Want to explore Pineville? Here are 5 ways to experience the town for less than $50 a day.


Travel around North Carolina for $50 or less


Just a 20-minute drive from Uptown is one of many small town downtowns near Charlotte. In historic downtown Pineville, you’ll not only find a tight-knit community, but you’ll also find locally owned shops, restaurants and more.

If you’re looking for a new way to spend a day, here are 5 things to do in Pineville for less than $50 a day:

Start the day with donuts

Location: MJ Donuts, 325 S Polk St, Pineville, NC 28134

This quaint shop is a couple of minutes from Main Street in downtown Pineville. The earlier you arrive at MJ Donuts, the better — because once it runs out of your favorite doughnut, that’s it for the day. Don’t leave without trying the Boston Creme donut ($2.75). Pro tip: On a good day, the worker filling your order might throw in a few glazed doughnut holes for free.

Cost: $2.75+ tax and tip

Start your day with a doughnut from MJ Donuts in Pineville.
Start your day with a doughnut from MJ Donuts in Pineville.

Go on a hunt for antiques

Location: Christie’s on Main Antiques Mall, 318 Main St, Pineville, NC 28134

This gem, which opened in 2014, has an array of treasures for you to explore. While at Christie’s on Main Antiques Mall, indulge in window shopping as you search through antiques that are more than 100 years old. The shop is known for its vintage costume jewelry collection and has many other items, such as furniture, tea sets, records and more.

Cost: Free, unless something catches your eye.

[READ NEXT: On the hunt for unique treasures? 11 best antique shops in the Charlotte area]

Hunt for treasures at Christie’s on Main in downtown Pineville.
Hunt for treasures at Christie’s on Main in downtown Pineville.

Eat lunch at a local cafe in Pineville

Location: Unwind Tea & Coffee, 333 Main St, Pineville, NC 28134

The name says it all, right? Take a break, relax and unwind in the heart of Pineville while you enjoy a sandwich from Unwind Tea & Coffee’s midday menu. At Unwind, guests can choose coffee, tea and smoothies and breakfast and lunch options. Order the Green Goddess Panini, with avocado, goat cheese, tomato, spinach and housemade pesto ($9.95) and a small Iced Chai Latte ($3.25).

Cost: $13.20+ tax and tip

Have lunch at Unwind Tea & Coffee in downtown Pineville.
Have lunch at Unwind Tea & Coffee in downtown Pineville.

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Spend time on the ice

Location: Pineville Ice House, 400 Towne Centre Blvd, Pineville, NC 28134

Spend the afternoon getting active and having fun at Pineville Ice House. The ice house is home to a rink that’s comparable to NHL rinks. There’s also a pro shop, a restaurant and bar and more. Public skate admission includes rental skates and skating for the entire session ($15). Be sure to check the calendar to learn more about public skate options and details.

Cost: $15+ tax

Cool off by hitting the ice at Pineville Ice House.
Cool off by hitting the ice at Pineville Ice House.

Eat St. Louis-style pizza in Pineville

Location: Margaux’s Wine, Pizza & Market, 316 Main St, Pineville, NC 28134

End your day of exploring Pineville with pizza at Margaux’s Wine, Pizza & Market outdoor seating area. The restaurant opened last year in Pineville and has been the go-to place in the area for St. Louis-style pizza. Other menu options include charcuterie and cheese boards, calzones, salad, sandwiches and more. You can also shop the market for a variety of seasonal items. Order the Margauxʼs Southern Heat pizza — grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, house blend of cheeses, red onions, and jalapeños. It’s served with a side of ranch ($16.50).

Cost: $16.50+ tax and tip

Order the Margauxʼs Southern Heat — grilled chicken, house blend of cheeses, Buffalo sauce, red onions and jalapenos, served with a side of ranch.
Order the Margauxʼs Southern Heat — grilled chicken, house blend of cheeses, Buffalo sauce, red onions and jalapenos, served with a side of ranch.

Total cost for your day in downtown Pineville: $47.45 + tax and tip.

[READ NEXT: New 2-story restaurant opening in downtown Pineville with extensive cocktail menu]