Forest City: Museums, Exhibitions & Discounts

Forest City is a small town located in Rutherford County, North Carolina. Founded in 1877, it was originally named Burnt Chimney before being incorporated as Forest City in recognition of its forested surroundings. The town has preserved much of its historical character, particularly in its downtown area, which features classic American small-town architecture from the early 20th century.

Forest City is known for its annual Christmas lights display, the "Forest City Christmas Lights," which transforms the downtown area into a festive attraction during the holiday season. The town maintains several historical buildings and has worked to preserve its cultural heritage through various local initiatives and community events. While modest in size, Forest City serves as an example of a traditional North Carolina small town that balances historical preservation with modern development.