Kannapolis (ka-NA-po-lis) was founded in 1887 as a company town around the Cannon Mills textile headquarters. Before the turn of the 20th century and the marketing of ready-made clothes, Cannon cloth was a staple in Southern homes. Situated along tree-lined brick streets, Cannon Village reflects the architectural style of the early 20th century. Shops within the village sell antiques, furniture and other specialty items. A 9-foot bronze statue of native son Dale Earnhardt stands in the village plaza.

West Avenue offers bargain hunters a wide variety of factory outlet stores representing major manufacturers.