Monday, October 9, 2023

Great Trails State Day in #theHeartofNC

Celebrate an outdoor adventure with us.

Join us for the day or a portion of the day as we celebrate Great Trails State Day in Randolph County located in the Heart of North Carolina. No matter what your skill level on a trail there is outdoor activity to be enjoyed.

The morning begins as Randolph County's seat, Asheboro Mayor invites you for a walk along the trail at our newest outdoor venue for recreation and organized sports, the Zoo City Sportsplex - only a few miles from our world renowned North Carolina Zoo.

Another morning activity occurs each week, Internationally, is the parkrun 5K - one of only four in the state of North Carolina at Creekside Park in Archdale. Enjoy a paved surface for this 3.1 miles that can be shared with your four legged friend as well!

Take on a paddle trail along the Deep River Rail Trail at the Worthville Boat Access in Randleman. This is the first public access to the waterway along this trail and is maintained by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and the City of Randleman.

Refuel at any unique dining option throughout the Heart of North Carolina - check out some of our favorites HERE.

Challenge yourself with a natural surface hike at Caraway Creek Preserve. The historic land is primarily under tree cover, perfect for the afternoon sun. Experience grand views of surrounding hills from the Uwharrie Mountain chain. The main feature and highlight of the hike is the historic check dam, seen from the Caraway Forks Trail - likely built in the early 1900s as a method for silt-retention and flood prevention. This land is owned and managed by the Piedmont Land Conservancy.

Monday, July 31, 2023

Fall Bucket List in the Heart of NC

Harvest, Haunts, and More!

Building your bucket list can be challenging. We are here to help you celebrate the fall season with haunts, harvests, wild animals, and one-of-a-kind artists. Randolph County has a little bit of everything that makes fall a great season to visit. Check out our suggestions below for your ultimate bucket list adventure, only in the Heart of NC!

Celebrate the Largest Community of Potters

Seagrove Pottery Community - Seagrove, NC

D Discover nearly 40+ shops of local potters in Seagrove located along scenic Pottery Highway, NC Hwy 705. This time of year the Potters Pumpkin Patch is an annual celebration of participating potters that sell their festive fall wares on weekends in Octobers. 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 on Potters Pumpkin Patch

Continue celebrating the crisp weather and beautiful colors by exploring Seagrove during Pottery Festival Weekend. This early shopping experience has been a tradition for the Seagrove Pottery community for over 30 years, now with TWO locations to shop - the Historic Luck's Cannery and Seagrove Elementary School. Join your pottery friends on the weekend before Thanksgiving to see live demonstrations, new seasonal wares, and holiday gift items.

More Information for Seagrove Pottery Festival Weekend at Seagrove Elementary School

More Information for Seagrove Pottery Festival Weekend at Historic Luck's Cannery

See Leaves Change

Pisgah Covered Bridge – Asheboro, NC

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. Walk this bridge and see why it is iconic to Randolph County and North Carolina.

Address - 6925 Pisgah Covered Bridge Rd, Asheboro, NC

Animals & Pumpkins

North Carolina Zoo – Asheboro, NC

Boo at the NC Zoo - Enjoy this family-friendly zoo tradition at the North Carolina Zoo and Pumpkin Palooza. Boo at the NC Zoo offers trick or treating for children and live music. Pumpkin Palooza gives you the option to see animal enrichment as they play with pumpkins. There are also many photo opportunities along the decorated trails with designated seasonal photo spots. This is THE fall event at our North Carolina Zoo.

Address - 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205

All Things Apples

Millstone Creek Orchards – Ramseur, NC

Millstone Creek Orchards is a working farm with opportunities for visitors to explore the 18-acre property with u-pick adventures, hayrides, fishing, and educational classes. Beginning in September, Apple Pickin' Adventures begin followed closely by Pumpkin Pickin' Adventures at Millstone Creek - check the website for exact dates and reservation requirements. 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!

Address - 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd, Ramseur, NC

Get Scared

Kersey Valley – Spookywoods - Archdale, NC

Spookywoods at Kersey Valley - From the moment you arrive, you are fair game to all of the haunted creatures that reside on Kersey Valley land. Spookywoods has been a North Carolina tradition since 1985 and is one of America’s most famous haunted attractions. This haunted house has 15 scenes to walk through and along the way, you’ll encounter a few surprises. Haunts begin September 23rd in 2023!

Address - 1615 Kersey Valley Rd, Archdale, NC 27263

Spooky Bottom Haunted Trails - Seagrove, NC

Spooky Bottom Haunted Trail was recognized as Fear Carolina's 2020 Victims Choice Award winner for the best-haunted attraction in North Carolina. Continuously improving, this will be their best year yet, with all new scenes and an overall longer experience. Witness backwoods horror like never before. Do you have what it takes?

Address - 6059 Union Grove Church Rd, Seagrove, NC 27341

Be sure to check out other seasonal bucket lists from the Heart of NC for your ultimate bucket list!

Monday, July 24, 2023

Family Friendly Fall FINDS in Archdale – Day or Night!

Fall can be defined by many people as colorful foliage, tasty homemade treats, and fun family traditions in pumpkin patches and corn mazes. In the northwestern portion of the Heart of North Carolina, Archdale and Trinity have many attractions for family fun during the day and spooktacular entertainment at night. Read on to plan your next memory making tradition with loved ones.

Where to FIND Fall Foliage

Take a seasonal stroll along paved walking trails at Creekside Park in Archdale or elevate your walk with the workout stations throughout the trail. Not only is this 107-acre park geared toward passive recreation there are multiple opportunities to take in nature by exploring the 1.24-mile orienteering course featuring 12 control points. Competitive fun for all ages continues with the 18-hole disc golf course designed by Russell Swartz in 2011. Children of all ages and abilities will enjoy multiple playgrounds with one being ramped and ADA compliant. Join an international 5k event - parkrun - weekly at Creekside Park, one of four in North Carolina, FREE registration. Convenient electric car charging stations available.

Photo credit: Doll Girl

Fall temperatures continuously attract golfers to Holly Ridge Golf Links, a premier public golf course that leads the way in challenging, affordable golf in the Piedmont Triad. While tee times are preferred for the area’s finest 18-hole course, feel free to drop in for a quick nine. Delicious food and beverages from the newly renovated bar and grill will keep you energized for continued entertainment in The Bunker, an HD golf simulator experience with six bays of virtual play from courses worldwide.

Holly Ridge Golf Links Photo credit: Richard Schaffer

The Bunker | HD Simulator Photo credit: Conner Jarrell

Where to FIND History

Privately owned with a primary mission of preserving North Carolina’s farming heritage and industrial legacy, Linbrook Heritage Estate is home to Linbrook Hall, Historic Hoover House, and Neal Agricultural and Industrial Museum. Connect agricultural history to today’s modern technology with tours of each site.

Linbrook Hall is the center piece of Linbrook Heritage Estate and is not only a house, but an event and fundraising venue. With four floors of antiques from all over the world, seasonal tours are offered to guests with reservations.

Linbrook Heritage Estate - Linbrook Hall

Relive Randolph County early farm life from 1905 to 1944 at the homestead of the Neal family is the Historic Hoover House. Restored to its original appearance, early farm equipment and hand-built tools are on display for viewing through guided tours.

Linbrook Heritage Estate - Historic Hoover House

See artifacts and more than 26 fully restored John Deere® tractors at the Neal Agricultural and Industrial Museum. View a 1926 return tube boiler from P & P Chair Company in Asheboro, producers of the Carolina Rocking Chair used by President John F. Kennedy, multiple steam engines from the 19th century, and see demonstration of the War of the Currents. Open daily to the public, children FREE admission!

Linbrook Heritage Estate - Neal Agricultural and Industrial Museum

Where to FIND Thrills & Chills

Explore fall colors from above at Kersey Valley Zipline with 14 lines and 17 sky decks providing a bird’s eye perspective. A pumpkin patch, corn maze, gem mining, and a jumping pillow will entertain the entire family building traditions and fall memories.

Kersey Valley Zipline

Guests can check off their thrill-seeking list with activities on this 83-acre adventure park at every turn. From intense themed Escape Rooms to a challenging Axe Throwing Course, adrenaline will flow into the late hours of the night with one of the top haunts in America – Kersey Valley Spookywoods. Each year, since 1985, movie quality sets with soul-shaking special environmental effects spook the bravest of guests. Get scared HERE, if you dare!

Kersey Valley Spookywoods

Where to STAY & Play

Rejuvenate from your fall exploration at one of our affordable hotel properties, conveniently located off I-85, near local dining establishments and a charming shopping district. Book your accommodations here before your visit!

Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Archdale

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.

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 3^rd 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.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Feel Your Heart Race: Why We Love Richard Petty

The heartbeat of NASCAR can be felt right here in #TheHeartofNC, the birthplace, and home of “The King,” race car driver and legend, Richard Petty. Petty was destined to become a racing great. His father, Lee Petty, helped pioneer the sport and won the inaugural Daytona 500 in 1959. What began with Lee continued with Richard, his son Kyle, and eventually, Kyle's son Adam and his daughter's son Thad Moffitt.

About Richard Petty: NASCAR Legend

In 1958 at the age of 21, Richard Petty drove in his first NASCAR event and in 1959 won his first race at Columbia Motor Speedway. Today Petty is one of the most respected and well-known figures in motorsports. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame In Charlotte in 2010 in its inaugural class. His career was full of highs, winning the Winston Cup Championship 7 times, the Daytona 500 7 times, 200 wins in NASCAR competitions, and over 700 top ten finishes throughout his career. With so many victories and accomplishments under his belt, Petty has remained humble. Fans could always find Petty staying late to sign autographs and he was voted the Winston Cup's most popular driver 9 times.

Visitors to The Petty Museum in Randleman, NC can re-live or learn firsthand the great moments in Petty family racing history. The museum is located next to the The Toomes- Petty House where Richard and his brother were raised. At the museum, guests can see and photograph The King’s belt buckle collection, championship rings, trophies, and a multitude of cars driven by the Petty family throughout the decades. Even those who are not NASCAR fans warm to the daring family stories, videos, collection and displays of this museum.

Petty as the voice of Strip "The King" Weathers in "Cars"

Today’s younger generation knows Richard Petty as the voice of Strip “The King” Weathers from the Disney Pixar animated trilogy, “Cars.” A little-known fact, Richard's late wife, Lynda Petty, voiced Mrs. "The King" Weathers. At the Petty Museum, visitors can see these characters in real life, immortalized in Petty blue.

How Victory Junction Changes Lives

We can brag on Richard Petty’s incredible racing career for days on end, but what he and his family have achieved beyond the racetrack is rooted in their love of community and family. In 2000, Richard Petty’s grandson and fellow NASCAR driver, Adam Petty, was tragically killed in a practice crash at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on May 12, 2000.

Only nineteen years old at the time of his death, Adam left behind a compelling and compassionate vision of helping children with mental and physical disabilities.

In June 2004, Victory Junction Camp opened its doors in Adam’s honor. Its mission is to enrich the lives of children with serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun and empowering, at no cost to children or their families.

The camp runs solely on donations from the generous public. Funding is raised from signature events such as Run to Victory (a 10k/5k/Fun Run), Hearts of Victory Fundraising Dinners, and the Campership Classic Disc Golf Tournament. You can donate online, or attend one of the many events throughout the community.

The camp is colorful and joyous—with bright, high-energy designs in all activity areas as well. Ziplines and outdoor activities are designed for campers with physical disabilities. A larger-than-life version of the #45 car that Adam Petty drove can be seen at Adam’s Race Shop and is a beloved camp area. Cabins are specially tailored to accommodate the changing medical needs of each group of campers.

A racetrack is the camp’s central base and used to highlight camp activities. Each camp session hosts NASCARnival night with games, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and tethered hot air balloon rides. Oftentimes race teams such as Legacy Motor Club, Penske, and Roush Fenway Racing will send drivers and pit crews for these events. The teams perform a live-action pit stop complete with tire changes while campers are encouraged to take part and feel like a member of the crew.

Doctors, nurses, therapists, and medical support teams volunteer to come in for each week in their medical specialty, creating a magical experience for the campers….and allowing caregivers and parents to take the only breaks many of these families ever receive.

The Richard Petty Tribute Park

The legacy of Richard Petty is interwoven throughout the hills of Randolph County, as well as the racing community. The Richard Petty Tribute Park is a way of giving back to the man who has done so much for so many. The life size statue, created and designed by Carolina Bronze Sculpture, was revealed on April 15, 2023 during a special dedication in Downtown Randleman. Pictured above, The King and his daughters, Sharon and Rebecca, get a first look at the casting.

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.

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