Stony Point, North Carolina, is a tiny, rural Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Area community. It's a quiet place, quintessentially countrified in its sensibilities and appeal, and part of both Iredell and Alexander Counties. It is also a census-designated place, meaning that it is unincorporated and self-governing. For its 1,500+ residents, that means freedom and solidarity, and that's exactly how they like it. Their identity as a town is not about numbers. It's about being part of a hard-working community that supports each other in ways you don't find in big-city life. As one resident put it, "If I had this to do over again, yes, I would still choose to live here because of the people." As part of two of the oldest counties in the state, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in the area.

A hearty breakfast at Pat's Place in Statesville is a great way to start your morning. This favorite local diner features some of the finest homestyle cooking anywhere. Or grab an amazing donut at MJ's Daylight Donuts. (Heck, grab two or three, even. We won't tell.)

Next, mosey down the road a bit to River Oaks Golf Club. This challenging, five-star course can help you work off that big breakfast and test your skills. It's also lovely, surrounded by the rolling foothills of Western Piedmont.

Or perhaps you'd rather trade that golf cart in for a shopping cart? If so, head to Resettlers, a sprawling antique mall brimming with treasures and collectibles to suit every interest. Meanwhile, Burke's Outlet Store has bargains galore.

Is it lunchtime yet? Groucho's Deli is calling you and says they have an STP Dipper with your name on it. These folks have been feeding the neighborhood since 1941, so if you haven't been there yet, you are missing out on a legendary Tar Heel institution.

And speaking of institutions, you don't want to miss Iredell Museums. It's a family-friendly place with interactive exhibits, history, science, and art displays, and an ever-changing roster of fun events that offer something for everyone.

Lastly, are you brave enough to catch the Statesville train? It's at the Bostian Bridge, and it's a ghost train. On August 27, 1891, one of the worst train accidents in North Carolina history happened there and claimed the lives of 23 people. Rumor has it those lost souls have been haunting the bridge ever since. Some people even say that the ghost train passes through every year precisely on the anniversary of the disaster.

Plenty of other spooky things go bump in the night around Stony Point, too. But if you hear strange sounds coming from your basement, it's probably more likely that you have a pest issue, not a haunting. If invasive pests like ants, roaches, and termites rattle your chain, contact At Ease Pest Solutions, and we'll take care of it. We are your local solution to pest problems and is ready to serve you with multiple pest control packages.