Published by Christina. Last Updated on September 30, 2024.
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This travel guide features our favorite things to do in Asheboro NC (and nearby) this weekend and beyond!
Asheboro and its surrounding Randolph County neighbors sit in the heart of North Carolina, making it an easy day trip from Raleigh (also from Durham) in the Research Triangle, especially from Greensboro in the Piedmont Triad, and Charlotte.
It’s also home to some of our state’s most interesting people (including North Carolina’s legendary racecar driver Richard Petty) and bucket list-worthy places to visit—starting with the North Carolina Zoo.
Whether you’re visiting any of the 100-plus Seagrove potters or just looking for info about the Zoo, we’ve created this guide to help you.
After exploring the area more than a few times, here are our favorite ways to spend at least a weekend in love with Asheboro and Randolph County.
This NC travel guide is organized into the following sections:
- Where is Asheboro NC?
- The History of Asheboro
- Visiting Today (and Where to Stay)
- Annual Events in Asheboro, NC
- Things to Do in Asheboro NC This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
- Things to Do Near Asheboro NC
Read More: Small Towns in North Carolina
Where is Asheboro, North Carolina?
Image Credit: Seth Ilys at English Wikipedia. Transferred from English Wikipedia to Commons., CC BY-SA 3.0.
Asheboro, North Carolina is located in the center of the state and is the county seat of Randolph County. The town is 30 minutes from Greensboro and is less than an hour away from Winston-Salem.
Including those, Asheboro is within a short drive from quite a few more places in Central NC, including:
- Seagrove (20 minutes away)
- Lexington (40 minutes away)
- Pinehurst (1 hour away)
- Chapel Hill (1 hour 10 minutes away)
- Concord (1 hour 10 minutes away)
- Southern Pines (1 hour 10 minutes away)
- Durham (1 hour 20 minutes away)
- Charlotte (1 hour 30 minutes away)
- Raleigh (1 hour 30 minutes away)
- Fayetteville (1 hour 45 minutes away)
- Hickory (1 hour 45 minutes away)
You can visually travel to Asheboro and these nearby places with the following maps:
Read More: Excellent Day Trips from Greensboro (Within a 2-Hour Drive)
The History of Asheboro
Asheboro’s place at the center of North Carolina is not just limited to its geography. Some important events happened here and prominent institutions got their start nearby.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the history of Asheboro.
- Before European settlement, the earliest known people to inhabit the area were Saponi and Keyauwee, as well as other Siouan People.
- Predating the famed Seagrove Potters of today, Native Americans also utilized the clay-rich area near Asheboro to create items at least 3,000 years ago.
- German, Scotch-Irish, and English settlers arrived, later joined by Quakers and Moravians in the 1700s.
- The town of Asheboro, named for Governor Samuel Ashe, was incorporated in 1796.
- For much of the 1800s, Asheboro remained a small community.
- However, in nearby Trinity, a group of Methodists established Trinity College in 1838-39 to prepare and train future ministers. In 1892, the school moved to Durham and became known as Duke University.
- In July 1889, the High Point, Randleman, Asheboro, and Southern Railroad arrived. As with many communities throughout North Carolina, the railroad proved a turning point in Asheboro’s history.
- A competitor, the Montgomery Railroad, also set up shop in Asheboro in 1896.
- 1897 was momentous for Asheboro, as it was when The Bank of Randolph (Asheboro’s first bank) and the Asheboro Telephone Company were established.
- From 1890 to to 1930, the population of Asheboro almost doubled every decade.
- In 1890, the population was 510 and by 1930, it had risen to 5,021.
- In 1908, Acme Hosiery Mills was chartered in Asheboro.
- The Asheboro County Courthouse that stands today was completed in July 1909.
- Multiple services, shops, and factories arrived to Asheboro after the courthouse’s completion, including:
- Electricity
- Well-fed Water System
- Fire Department
- A new Public School
- The first Hospital in Asheboro
- After World War II, a variety of industries came to Asheboro, including:
- Stedman Manufacturing Company
- Klopman Mills
- Eveready Battery Company
- Black & Decker
- Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
- In 1961, 50,000 acres of land in Randolph, Davidson, and Montgomery counties were established as Uwharrie National Forest.
- The land was initially purchased by the US Government in 1931 and was then named Uwharrie Reservation.
- The North Carolina Zoological Park opened its first permanent exhibit (Africa) in 1979. Today, the NC Zoo is the world’s largest zoological park, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to Asheboro every year.
- Like many cities and towns across North Carolina, Asheboro experienced a lengthy economic downturn in the early 2000s, due to a variety of factors.
- In recent years, the town is experiencing a local-led renaissance and has become an excellent place to visit, do business, and live.
- Nicholas Sparks turned his attention to Asheboro with the 2024 book Counting Miracles. Support your local bookstore by purchasing a copy from one of them or from Bookshop.org, a supporter of independent booksellers throughout the world.
Sources include The City of Asheboro and NCPedia.
Visiting Asheboro Today (and Where to Stay)
If you’re visiting Asheboro, the Zoo, somewhere else in Randolph County, or all of the above, there are plenty of chain hotels to choose from. Of course, you can always go with a true family favorite!
- Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Campground Resort (964 Crestview Church Rd, Asheboro, NC): This is a wonderful, family-friendly campground in Asheboro. There are tons of events and amenities to keep you on-site and never leave. We were hosted here and were happy to share it with our children.
Find More Places to Stay in Asheboro
Annual Events in Asheboro and Randolph County
- April events: Enjoy a self-guided tour of the pottery studios at the annual Celebration of Spring in Seagrove. Go behind the scenes and get to know the artists more intimately, and purchase exclusive pottery made just for the event.
- May events: PettyFest is held every May and allows fans to tour the museum, garage, and the birthplace of Richard Petty. There are food trucks, vendors, music, and even a chance to meet The King!
- May to August: The Asheboro Zookeepers of Minor League Baseball‘s Coastal Plain League play their rivals at McCrary Park (138 Southway Rd, Asheboro, NC) from the end of May through early August.
- June events: The North Carolina Food Truck State Championship is a judged food truck competition held in Randleman, including live musical entertainment, activities, and food!
- August events
- Enjoy the largest individual amateur golf tournament in the Triad at the Annual Holly Ridge Charity Classic. Raising money for Hospice of the Piedmont & Hospice of Randolph County, golfers come from across the state to participate in this championship.
- Explore Seagrove by joining a tea crawl! Stop by five participating potters and sip local tea in their handmade mugs.
- September events: Four Saints Brewing brought Ashetoberfest back to downtown Asheboro in 2024, and we hope you’ll help them make this an annual tradition! Live music, games, delicious food, and amazing beer are just a few reasons why we love this festival.
- October events
- The Asheboro Fall Festival brings families and friends from all over to enjoy the beautiful downtown Asheboro. Hosted by the Randolph Arts Guild, festival-goers can enjoy local food, vendors, and fun!
- Spookywoods at Kersey Valley is unlike any Halloween event in North Carolina! Enjoy this family-friendly event that includes live actors, a corn maze, zip lines, and so much more!
- November events: Celebration of Seagrove Potters is an annual event in Seagrove showcasing the pottery studios of Randolph County. Visitors can tour the studios, speak with the artists, and see demonstrations, as well as exclusive kiln openings.
- December events: Kersey Valley Christmas is a huge event in the area. Kersey Valley Christmas is an interactive holiday experience with plenty of hands-on activities, lights, and even a snow tube track!
Read More: The NC Tripping Events Calendar
Things to Do in Asheboro NC This Weekend (and Throughout the Year!)
Those annual events belong on everyone’s calendar (including ours!), but here are some things to do in Asheboro NC, this weekend and throughout much of the year!
- The North Carolina Zoo
- The American Classic Motorcycle Museum
- The NC Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame
- Downtown Asheboro
The North Carolina Zoo
Address: 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
NC Tripping’s Guide
How lucky are we to have the world’s largest natural habitat zoo park right here in North Carolina!? Spending a day, or even a weekend, at the North Carolina Zoo (NC Zoo) is one of the best things to do in Asheboro. Their super affordable entrance fee is one great reason to keep coming back.
Also, the NC Zoo is a part of the Association of Zoo & Aquariums (AZA). This means they not only provide entertainment for the general public, but are dedicated to conservation, education, advocacy, and animal care initiatives.
There are also a variety of kid-friendly events happening at the NC Zoo throughout the year!
Read More: 7 Wonderful Aquariums in North Carolina and How to Visit them All!
Five hundred of the property’s 2600 acres are accessible, and the NC Zoo sees over 900,000 visitors a year.
The zoo currently hosts habitats for Africa and North America and will soon expand to include Asia—and eventually, Australia.
You can grab a ticket to be up close with giraffes at Acacia Station or hop on the Zoofari bus. Through the latter, you’ll roam 50 acres of grasslands filled with 100-plus animals, including eight species of antelope and rhinos.
Note: Some attractions and dining at the NC Zoo are seasonal, including the Zoofari, Acacia Station, and Billy D’s. Make sure to check their website for seasonal availability before planning your visit!
Read More: Fun Museums in Greensboro (Kid-Friendly, Contemporary Art, and More!)
Check Out Classic Hogs at the American Classic Motorcycle Museum
Address: 1170 US Highway 64 W, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
Browse a personal collection of 1930s- to 1950s-era Harley Davidson motorcycles at the American Classic Motorcycle Museum. It is donation-based, and all proceeds go to a local charity.
That’s another reason this is a must-stop before grabbing lunch downstairs at Heritage Diner. The food is simple yet delicious! We enjoyed some great burgers, but we have heard they also have a great breakfast!
Motorcycles range from fully restored to covered in cobwebs because, to owner Ed, restoring a motorcycle takes away the story that it once had.
In addition to more than 35 Harleys, the museum also contains parts, photos, toys, equipment, clothing, and local history. Don’t forget to sign the guest book on the first floor before you get started, too!
NC Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame
Address: 2222 Pilots View Rd Ste G, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
The NC Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame houses a rotating roster of aircraft, famous (or classic) vehicles, and large-scale models.
Originally founded by local businessman Jim Peddycord (1945-1997), this place is now designated as the official site of NC’s Aviation Hall of Fame.
The volunteer-supported museum preserves aviation and military history, both of which North Carolina has plenty to share.
Read More: Wright Brothers National Memorial on the Outer Banks (How to See “First in Flight”)
Things to Do in Downtown Asheboro
Asheboro is filled with people who love good home cooking and smiles that make you feel welcome for Sunday supper.
Randolph County Arts Guild
Address: 123 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
With Seagrove being the Pottery Capital of the US, it is no surprise that Randolph County is bursting with art and culture. The Randolph Arts Guild serves as the glue to bring artisans and the community together.
Stop in to shop for local handmade goods or ask about local events and classes held downtown.
Read More: 50+ Easy Day Trips from Fayetteville (Great Getaways!)
See a Rhinoleap Production
Address: 221 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
Rhinoleap is a theatrical production company started by Asheboro natives, with a mission to make Asheboro the “theatrical center of North Carolina.” Producing live theater alongside digital media, Rhinoleap is also involved in bringing theatre to North Carolina high schools.
Rhinoleap hosts live events throughout Randolph County, and seeing one should be one of your first things to do in Asheboro!
Drink Tea and Browse Local Art at Carriage House Tea
Address: 170 Worth St, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
At Carriage House Tea, you can find over 100 varieties and blends of tea to peruse before deciding on a dozen to take home. Brightside Gallery also sits inside this two-story home, so guests can browse local art while sipping tea and divulging in homemade sweets.
Lady Mary blends each small batch of loose leaf tea by hand at Carriage House.
Join an Asheboro Ghostwalk
If that’s a little too hardcore for you, then how about a haunted ghost walk? The local historian-researched and verified Historic Asheboro Ghostwalk is an hour-long experience of eerie stories reenacted by local actors.
And because of all this, the highly regarded tour sells out quickly. Just contact the Asheboro Cultural & Recreation Services office in advance for dates and ticket sales.
Go Antiquing
Even if antiquing isn’t your thing, you are bound to find something exciting and fun when in Asheboro!
- Start at the Collector’s Antique Mall (211 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC), which features more than 95 dealers in 35,000 square feet of space.
- It’s easy to spend hours browsing the treasures of days past there or elsewhere inside Antiques and Geeks (227 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC). I promise you that you never know what you might find!
Read More: 10 Ways to Support Amazing Local Businesses in NC Today
Where to Eat in Downtown Asheboro
After exploring all these fun things to do in Asheboro and the rest of Randolph County, dig into the area’s fabulous restaurants. And you’re in luck because Randolph County’s chefs and restauranteurs are known for good hometown county cooking!
The Biscuit Company
Address: 558 Albemarle Rd, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
Start your day with The Biscuit Company and you might not need anything else to eat for the day. Contrary to the name, you can even order other things beyond biscuits—if you must.
This fantastic restaurant also serves delectable cinnamon rolls and muffins. For lunch, there are burgers and hot dogs, all of which pass our test.
That means you can start your day with The Biscuit Company and return for lunch just a few hours later.
Black Powder Smokehouse
Address: 516 S Fayetteville St Unit 101, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
Black Powder Smokehouse combines two things that we absolutely love—history and barbecue. As an homage to Quaker longrifle makers and NC’s storied pitmasters, this Asheboro restaurant goes above and beyond its respect for history with some of the finest smoked meats and oh-so-perfect sides to accompany them.
Black Powder Smokehouse has fit into the Asheboro scene, after branching out from its original location in the Guilford County town of Jamestown.
It’s hard to choose between their pork, ribs, smoked turkey, or brisket, so we winged it during one visit and just ordered a plate of a few at a time.
If you’re a fellow indecisive diner, take this approach if you can’t pick one because they are all delicious!
Brewskie’s
Address: 736 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
Brewskie’s is a great spot to grab food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week. One major bonus about this place is that it’s open for breakfast on Sunday.
No matter when you stop by, Brewskie’s has you covered with yummy comfort food dishes, to-go options, coffee that includes cold brew, and various blended drinks.
I didn’t even cover it all, which is another indicator of Brewskie’s being for everyone at every time. Stop by and find out for yourself if you don’t believe us!
The Flying Pig
Address: 208 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Official Facebook Page
Four friends went back and forth on what to name their scratch-made pizza restaurant. In frustration, someone said they’d come up with a name “when pigs fly,” and suddenly, the name was born!
The Flying Pig is a casual Asheboro restaurant where friends enjoy delicious hand-tossed pizza and a great beer list. Oh, and they also save room for the specialty cheesecakes, which are amazing!
Hop’s Bar-B-Que
Address: 240 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Hop’s Bar-B-Q has been a downtown Asheboro institution since opening in 1954. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can start your day with a plate of sausage gravy or end it with some Lexington-style barbecue.
On a historical note, Hop’s Bar-B-Que was a significant player in the Civil Rights Era, as it was part of the Sunset Sit-Ins in 1964.
Read More: Important Places to Visit and Learn About Black History in North Carolina
Magnolia 23
Address: 23 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
Magnolia 23 will greet you with a blackboard menu, pan-fried chicken, and traditional sides like crowder peas and pinto beans. It’s no wonder this place has so many fans!
And because no Southern meal is complete without a dessert, Magnolia also serves up some of the best. You can sit inside this place and say hello to new friends or enjoy their beautiful back patio!
The Table
Address: 139 S Church St, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
Dustie Gregson is a hometown girl who took her vision and created The Table. With a passion for furniture restoration and a big dream, Dustie saw her community in need of something new.
Homemade bread, fresh vegetables, and preserves made at the peak of freshness are just some of the ways The Table reminds Gregson of childhood summer evenings on her screened-in porch.
It’s housed in a 1925 historical building that Dustie and her family renovated themselves. All their hard work has turned The Table into one of the best places to eat in Asheboro.
Taco Loco
Address: 138 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Facebook Page
Expect a line on the weekends at Taco Loco in Asheboro on the weekends! This popular downtown restaurant serves delicious burritos, nachos, and the best organic margaritas in Randolph County!
The family-owned restaurant makes everything in-house (including the tortillas!) and is known for its large portions.
Where to Drink in Downtown Asheboro
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered but what about those places to grab a drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) with friends? Here are a few options in Asheboro.
As always, please drink responsibly and arrange for a designated driver when consuming alcoholic beverages.
Black Lantern Tea
Address: 137 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
If alcohol isn’t your scene or looking for a morning meeting spot, Black Lantern Tea Room is new to downtown Asheboro! With pure and custom-blended teas, the interior of this Asheboro small business is stunning.
Add in the homemade baked goods, and we guarantee that your soul and belly will be warmed at Black Lantern Tea Room.
Four Saints Brewing
Address: 123 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
Paying homage to the Patron Saints of Beer (can you name them?), Four Saints Brewing is the first brewery in Randolph County and remains a local favorite.
As mentioned, they put on Ashetoberfest each year, but there’s also the ever-popular Musical Bingo on Fridays, live music, and more.
Attend any of these events, and you’ll get a real sense that this place cares about the community it serves.
Oh, and not to be distracted by the incredible events, but this is one of our favorite NC breweries solely based on their beers.
They produce the classics (start with the Potter’s Clay Amber Ale), seasonal favorites like Fest Bier (my favorite), and popular experimental brews. In NC Tripping’s opinion, Paladin, FSB’s take on a Mexican-style lager, is pretty hard to beat.
You can find Four Saints beers in bottle shops nearby, but I highly recommend you spend time in their beautiful taproom. Inspired by English and Irish pubs, this place will take you across the Atlantic without having to move.
Leo’s Whiskey Bar
Address: 111 North Street, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
Step back in time with a Whiskey Sour at Leo’s Whiskey Bar, where patrons enjoy a wide array of whiskey, bourbon, or scotch in an intimate setting.
Whether you are sipping a classic cocktail or expanding your palate with a whiskey flight, Leo’s is a great place to catch up with friends in a classy setting.
The Pharmacy
Address: 212 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC
Official Website
The success of Four Saints Brewing has led to the opening of the Pharmacy next door. This is Asheboro’s first distillery and is the perfect place to chat with friends and family over boozy drinks.
Seasonal drinks come and go from the menu but you’ll also spend quite a while working your way through the mainstays. I don’t know if I’ve had a better Old Fashioned, and you can responsibly challenge my assertion if you dare.
One thing I love about The Pharmacy is the abundance of local ingredients, all the way down to the spirits they use.
Things to Do Near Asheboro NC
While Downtown Asheboro is where a lot of the action is, the rest of Randolph County is filled with some of our favorite attractions in all of North Carolina!
- Archdale
- Deep River State Trail Hiking
- Franklinville
- Ramseur
- Randleman
- Seagrove
- Trinity
- Uwharrie National Forest
Archdale
Archdale hugs the Guilford-Randolph county line, north of Asheboro. The small town is largely known for Kersey Valley, one of the most impressive attractions in NC!
Kersey Valley
Address: 1615 Kersey Valley Rd, Archdale, NC
Located in Archdale, Kersey Valley is the ultimate family-friendly attraction. With a zip line, axe throwing, laser tag, and escape room—you could spend hours at Kersey Valley!
But if you want to make the most out of your time in Randolph County, then make sure to come for a weekend and attend Spookywoods or Kersey Valley Christmas.
Kersey Valley Christmas started in 2021 and has quickly become one of the best Christmas light displays in North Carolina! With 1 million LED lights, Kersey Valley Christmas is interactive and incorporates the whole family into the festive season.
Watch NC Tripping’s TikTok Video that Featured Kersey Valley Christmas
Deep River State Trail
The Deep River State Trail is a multi-county planned trail that Randolph County has taken the lead on planning and constructing. The hybrid trail (land-based and paddle) follows the Deep River, which runs north to south through Randolph County.
Five miles of trails await from multiple trailheads in Randolph County, including:
- Faith Rock Trail (0.75-mile loop): 1306 Andrew Hunter Road, Franklinville, NC. This Deep Creek State Trail starts across the historic Andrew Hunter Bridge.
- Franklinville Trailheads (The total trail is 1.75 miles one way, 3.5 miles roundtrip)
- West Trailhead: 1306 Andrew Hunter Dr, Franklinville, NC
- Mid: 163 W Main St, Franklinville, NC
- East: 435 Rising Sun Way, Franklinville, NC
- Ramseur Trailheads (not connected as of 2024)
- West (5960 US 64, Ramseur, NC): 0.65 miles one way, 1.3 miles roundtrip
- East (728 Liberty St, Ramseur, NC): 0.5 miles one way, 1 mile roundtrip
- Randleman Trailhead (117 Presnell St, Randleman, NC): 1.5 miles one way, 3 miles roundtrip
Franklinville
Franklinville is a can’t-miss small town about 15 minutes east of Asheboro, easiest to reach off US-64. It’s home to one of the best diners in NC and a historically significant portion of the Deep River State Trail.
Faith Rock
Faith Rock is reachable via the already-mentioned Faith Rock Trail that’s part of the Deep River State Trail.
The outcrop earned the name “Faith Rock” during the Revolutionary War, and involves the infamous Tory David Fanning, who was also involved in the Battle of the House of the Horseshoe, among other military actions.
Fanning and his Tory Army thought they had Patriot Andrew Hunter cornered at the then unnamed rock, but they were mistaken. Hunter bravely and faithfully rode his horse in the Deep River from the 50-foot stone outcrop and survived this “leap of faith.”
Thanks to patriots like Andrew Hunter, you don’t have to run away from any British invaders when visiting Faith Rock. You can simply hike there via the Deep River State Trail after crossing the scenic and historic Andrew Hunter Bridge.
Franklinville Diner
Address: 159 W Main St, Franklinville, NC
Facebook Page
We first heard of Franklinville because of the namesake diner, and our first visit was a game-changer. After eating countless meals across North Carolina, it’s easy for us to say that Franklinville Dinner is special.
Start your day with breakfast here or grab some lunch. Franklinville Diner’s biscuits, sweet potato casserole, and burgers had us hooked at first bite, but we keep coming back to explore the rest of the menu.
It won’t hurt our feelings which meal you choose, but we might judge you if you skip their Grilled Poundcake for dessert.
Ramseur
Ramseur is east of Franklinville and largely concentrated along US-64/NC-49 between Asheboro and the Randolph-Chatham County Line. It’s home to one of our family’s favorite spots.
Spend Time at Millstone Creek Orchards
Address: 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd, Ramseur, NC
Official Website
If you’ve never seen a peach tree bloom, then you need to come out to Millstone Creek Orchards in the Spring! With over 86 acres of rich farmland, this family farm receives 500 to 700 visitors a weekend and goes through 3,000 gallons of their freshly pressed apple cider a season.
You might think fall is the best time to visit, and don’t get me wrong, the 2,000 pounds of pumpkins picked a day is proof enough! However, Millstone Creek is open from March to December and has family-friendly events and you-pick options for all seasons.
The farm has blackberries, blueberries, cluster grapes, peaches, pecans, pumpkins, gourds, and apples.
If you have a larger group, book a tour with Beverly during the week or come out with the family for the weekend hayrides, farmer’s markets, kid-friendly movie nights, or the roast marshmallows with Santa.
Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the Cider House at Millstone Creek. There, you can responsibly sip on hard cider and munch on tasty, handcrafted food in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Randleman
Randleman sits north of Asheboro and is the first major Randolph County town you’ll encounter when traveling south from Greensboro on I-73 or US-220.
It’s primarily known as the home of the Petty family of auto-racing and NASCAR fame.
Race to Victory at the Petty Museum
Address: 309 Branson Mill Rd, Randleman, NC
Official Website
The Petty Museum is located in Randleman, literally 20 feet away from Richard Petty’s childhood home. It is a museum and garage dedicated to the success and story of the Petty family.
If being known as “The King” wasn’t enough, Richard Petty won a few races (200) during his career.
That includes 7 Daytona 500s, and Petty earned over 360 trophies. Inside the museum, you’ll find his original cars, memorabilia, and many of Petty’s collectibles (guns, pocket watches, and his famed belt buckles).
Read More: The NC Museum of History (+7 Things We Love About It!)
Tour Petty’s Garage
Address: 311 Branson Mill Rd, Randleman, NC
Official Website
The back of the museum is home to Petty’s Garage. This unique automotive retailer is known for its custom performance builds, upgrades, and restoration.
They also perform one-of-a-kind jobs that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Tours of the facility are available upon request and availability.
Seagrove
Seagrove is south of Asheboro and is largely known as the handmade pottery capital of the United States.
Visit the Seagrove Potters
Address: 402 E Main St, Seagrove, NC
Seagrove hosts more than 80 potters within a 20-mile radius. There is a wide variety of styles, and the North Carolina Pottery Center is a great place to learn about them.
Step inside to learn about the history of pottery, check out their rotating exhibit, and see samples from all of the Seagrove potters to map out your day’s itinerary.
If you want to flex your creative side, spend time at a class with Crystal King Pottery (mainly in the summer, but other times available) and the North Carolina Pottery Center.
We think a visit to the Seagrove Potters is one of the best things to do in Asheboro with friends. That’s why we added it to our bucket list of things to do in North Carolina!
Where to Eat and Drink in Seagrove
- The General (124 West Main Street, Seagrove, NC) is a wine and bottle shop in the restored 1910 Seagrove General Store. After an afternoon of browsing the pottery studio, enjoy a bottle of wine or North Carolina craft beer! While The General does not serve food, they are accommodating if you want to bring your own food.
- Seagrove Family Restaurant (8702 Old US Hwy 220, Seagrove, NC): Did we say good ole home cooking? Because that’s exactly what you’re going to find at long-standing local joints like the Seagrove Family Restaurant. With daily specials and incredible desserts, you can’t go wrong with anything you choose from the menu here! Just make sure to grab a slice of Pig Pickin’ Cake. It will perfectly top off your meal.
Trinity
You’ll likely pass through Trinity while traveling I-85 between Greensboro and Charlotte. The town is named for Trinity College, which eventually packed up and moved to Durham, where it became Duke University.
Linbrook Heritage Estate
Address: 5507 Snyder Country Rd, Trinity, NC
Linbrook Heritage Estate is a sight to be seen, as what I would like to call a modern-day Biltmore. The house was built by local technology entrepreneur Jerry Neal, who lives in a modest farmhouse next door.
Inspired by his travels, the house is filled with his and his wife, Linda’s, collectibles and serves today as an event space.
Read More: How to Enjoy Christmas at Biltmore
A popular spot for weddings, Linbrook Heritage Estate is a charitable foundation. The profits from weddings and tours go directly to St. Jude’s Hospital. Reservations are required to see Linbrook Hall—but they are worth it!
During the winter season, the house is beautifully decorated and open to the public for tours. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Uwharrie National Forest
A portion of Uwharrie National Forest’s 51,000 acres sits within Randolph County.
And here’s another factoid for you—based on early evidence from the Catawba Indians, the Uwharrie Mountains are considered the oldest in North America.
There are tons of things to do in Uwharrie National Forest. People in our family have been coming here for years to relax and explore the waters of Badin Lake.
The National Forest is designated Game Lands, meaning you can hunt and fish here (remember your hunting & trapping and fishing licenses).
Closer to Randolph County and Asheboro, here are a few popular places to explore while hiking Uwharrie National Forest:
- Birkhead Mountains Wilderness: Besides learning about Uwharrie’s ancient hills, you can hike around the 3,000 acres of an old plantation in the Birkhead Mountains Wilderness.
- Birkhead Mountain Trailheads include:
- Robbins Branch Trailhead (5527 Lassiter Mill Rd, Asheboro, NC): 3.1 miles one way.
- Tot Hill Farm Trailhead (3091 Tot Hill Farm Rd, Asheboro, NC): 27.3 miles one way.
- Thornburg Trailhead (3977 Lassiter Mill Rd, Asheboro, NC): 1.8 miles one way.
Safety Note: As mentioned, hunting is allowed in this area. Hikers are not required to wear orange during hunting season, but it is highly recommended that they do so.
Pisgah Covered Bridge
Address: 6925 Pisgah Covered Bridge Rd, Asheboro, NC
Built in 1911 for $40, Pisgah Covered Bridge is one of two original historic covered bridges in North Carolina (the second is near Hickory). Multiple local organizations, including the NC Zoo, have partnered to maintain and refurbish the 54-foot-long bridge.
You can add a short hike through the woods to your visit to Pisgah Covered Bridge. A nearby 0.75-mile-long trail crosses multiple footbridges and even passes a baptismal pool.
Ready to Explore Asheboro NC and its Surroundings?
Whether you’re coming to Asheboro for the quaint downtown or to visit the North Carolina Zoo, there is plenty to do here!
So, if you haven’t been here, now is the time to come down. No matter which things to do in Asheboro and Randolph County fill your weekend, you’re bound to fall in love with this part of the state!
Have you ever visited Asheboro, Seagrove, and elsewhere in Randolph County? What did you get into while here? If you haven’t yet passed through this area, what do you want to do first?
More Things to Do in Asheboro and Nearby (NC Travel Guides)
We’ve featured many of these things to do in Asheboro and nearby in our NC travel guides collection. Here are a few of them.
