that combine art, magic, and social-emotional learning. On Saturday mornings, they have free Magical Story Time sessions for young friends aged six and under.
Neighborhood: Indian Land
Address: 2012 Bridgemill Dr. Suite 104, Indian Land, SC 29707, United States
Contact: +1 803-619-9199
Painted Tree Boutiques – Matthews
Painted Tree Boutiques in Matthews is a distinctive shopping destination, providing a shopping experience like no other. It offers a diverse range of products, including unique gifts, home decor, furniture, jewelry, candles, and boutique clothing, among other treasures. Shoppers at Painted Tree Boutiques can find unique items that you don’t usually see in regular stores.
They have special things like handmade goods, small-batch products, and custom creations. With an assortment of positive reviews from delighted customers praising the store’s uniqueness and the variety of its offerings, Painted Tree Boutiques stands out as a retail haven for those in search of delightful home decor and distinctive items.
Neighborhood: Ashley Park
Address: 1813 Matthews Township Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-851-4176
Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration
Precious Restoration Art & Antique Restoration in Matthews, North Carolina, is a specialized service dedicated to restoring and repairing a wide range of fine art and antiques, including pottery, paintings, sculptures, and more. With more than 40 years of experience in the field, Precious Restoration is skilled in various restoration areas.
Moreover, they offer free estimates for fixing art and antiques. The business has garnered positive reviews on platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor, highlighting their exceptional restoration skills and artistic abilities. If you’re in Matthews and seeking to restore precious artworks or antiques, Precious Restoration is a top choice.
Area: Historic Downtown Matthews, NC
Address: 315 W John St Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 (704) 965-0074
Seaboard Brewing, Taproom, & Wine Bar
Seaboard Brewing, Taproom, & Wine Bar in Matthews, North Carolina, is a popular venue offering a delightful combination of craft beer, wine, and pizza. It is the exclusive brewery in Matthews, offering a diverse selection of Seaboard Brewery beers and local ciders from Red Clay. The establishment features a wine room with an extensive global wine selection and holds a Wine Club Pickup Party on the first Tuesday of each month.
Besides, their outdoor pizza kitchen provides delicious pizza, enhancing the culinary experience. Seaboard Brewing hosts various events, such as wine tastings, beer releases, and live music, all on the patio in Matthews. Whether you’re enjoying craft beer or wine, savoring mouthwatering pizza, or engaging in outdoor games like cornhole, the venue provides a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Location: Downtown Matthews
Service options: Takeaway · No delivery
Address: 213 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-246-6575
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library – Matthews
The Matthews branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, located in downtown Matthews, offers a wide array of free activities for the local community, including the “Around the World in 21 Branches” event, a Yarn Library, a PBS Friends in Fall Literacy Scavenger Hunt, and tailored services for teenagers. The library provides access to books, movies, music, and other resources, free computer use, and Wi-Fi.
Additionally, the library’s train-themed interior and a train-shaped desk in the children’s area create an inviting atmosphere. Cynthia McDonald manages the library, which boasts a vast collection of materials, including religious and reference items, DVDs, and CDs. The library team includes a Parish Librarian and a Librarian Emeritus/Archivist dedicated to fostering a love of reading, encouraging civic engagement, and raising community awareness.
Neighborhood: Matthews, NC
Address: 230 Matthews Station St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Contact: +1 704-416-5000
Matthews Community Farmers Market
Since 1991, the Charlotte Matthews Community Farmers’ Market has been the biggest farmers’ market in Charlotte. It’s open from April to November and not only offers local produce but also welcomes everyone by accepting SNAP/EBT cards. The market even provides free parking, making it a friendly place to connect with local farmers and artists.
Recognized as North Carolina’s Favorite Farmers Market for two years, it stands out for more than just its fresh produce. With fun events like cooking demos and live music on Saturdays, the market actively supports local farming and community growth. Its dedication to farmers and local businesses gets noticed nationally in events like “America’s Farmers Market Celebration: No Farms, No Food.”
Location: Downtown Matthews
Address: 188 N Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
