Franklinville North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franklinville, North Carolina.
1. Faith Rock
HISTORIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Faith Rock is a massive bluestone outcrop that serves as Franklinville's major geological landmark and was the setting for one of Randolph County's most legendary Revolutionary War incidents. The landmark offers several levels of walking and hiking trails with stunning views of Deep River and the surrounding area from various elevations. Visitors can access the trails from the footbridge at the west end of Riverside Park and enjoy the beautiful natural setting from dawn to dusk every day of the year.
2. Deep River Trails
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATHWAY
Deep River Trails is a picturesque pathway tracing the old railroad bed along the splendid Deep River. The trail extends approximately three-quarters of a mile and is ideal for biking and walking activities. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Deep River while enjoying outdoor recreation in this serene setting.
3. Riverside Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Riverside Park is a community gathering space located alongside the Deep River in Franklinville. The park features picnic areas perfect for relaxing lunches with family and friends near the water. From the west end of the park, visitors can access the footbridge leading to Faith Rock's trail system.
4. North Carolina Aviation Museum
HISTORIC AIRCRAFT COLLECTION
The North Carolina Aviation Museum houses a fascinating collection of historic aircraft and aviation memorabilia near Franklinville. Visitors can explore various restored planes, including military aircraft from different eras of flight history. The museum offers guided tours that provide insights into aviation development and the stories behind the exhibited aircraft.
5. North Carolina Zoo
NATURAL HABITAT ZOO
The North Carolina Zoo is one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the United States, located just a short drive from Franklinville. Spanning over 2,600 acres, the zoo is divided into North America and Africa regions, featuring animals in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. Visitors can explore miles of shaded pathways to view more than 1,800 animals representing over 250 species from around the world.
6. Richard Petty Museum
NASCAR RACING LEGACY
The Richard Petty Museum celebrates the illustrious career of NASCAR legend Richard Petty, known as 'The King' of stock car racing. The museum displays race cars, trophies, memorabilia, and personal items chronicling the Petty family's racing dynasty. Visitors can get an up-close look at the iconic #43 cars and learn about the impact the Petty family has had on motorsports.
7. Four Saints Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Four Saints Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery offering a rotating selection of unique, locally-made beers in the heart of Asheboro. The taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can sample flights of beer while enjoying the company of friends and occasionally live music. The brewery frequently hosts community events and collaborates with local food trucks to create a complete dining and drinking experience.
8. Randolph Arts Guild
COMMUNITY ART CENTER
The Randolph Arts Guild is a vibrant cultural center showcasing local and regional art through rotating exhibits and educational programs. The guild offers classes and workshops for all ages in various artistic mediums, from painting and pottery to fiber arts. Visitors can browse the gallery and gift shop featuring handcrafted items by local artisans, making it a perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
9. Millstone Creek Orchards
PICK-YOUR-OWN FRUIT FARM
Millstone Creek Orchards offers seasonal pick-your-own fruit experiences with apples, peaches, blackberries, and pumpkins depending on the time of year. The family-friendly farm features a country store with fresh baked goods, local honey, and homemade apple cider donuts that have become a regional favorite. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides, a playground area, and seasonal festivals celebrating the harvest throughout the year.
10. Pisgah Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
The Pisgah Covered Bridge is one of only two remaining historic covered bridges in North Carolina, dating back to 1911. The picturesque wooden structure spans 54 feet across the West Fork Branch of the Little River and is surrounded by peaceful forest scenery. Visitors can walk through the bridge, picnic in the adjacent area, or wade in the shallow stream below during warmer months.
11. The Table Restaurant
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
The Table Restaurant offers a delicious farm-to-table dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients in downtown Asheboro. The menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest produce, meats, and dairy products from farms in the surrounding region. Housed in a beautifully renovated historic building, the restaurant provides a warm atmosphere for breakfast and lunch with homemade pastries and breads that attract visitors from throughout the area.
12. Sunset Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE VENUE
The Sunset Theatre is a beautifully restored 1930s art deco movie house that now serves as a cultural centerpiece in downtown Asheboro. The theater hosts film screenings, live music performances, community theater productions, and other special events throughout the year. Its vintage marquee and nostalgic atmosphere provide visitors with a glimpse into the golden age of cinema while enjoying contemporary entertainment.
13. Richland Creek Zipline Canopy Tours
FOREST ADVENTURE COURSE
Richland Creek Zipline Canopy Tours offers thrilling aerial adventures through the treetops of the North Carolina Piedmont forest. The course features multiple ziplines of varying lengths and heights, sky bridges, and platforms that provide unique perspectives of the natural landscape. Guided tours last approximately 2-3 hours and provide both excitement and educational information about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
14. American Classic Motorcycle Museum
VINTAGE BIKE COLLECTION
The American Classic Motorcycle Museum houses an impressive collection of vintage and rare motorcycles spanning several decades of American motorcycle history. Visitors can admire meticulously restored bikes from manufacturers like Harley-Davidson, Indian, and other classic American brands. The museum also displays related memorabilia, riding gear, and informational exhibits about the evolution of motorcycle design and culture in the United States.
15. Deep River Brewing
RIVERSIDE CRAFT BREWERY
Deep River Brewing is the first craft brewery in Johnston County, named after the same Deep River that flows through Franklinville. The brewery produces a wide range of craft beers from traditional styles to innovative creations using local ingredients whenever possible. Their taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can sample flights, enjoy pints, and often find food trucks and live music on weekends.