Star North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Star, North Carolina.
1. STARworks Center
ART AND CRAFTSMANSHIP HUB
STARworks Center is a creative hub in Star that showcases local artisans and their crafts. Visitors can explore galleries featuring handmade glass, ceramics, and other artistic creations. The center also offers workshops and demonstrations for those interested in learning traditional crafting techniques.
2. Luck's Ware
LOCAL SPECIALTY SHOP
Luck's Ware is a charming specialty shop in Star that offers unique gifts and local products. Visitors appreciate the curated selection of handcrafted items and regional specialties. The shop provides a glimpse into local culture through its merchandise and friendly atmosphere.
3. Uwharrie Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
The Uwharrie Trail is a 25-mile hiking path through the ancient Uwharrie Mountains near Star. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy diverse terrain ranging from ridgetops with panoramic views to serene forest valleys. The trail system offers multiple access points and difficulty levels suitable for day hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures.
4. Uwharrie National Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Uwharrie National Forest encompasses over 50,000 acres of woodland near Star, offering numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, and exploring miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest's diverse ecosystem provides habitat for abundant wildlife and native plant species.
5. Badin Lake
SCENIC WATERFRONT RECREATION
Badin Lake is a beautiful reservoir located within easy reach of Star, offering 5,350 acres of pristine water surrounded by forest. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and waterfront camping at this popular recreational destination. The lake is known for excellent bass fishing and scenic shorelines ideal for relaxation.
6. Town Creek Indian Mound
ANCIENT CULTURAL SITE
Town Creek Indian Mound is a reconstructed American Indian ceremonial center dating back to the Pee Dee culture of the 11th-12th centuries. Visitors can explore the earthen mound, reconstructed temple, and burial huts while learning about Native American history in the region. The site includes an interpretive center with exhibits explaining the archaeological significance and cultural practices of the original inhabitants.
7. NC Zoo
NATURAL HABITAT ZOO
The North Carolina Zoo near Star is the world's largest natural habitat zoo, spanning over 2,600 acres with animals from Africa and North America. Visitors can observe more than 1,800 animals living in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. The zoo features immersive walking trails, educational exhibits, and conservation programs that highlight wildlife protection efforts.
8. Seagrove Pottery
TRADITIONAL CRAFT COMMUNITY
Seagrove Pottery is a historic pottery community near Star, known as the handmade pottery capital of the United States. Visitors can explore numerous pottery shops and studios where artisans create traditional and contemporary ceramic pieces using techniques passed down through generations. The area offers opportunities to watch potters at work, purchase unique handcrafted items, and learn about the region's rich pottery heritage dating back to the 1700s.
9. Lake Tillery
TRANQUIL WATER RECREATION
Lake Tillery is a scenic 5,000-acre reservoir on the Yadkin-Pee Dee River chain offering abundant recreational opportunities near Star. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking along its 118 miles of shoreline. The lake's calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a popular destination for relaxation and water sports throughout the warmer months.
10. Little River Vineyards & Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Little River Vineyards & Winery is a charming family-owned winery located near Star that produces a variety of wines from muscadine grapes native to the region. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in a relaxed country setting with beautiful vineyard views. The winery offers tours that explain the wine-making process from grape cultivation to bottling.
11. STARworks Café & Taproom
ARTISANAL DINING EXPERIENCE
STARworks Café & Taproom offers locally-sourced food and craft beverages in a unique setting connected to the arts center in Star. Visitors can enjoy casual dining while surrounded by handcrafted glassware and pottery made on site. The café serves as both a community gathering place and a showcase for the culinary and artistic talents of the region.
12. Pisgah Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN STRUCTURE
Pisgah Covered Bridge is one of only two remaining historic covered bridges in North Carolina, located a short drive from Star. Built in 1911, this picturesque wooden bridge spans the West Fork Branch of the Little River in a serene forest setting. Visitors can walk through the restored bridge, enjoy the surrounding nature trails, and picnic by the peaceful stream.
13. Morrow Mountain State Park
DIVERSE MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Morrow Mountain State Park encompasses over 4,700 acres of natural beauty within driving distance of Star, featuring multiple peaks of the ancient Uwharrie Mountains. Visitors can hike to mountain summits for panoramic views, swim in the park's pool, fish in Lake Tillery, or camp in developed campgrounds. The park also offers a museum highlighting the natural and cultural history of the area, including exhibits on early Native American inhabitants.
14. Southern Supreme Fruitcake
GOURMET FOOD PRODUCER
Southern Supreme Fruitcake is a family-owned gourmet food company that welcomes visitors to its production facility and country store near Star. Guests can tour the kitchen where their famous nutty fruitcakes and other specialty foods are made using traditional recipes. The expansive country store offers samples and sells a wide variety of sweet and savory treats, jams, relishes, and gift items.
15. Uhwarrie Vineyards
SCENIC WINE DESTINATION
Uhwarrie Vineyards offers a picturesque wine experience in the rolling hills near Star with views of the ancient Uwharrie Mountains. Visitors can sample a variety of locally produced wines in a charming tasting room or outdoor patio. The vineyard hosts regular events including live music, festivals, and educational wine pairing experiences throughout the year.