A bubbly city in the suburbs
Once a sleepy rail town, Matthews’ main drag has blossomed into a bustling strip where active families and young couples convene.
The growing town of Matthews, set between Charlotte and Monroe southeast of Uptown, was home to just under 200 residents when it was chartered in 1879. The history of this once-sleepy borough is beautifully preserved in downtown Matthews, where an old rail car, hardware store and history museum now mingle with a larger strip of up-and-coming bars, coffee shops and restaurants. Community vibes spark at Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse and Grill, an Irish/English joint with a heady beer selection. And local talent shines at Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts, where kids take acting classes and more seasoned thespians take the stage.