Town Square

Oak Ridge’s dream of creating a “village feel” is tied up in traffic.

Franklin’s proximity to Atlanta, Florida and the Appalachian Trail makes it a getaway hot spot.

Aberdeen, the town just south of North Carolina’s famous golfing mecca is growing in its own, unpretentious way.

Popularized by elite Charlestonians nearly 200 years ago, tiny Flat Rock’s mix of camping, theaters and Carl Sandburg’s aura make it a favored mountain hangout.

Once among the state’s wealthiest towns, Warrenton attracts newcomers with an entrepreneurial spirit.

History, arts and culture converge in downtown Hillsborough.

Plans for a downtown cultural district and a major investment by an international furniture company lift Lexington’s spirits.

Native sons instill art and entrepreneurship in, Farmville, a Pitt County town built on tobacco.

Belmont hums along as a quieter alternative to the bustling Queen City.

The center of the Christmas-tree world and North Carolina’s cheese market is nestled in an increasingly popular western hamlet.