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The holidays bring a special kind of magic to Salisbury and the surrounding North Carolina communities. Twinkling lights, festive performances, local markets, and family activities fill the season with warmth and excitement. Whether you are loading up the family for a short drive or heading out for an evening of holiday lights, having a reliable vehicle makes every outing easier. Many local drivers exploring a Ford Escape for sale or comparing models like the Ford Bronco Salisbury appreciate having comfort and capability ready for every seasonal stop. more The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights Just a short drive from Salisbury, the Kannapolis Celebration of Lights is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Village Park transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of sparkling lights, a dancing fountain display, and holiday music floating through the air. Families stroll through illuminated walkways, enjoy a ride on the Winterland Express train, and gather around warm treats from local vendors. With plenty of room for kids, coats, gifts, and snacks, many families consider a Ford Escape for sale when planning festive outings like this. The Escape offers flexibility and comfort, making it easy to enjoy the evening without worrying about space or convenience. Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway One of the most impressive holiday experiences in the state is Speedway Christmas, held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The event features millions of lights synchronized to music, all viewed from the comfort of your vehicle as you drive through the track. There is also a Christmas Village filled with movies, food vendors, and seasonal activities. Drivers who enjoy outdoor adventure and bold design often look to models like the Ford Bronco when planning winter road trips. With its confident handling and roomy cabin, the Bronco adds excitement to every holiday drive, whether you are cruising past light tunnels or navigating the festival grounds. Old Salem’s Candlelight Tours For those who enjoy history mixed with holiday charm, a visit to Old Salem in Winston-Salem is perfect for a December outing. Candlelight tours, traditional Moravian music, and warm holiday hospitality make the experience feel like stepping into another time. Guests enjoy baked goods, handmade crafts, and beautifully decorated historic buildings. If you prefer a vehicle with efficiency and comfort for longer drives, a Ford provides exactly that. Features like smooth ride quality, climate control, and spacious seating make it ideal for a comfortable evening trip. McAdenville: “Christmas Town USA” Another beloved North Carolina destination is McAdenville, famously known as Christmas Town USA. Families drive slowly through glowing streets lined with trees and homes decorated from top to bottom. The tradition has become a favorite for many Salisbury residents who make the annual trip to enjoy the lights, music, and nostalgic atmosphere. Choosing the right vehicle helps make the evening even more enjoyable. Whether you are looking at a Ford Escape for sale for family comfort or a Ford Bronco Salisbury for rugged style, both models offer plenty of room for blankets, shopping bags, and holiday memories. Enjoy the Roads, Enjoy the Season Holiday events become cherished traditions, and the journey is often just as special as the destination. With seasonal festivities happening throughout the region, there is no shortage of places to explore, lights to see, and moments to share. At Cloninger Ford, we love helping families choose the vehicles that make these drives more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you prefer the versatility of the Escape or the bold presence of the Bronco, you can feel confident heading into every holiday adventure.

Weekends in North Carolina were made for open roads, scenic views, and the freedom to explore. Salisbury’s central location makes it the perfect starting point for quick adventures, whether you are chasing mountain views or relaxing by the water. At Cloninger Ford, we help drivers find the right Ford SUV for sale so every road trip feels easy, comfortable, and unforgettable. more Scenic Routes That Show the Best of the Carolinas One of the best weekend drives near Salisbury winds through the Uwharrie Mountains, where lake views, shaded trails, and stretches of open road make every mile rewarding. The Ford Explorer Salisbury that drivers choose for their adventures fits perfectly here, blending power with refinement. Its spacious interior, quiet cabin, and steady handling make the trip as relaxing as it is scenic, turning a simple mountain drive into an experience worth repeating. If you prefer a more relaxed outing, head to Gold Hill, a historic mining town known for its rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere. The drive there feels like stepping back in time, with tree-lined streets, local shops, and vineyards dotting the landscape. Many visitors stop to browse boutiques or pick up a bottle of wine to bring home. With generous cargo space, a Ford SUV makes carrying souvenirs or picnic baskets effortless. For those who enjoy being near the water, High Rock Lake is a local favorite. It is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply sitting by the shore to watch the sunset. Families can easily pack their gear and snacks, knowing that the Explorer or Escape can easily handle every turn and every bit of luggage. Comfort and Convenience on Every Drive Ford SUVs are designed to make long drives feel short. Inside, you will find thoughtful features like available heated and ventilated seats, adjustable climate control, and smart storage that keeps essentials organized. Modern technology like SYNC 4, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto ensures that playlists, navigation, and phone calls are always within easy reach. Safety also plays a major role in every Ford SUV. Advanced systems such as blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and pre-collision warnings help you feel secure in any condition. Whether you are traveling through the foothills or downtown Salisbury, Ford’s commitment to safety allows you to focus on the fun of the journey. Adventures Big and Small Weekend adventures do not always need to be planned. Sometimes the best drives are the spontaneous ones, like discovering a new restaurant or stumbling upon a local event. With an SUV that can handle unexpected turns and extra passengers, you can enjoy the flexibility to explore without hesitation. At Cloninger Ford, we understand that drivers need versatility as much as style. We help you compare models, learn about features, and choose the Ford SUV for sale that suits your lifestyle. Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend traveler, we have a vehicle designed to fit your plans. Make the Most of Every Mile From mountain views to lakefronts, North Carolina offers countless reasons to get behind the wheel. Salisbury is the ideal starting point for these adventures, and a Ford SUV makes each one more enjoyable. Visit Cloninger Ford to explore models like the Ford Explorer Salisbury and discover how the right SUV can turn every weekend into an adventure.

If you are thinking of the best plans for the weekend and are looking for destinations to take a break from the routine and enjoy the outdoors, heading to a nearby green area is always a fantastic idea. Thankfully, South Salisbury, NC, is close to numerous beautiful parks where you can have fun and spend some time with your loved ones. Get behind the wheel and check out these nearby spots! Just Down the Road: 3 Favorite Local Parks Near South Salisbury, NC 1. Elizabeth Holmes Hurley Park With an area of approximately 18 acres, Elizabeth Holmes Hurley Park is located in the heart of Salisbury and about one and a half miles north of the city's downtown area. Open to the public every day between 8:00 am and sunset, this public park was established in memory of late local resident Elizabeth Holmes Hurley. Ever since it first opened its doors to the public, Elizabeth Holmes Hurley Park has been a popular gathering spot among Salisbury residents and those visiting the city. Featuring woodlands, beautifully manicured gardens, short nature walks, and beautiful streams, this local park is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours enjoying nature without leaving the city. more 2. Salisbury City Park Featuring a climbing wall, a playground, four tennis courts, and a large recreation center, Salisbury City Park is another fantastic place to visit with your friends or family. Located at 316 Lake Drive in the city center, this public recreation area can be visited free of charge and is open to the public every day of the week from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. The main feature of Salisbury City Park is City Park Lake, which sits right in the middle of this popular green area. This body of water was established in 1936 and features a small pier, a bridge, and a series of pedestrian walkways that surround it. Other amenities available at Salisbury City Park include two picnic shelters with grills and tables. 3. Cannon Park Located at 600 Park Avenue in South Salisbury, Cannon Park covers an area of three and a half acres and was renovated in the late 1990s. Featuring a walking path, plenty of picnic tables, a bank-shot basketball game, a playground, and a gazebo, this public recreation area is a popular spot among residents of the area. Cannon Park is open every day between 8:00 am and dusk. If you are searching for the perfect vehicle to travel around, visit the most beautiful nature reserves and green areas in the region, and take your family on memorable road trips, the 2023 Ford Escape Active might just be the perfect option. Visit our website or just stop by Cloninger Ford of Salisbury, and we will tell you all about the extensive inventory of sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks we have available for you. Image by 1778011 via pixabay

Located in the heart of the Piedmont region and just a couple of miles south of the Salisbury downtown area, South Salisbury, NC, is a great place to stay while exploring the best museums, cultural centers, and historical landmarks that this region has to offer. Whether you are searching for local art or historical exhibits, here are three fantastic destinations you should check out while traveling around the region in your new 2023 Ford Explorer XLT. Make the Drive to These 3 Best Museums Near South Salisbury, NC 1. Rowan Museum Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, Rowan Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of Rowan County through a series of permanent exhibits that portray the culture and traditions of the region throughout the years. Located at 202 N Main Street in the building of Salisbury's old courthouse, this museum is open to the public Friday to Sunday between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm. more Besides the collection of artifacts and the permanent exhibits on display at the old courthouse building, Rowan Museum also manages a series of nearby historical landmarks, including the Michael Braun House, which is considered the oldest dwelling in Rowan County and one of the oldest remaining stone houses in the entire state of North Carolina. 2. North Carolina Transportation Museum Located at 1 Samuel Spencer Road in the nearby town of Spencer and a little over three miles northeast of Salisbury, the North Carolina Transportation Museum boasts a large collection of railway vehicles, aircraft, and automobiles that make it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the region. Established in the early 1980s, this place welcomes more than 80,000 visitors every year. Open to the public Tuesday through Saturday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, the North Carolina Transportation Museum is known not only for its permanent exhibits but also for the many events that take place in its premises. This complex also features a heritage railroad that operates excursion rides in historical wagons powered by old diesel locomotives. 3. Hall House Museum A landmark 19th-century house located at 226 S Jackson Street in the Salisbury city center, the Dr. Josephus Hall House is one of the best-preserved house museums in the Southeastern United States and a fantastic place to visit while in the region. Constructed in the 1820s, this house is listed on the National Register of Historic places and showcases a series of artifacts, including original furnishings, wallpapers, and restored artworks. If you are searching for the best car dealership in South Salisbury to buy a new vehicle and explore the most popular attractions in North Carolina and beyond, you've come to the right place. Stop by Cloninger Ford of Salisbury, take a tour around our showroom, and learn about the latest models and custom deals we have available for you.

Sitting in the heart of the Piedmont region, Salisbury and South Salisbury, NC, are not only fantastic destinations to visit during a trip to North Carolina but also excellent bases to go on day trips and explore the cities, parks, and wildlife refuges of the region. If you are planning an adventure across the state in your 2022 Ford Edge, here are some of the best destinations you can visit in the area. Take the Ford and Check Out These 3 Day Trips Near South Salisbury, NC 1. Charlotte Home to more than two and a half million inhabitants in its metropolitan area, Charlotte is the second most populous city in the southeastern United States and an important economic, cultural, and transportation hub in the region. If you are searching for an urban destination full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, beautiful parks, and interesting museums, Charlotte is always a great idea. more Getting from South Salisbury to the Charlotte city center takes a little over 40 minutes by car, driving southwest along route I-85. Some of the local attractions you should check out while exploring the city include Romare Bearden Park, the Levine Museum of the New South, Hearst Tower, First Ward Park, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. 2. Uwharrie National Forest Offering great opportunities for camping, biking, mountain climbing, and other outdoor activities, Uwharrie National Forest is a fantastic place to disconnect from the routine and spend a day having fun with your family. Encompassing over 50,000 acres of pine and oak forests, this public recreation area was established in the early 1960s by the U.S. Forest Service. Located about 30 miles northwest of South Salisbury, Uwharrie National Forest can be reached in just 35 minutes by car via Stokes Ferry Road. Considered the smallest of four national forests in the state of North Carolina, this place provides habitat to large populations of birds and mammals, making it a magnet for wildlife watchers and photographers from all over the state. 3. Greensboro A planned city constructed in the early 19th century around a central courthouse square, Greensboro is another great destination that can be reached in less than 50 minutes by car from South Salisbury. With a population of about 300,000 in its metropolitan area, this city features important local landmarks including the Blandwood Mansion, the Greensboro Science Center, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, and the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. Are you searching for a new or used vehicle to check out the best destinations in North Carolina and beyond? We've got you covered! Stop by Cloninger Ford of Salisbury today, check out our new and used vehicles, learn about our convenient financing options, and take home a great model to go on memorable adventures with your family or a group of friends.

Salisbury, NC has great breakfast places to choose from. Whether you are wanting a quick bite before work or to lounge with friends during brunch, we know this list will include your new favorite breakfast spot. more 1. Sweet Meadow Cafe If you are looking for an eclectic and fun cafe for brunch on Sundays, look no further than Sweet Meadow Cafe. Located downtown in Salisbury, the chef at Sweet Meadow makes sure food is ordered straight from local farms for freshness. Each dish is prepared with love and looks elegant when brought to the table. Order the eggs benedict, French toast, perfectly cooked bacon, and the eggs a la Oscar. 2. Breakfastime Open at 6am, Breakfastime is the place for early risers who have a hankering for delicious food to start the day off right. You can expect great service, amazing prices, and a clean atmosphere. Try the western omelet, French toast, pork tenderloin croissant sandwich, chocolate chip pancakes, and waffles. You will not be disappointed with the breakfast special #1 that has 2 eggs, fried or grilled pork tenderloin, choice of grits, home fries or hash browns, and toast for only $7.50. 3. Palms Cafe The recently remodeled Palms Cafe has fantastic food, accommodating service, and a pleasing environment for breakfast. You will be happy to order staple breakfast items including, crispy bacon, eggs cooked to order, eggs benedict, savory crepes, egg sandwiches, pancakes, and freshly baked biscuits. Palms Cafe is open from 7 am-8:45 pm and offers online delivery. 4. Country Donutz Who doesn't want a warm, soft, and sweet donut to start their day? Make a quick stop to Country Donutz on your way to work for the best-tasting, original donuts not found at any other donut shop. Try the boba tea, lemon-filled donut, cinnamon toast crunch donut, strawberry butterfly, bear claw, and buttermilk donut. If you bring a box to work, you will be loved by your entire workplace and truly appreciated for your generosity. 5. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store You can never go wrong with breakfast at Cracker Barrel. It is a great restaurant to celebrate with family because of the fun decor and versatile menu. Breakfast is served all day. You cannot go wrong with the biscuits and gravy, steak and eggs cooked to order, bacon, sausage, cornbread, and delicious specialty pancakes. 6. Koco Java Coffee If you are sick of common coffee chains, come check out Koco Java! With plenty of fresh, hot espresso, blended frappes, tea, smoothies, bagels, and pastries, Koco Java will ensure you are ready for your day. You can lounge, visit with friends, study, or grab a quick bite and cup of coffee on your way to work. The staff is knowledgeable and exceptionally friendly! There are 60 unique restaurants in Rowan County and many breakfast choices. However, we are confident you will be satisfied with our list of breakfast restaurants that are favorites among locals. Visit Cloninger Ford of Salisbury today and let us know what you ordered!

Salisbury is located in the middle of two major cities in the state of North Carolina. This location makes it a great starting point for some fantastic trips. When you need to get out of town but only have a day to spare, here are five day trips you can take from Salisbury, NC. more 1: Winston-Salem, North Carolina Winston-Salem is only 39 miles north of Salisbury, making it one of the quickest trips. This city has many museums to explore, but one that's a must-see, even for those who aren't huge museum fans, is the Lost in Time Antique Mall. You'll see antique items ranging from china sets to furniture to Coca-Cola items. Another great place to spend the day in Winston-Salem is at Quarry Park. You can spend the day hiking or having a picnic on the benches. 2: Ashville, North Carolina 131 miles to the west of town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Ashville. You'll reach this town in a little over two hours. One of the most popular attractions in the city is visiting the Biltmore Estate. There's also the Biltmore Estate Winery for those who are over 21 years old. You can taste some of their wines and even purchase some to take home with you. Please remember to drink responsibly and don't drink and drive. 3: Columbia, South Carolina A little over two hours south of your starting point is Columbia, South Carolina. While you're in town, you have to stop by Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. You can take a walk through this scenic park with mini waterfalls in the city. If you're in town on Saturday, check out Soda City. This is Columbia's street market, based on European markets open every Saturday. When you visit the market, you'll find approximately 150 vendors every week. 4: Charlotte, North Carolina Another short trip from Salisbury is Charlotte, North Carolina. There's so much to see and do in this city, but if you're looking for a thrilling day, why not spend it at Carowinds Theme Park. You can get a bundle that includes admission, parking, and a meal for only $45. You'll find two of the tallest steel rollercoasters in the country in this park and a total of 14 coasters to ride. There are plenty of kids' rides too if you're traveling with younger ones. 5: Spartanburg, South Carolina A little less than an hour from town is Spartanburg, South Carolina. In this town, you'll find quite a few breweries and distilleries to visit and taste test. A popular brewery is Cyclops Cyderi and Brewery. You can take a tour of the grounds and taste their creations in the taproom. If you want to visit the first legal distillery since Prohibition in the county, stop by Rock Bottom Distillery. Alcohol is intended only for those 21 years and older. Please drink responsibly. Whether you're sticking to your home state of North Carolina or traveling to South Carolina, having a reliable vehicle is the first step in any road trip. Before you hit the road, stop by Cloninger Ford of Salisbury for a large selection of reliable vehicles.

Salisbury, NC offers the best of both worlds; beautiful parks, lakes, farms, and landscapes sit right alongside vibrant city life. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, shopping, museums, and theatres. Here are our top reasons to love living here. more 1. Outdoor Recreation Rowan County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with an abundance of parks, trails, lakes, golf courses, farms, campgrounds, and much more. Eagle Point Nature Preserve is spread over 200 acres and is located on a remote part of High Rock Lake. There are over three miles of hiking trails, and the park is home to animals such as bald eagles, kingfishers, barred owls, great blue herons, white-tailed deer, raccoons, and wild turkeys. On the outskirts of town, Dan Nicholas park offers 425-acres of parkland and a 10-acre lake that is perfect for paddle boating and fishing. In the park, visitors can enjoy the tennis courts, picnic shelters, nature center, the Hurley Family Water Plaza, playgrounds, volleyball, miniature golf, gem mining, a freshwater aquarium, and a miniature train ride. There's also a 70-site family campground that includes an outdoor theater. 2. Fresh Produce Residents and visitors to Salisbury are lucky enough to benefit from the many farms and producers located in the area. There is an abundance of pick-your-own farms, roadside stands, farmer's markets, craft breweries, and wineries. Salisbury Rowan County Farmer's Market is held on Saturdays at Railwalk Pavillion. For a more hands-on experience, visit Eagles Farm to pick your own or buy from their roadside market. Cauble Creek Vineyard specializes in Muscadine wines and is open to the public on Thursdays through to Sundays. Visitors can visit the tasting rooms to sample Cauble Creek's award-winning wines and European styles also. During the month of September, visitors are invited to pick their own grapes. The town's very own nano-brewery, New Sarum Brewing Company, is located at 109 North Lee Street. Sample their beer, grab some food from their food truck, and catch some live music in the onsite taproom. Please remember to drink responsibly and do not drink and drive. 3. Arts and Culture If your idea of a perfect day involves strolling through museums, taking in a gallery, seeing a play, and ending with a cocktail and live music, then Salisbury will not disappoint. Visit Rowan Museum, Waterworks Visual Arts Centre, and the Grevious Gallery, or take the self-guided walking tour for a glimpse into the history of Downtown and the stately homes of the West Square District. If the theatre is more your thing, then Lee Street Theatre or Maroney Theatre may have a show that interests you. Many of the downtown bars feature local musicians playing live throughout the week, and many serve local wines and craft beers to enjoy. 4. Shopping With an emphasis on supporting local businesses, Salisbury is blessed with a wealth of independently run stores, crafters, and antique shops. The Salisbury Emporium is a restored 100-year-old Frick Sawmill Supply building that houses over 80 shops. There are over 15,000 square feet of stores selling books, antiques, pottery, art, furniture, jewelry, homeware, and much more. There are countless reasons to love living in Rowan County. Get out and explore the city to find your own top reasons. Visit Cloninger Ford today to test drive one of our new or used cars.

Not far from Alexander Boulevard, you'll find an exquisite natural heritage site. It earned its name, Boone's Cave Park, as it was thought that the Boone family traveled there in the 1750s. It spans 100 acres of land, making it the ideal space for hikers to explore. The pathways are surrounded by rural, picturesque woodlands. There are up to fifty native wildflowers that can be spotted in the forests, including rare flowers that are usually unique to the Appalachian Mountains. more 1. Return to Rustic Roots The grounds have primitive and semi-primitive campsites available to rent. Each one makes for an excellent place to disconnect from daily stress while reconnecting with nature. The campgrounds feature a range of camping pads that are conveniently set up near restrooms. Firewood is available to buy and safety measures are in place to secure the environment for campers. The camping grounds offer a wonderful chance to unwind and find some inner peace. 2. Hit the Waves Floating While the park does not rent out boats or floating devices, every effort has been made to accommodate them. There is a trail accessible for kayaks and canoes that leads directly from the parking lot to the riverside. There are plenty of parking spaces, and parking passes are available to purchase. This takes the hassle out of hunting for parking and supplies a handy path straight down to the stream. With the time saved, you can indulge in cruising the waters for even longer. 3. Discover a New Pastime Enjoy the fresh air while trying your hand at disc golf. The park has a nine-hole course dedicated to this lesser-known sport. Engulfed in the natural beauty of the landscape, it is the perfect setting. Traditional golfers can enjoy a unique take on the game, while seasoned disc-golfers can spend time honing their skills. This sport combines the discipline of golf with the carefree nostalgia of playing frisbee. The course opens up an opportunity for families to while away an afternoon with an engaging and fun activity. 4. Surrender to the Wild Bird spotters, animal lovers, and reptile admirers can all be kept busy watching the wildlife. The heritage site is home to herds of deer, families of raccoons, and flocks of wild turkeys. In the spring and fall months, visitors have been known to catch sight of migrant birds in flight. It would be well worth packing a pair of binoculars to avoid missing out on a close-up view. This is a beautiful environment to see the animals in their natural habitat and to be at one with nature. It would be an ideal spot for wildlife photographers to capture some candid moments. Visit Ford of Salisbury to get set up with a new cruiser, then take it for a spin to this stunning scene. With acres of land to explore and ample space to park, this is a great choice for the first expedition in your new vehicle.