Are you thinking about a visit to Love Valley, NC? Or are you a horse lover or cowboy or girl at heart wanting a unique place to visit?
If yes, I have just the place for you!
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Imagine walking into a town with no cars, no pavement, and no rush. Just horses, wooden sidewalks, and a whole lot of cowboy charm. Sounds like something out of a movie, right? Nope—this place is real, and it’s called Love Valley, North Carolina.
And guess what?
I’ve been there more times than I can count over the last ten years.
I’ve seen Love Valley when it’s busy and buzzing—like the time I went during a breast cancer awareness fundraiser where everyone (and every horse!) wore pink.
I’ve also been there during their Halloween parade, which is absolutely adorable. Picture kids in costumes riding horses that are also dressed up.
It’s the kind of thing that makes you stop and smile for no reason.
But I’ve also been to Love Valley when nothing was going on—and that was kind of perfect, too. The town gets quiet, almost like a ghost town, and that’s when I got some of my best photos. Just me, the wind, and the sound of horses in the distance.
And yes, I’ve had a beer (or two) at Shelby’s Place and The Misfit Coral, where the conversations are as real as the cowboys having them. You never know who you’ll meet—but chances are, they’ll have a good story and be happy to share it.
So if you’re curious about this little cowboy town and wondering if it’s worth the trip, stick around. I’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit—whether you’re coming for the fun, the food, or just to feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
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About Love Valley, NC
Tucked into the Brushy Mountains of North Carolina, Love Valley was founded in 1954 by Andy Barker, a man with a dream to build an old-fashioned cowboy town—with a church in the middle, of course.
Today, it’s still very much the real deal: wooden storefronts, dirt roads, and horses tied up outside the saloon are all part of everyday life.
Love Valley is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves rustic, off-the-beaten-path adventures. It’s especially great for horseback riders, photographers, and those of us who can appreciate a little rugged authenticity.
This isn’t a polished tourist trap — it’s a real working town with a lot of heart (and a lot of horses).
If you’re looking for something truly unique in North Carolina — something you’ll be talking about for years — Love Valley deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
How To Get To Love Valley
Getting to Love Valley is an adventure in itself. You’ll drive country roads and pass rolling fields before you reach the gates of town. Use 133 Henry Martin Trail, Statesville, NC 28625 in your GPS to find it.
- From Charlotte: 60 miles
- From Raleigh: 160 miles
- From Asheville: 116 miles
- From Wilmington: 289 miles
Once you arrive, you’ll notice something different right away: no cars allowed past the town gate.
There’s a small, free parking lot just outside the town gate where you’ll leave your car behind. From there, it’s boots on the ground — or saddle up if you’ve brought a horse.
Best Things To Do In Love Valley
There may not be a movie theater in Love Valley, but it sure feels like a movie set. The dirt roads, old-timey wooden buildings, and horses everywhere make you feel like you just walked into the Wild West. And even though the town is small, there’s plenty to do—whether you’re visiting for a big event or just showing up on a quiet day to explore.
Walk Around Like a Cowboy (or Cowgirl)
One of the best things to do is just walk around. Seriously. Leave your car behind, step onto the wooden boardwalks, and pretend you’re in an old Western. You can even wear boots and a cowboy hat if you want. It’s the kind of place where that feels totally normal.
Take Photos and Videos
Love Valley is a dream for anyone who likes snapping photos or filming fun videos. Every corner of this town looks like a movie scene. You’ve got rustic wood buildings, horses tied up outside saloons, and wide-open views with not a car in sight. It’s one of the most unique photo spots in all of North Carolina.
Whether you’re shooting a video for your socials or just capturing your own Wild West moment, this place gives your inner photographer or videographer a lot to work with.
Go to an Event
If you time your visit right, you might catch one of Love Valley’s special events. I’ve been to a few over the years, and trust me, they know how to have fun. My personal favorites?
- A breast cancer awareness ride, where the whole town—including the horses—was dressed in pink.
- The Halloween parade, where kids and horses wore costumes and paraded through town. So cute it’ll make your heart melt.
- Attend an Event or Festival
- Other events include:
- Rodeos
- Barrel racing
- Live music and karaoke nights
- Street parties
- Easter egg hunts
- Cowboy Christmas celebrations
- Tip: Check the Love Valley Facebook Group before planning your trip to see what’s happening!
There’s always something exciting if you plan around it.
👉 Tip: Check the Love Valley Facebook group before you go to see what’s coming up.
Grab a Drink (and Maybe a Burger)
For a fun hangout, stop by Shelby’s Place or The Misfit Corral. They’re both part bar, part local hangout, and they serve up simple food like burgers, pizza, and salads. I’ve had some of my favorite conversations there with actual cowboys—like, real ones. The kind with boots, hats, and great stories.
Just check their hours before you go—they aren’t open every day, especially if there’s not an event happening.
Watch (or Join) the Horse Life
Horses are the stars of the show here. If you’re lucky enough to bring one, you’ll fit right in. If not, it’s still fun to watch the horses and riders trot around town like it’s totally normal. Because in Love Valley—it is normal.
During bigger events, you might even catch some action like barrel racing or cattle sorting competitions. Yeehaw!
Need to rent a horse? Keep Reading. Some options are listed below.
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Eat from a Street Vendor
When there’s an event, local vendors set up shop right on the street selling things like pizza, burgers, and hot dogs. Grab a bite, find a shady spot, and enjoy the music or the crowd. It’s casual, it’s tasty, and it adds to the whole cowboy-town vibe.
Attend a Sunday Morning Service
Another great way to connect with the community? Stop by the new Grace Church in Love Valley. It started as an outdoor gathering right on the boardwalk, with folks sitting in chairs outside, but now they’ve renovated an old building to hold services indoors.
The Pastor leads a thoughtful, come-as-you-are service every Sunday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. Whether you’re local, just passing through, or looking for a peaceful way to start your day, the doors are open to everyone.
Where to Eat in Love Valley, NC
While Love Valley is all about that cowboy life, you’ll definitely need to plan ahead a bit when it comes to meals. Food options are casual, limited, and often based on event schedules. But there are some gems you shouldn’t miss.
✅ Shelby’s Place
If Love Valley had a living room, it would be Shelby’s Place. This isn’t just a bar—it’s the kind of spot where the stories are as good as the burgers, and the locals welcome you like an old friend.
I’ve shared beers here with real cowboys and swapped stories I’ll never forget.
One guy told me he was raised by the founder of Love Valley. Another explained how donkeys are actually the best field guards—apparently, they don’t mess around when it comes to intruders. (I’ll never look at a donkey the same way again.)
Who knew!?
Shelby’s isn’t fancy, but it has soul. You can grab comfort food like pizza, burgers, or a salad, but the real treat is the people. It’s where conversations flow as easily as the drinks, and even if you walk in a stranger, you’ll likely walk out feeling like part of the town.
Here’s what makes Shelby’s extra special:
- Live music and karaoke nights that keep the fun rolling well past sundown.
- Open Thursdays from 5 PM to 2 AM, and Fridays from 5 PM until “whenever”—but heads up: they run on Cowboy Time, so always check their Facebook page for the latest.
- $2 drink specials on Thursdays (with a few exceptions) and ladies’ night + pool tournaments on Fridays (recently changed to Thursdays).
- Theme parties all year long—I’m talking Irish Parties for St. Patrick’s Day, Super Bowl bashes, New Year’s Eve countdowns, and even a group Friendsgiving!
And around Halloween? Shelby’s goes full-on wild west spooky:
- A Werewolf Ball where folks bring their dogs dressed in Halloween costumes to win prizes like a treat-filled doggy bucket.
- A Monster Mash with an adult costume contest (cash prize!)—but heads up, no kids after 9 PM.
- And one year, there was a full-blown murder mystery called “High Noon at Dead Man’s Saloon”—where guests had to figure out who the murderer was…because apparently, they were “walking among us.” (Cue dramatic cowboy music.)
If you get a chance to stop by Shelby’s while you’re in town, do it. Even if there’s no event happening, the stories, the company, and the atmosphere are always worth the ride.
✅ The Misfit Coral
The Misfit Corral is one of those places that you might walk right past if you’re not paying attention—and honestly, I almost did.
I’d been to Love Valley plenty of times before, but I didn’t discover this little gem until my most recent trip.
The sign isn’t big or flashy, and the wooden building blends in with the town’s rustic vibe. But once I spotted the quirky statues out front and the small sign tucked on the side, I knew I had to peek inside.
It’s just a short stroll from the “downtown” part of Love Valley where the cars stop, right across from Trail Busters Campground.
The vibe? Welcoming, relaxed, and a little bit quirky—in the best way.
I was just passing through on a road trip and decided to stop in for a cold beer. I grabbed a plate of pizza sticks (which totally hit the spot), and before I knew it, I was chatting with the owner. He came right over and said hello—not because I was a regular, but because he noticed I wasn’t.
That small gesture said a lot. He wasn’t there just to run a bar; he was there to connect with people. Turns out, he’s also a musician and was setting up for a night of live music with his band.
Here’s what you’ll find at The Misfit Corral:
- Pool tables and tournaments
- Live music (sometimes featuring artists from American Idol!)
- Karaoke nights
- Thirsty Thursday specials like $2 tacos
- A super friendly, laid-back crowd
- Oh—and it’s American Veteran-owned, which makes it feel even more meaningful to support
- Check out their Facebook page to keep update on what they have going on.
They’re usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but here’s when to catch them:
- Wednesday & Thursday: 4 PM – 10/10:30 PM
- Friday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 2 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 8 PM
Whether you’re dropping by after a day of dusty cowboy adventures or looking to unwind with music and good conversation, The Misfit Corral is definitely worth the detour. Just don’t blink—you might miss it. 😉
Also, no pets inside please.
✅ The Yellow Deli (Hiddenite, NC)
If you’re heading to or from Love Valley and your stomach starts rumbling, let me point you toward a little surprise called The Yellow Deli in nearby Hiddenite—just about 8 miles away. I found it while road-tripping through the area and looking for somewhere cute.
What caught my eye?
The photos.
It looked like a treehouse fantasy mixed with a cozy country café—and honestly, it is.
From the moment I pulled up, I knew I had to stop. The outside is rustic and charming, and the inside is like stepping into a fairytale. Wooden staircases, yellow-and-white gingham curtains, cozy nooks that feel like bird nests—it was three floors of wow. I couldn’t help but snap a few pics and videos while waiting to be seated.
Now, I was solo on a road trip, and when the host found that out, he didn’t ask if I wanted a table or a seat at the bar. He decided I was going to the bar. But not just any bar—this one was tucked away on the third floor, way in the back, like a secret clubhouse for solo travelers.
He said he was taking me there “so you can have some conversation and learn what we do here.” That line definitely caught my attention.
I suddenly had questions.
But before the questions, I had food—and it was good. I ordered a lemon mint tea that was so refreshing I grabbed another to-go (10/10 would recommend).
For my meal, I went with the Bristo Fillet, a salmon sandwich with generous portions and a side of chips. Totally hit the spot.
While waiting for my food to arrive, I chatted with the super friendly guy behind the bar—who explained that no one at The Yellow Deli gets paid.
No one. Gets. Paid. Whaaaa?
Everyone who works there volunteers.
They live together.
They share everything.
He was kind, open, and easy to talk to. But of course, the part of my brain that’s seen a few documentaries did quietly pull out my phone and Google
“Are the Yellow Deli people a cult?”
Yep. That’s a thing folks talk about online. You’ll find plenty of opinions and articles, but I’ll be honest—I’m not here to make a final judgment.
Personally, I never felt unsafe. I wasn’t pressured. The vibe was friendly. And honestly, I get the appeal of living simply with like-minded people. Some days I dream of doing that myself (minus the group bathroom schedule).
There was some religious literature around, and I do think I was seated at the bar intentionally so they could get to know me better. But again, nothing creepy happened.
If you’re someone who’s sensitive to that kind of thing, you might want to read up a little beforehand and decide what you’re comfortable with.
All in all, the food was great, the people were nice, and the place was straight-up adorable. I’d go again—but next time, I’m asking for a table and skipping the bar conversation.
If you’re looking for somewhere open 24 hours (yes, really!) in a small town, and you like your sandwiches with a side of curiosity, The Yellow Deli is a solid stop.
Just…maybe do a little research first and decide if it’s the right spot for you. It’s definitely not going to be everyone’s cup of tea (or lemon mint, in this case).
Where to Stay In or Near Love Valley
If you want to spend more than just a few hours in Love Valley (which I highly recommend), there are some fun and cozy places to stay nearby. Whether you want to camp under the stars, stay right in town, or enjoy a hotel with all the usual comforts, you’ve got options.
✅ Miss Kitty’s Bed & Breakfast
This charming little spot sits right in the heart of Love Valley and feels like something out of a western romance novel.
It’s cozy, quirky, and close to all the action.
You can walk from your room straight into the downtown area, no horse required.
Bonus! Breakfast is included!
Check it out here
✅ Trail Busters Campground
If you love the idea of waking up to the sound of horses and having quick access to the town and trails, Trail Busters Campground is a fantastic choice.
They offer camping for tents, RVs, and even horse trailers. It’s also super close to everything—right across from the Misfit Corral!
The campground has direct trail access and offers both primitive and electric sites.
It’s a great option for anyone wanting a rustic cowboy-style getaway.
✅ Hampton Inn in Wilkesboro
If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel stay, I stayed at the Hampton Inn in Wilkesboro and had a great experience.
It’s clean, comfy, and only about a 25-minute drive from Love Valley. Bonus?
Wilkesboro is home to Moravian Falls and Prayer Mountain, which are beautiful spots to visit if you want to add a little nature to your trip.
There’s also a cute downtown and a few good restaurants if you want to explore more of the area.
✅ Nearby in Statesville or Mooresville
Still looking? You’ll find even more hotel options in Statesville (about 16 miles away) or Mooresville (around 35 miles out). These towns have plenty of chain hotels and restaurants for anyone who likes to end their cowboy adventures with air conditioning and continental breakfast.
FAQ
Here are a few things folks often wonder before they head into Love Valley. Everything from horses to Halloween to, yes, even ATMs.
Are cars allowed in Love Valley, NC?
Nope! You’ll leave your car in the free parking lot right outside the town gate. Inside Love Valley, it’s all horses, feet, and the occasional wagon. Honestly, it’s kind of refreshing. Just don’t forget comfy shoes (or boots, if you’re really going for it).
Actually, you don’t have to worry about too much walking. The “no cars” section is very small, just a short, single street.
Can you rent horses in Love Valley, NC?
Yes! If you don’t have your own trusty steed, don’t worry—you’ve got options:
- Brushy Mountain Horseback Adventures offers horse rentals and guided trail rides through the beautiful Brushy Mountains.
- Love Valley Buggy Rides & Horse Rentals is another great local option if you want to explore on horseback or even try a classic buggy ride.
Be sure to contact them ahead of time to check availability and schedule your ride. It’s a fun way to see the town the way it was meant to be seen—from the saddle.
Is there an ATM machine in Love Valley?
There is! You’ll find an ATM inside Miss Kitty’s Bed & Breakfast. It’s always a good idea to bring a little cash just in case, especially since some of the local spots and vendors may not take cards—especially during events.
Is Love Valley worth visiting?
If you like quirky towns, friendly folks, horses, and feeling like you just walked into a cowboy movie—yes. Love Valley is one of those places that’s not about flashy attractions. It’s about slowing down, meeting real people, and experiencing something truly different. Whether you come during an event or for a quiet photo day, it’s a memory you’ll hang onto.
I know I can’t wait to go back! There’s something new every time!
Love Valley is one of those places you just have to see to believe. I mean, where else in North Carolina do you park your car and walk into a real-life cowboy town where horses rule the road, bars serve burgers with a side of banjo music, and every street looks like a movie set from the Old West?
Whether you’re coming for a big event, a peaceful escape, or just to say you’ve been to the only horse-only town in the state—Love Valley leaves a mark. It’s small, sure. A little rough around the edges? Sometimes. But it’s also full of charm, heart, and stories waiting to be discovered.
Over the years, I’ve laughed with real cowboys, stood in awe of pink-decorated horses at fundraisers, sipped lemon, mint tea in treehouse cafés, and wandered dusty streets that felt like a time machine. I’ve also learned a thing or two about donkeys, cult rumors, and how to make the most of a weekend adventure without needing a city skyline.
So if you’re up for something different—something that doesn’t come with neon signs or flashy brochures—Love Valley is calling. Just bring your curiosity, maybe some cash, and your favorite pair of boots.
I’ll see you out there, partner.
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