If you’re attending a wedding at the 1812 Hitching Post and want to locate some fun and “unique-local-flavor” activities nearby, here are several ideas that combine walking, food, charm, and outdoor fun. The Hitching Post itself offers on-site walking trails along our lake and through the woods. We’d love for you to visit!
Step “back in time” — Explore Love Valley’s Western-style town & trails
What makes Love Valley special
- Love Valley is a car-free, Western-themed town — you get a genuine “Old West” vibe, with dirt streets, wooden storefronts and a no-car policy (horses and horse-drawn buggies preferred).
- The “main street” itself is a relaxed spot to stroll, explore shops or pop into a saloon or café for a bite.
Activities & highlights in and around Love Valley
- Horseback riding or buggy rides — there are rental stables and guided services if you don’t have your own horse.
- Trails in the surrounding foothills — you can hike or ride within the rolling hills of the Brushy Mountains near Love Valley.
- Local food spots & saloons — for a meal or drink, the rustic-town restaurants, saloons or small cafés give a unique, laid-back “wild-west” flavor.
- Rodeos/events (seasonal) — depending on when you visit, there may be rodeos, live music, or themed events in town.
Expand a bit — Outdoors, lake, forest & more
If you want to trade the “western-town vibes” for more typical outdoor recreation and nature:
- Lake Norman State Park — just a drive from Statesville; offers hiking, biking trails, and lake activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Great for a full-day excursion.
- Emerald Hollow Mine (near Hiddenite) — you could try gem mining: a fun, hands-on, family-friendly activity that feels very different from a typical hike or town visit.
- Stone Mountain State Park
- Girl Scout Trail (Carolina Thread Trail)
Linney’s Water Mill
Great place for stone ground flour and grits. Active mill with an authentic old store.
Love Valley
Authentic & totally unique western style town with gift shops, camping, and horseback riding.
Quail Haven Hunting Preserve (no website – less than a mile from the 1812 Hitching Post Wedding Venue)
267 Noel Rd, Harmony, NC 28634
Phone: (704) 507-4331
Cardinal Stables and Riding Academy
Food scene
Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Wineries & Spirits
Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, LLC
Southern Distilling Company -Liquor tastings available