Waxhaw

It is still a quaint historic town where people wave to one another and ask about their day. Whether you are at the annual Fourth of July parade or walking along the sidewalks in an exciting new subdivision, you feel a sense of community that is hard to find in the 21st century. 

 

 

Despite the fact that Waxhaw is becoming a popular place to live in the Charlotte Metropolitan Area, it still feels like the small town it was when it was founded in 1889. A group called the Main Street Advisory Board keeps the area revitalized, and the town offers so many ways for residents to get out and meet their neighbors. However, for those who want to venture out and see the world, Waxhaw's location along the border of North and South Carolina means it is just minutes from Charlotte — 12 miles south to be exact — and other cities like Rock Hill and Monroe.

 

Based on billions of social media posts, these scores show how common certain lifestyles and interests are here.

 

 

History

During the mid-1700s, German and Scotch-Irish settlers moved to the area and created their own community. Over a century later, in 1889, Waxhaw became prosperous after a railroad placed in the center of town allowed residents access to Atlanta and allowed local cotton and textile merchants to sell their products. The railroad remains in place today near Waxhaw's Historic District which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Quick Facts

• Population: 16,181
  
  
• Waxhaw gets its name from the Waxhaw Native American tribe that once lived in the region. Today, this entire area of the Piedmont along the North and South Carolina border is known as the Waxhaws.
  
  
• The first gold discovered in the United States was not far from the Waxhaw city limits.
  
  
• Living in Waxhaw means getting to know your neighbors. The town holds regular events like concerts, parades, and First Fridays in the summer, a night when businesses stay open late and people gather in town for fun activities.
  
  
• Waxhaw has its own farmer's market. Visitors can purchase farm-fresh meat, eggs, and seasonal produce, as well as plants, flowers, artisanal foods, and natural health and beauty products from local vendors.
  
  
• Local professionals will enjoy the fact that Waxhaw has its own Rotary Club. It was founded in 2004.
  
  
• Though there is some dispute about the exact location, President Andrew Jackson was born in the Waxhaw area.

Local Attractions

Waxhaw is a friendly town, and there is always something going on. It is also a business-friendly town, which means plenty of independent shops and restaurants line the streets in the historic area surrounding the railroad. Enjoy delicious food at an array of restaurants, ranging from farm-fresh Southern cuisine to authentic Italian. There are also many historic sites in the area dedicated to Andrew Jackson and the Native Americans who originally called the town home.

 

Dining

• Emmett's Social Table - a local favorite serving a variety of small plates. Try the crispy fried-green tomatoes, glazed brussels, korean wings and more.
  
  
• They also have a gluten-free menu so everyone can enjoy the menu. The outdoor area is a great place to meet up with friends and family to unwind.
  
  
• Provisions - a local family-owned business located in downtown Waxhaw. Shop for local foods in their store or dine in the restaurant 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch. They also offer a 45 seat community room that can be rented for special events.
  
  
• Stacks Kitchen - Stacks Kitchen has two locations in Matthews and on N. Broome Street in Waxhaw. Famous for serving breakfast all day, residents love to dine on its waffles, pancakes, and omelets.
  
  
• Maxwell's Tavern - Maxwell's Tavern on East South Main Street is part sports bar, part family-friendly casual dining place. Its menu features something for everyone with classic favorites like burgers, pulled pork, steak, and seafood.

Transportation

• NC By Train - Waxhaw does not offer public transportation, but residents can be at most transportation destinations in the Charlotte city limits within an hour or so. The Charlotte Station is about 25 miles north of Waxhaw.
  
  
• Airports - Charlotte Doulas International Airport is approximately 32 miles north of Waxhaw.

Shopping

• Carolina Place - Just north of Waxhaw in Charlotte is Carolina Place. The mall is home to dozens of your favorite stores like Dillard's, Belk, Dick's Sporting Goods, REI, H&M, and JC Penney. It also features several restaurants and a children's play area.
  
  
• Downtown Waxhaw - Not everyone loves big box stores and chains, and Downtown Waxhaw is the place to get away from that. You will find boutiques, antique shops, and independent restaurants all around the historic town. After shopping, visit the area's iconic pedestrian bridge that goes right over the railroad tracks.
  
  
• Grocery Stores - For your everyday shopping needs, Waxhaw is home to Harris Teeter, Food Lion, and Walmart, as well as several smaller stores.

Things To Do

• Historic Walking Tours - Because Waxhaw is so rich with history, the town offers maps and info for people interested in writing, biking, and driving tours through the older parts of the area. Stops on the list include Waxhaw Methodist Church, the Old Post Office, and Niven-Price Company, as well as prominent old houses.
  
  
• Museum of the Waxhaws - To get a sense of the area’s history and enjoy a day of family fun, a visit to the Museum of the Waxhaws is a must. It serves as a memorial to Andrew Jackson, and it features several exhibits focused on the seventh president. There is also a Waxhaw Indian Village, Secret Homestead, and a Heritage Garden.
  
  
• Storefront Theatre - You don’t have to drive to Charlotte or another big city to take in a little culture. Waxhaw has its own Storefront Theatre. As of 2020 — 2021, it is in its fourteenth season. Some of its plays have included Country Songs, We Like Short Shorts, and The Cemetery Club.
  
  
• Queen's Cup Steeplechase - The Queen's Cup Steeplechase takes place in neighboring Mineral Springs every spring at Brooklandwood. It's a must for horse-racing enthusiasts, but it's also a fun-filled day for people of all ages. You can pet the race horses, and there are pony rides for kids. Live music, food, tailgating, fun hats, and gorgeous flowers are all part of the atmosphere.
  
  
• Andrew Jackson State Park - There are many parks in the Waxhaw area, but Andrew Jackson State Park in nearby Lancaster, SC is a popular one. There is a museum, living history programs, trails, a lake for fishing, and picnic and camping areas.

Real Estate Information

At the rate the Waxhaw area is growing, it is not surprise that there it so much new construction in the area. What separates the area from many others, however, is that it is quality new construction. Think 3-sided brick homes, side-entry garages, 1+-acre lots, and beautiful landscaping. The neighborhoods also offer great amenities, like pools, tennis courts, walking trails, and playgrounds.