What is a Destination Business? 

Authentic Experiences. Big Discoveries. 

Discover the places that make North Carolina unforgettable! Every Main Street has a story to tell. Some are whispered from century‑old brick storefronts; others rise from bustling cafés, family‑run shops, and creative spaces where locals greet you like an old friend. 

Certified NC Destination Businesses are locally owned gems in North Carolina’s Main Street communities that turn a simple visit into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re exploring vibrant downtowns, savoring one‑of‑a‑kind flavors, or diving into arts and culture, these businesses invite you to slow down, connect, and experience each community the way locals do.

Launched by the N.C. Department of Commerce Main Street & Rural Planning Center, the Certified NC Destination Business program is the first of its kind in the country, designed to highlight downtown businesses that deliver standout experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Certified NC Destination Businesses completed specialized training with The Schallert Group, a national leader in consumer destination strategy, equipping them with a step‑by‑step plan to boost foot traffic, grow revenue, and attract visitors from across the region. Certified NC Destination Businesses are located in designated Main Street communities throughout North Carolina

Meet our Destination Businesses 

Bough & Vine 

Bough and Vine is a unique, locally-owned, female business venture aimed at catering to plant enthusiasts and novices alike in the heart of Manteo. Our business offers a variety of products and services including a collection of indoor and outdoor ornamental plants, workshops, custom-designed t-shirts and goods, plant accessories, and hosting small-group plant parties. With a focus on community engagement and sustainability, we aim tobecome the go-to destination for all things related to indoor gardening and plant care in the area.

Downtown Books 

Downtown Books is a very independent bookstore featuring a wide range of books (Outer Banks titles!), greeting cards, puzzles, book baskets, and more. Twice voted the Best Bookstore on the Beach we work hard everyday to retain that title. Visit Downtown Books at 103 Sir Walter Raleigh Street. 

Poodles & Bob 

The motto of Poodles and Bob is to "Love Your Pet", just as we love our pets. We pass along that love to your pets by carefully curating a line-up of products that offers our customers high quality and durability, instilling confidence in us as a partner in the care and well-being of their dogs and cats. We take this commitment seriously.

Poodles and Bob may not be the biggest, but we strive to be the best. Currently Poodles and Bob operates a retail shop and a grooming shop in Downtown Manteo.  Poodles and Bob is the "go-to" dog and cat resource for locals and visitors on The Outer Banks!

Explore the N.C. Main to Main Trail 

Certified NC Destination Businesses are part of the Main to Main Trail, a digital discovery trail, connecting North Carolina’s designated Main Street communities. The trail highlights:
●    Downtown shopping, dining, and cultural experiences
●    Outdoor recreation and local attractions
●    Direct links to local Main Street programs and tourism websites

Build your trip around North Carolina's downtowns and local businesses, brought to life along the Main to Main Trail.

*Funding to enhance the Main-to-Main Trail was provided through a State Outdoor Recreation, Travel & Tourism Grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA).