The region currently known as Mount Airy, North Carolina, was originally settled in the 1750s by predominantly English, Scotch-Irish, and German settlers.

[6] As westward expansion progressed following the French and Indian War, Mount Airy started to develop, serving as a stagecoach stop on the road connecting Winston-Salem, North Carolina and Galax, Virginia.

[7] Officially incorporated in 1885, Mount Airy quickly thrived due to the region's abundant natural resources, specifically granite and tobacco.

[10][11] Mount Airy became a significant hub for the textile and furniture manufacturing industries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

[12] However, the latter half of the 20th century brought economic challenges due to increased global competition and industry automation.

[13] In 1977, Mount Airy established its official seal, representing the industries vital to its local economy: furniture manufacturing, textiles, tobacco, and granite quarrying.

It established annual events like Mayberry Days and tourist attractions such as Floyd's Barber Shop and the Andy Griffith Museum.

[15][16] In recognition of its vibrant community life and civic achievements, Mount Airy was named an All American City in 1994.

[17] Mount Airy is located along the Ararat River, about 3 miles (4.8 km) south of the Virginia state line.

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro estimates the town receives $5 million each year as a result.

[27] Several Ford Galaxie police cars, painted to resemble those used on the show, give rides to guests.

Mount Airy's WPAQ is one of the few Bluegrass and Old-Time music stations still operating and has been airing the live radio show Merry-Go-Round from the Downtown Cinema Theatre since 1948.

Weekly bluegrass jam sessions at The Andy Griffith Playhouse and the annual Mount Airy Fiddlers Convention also serve to attract old-time musicians from across the region and the world.

Airy community is also served by a Public Library that won the American Institute of Architects Design Award.