Smack in the center of North Carolina, you will find Asheboro, Seagrove, Randleman, and other cute small towns. An hour and a half west of Raleigh, you will not have to worry about crowds or afternoon traffic, here. You can chill and drive our country roads in pursuit of high-flying fun, adventure, ziplines, the great outdoors, wild animals, and more.
Find: Military Specials and Discounts
We are serious about honoring our service members. With an active military ID, you receive discounts from name brand hotels that follow the top safety and sanitation procedures, local dining establishments and more: www.heartofnorthcarolina.com/travel-tools/military-discounts.htm
Find: The WORLD’S LARGEST Natural Habitat Zoo
It is not in San Diego or New York City. Our North Carolina Zoo sprawls across 2,600 acres, with 500 acres developed as natural habitats for North American and African animals — Asia habitats are under construction with an anticipated open in 2023. Nikki and Anana, our polar bear couple, spend their time splashing and swimming year-round. They are not the only animals enjoying water time. You will see elephants giving each other a bath in the ponds of the Watani Grasslands. In the same area, see a herd of baby and mama rhinos frolic alongside kudu, oryx, or a family of gazelles. Come ready to walk and explore.
This fall, tune into Nat Geo WILD to see the North Carolina Zoo in an eight-part docuseries titled, Secrets of the Zoo: North Carolina. Our zookeepers work not only here at the zoo but across the globe to save animals and preserve species. Every ticket purchased cares for the animals and helps zoo staff save critical species globally.
The animals are not the only wild creatures here. View over 50 pieces of animal influenced art throughout the walking trails in both continents, including sculptures, paintings, carved wood works, and ceramic murals to look for!
Visit NCZoo.org for details on safety measures and admission procedures.
Find: Thrilling Adventure at Kersey Valley
In Archdale, North Carolina, kids of all ages want to visit Kersey Valley Attractions for axe throwing, ziplines, high ropes courses, laser tag and escape rooms. During this time of year, Kersey Valley Spookywoods Haunted Attraction, their nationally recognized (even by USA TODAY) haunted attraction and trail entices brave souls through its doors. They also offer a corn maize adventure and a new sunflower garden for photo shoots. Kersey Valley attractions are open daily; Spookywoods opens the last weekend in September and designated days through October. For additional information on this family of attractions, visit KerseyValley.com for tickets and details on their social distancing and safety procedures.
Find: Outdoor Hiking and Camping
A fall vacation would not be complete without colorful leaves and rolling mountain views. You have extra time to visit here, as we do not hit peak color until after mid-November. Consider hiking the Uwharrie Birkhead Wilderness Area, one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America. Or, try the Deep River Rail Trailheads; these encompass three small towns with blue way access.
The North Carolina Zoo offers several miles of nature trails on site with free access throughout the year. Cast a line at Lake Lucas or Randleman Lake with the appropriate licenses (of course!) to test your angling skills. We would be remiss if we did not mention camping at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™. Guests at the campground occasionally wake up to trumpeting elephants and roaring lions instead of an alarm clock.
Find: Food for Every Taste
From hand-spun pizza crusts and homemade cheesecake at The Flying Pig Food and Spirits to the buttered artichoke hearts in lemon sherry sauce at Hamilton’s Steakhouse, you will not leave hungry. Find a seat and an aromatic latte at The Table Farmhouse Bakery, featured by Woman’s Day.
Part of a crumbling textile mill, furniture designer Dustie Gregson saw beyond the weeds and waste, knowing her version of hospitality time had come. It is a must-go for breakfast, and the simple, farm-fresh ingredients and exquisite pastries and desserts resonate at lunch, too.
Asheboro Popcorn Co. offers 20 flavors of popcorn — ask for the Heart of NC blend, you will not regret it! You’ll find a great variety of cuisine options from Southern-fried chicken at Magnolia 23 to authentic Mexican at The Taco Loco, Italian fare in an industrial-chic space at Positano’s, NC barbecue at Hop’s and stellar burgers at Everything Under the Bun.
Our award-winning brewery and social hub, Four Saints Brewing Company, within walking distance from many of these stops. An outstanding selection of libations is found at Bottle & Can and Lumina Wine & Beer, which also has a fun patio for social distancing.
Find: Answers to Your Questions
We want to make your getaway just right for you!
Order our free travel guide at bit.ly/FREETravelGuide and learn about more than 100 potters in Seagrove—or plan your tour of NASCAR’s Richard Petty-owned Petty Museum and Petty Garage by visiting HeartofNorthCarolina.com.
Follow our social team at @theHeartofNC
Call our visitor center team at (800) 626-2672.
Stop in at the I-73/74 Visitor Centers in Seagrove to get information on the entire county when you arrive. We look forward to welcoming you.