This is our sixth year asking readers to cast their votes for the best of the best in our great state — we’re proud to share winners, although this year’s results are bittersweet.

Several of the winners listed among our 2024 Finest were directly impacted by Helene. Others have mobilized to help. All remain open for business, finding new ways to serve communities in need. Times like these show the strength of our state, proving we are all among “Carolina’s Finest.”

As this year’s winning Finest Downtown, West Jefferson, put it in a social media post following the storm: “In the face of such loss, we find hope in the kindness of those who step up, lending a hand and supporting each other. Neighbors helping neighbors, strangers becoming friends — this is the strength of our community.”

Kristin's Hook'd on Smoke

Finest Barbecue

North Carolina Seafood Festival

Finest Festival

The Shake-N-Dog

Finest Hot Dog

Walnut Creek Amphitheater

Finest Live Music Venue

Southern Ground Coffee Shop

Finest Local Coffee Shop

Cheerwine

Finest Made in NC Product

West Jefferson

Finest Downtown

Durham Bulls

Finest Minor League Baseball Team

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum

Finest Museum

The Humble Hare

Finest Thrift/Antique Shop