Right in the heart of Cleveland, NC, Keaton’s Barbecue, Inc. is a beloved local spot that’s been serving families for generations. Known for its warm, nostalgic atmosphere, guests often rave about the famous hot dip chicken. Reviews praise the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside chicken, perfectly cooked in a cast iron skillet.
This café is a local favorite for ice cream, coffee, and pastries. Serving fresh coffee and the iconic Hershey’s ice cream, it’s a cozy spot with a community‑focused atmosphere, perfect for a quick stop while exploring Cleveland.
This family-owned Italian-American eatery has been a cornerstone of Cleveland’s dining scene. Mario’s offers an inviting, casual atmosphere where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy hearty dishes like made-from-scratch pizzas, pasta laden with rich sauces, and indulgent classics like chicken parmesan. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and homestyle recipes ensures every visit will be a memorable one.
A relaxed and welcoming local pub just outside Cleveland with cold drinks, rotating drafts, mixed drinks, and a friendly “Cheers‑style” vibe where regulars and visitors alike can unwind. They often host weekly specials, live music, and fun nights like karaoke, making it a great spot for a laid‑back evening with friends during your wedding weekend.
A staple of the community, Red Barn Market at Correll Farms offers fresh, locally grown produce, homemade jams, baked goods and more. Whether you’re picking up fresh ingredients for your next meal or looking for seasonal delights like pumpkins and flowers, this market celebrates Cleveland’s agricultural roots while providing top-quality goods. It’s a must-visit for anyone who values fresh, local and sustainable shopping. Be sure to call ahead to check on store hours!
Patterson Farm is a beloved Rowan County destination for fresh local produce, classic farm fun, and seasonal activities just about 10–15 minutes from Cleveland, NC. Whether guests are into picking strawberries in the spring, navigating a corn maze in the fall, or enjoying ice cream and kettle corn any time of year, this place has something for everyone.
Zootastic Park is a unique, family-friendly wildlife experience located just outside Cleveland, in Troutman, NC. Spanning several acres, this hands-on animal park offers guests the chance to see, feed, and interact with over 200 exotic and domestic animals from around the world. A fun, family-friendly outing for anyone looking for a wild adventure during the weekend!
Get ready for a wild adventure! Just a short drive from Cleveland, NC, Lazy 5 Ranch lets you explore exotic animals up close from the comfort of your car. Feed giraffes, zebras, llamas, kangaroos, and more! Perfect for fun photos and unforgettable memories.
A charming, cozy antique and artisan marketplace just down the road in Mount Ulla. This spot is known for a curated selection of unique vintage pieces, timeless antiques, and handmade artisan goods. Everything from décor and furniture to quirky collectibles and one‑of‑a‑kind finds. It’s perfect for guests who love browsing treasures, picking up local gifts, or just soaking in some small‑town NC charm.
Known locally as “The Bullhole,” this scenic nature park on the South Yadkin River is a great spot for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. It features a historic stone dam with gentle cascading falls, a natural sandy beach, picnic areas, wooded trails, and river access perfect for swimming, floating, wading, fishing, or just spreading a blanket and chilling in nature.