It wasn't until the late 1560s that the first European settlers arrived in the south-central area of what is now North Carolina. Spanish explorer Juan Pardo encountered Native Americans called the Waxhaws. The first colonists arrived here, mostly Germans and Scots, in the mid-1700s. Waxhaw was incorporated in 1889, and you can get a glimpse into the town's history at the Historic District.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, the district has almost 100 structures. Some of the oldest buildings include the R.J. Belk Company Store (c. 1894), the Ralph J. Belk House (c. 1885), Duncan McDonald House (c. 1888), and A.W. Heath Company Stores (c. 1898). The architecture here are examples of multiple styles like Queen Anne, Romanesque Revival, Bungalow, American Craftsman, and Commercial. The registration form for entry into the National Register is a history lesson unto itself.

One hundred structures are a lot to look at, and you may have a big appetite when you finish. Grab a famous burger at Maxwell's Tavern without leaving the district. Try the burger of the month and submit your ideas for coming creations. Maxwell's Tavern Burger tops the list, and enjoy one with a Southern favorite side dish of fried pickles and a craft beer. The owners have over 100 years of combined experience, and their mission is to be the best in the area.

As children, licking the cookie dough off the spoon was a treat. Today you can reminisce and choose from over 20 flavors of ready-to-eat cookie dough at Cookie Dough Bliss & Creamery. No spoon is needed when served in a waffle cone, dough pops, and ice cream sandwiches. Some of the best flavors are Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirl, Bourbon Butter Pecan, and Peanut Butter Paradise. For the less daring, old standby vanilla and chocolate are available.

For an in-depth look into the area's history, spend some time at the Museum of the Waxhaws. Learn about President Andrew Jackson's connection to the area, life in the Waxhaw Tribe, how the Waxhaws became known as the flatheads, and more. Many events are held at the museum annually, and the mix has an eclectic appeal. Pay a visit for the Haunted Walking Tour, Party with the Pirates, Colonial Tavern Night, or the Pulled Pork & Chicken BBQ-To-Go.

Since 2001, The Waxhaw Farmer's Market has been producer-only. The vendors here grow their fresh farm foods and produce hand-made goods. Some local vendors are Dawn & Daughters Growers, Happy Pigs Farm, and J Brooks Family Farm. Along with the great food choices, you can find woodwork, pottery, all-natural skincare, and much more. The market is open every other Saturday morning, and you'll want to get there early because it is only open from 10 am to 12 pm.

Residents enjoy the local products, but one thing that's not so pleasant is the local pests. Termites, bed bugs, and ants are part of Waxhaw life, but there is a solution. Contact the area's #1 rated pest control service for an estimate, At Ease Pest Solutions.