Showing posts with label randolph county. Show all posts
Showing posts with label randolph county. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Gift the Experiences of the Heart of NC!

 

 Give the Gift of Experiences to

Make Memories in the Heart of NC

Purchasing gifts for loved ones can often be a challenge. Consider giving the gift of experiences this upcoming season. We have compiled a perfect list of all ages of experiences that are unique to our area. When you think of a gift you may think about why you would give someone a gift, it may be to show appreciation for their friendship, it could be an item they need, or it could be an activity that makes them happy. Make memories and by trying something new with your loved ones in the Heart of NC from this list of family-friendly adventures.

Family-Fun for all at the North Carolina Zoo

*Gift idea: North Carolina Zoo Annual Membership

Photo credit: North Carolina Zoo

More than 1,800 animals call the North Carolina Zoo home. These wild animals represent two continents, African and North America, with Asia coming soon! At the world's largest natural habitat zoo, the animals have acres of room to roam, and so do you! With 5-miles of walking trails inside the park, nature play areas for children, a zoo animal-themed carousel, and an expansive collection of art exhibits located throughout the Zoo – make sure you lace up your walking shoes for this adventure.

The North Carolina Zoo is open daily (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days). Begin new traditions or continue old ones with your loved ones this holiday season at the North Carolina Zoo. 

Purchase Annual Memberships Here 

 

Thrill-seeking Fun at Kersey Valley Attractions

*Gift idea: Kersey Valley Attractions Gift Card

Photo credit: Kersey Valley Attractions

Kersey Valley Attractions will satisfy any adrenaline seeker on your gift list this season. Choose one or more experiences found on this 83-acre farm to check off your bucket list. Zipline along the tree lines on the aviation-themed flight path or take a shot at the state-of-the-art laser tag outdoor course. If you want to stay at ground level, Bomb Bowling or Axe Throwing may pique your interest. The Piedmont Triad’s best real-world adventure game rooms offer family-friendly, creepy, and scary Escape Rooms.

Seasonal experiences include the award-winning Kersey Valley Spookywoods, an immersive haunted house attraction featuring a family-friendly corn maize adventure during the day. The Christmas season is filled with joy, hot cocoa, lights, Santa, and a train ride around the park. Kersey Valley Christmas is in its second season and has expanded the light display for even more Christmas cheer for all ages!

Purchase a Gift Card for Kersey Valley Attractions – good for most adventures!


Take a Scenic Drive and Explore the Pottery Highway

*Gift idea: Handmade items only found in Seagrove! 

Photo credit: VisitNC

Oftentimes the best memories can be made on a winding country road. One of the most beautiful back roads in Randolph County takes visitors to Seagrove, NC, nestled in the southern part of the Heart of NC. The true experience of the Seagrove Pottery community is meeting the makers of this craft, some are 8th generational potters. Driving down NC Hwy 705, Pottery Highway, you will encounter historic areas of North Carolina which have been making and selling hand-thrown and hand-built pottery since the eighteenth century. 

Insider tip – plan to explore the charming dining and unique shops throughout the Downtown Seagrove area as well to support the small businesses. 


Begin Planning Your Visit Today!

 

Off-Broadway Entertainment Comes to the Heart of NC

*Gift idea: RhinoLeap Productions Season Pass

Photo credit: Jeremy Skidmore

RhinoLeap Productions is a professional theater production company based out of Randolph County since 2015. The upcoming production season is filled with comedy, drama, tragedy, documentaries, podcasts, and seasonal entertainment. Production subscriptions include a ticket to each RhinoLeap performance for 2023 - 2024. 

Learn About Productions and Purchase Tickets Here

 

Legendary Entertainment at the Liberty Showcase Theater

*Gift idea: Liberty Showcase Theater performance tickets

Photo credit: Randolph Hub

Live music and world-class entertainers perform in an intimate vintage movie theater in the downtown area of Liberty. Established in 1949 as The Curtis Movie Theater, this historic venue now hosts legendary artists from the music industry across several genres including bluegrass, country, and gospel. Theater owners, Dewey, and Leslie Brown are also known to entertain their guests with original music written and performed by the couple. Consider the gift of music for your loved one to make memories and check off bucket list items by visiting the Liberty Show Theater.

Learn About Performances and Purchase Tickets Here 

 

Fuel for the Adventures - Dining Local

*Gift idea: Gift Cards to Local Dining Establishments


Some of the fondest memories are made around the dining table. Delicious food has a way of bonding people together. Additional highlights of the entertainment and adventures mentioned above include having a meal, or two, among our extensive list of local award-winning dining establishments. From farm-to-table and tastes of comfort to pizzas made in a wood-fired oven or delicious burritos from an authentic taco stand; some of our dining options have been in business for over 75 years. Grab a drink at our brewery, wineries, and tasting room to sample beers and wines made right here in Randolph County.

See Our Foodie List in Randolph County Here!

When can we expect you? Visit HeartofNorthCarolina.com for places to stay and special military discount offers! Order a FREE travel guide and check out the listing of annual events on our bit.ly/HNCVBCalendar . We look forward to following along on your visit. Tag us at #theHeartofNC.

                     

 

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

2023 Year of the Trail in the Heart of NC Event Round Up

Piedmont Legacy Trails Produces Randolph County Trail Guide

We invite you to join trail enthusiasts and lovers in each city and town throughout Randolph County as we celebrate their special outdoor amenities with ribbon cutting events and activities in honor of 2023's Year of the Trail in North Carolina. 

Before your trail adventures begin, check out this video from The Great Trails State Coalition Trails for the Future: How History is Shaping Trail Development in Randolph County.     

 Early Spring | March & April

Photo Credit: Piedmont Legacy Trails | Creekside Park in Archdale

Healthy Communities invites you to join their Sunday Hike Adventures on March 12 – Spring into Action – Hike from Mundo Vista at Camp Caraway to Slip Rock Mountain and April 16 – Celebrate Trails – Hike to the top of Mount Shepherd, the highest elevation in Randolph County. 

·         The City of Archdale will host a ribbon cutting event at the Creekside Greenway – Outer Loop.

·         The City of Randleman will hold a ribbon cutting at the Worthville Blueway.

·         The Town of Seagrove will host a trek through town along their Downtown sidewalks.  


Late Spring | May & June  May/June

Photo Credit: Piedmont Legacy Trails | Caraway Mountain Top in Asheboro

Healthy Communities hosts their Sunday Hike Adventures on May 21 – Explore NC – Hike to Russell Gold Mine in the Uwharrie National Forest and June 3 – National Trail Day – Celebrate at the North Carolina Zoo’s event.

Join the team from Piedmont Land Conservancy as they hold a ribbon cutting at Caraway Creek Preserve.

·        The City of Asheboro will host trail lovers to explore the newly opened Zoo City Sportsplex facility.

·       The North Carolina Zoo celebrates National Trail Day on June 3rd with a ribbon cutting of the Purgatory Mountain Spring Trail.

 

Summer | July & August

Photo Credit: Piedmont Legacy Trails | Randleman Section of Deep River State Trail

Healthy Communities continues Sunday Hike Adventures on July 16 – Celebrate NC Parks – Hike the newly opened trails at Piedmont Land Conservancy’s Caraway Creek Preserve with a view of Mount Shepherd and Caraway Mountain and August 13 – Wellness and Trails – Hike to Cooper Mountain Cemetery from Robbins Branch Trailhead in the Birkhead Wilderness of the Uwharrie National Forest. 

·         The Town of Ramseur will host a ribbon cutting for a trail extension and trailhead.

·         The Town of Liberty will showcase improvements at Freedom Park to celebrate their trails.

·         The City of Randleman will hold a ribbon cutting event at Phase III of their Greenway. 

Fall | September & October

Photo Credit: Piedmont Legacy Trails | Uwharrie National Forest - Birkhead Wilderness Area

Healthy Communities invites you to join their Fall Sunday Hike Adventures on September 10 – Achieve a Trail Goal – Hike to Cooler’s Knob, the highest point in the Birkhead Wilderness and Colonel Balfour Grave Site from Tot Hill Farm Trailhead and the entire month of October is filled with Mayor’s Fitness Challenge events from all municipalities across Randolph County – Wellness Walks on Saturdays and Hikes on Sundays. 

·      The Town of Franklinville will host a ribbon cutting at Sandy Creek Bridge. 

·       Enjoy a Uwharrie Trail Thru Hike with beginner and advanced hikers – learn about our natural beauty and history of the Uwharrie National Forest.                        

Late Fall & Early Winter | November & December

Photo Credit: Piedmont Legacy Trails | Franklinville Section of Deep River State Trail

Mayor’s Fitness Challenge events continue in November with walks on November 4 & 11 and a hike on November 5, there are no planned hikes in the month of December – find your outdoor adventure. 

·     The Town of Franklinville will host a ribbon cutting event from the center of Franklinville to Sapona.

*NOTE: All Healthy Communities Hikes begin at 2 pm at the site. Some dates and sites may be subject to change pending any weather or scheduling issues. Please check with Mary Joan Pugh, Randolph County Trails Coordinator – maryjoan.pugh@randolphcountync.gov    

When can we expect you? Visit HeartofNorthCarolina.com for places to stay and special military discount offers! Order a FREE travel guide and check out the listing of annual events on our bit.ly/HNCVBCalendar . We look forward to following along on your visit. Tag us at #theHeartofNC.    

                         

 

 


Thursday, May 4, 2023

Best Patio Dining in the Heart of North Carolina


 Fresh Air in Randolph County

As temperatures warm into the next season, the best seat in the house is often outdoors. We have a few suggestions of local dining options with patios that welcome guests to have an al fresco experience in the Heart of North Carolina.

Asheboro 

Don Julio Cocina Mexicana - Warm, easy-going outdoor space. Don Julio's offers Tex-Mex specials from burritos, fajitas, and more. For the over 21+ Don Julio has an extensive beer and cocktail menu.

405 E Dixie Dr P, Asheboro, NC 27203

The Table in Downtown Asheboro (photo credit: Our State Magazine)

The Table Bakery
 - This farm-to-table bakery and dining is everything you want, fresh ingredients, cooked to order, and fresh pastry items. The patio is covered by white umbrellas and gives you a view of the Asheboro Farmers Market. 

39 S Church St, Asheboro, NC 27203  

Something Different - Something Different Restaurant is just as the name suggests: a blend of American, Greek, and additional options. The updated patio greets you right at the entrance - an inviting experience with market lights turned on in the evening. 

1512 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205

Magnolia 23 in Downtown Asheboro (photo credit: Randolph County EDC)

Magnolia 23 
- With a patio tucked in the back, Magnolia 23 outdoor space offers a relaxing dining experience. Magnolia 23 is known for the award-winning fried chicken, Southern home-cooking from scratch, and a chalkboard of daily specials.

23 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC 27203

Brewskie's -Established in 2019, Brewskie's offers a wide selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a welcoming and shaded patio. Enjoy flatbread or their freshly brewed coffee specialty drinks.

736 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC 27203

Una Mas Mexican Grill - One of the largest patios in Randolph County, Una Mas stands out in its dining offerings. They serve fresh Mexican cuisine for lunch and dinner - known for grilling chicken and steak to perfection in every order.

1337 E Dixie Dr, Asheboro, NC 27203

Archdale

The Chat & Chew - Seasonal coffee drinks, fresh dessert, and hand-dipped ice cream are available at Chat and Chew in Archdale - a great stop to relax with an open front patio.

10301 N Main St, Archdale, NC 27263

Holly Ridge Golf Bar & Grill - Located on Holly Ridge Golf Links, this patio dining offers one of the best views of the Holly Ridge golf course - open daily for lunch and Thursday - Saturday for dinner. 

7933 US-311 S, Archdale, NC 27263

The Wet Whistle Co. on Bonnie Place
(photo credit: The Wet Whistle)

The Wet Whistle Co.
 - Enjoy unique coffee, wine, and beer, plus a variety of North Carolina and East Coast products. The Wet Whistle is a little bit of dining and shopping. See live entertainment on certain nights on the small but inviting front patio.

101 Bonnie Pl, Archdale, NC 27263









Seagrove 

The General Wine and Brew - Uncork and unwind at The General Wine and Brew, this former and renovated Seagrove General Store built in 1910. The General has a retail wine shop and bar offering wines by the glass or bottle. Beers on tap are available as well as a variety of bottled or canned craft beers. It features a large deck in the back of the shop for outside seating. Well-mannered pets and children are welcome.

124 W Main St, Seagrove, NC 27341

Staley 

Main Street Grill  - Serving breakfast and lunch, this staple of Staley offers a covered patio that is perfect for the daily specials.

126 S Main St, Staley, NC 27355

Bring your own picnic! 

Northbound Visitor Centers picnic area
(photo credit: Google Business submitted by FSS)


I-73/74 Northbound & Southbound Visitor Centers 

Relax and unwind with the large set of picnic tables surrounded by charcoal and wood-burning grills. It is a perfect stop to see the views of Randolph County. See all seasons come alive from the green roof on the Southbound side. 

I-73/74 Northbound Visitor Center is located at 4393 I-73/I-74, Seagrove, NC 27341, and our I-73/74 Southbound Visitor Center is located at 4390 I-73/74, Seagrove, NC 27341 

Deep River State Trails - Explore Randolph County while taking in the sights of nature along the Deep River State Trails access points – we have three in our county. Picnic tables under weather shelters and grills are the perfect start or end to your trail adventure.

Franklinville Access 163 W Main St, Franklinville, NC 27248

Ramseur Access 728 Liberty St, Ramseur, NC 27316 

Randleman Access 117 Presnell St, Randleman, NC 27317 


Solar Pointe picnic area at the North Carolina Zoo
(photo credit: North Carolina Zoo)



North Carolina Zoo - Visiting the largest zoo in the United States? The North Carolina Zoo offers outdoor dining options and onsite food choices for purchase. American fare located throughout the zoo includes hamburgers, fried chicken, and barbecue. You are your seat at a picnic table within the park or venture outside of the admissions gate to Solar Pointe, easily accessible from the North America Plaza. Guests also have the option to leave the park to dine offsite and return with a the single-day admission ticket.

4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205


We look forward to following along during your visit – tag us at #theHeartofNC. Make sure to order your FREE travel guide bit.ly/FREETravelGuide for more planning tips.

Randolph County includes Archdale, Asheboro, Franklinville, Liberty, Ramseur, Randleman, Seagrove, Staley, and Trinity. 

Friday, September 2, 2022

Fall in the Heart of NC

*Please note that at the time of publication, COVID-19 is still affecting the operations of our attractions, restaurants, and event venues. We encourage you to review and plan ahead as details are subject to change.*

Fall in love with the Heart of North Carolina this season – with dramatic leaf colors, crisp cool weather, and fun festivals. Grab your boots, scarf, and seasonal flavored drink (pumpkin or apple) to begin your adventures in the Heart of North Carolina.  

History meets trails - Soak in the fall scenery around our numerous trails. Explore historic sites, see beautiful fall color as the leaves change, and feel crisp breezes as temperatures cool with the change of the season. The Heart of North Carolina boasts 19 trails for you to explore. For the complete Randolph County Trail Guide here, from our friends at Piedmont Legacy Trails.

Faith Rock Trail, an access point of the designated Deep River State Trail, has an easy 3/4-mile loop with a big payoff. Cross over the historic bridge, take in the beautiful views of the river, and step back in time from the top of Faith Rock - where American Patriot Andrew Hunter was cornered by the Tory Army in 1782 during the Revolutionary War.

Located at 1306 Andrew Hunter Rd, Franklinville, NC 

                       More Information



Randolph County's Pisgah Covered Bridge is one of North Carolina's two remaining covered bridges that was built in 1911 at a cost of $40. The bridge is 54 feet in length and crosses the West Fork Branch of the Little River within the Uwharrie National Forest. This site serves as a direct connection to Randolph County's past mode of transportation when horse and wagon were common and automobile travel was in its infancy. 

Located at 6925 Pisgah Covered Bridge Rd, Asheboro, NC 

                                                                                               More Information                   


We love to explore the trails inside the North Carolina Zoo to discover animal adventures on a large scale, but did you also know that the Zoo has trails for exploration with no admission? Check them out when the season change. The main mission of the trails is to protect native wildlife and their natural habitats.

Located at 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC

                                                                                                More Information 


Fall Harvest – Gather your friends and family for harvest time fun on the farm.  


Millstone Creek Orchards (MCO) is a working farm with opportunities for visitors to explore the 18-acre property with u-pick adventures, hayrides, fishing, and educational classes. This fall MCO is pumpkins and apples. We never leave the farm without trying a fresh apple cider slushie paired with hot apple cider donuts. Reservations are required for u-pick adventures - don't miss out on the fun!

Located at 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd, Ramseur, NC                     

                       

          More Information and Reservations


         

Kersey Valley Attractions is home to family-friendly adventures during the day and a haunted trail once the sun sets. Get lost at Kersey Valley Maize Adventure, a corn maze experience offering a maze, train ride, jumping pillows, pedal carts, treehouse village, and dinosaur discovery zone. Kersey Valley Spookywoods started out with a dare in 1985 and has grown into one of America's most popular and scary haunts. Reservations are encouraged on weekends in September and October. 

Located at 1615 Kersey Valley Rd, Archdale, NC                                                                    

                                                                                               More Information

Seagrove Pottery – Pottery Highway in Seagrove, NC is fun every time of year, but the fall brings seasonal pottery and new adventures. Explore over 40+ pottery shops within a 20-mile radius this season and treat yourself to autumn pottery. For an ultimate road trip adventure, plan a visit to Seagrove, the Pottery Capital of the US.   

  


Potters Pumpkin Patch is an annual celebration of participating potters opening their shops along scenic Pottery Highway, NC Hwy 705, by selling their festive fall wares. Our talented potters showcase special items including 
pumpkins, gourds, autumn leaf pottery, woodland creatures, scented candles, and seasonal refreshments. Stop in at any of the shops and get your Potters Pumpkin Patch Map with event details for each location.

                        More Information  



Festivals and events in the Heart of North Carolina are vibrant and fun. Beginning in September with our biannual antiques festival with over 400 dealers. October weekends are filled with street festivals focusing on arts and crafts, live music, all the deep-fried foods - we even honor the King of NASCAR! We wrap up the fall season with our Seagrove Pottery friends by supporting their art during their annual festival and studio tours to purchase fall-themed decor and get an early start holiday shopping!                                              

 Check out our events calendar for a complete list of upcoming events in the Heart of NC. 

Share your fall adventure with #TheHeartofNC

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