The CATS Micro on-demand, shared-ride service launched in February 2025 / Photos by Jason Benavides

CATS MICRO | Jason Benavides.

June 10. Oh, the places you’ll go…with CATS Micro. The on-demand, shared-ride service launched in late February and while it has limited range it’s hard to argue the value. For only $2.20 you can travel anywhere within the designated zone.

I decided to try out the new transportation option and explore the “Micro Zone.” The boundary extends north into Davidson and down to Northlake Mall. Unfortunately I live 1.2 miles out of the zone so my journey started by walking to meet my CATS Micro. (I’m not telling where I live to avoid  paparazzi). So, some big neighborhoods like those down Jetton and Harborside are not part of the program.

Be sure to download the CATS app and add some funds into your wallet as cash is not accepted. You’ll find an interactive map of the aforementioned “Micro Zone” to plan your trip. Prospective riders can also call 704-336-7433 to arrange pick-up.

Once you plan your trip be sure to keep the QR code handy. All my drivers were nice but some more knowledgable about the app than others. My first trip we struggled to find where the QR code went after I closed the app. I found out later I could add it to my iPhone’s wallet. Also note you can’t alter a trip after it’s confirmed. You’ll need to cancel and start over.

So away we go…

“Home” >>> King Canary, Davidson

Distance: 6.4 miles

CATS Micro: $2.20

UberX: $9.78 (rates may vary)

My first trip was up to King Canary in Davidson.

King Canary Davidson

The original King Canary is up in Mooresville but since CATS Micro doesn’t reach that far north this was a great alternative. Besides great beer this location features Marlee Jeans Raw Bar & Kitchen. A brewery with a designated kitchen is rare.

With the North Mecklenburg Village Rider bus route being discontinued effective Monday July 7, CATS Micro is primed to step in. Read more about the transition, Click here.

Nearby: Downtown Davidson, Davidson College, Davidson Farmers Market, Famous Toastery.

King Canary, Davidson >>> Old Town Public House

Distance: 2 miles

CATS Micro: $2.20

UberX: $6.26

Old Town Public House

Heading to OTPH I shared the ride with another person reminding me that this was still public transportation. But with a quick stop at Food Lion I was still at OTPH in no time.

OTPH is located in central Cornelius and a great spot for live music and a cold beer.

Nearby: Cain Center for the Arts, Cornelius Town Hall, The Coffeeshop.

Old Town Public House >>> Penny Lane L18

Distance: 2.5 miles

CATS Micro: $2.20

UberX: $6.28

Penny Lane L18

Penny Lane is British-inspired pub nestled in the Jetton Village Shops. Stay and enjoy a pint of Guinness but if you plan to step up to the Karaoke mic or play music bingo—both starting at 8 pm—remember CATS Micro operates from 6 am to 7 pm Monday through Friday and 7 am to 7 pm on weekends. You’ll also need an alternative for getting home from the Cain Center after 7 pm.

Nearby: H2 Public House, Peninsula Prime, Harris Teeter, Novant Health; Lemonade Boutique

Penny Lane L18 >>> Red Rocks Cafe

Distance: 3.3 miles

CATS Micro: $2.20

UberX: $6.95

Red Rocks Cafe is a prime spot for dinner or brunch. Located in the center of Birkdale Village, it’s walking distance to a variety of shops and eateries.

Red Rocks Cafe

I would note that when planning my trips I only had the option of purchasing round-trip tickets with the second leg expiring after two hours. Traveling around like I did for this story doesn’t merit problems but otherwise it might force one to watch the clock. Maybe there’s an option for a one-way ticket but if so I completely missed it.

Nearby: Apple Store, Regal Theaters, Cheesecake Factory, Kilted Buffalo.

Red Rocks Cafe >>>  760 Craft Works

Distance: 7.4 miles

CATS Micro: $2.20

UberX: $7.64

760 Craft Works

A mere five minutes later I was on the way to 760 Craft Works in downtown Huntersville. The average wait time for a CATS Micro was 12 minutes. Most drivers said they wait in designated spots like a Park ’n Ride or high traffic area parking lot.

760 is another spot to satisfy my craft beer craving. It’s a dog-friendly establishment but if using CATS Micro keep Fido at home. Only service animals are allowed to ride.

Nearby: Discovery Place Kids, Veterans Park, Head of the Huntersville Downtown Greenway

So from my experience CATS Micro is easy enough to navigate.

My final destination was home and I was pleasantly surprised to find out the CATS Micro would drop me off at my house even though it was outside the “Micro Zone.”