Situated Between Charlotte And Greensboro Is This North Carolina City That's An Impressive Hub Of Art

It may be overshadowed by its bigger neighboring cities — Charlotte and Greensboro — but Salisbury, North Carolina actually has a lot going for it. Like many small cities across the state, it has tons of beautiful architecture and points of historical interest. There are locally owned restaurants serving up delicious food, majestic nearby parks for hiking and camping, and plenty of community events, like festivals and craft shows. 

However, what really sets Salisbury apart from other North Carolina cities is its status as an arts hub (although this artsy North Carolina shopping mecca is a good runner-up). Whether you're a professional artist, a hobbyist, or just someone who loves creative experiences, you're bound to be moved by the sheer amount of imagination that's on tap here. What's even more inspiring is that Salisbury's vibrant art scene helps renew its community, despite the crime challenges it faces. From art galleries to live entertainment and opportunities to develop your own artistic skills, there's no shortage of aesthetic experiences to be had in Salisbury. Heck, the city even decorates many of its public areas with sculptures created by East Coast sculptors.

Getting to Salisbury isn't too difficult, as it's only about an hour's drive from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The best times to visit are spring for its moderate temperatures and vibrant blooming flowers, and fall for its stunning foliage and festive atmosphere.

Salisbury is home to many talented artists and features many ways to appreciate their works. For example, there's Rail Walk Studios and Gallery, wherein a group of artists have their own studios to work on their craft and collaborate with other artists. The space is open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., allowing visitors to explore various solo and group shows, and even chat with the artists themselves.

Another place to view captivating works of art is Waterworks Visual Arts Center, a nonprofit organization that fosters creativity in the community through the presentation and teaching of the arts. Its museum frequently features the works of artists from both the past and the present, and is free of charge to the public.

And for those who are more interested in historic art, there's Old Sarum Gallery, which can be found in Historic Downtown Salisbury. This gallery specializes in fine art from the 19th and 20th centuries that is available for purchase. You can even have your paintings restored and appraised here. They're open on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as by appointment. If you want even more interesting art and culture to view, North Carolina's "City Of Four Seasons" has many quirky museums.

There's more than just fine art to be appreciated in Salisbury, as the city is also home to an active performing arts scene, too. Class things up with an evening with the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, which performs a wide range of works from the great classical composers of the past to masters of contemporary music. They generally perform at Livingstone College's Varick Auditorium and Catawba College's Keppel Auditorium, but their season closer always takes place by the Salisbury Post office building with the free concert, "Pops at the Post."

The Piedmont Players Theatre started as a small group of stage performers doing small shows together in 1961 but has since become one of the more recognized theatre organizations in the state. They perform many classic productions, including lively musicals, powerful dramas, and zany comedies. Their large-scale productions are held at the Merony Theater, while their youth productions take place at the Norvell Theater.

If you're in the mood for performing arts that are a little more edgy and modern, then look no further than Lee Street Theater. Their productions include but aren't limited to variety shows, reader's theater, original plays, and improv comedy. This theater company specializes in showcasing the work of up-and-coming creators and has premiered many contemporary productions.

It's hard to be exposed to so much creative talent on display in Salisbury and not be inspired to give it a go yourself. Luckily, the city has plenty of ways for you to dip your toe into the arts or take your skills to the next level if you're already an experienced artist. Art & Soul Rowan (formerly the Center for Faith & the Arts) is a nonprofit organization that shines a spotlight on the power of creativity as a transformative experience that brings the community together. Their classes include Tai Chi, poetry, and painting. They also host weekly drum circles, community engagement opportunities, and an Artist in Residence program.

In addition to showcasing the works of established artists, the Waterworks Visual Arts Center hosts an impressive array of classes and workshops for all ages. Participants can delve into portraiture, painting, and many other arts and crafts. And for the pottery enthusiasts, there's Pottery 101, which hosts couples classes, visiting artist workshops, youth courses, and more. Pottery 101 also sells finished pottery works from prominent artists and hosts opening receptions. Top off an artsy stay in Salisbury by taking a break from it all at this secret lakeside retreat in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains just two hours away.