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Mural Guide to the Blue Ridge Foothills 🎨
Take a journey through the small towns of the Blue Ridge Foothills and discover a vibrant collection of murals that tell the story of our communities. From historical tributes and vintage advertisements to interactive scavenger hunts and abstract designs, the murals found in Rutherfordton, Spindale, and Forest City capture the creativity, culture, and heritage of the region.
Whether you're looking for the perfect photo op, an artistic walking tour, or a glimpse into local history, this guide will lead you to some of the most eye-catching and meaningful murals in the area.
🎨 Rutherfordton: A Walkable Mural Experience
Recently named "Small Town of the Year" by the N.C. Rural Center, Rutherfordton boasts the largest collection of murals in the county, all within easy walking distance of downtown.
Rutherfordton, NC Mural (152 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – Snap a selfie in front of this bold welcome mural on the side of C&H Wholesale.
Rutherfordton Trails Mural (217 N. Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – A mural celebrating the four historic trails that run through the town, created by the Rutherford County Visual Arts Center.
"Historic Guests" Mural (196 N. Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – Located at Victorian Lace Antique Mall, this historic downtown scene features a few famous faces—can you spot them?
Coca-Cola "Welcome Friends" Mural (163 N. Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – Featuring a calendar of local events, this classic Coca-Cola mural welcomes visitors to downtown Rutherfordton.
Finding the Joy! Mural (116 W. Court St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – A bright and uplifting sunrise mural painted by the owner of Small Town Coffee Roasters.
The "Mint Master" Mural (121 W. Court St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – A tribute to Christopher Bechtler, the man who minted America’s first one-dollar gold coin in Rutherfordton in 1832.
Red Rock Cola Ghost Mural (143 Central St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139) – A vintage ghost mural currently being restored to honor Red Rock Cola.
🌟 Coming Soon: International Art Movement Mural!
Rutherfordton will soon be home to North Carolina’s first-ever International Art Movement Mural—the America Nature’s Horizon National Mural Mosaic. This massive piece, featuring over 200 hand-painted tiles from artists across the country, will be unveiled on April 22, 2025, on the C&H Wholesale building.
🎶 Spindale: Where Music Meets Art
Known for its rich musical heritage, Spindale’s murals reflect the town’s deep connection to the arts and entertainment industry.
WGMA Radio Mural (300 W. Main St., Spindale, NC 28160) – Though the radio station is no longer operating, the mural stands as a tribute to the local music scene.
Art Stops: B Sharp Music
🏛️ Forest City: Classic American Town, Classic Murals
With a walkable downtown filled with shopping, dining, and historic charm, Forest City is home to some of the region’s most interactive and detailed murals.
Scavenger Hunt Mural (149 E. Main St., Forest City, NC 28043) – One of the most interactive murals in the state, this massive work of art features 70 hidden items—can you find them all?
The Fountain at Smith’s Drugs Mural (East Main St., Forest City, NC 28043) – Inside The Fountain at Smith’s Drugs, enjoy a meal surrounded by a mural depicting Forest City during the stagecoach days.
Rutherford County Farm Museum Mural (240 Depot St., Forest City, NC 28043) – This indoor mural at the Farm Museum tells the story of Rutherford County’s agricultural past, when "cotton was king".
Bonus Murals:
Forest City Wings Mural (Mural artist unknown)
Forest City Change Mural (Mural artist unknown)
Forest City Dreamweavers Mural (Mural artist unknown)
Art Stops: Studio 828, Twisted Pear, Bairsden Pottery (by appointment only), Weitzel Art
🖌 Explore, Snap, and Share!
The murals of Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Foothills are more than just works of art—they’re a celebration of our history, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re looking for a fun scavenger hunt, a photo-worthy backdrop, or a glimpse into our past, these murals make every visit memorable.
📸 Don’t forget to share your mural tour photos using #RCMuralsTour!
