
Concord, North Carolina · Places
Historic Downtown Concord.
A closer look at Union Street, the courthouse district, local storefronts, and downtown living.
The overview
A closer look.
Downtown Concord is the civic and cultural heart of the city, centered on Union Street and the Cabarrus County courthouse area.
Walk the core
A downtown visit can combine independent shops, a meal, and historic architecture in a compact area. Check the city and individual businesses for current events, openings, and street access.
Living near downtown
Residential choices around the center may include older homes with period details and smaller lots. Investigate renovation history, parking, and any applicable historic-district guidance when evaluating a property.
Look beyond one block
The texture changes quickly as you move away from Union Street. Explore several surrounding streets at different times of day to understand the specific location you are considering.
Historic districts and what they mean for owners
Concord has locally designated historic districts, including areas along North Union Street. Exterior changes to properties in local districts typically require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. Check whether a property is in a district before planning work.
Living near downtown
Walkability, older tree canopy and architectural variety draw many buyers. Expect smaller or irregular lots on some streets, older systems in many homes, and more events and activity nearby.
Visiting well
Pair a walk along Union Street with the courthouse area, local shops and restaurants. Check city event calendars for festivals and seasonal programming.
Checklist
Before you decide.
- Check local historic district status
- Ask about prior Certificates of Appropriateness
- Inspect older systems thoroughly
- Visit during a downtown event
Common questions
- Can I replace windows on a historic-district home?
- Possibly, but exterior changes in local districts usually need approval first. Contact the City of Concord’s historic preservation staff.
Continue your research
Keep reading
City of Concord
Find the named resources directly through the responsible organization. Information may change. Confirm current details with the relevant organization before making decisions.

ArchitectureHistoric Homes in Concord
Eat & drinkDining in Concord
DesignConcord Architecture