Explore Cooleemee

On the southern outskirts of Davie County, the quaint town of Cooleemee marks a spot on the map that may be overlooked by some but is embraced and enjoyed by those who love the outdoors and want to escape the bustling streets of busy cities.

A Historic Mill Town

With a population of around 1,000 people, the small town of Cooleemee has its origins as a Mill Town; it served to provide housing for workers turning cotton into wool. The Mill shut down in 1967, but despite this, a good portion of the residents continued to live in Cooleemee, thus forming the community we know today. 

Cooleemee is Preserving the Past

The history of Cooleemee is rich with interesting stories, photographs, and tales of a time that many do not remember. The Cooleemee Historical Association hosts its main operations at the Zachary House, which serves as the Textile Heritage Museum.

Historic Zachary House

The house is the former mill manager’s home, and the exhibits showcase what this cotton mill town was like in its heyday. In addition to the Zachary House, the Mill House Museum sits one block away on Church Street and is a preserved mill house built in 1905. Artifacts from a distant time illustrate what life as a mill worker in this small town would have been like.

Both the Zachary House and Mill House Museum are open for tours on Tuesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m, as well as by appointment. Cooleemee is passionate about preserving its history and the stories that come from it.

A Day Tripper’s Delight

In addition to its rich history, Cooleemee is also home to wonderful outdoor activities and scenery. The RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls, also called The Bullhole, is an outdoor delight centering along the shores of the South Yadkin.  Visitors can swim, hike along trails, or relax on the sandy shores.

Riding the mini rapids in a float is a favorite activity for many. Fishers are also fans of the RiverPark, with anglers of all ages casting rods into the water. The picnic shelters are also available to enjoy picnics or have small gatherings, and a larger shelter can be rented for bigger events.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Cooleemee

RiverPark’s mission is to preserve the South Yadkin while offering an attraction for people to enjoy the great outdoors.

Interested in more outdoor activities? The Cooleemee Park at the corner of Marginal St. and Duke St. is a great place for the kids to enjoy the playground and get active. Parents and kids alike can walk down the sidewalk on Marginal St. and take in the small-town atmosphere.

Where to Eat in Cooleemee

For a bite to eat, Cooleemee’s very own Hot Diggity Dogs and Ice Cream restaurant is the one-stop shop to get your fixins and dessert. This little restaurant is clean, friendly, and serves homestyle American entrees that are sure to have you coming back. Menu items like beef hot dogs, burgers, nachos, chicken salad, and even roast beef subs are all ready to order for a reasonable price! Fans of sweet treats will love their famous ice cream selection that includes shakes, splits, scoops, and sundaes. 

Authentic Mexican Food & Shopping in Cooleemee

El Sol Market has authentic Mexican desserts and tacos that are fan favorites. Located right outside the city limits at 7647 NC Highway 801 South, El Sol Market “has the best tacos in town.”

Cooleemee is a Unique Small Town

Cooleemee is never short on unique seasonal events. From the Duck Race, Christmas Parade, Independence Day Lawn Mower Parade, and other holiday celebrations, Cooleemee is the place to be for small-town festivities. 

Cooleemee is not just a place to pass by, but rather a community worth taking the time to see for yourself. For more information, visit cooleemee.org.