I love to explore Goodwill stores that are outside my neighborhood, but sometimes it’s hard to find a good excuse to make the drive.
Here’s my latest adventure guide for a Saturday morning out in Davidson and Cornelius that will give you all the reasons you need to make a short trek down the highway.
Grab your market bags and shopping tote and head out for a day near the lake!
Summit Coffee: 128 S. Main St. Davidson NC 28036
Your first stop should be at this little gem of a coffee shop right on Main Street in the heart of historic Davidson. Grab an early-morning cup of joe, and take it go for your next stop.
PHOTO from www.summitcoffee.com
This is one of my all-time favorite farmers’ markets. Aside from local fruits, vegetables, and pasture-raised meats, you’ll find all sorts of gourmet goodies, like artisan breads, granola, cheeses, pastas, and preserves. But my favorite vendor is Chef Charles, who specializes in charcuterie, as well and authentic French breads and pastries, including what you’ve been holding out for – an almond croissant. Get one of these delectable treats to go with your coffee for a perfect breakfast, or for something savory, try an individual-sized quiche, which they’ll pop right in the toaster oven for you, if you’re willing to wait.
Davidson Chocolate Co. : 610 Jetton St., Ste. 150, Davidson NC 28036
To finish the gourmet portion of your day, head to this little shop of confections where you can get a sweet to save for later. Davidson Chocolates has a good variety of chocolates, including the more traditional selection and a lovely case full of handcrafted truffles. My favorites: the beehive (a creamy truffle with a honey surprise in the center), the blueberry lemongrass truffle, and the cat’s paw (cashews, caramel, and chocolate).
PHOTO: Urban Spoon
Goodwill: 19710 Kunkleman Drive Cornelius, NC 28031
Now the highlight of your day out: Goodwill! In my opinion, no adventure is truly complete without a stop at the neighborhood thrift store. Because of local donations, every Goodwill reflects the community that it’s in, giving each store its own personality. See what treasures you can dig up at the Cornelius store, whether it’s more items to round out your summer wardrobe, something for a DIY project, or maybe even a cozy bleach blanket that will be just perfect for your last stop.
Jetton Park: 19000 Jetton Rd., Cornelius 28031
Surely you picked up plenty of delicious food at the farmers’ market, so why not have a picnic in the park? This 106-acre park is on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Norman. It includes paved bike and hiking trails, tennis courts, a playground, a formal garden, and picnic areas with grills. If you grabbed some of Gilcrest Natural Farm’s all natural beef and pork hotdogs, throw those on the grill, or slice up a tomato and a country loaf for a simple sandwich with fresh lettuce or pimiento cheese. Afterwards, relax on the sandy beach with a paperback from Goodwill. You’ll never know you’re just a few miles from home!
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