Top Things to do in Johnston County
Welcome to Johnston County, where rich heritage meets contemporary culture! Located just thirty minutes from Raleigh, Johnston County offers an abundance of amenities and cultural resources. Our team at NC Pro Realty has handpicked some fabulous attractions to better acquaint you with this wonderful region.
Explore the county’s agricultural roots with a visit to the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly. A 6000-square-foot gallery features exhibits detailing all manner of farm life, from early transportation to southern medicine. Imagine life in a bygone era as you tour the historic Iredell Brown homestead which includes meticulously maintained historic structures, including a tobacco barn, smokehouse and schoolhouse. Be sure to check out the working blacksmith shop before you leave!
Ready to soak up a bit more history? Head to the Bentonville Battlefield State Historic site in Four Oaks. This National Historic Landmark marks the site of the last major battle of the Civil War as the largest battle on North Carolina soil. View artifacts from the battlefield in the visitor center and then tour the historic Harper House, furnished as a Civil War field hospital. A quarter-mile trail tours several areas of historic interest, including the Goldsboro Rifles monument and a field fortification exhibit.
Step into historic Hollywood with a visit to the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield. Born in a rural community just a few miles from Smithfield, Ava Gardner grew up to become one of Hollywood’s leading ladies during a fifty-year career in Hollywood. Take a self-guided tour through over 5000 square feet of exhibits, featuring costumes, jewelry, and fine art as well as awards and personal items.
Ready for a different kind of history tour? Go antiquing in Uptown Selma. A wealth of shops line the streets, offering over 100,000 square feet of antiques all within walking distance of each other. Be sure to visit the Selma Cotton Mill Antique Flea Market, home to more than fifty dealers and located on the grounds of an old cotton mill. You’re sure to discover some remarkable treasures!
Enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors at Clemmons Educational State Forest in Clayton. This living outdoor classroom features well-marked trails that meander through a beautiful forest featuring pine stands, hardwoods, streams, and rock formations. Educational exhibits and displays describe the ecology of the forest and ranger-conducted classes are offered to larger groups.
Take in a live show at the Neuse Little Theater in Smithfield. Housed in a log cabin overlooking the Neuse River, this community theater stages stellar performances that are sure to entertain. The unique venue offers an intimate setting that allows you to truly immerse yourself in the theatrical experience.
While this is just a small sample of all that Johnston County has to offer, we hope it spurs you to get out and explore!
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