Union Grove Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Union Grove, North Carolina? Check out our comprehensive travel guide with information on things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Union Grove

Located in the Charlotte metro area of North Carolina, Union Grove is a quaint town in the Piedmont region of the state. It’s situated in the southern United States of America, in the North American continent. Despite its small size, Union Grove has a lot to offer visitors in terms of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and amazing scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Union Grove

No matter what your interests may be, Union Grove has a little something for everyone. Here is a list of must-see places to visit during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Union Grove School - This restored one-room schoolhouse offers a glimpse into what education was like in North Carolina during the 19th century.
  • Iredell County Courthouse - Built in 1899, this historic courthouse is a great place to learn about Iredell County’s past.
  • Fort Dobbs State Historic Site - Just a short drive outside of town, this site features the remnants of an 18th-century frontier fort and a museum.

Natural Attractions of Union Grove: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • High Rock Lake - This beautiful lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, boating, and all types of water sports.
  • Stone Mountain State Park - Located just a few miles away from Union Grove, Stone Mountain State Park is a great place to hike, bike, camp, or just enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Brushy Mountains - This mountain range, which includes Pores Knob, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is perfect for hikers and nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Union Grove

If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, Union Grove has plenty of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for exploring the area. Some of the best routes include:

  • Stone Mountain Loop Trail - This 4.5-mile loop trail takes you through beautiful forests, over streams, and to the top of Stone Mountain.
  • Yadkin River Blueway - This trail follows the Yadkin River for over 130 miles and is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
  • Lake Norman State Park Trail - This 6.5-mile trail takes you through stunning forests and along the shores of Lake Norman.

Best Things to Do in Union Grove: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or alone, there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Union Grove. Here are some popular activities and tours:

  • Wine Tasting Tours - Union Grove is part of the Yadkin Valley wine region, and there are several wineries and vineyards nearby that offer tastings and tours.
  • Skydiving Adventures - If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try skydiving? There are several companies in the area that offer skydiving experiences.
  • Horseback Riding - Take a leisurely ride through the Brushy Mountains and enjoy the scenery on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for Union Grove

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Union Grove, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Fort Dobbs State Historic Site
2 Hike the Stone Mountain Loop Trail
3 Visit the Union Grove School and the Iredell County Courthouse
4 Relax on High Rock Lake
5 Take a wine tasting tour of the Yadkin Valley
6 Go skydiving or take a horseback ride
7 Explore Stone Mountain State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Union Grove

If you’re a foodie, Union Grove won’t disappoint. The town and surrounding area have plenty of great restaurants and local dishes to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue Pork - North Carolina is known for its barbecue, and Union Grove is no exception. Try some slow-cooked pork with vinegar-based sauce for a true taste of the South.
  • Fried Chicken - This Southern staple is a must-try while in Union Grove.
  • Pimento Cheese - This cheesy spread is a Southern classic and a great snack.

Local Beverages

  • Yadkin Valley Wines - The Yadkin Valley wine region is known for producing some of the best wines in North Carolina.
  • Craft Beer - The area also has several craft breweries that are worth checking out.

Where to Stay in Union Grove: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, there are plenty of options in and around Union Grove.

  • Hampton Inn Statesville - This hotel offers comfortable rooms and amenities like an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Statesville - This budget-friendly option offers clean and comfortable rooms with a complimentary breakfast included.
  • Brushy Mountain Lodge - This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the Brushy Mountains and offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Union Grove: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some options:

  • Artisanal Crafts - There are several shops in Union Grove that sell handmade crafts like pottery, quilts, and jewelry.
  • Wine - Bring home a bottle or two of locally-produced Yadkin Valley wine.
  • Pimento Cheese - This cheesy Southern staple is available in many grocery stores in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Union Grove

The people of Union Grove are proud of their Southern heritage and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and manners, which include being polite and friendly to everyone you meet and dressing modestly in public.

Best Time to Visit Union Grove

The best time to visit Union Grove is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Union Grove

Do:

  • Do try the barbecue pork and other Southern dishes while in town.
  • Do explore the scenic outdoor areas like Stone Mountain State Park and High Rock Lake.
  • Do be friendly and respectful of local customs and manners.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of local customs, especially when it comes to clothing and manners.
  • Don’t leave trash or disturb wildlife in outdoor areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Union Grove

Union Grove is a generally safe town, but visitors should take common sense precautions like not leaving valuables in their cars and being aware of their surroundings when walking alone at night.

Health in Union Grove

Union Grove has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, in case of emergency. Visitors should also make sure to bring any necessary prescription medication with them.

Getting to Union Grove: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Union Grove is easy, whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Union Grove

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport - Located approximately 50 miles south of Union Grove, this is the nearest major airport.
  • Piedmont Triad International Airport - Located approximately 70 miles northeast of Union Grove.

Bus Stations Near Union Grove

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in nearby Statesville, NC.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - There are several car rental companies in the area, which offer affordable rates and convenient pick-up and drop-off locations.

How to Get Around in Union Grove

While having a car is the easiest way to get around town, visitors can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Biking and walking are also great options, especially for exploring the outdoor areas.

Where to Go Next from Union Grove: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the area, there are several nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Winston-Salem, NC - Located approximately 40 miles east of Union Grove, Winston-Salem is known for its arts and culture scene and historic architecture.
  • Asheville, NC - Located approximately 100 miles west of Union Grove, Asheville is a popular destination for outdoor adventures and craft beer lovers.
  • Blue Ridge Parkway - This scenic highway runs through the Appalachian Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Union Grove may be a small town, but it has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just enjoying some Southern hospitality, Union Grove is definitely worth your time.