Stem North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stem, North Carolina.
1. Lake Michie Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Lake Michie Recreation Area offers visitors a serene escape with beautiful hiking trails and water activities. The recreation area features fishing opportunities, boat rentals, and picturesque picnic spots along the shoreline. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and wildlife observation in this tranquil natural setting.
2. Horton Grove Nature Preserve
HISTORIC NATURAL SANCTUARY
Horton Grove Nature Preserve encompasses over 700 acres of protected woodland featuring old-growth forests and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore miles of well-maintained trails that wind through historic landscapes once part of Stagville Plantation. The preserve combines ecological importance with cultural history, making it a meaningful destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Stagville State Historic Site
PLANTATION HISTORY PRESERVED
Stagville State Historic Site preserves one of the largest plantation complexes of the pre-Civil War South. The site features original slave quarters, a massive timber-framed barn, and the Bennehan House which dates back to the late 18th century. Tours of Stagville offer visitors a powerful glimpse into plantation life and the experiences of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
4. Cedar Creek Gallery
ARTISAN CRAFTS SHOWCASE
Cedar Creek Gallery features an impressive collection of handcrafted pottery, glass, jewelry, and wood pieces created by over 200 American artists. Founded in 1968, this artistic haven is set on a beautiful 10-acre former tobacco farm that now houses multiple gallery buildings and working artist studios. Visitors can watch artisans demonstrate their craft during special events and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to take home.
5. Dukes of Hazzard Museum
TV SHOW MEMORABILIA
The Dukes of Hazzard Museum showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia from the beloved television series that ran from 1979 to 1985. Fans can see authentic props, costumes, and even replicas of the iconic General Lee car that was central to the show. The museum offers a nostalgic trip for fans of all ages who want to relive the adventures of Bo, Luke, and Daisy Duke.
6. Oxford Downtown Indoor Flea Market
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Oxford Downtown Indoor Flea Market houses dozens of vendors offering everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts and vintage items. Shoppers can spend hours browsing through the eclectic mix of merchandise that changes regularly as new vendors and items rotate through. The market has become a popular destination for locals and visitors looking for unique finds and bargains in a comfortable indoor setting.
7. Castle Mont Rouge
WHIMSICAL FAIRY-TALE STRUCTURE
Castle Mont Rouge is an eccentric, colorful castle built by artist Robert Mihaly as both a residence and art studio. The fantasy-like structure features multiple turrets, towers, and whimsical architectural elements that make it stand out dramatically in the rural North Carolina landscape. While currently undergoing preservation efforts, the castle has become a beloved local landmark and photographic destination for those seeking unusual attractions.
8. Old South Restaurant
CLASSIC SOUTHERN COMFORT FOOD
Old South Restaurant serves up authentic Southern cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home. The menu features beloved classics like fried chicken, country ham, homemade biscuits, and an array of fresh vegetables prepared in traditional Southern style. Locals and travelers alike flock to this establishment for generous portions, reasonable prices, and the genuine taste of Carolina cooking traditions.
9. Granville County Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Granville County Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits and valuable artifacts. Located in the historic 1846 Granville County Courthouse, the museum itself is an architectural treasure that adds to the visitor experience. The collection includes items dating from Native American settlements through colonial times to the present day, offering a comprehensive look at the area's development.
10. BBQ Barn
AUTHENTIC CAROLINA BARBECUE
BBQ Barn delights diners with slow-cooked, wood-smoked barbecue prepared in traditional North Carolina style. The restaurant is known for its perfectly tender pulled pork, savory ribs, and homemade sides including mac and cheese, collard greens, and hush puppies. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite gathering spot for locals and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic regional cuisine.
11. El Rio Mexican Restaurant
VIBRANT LATIN FLAVORS
El Rio Mexican Restaurant brings the bold flavors of Mexico to small-town North Carolina with an extensive menu of traditional and Tex-Mex favorites. Diners can enjoy freshly made guacamole, sizzling fajitas, and specialty dishes in a colorful, festive atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. The restaurant's friendly service, generous portions, and authentic recipes have made it a beloved local institution for those craving Latin cuisine.
12. Arrowhead Inn
HISTORIC LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS
Arrowhead Inn offers luxurious accommodations in a meticulously restored 18th-century plantation house set on six acres of lush gardens. Each of the nine guest rooms and suites features unique décor, antique furnishings, and modern amenities like whirlpool tubs and gas fireplaces. Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts prepared by the innkeeper, explore the beautiful grounds, or use the inn as a comfortable base for exploring the attractions of the Durham area.
13. Finch's Family Restaurant
HOMESTYLE COMMUNITY DINING
Finch's Family Restaurant serves hearty, homestyle meals in a welcoming environment that makes every guest feel like part of the family. The menu features American classics and Southern specialties prepared from scratch using time-honored recipes and fresh ingredients. Regular patrons appreciate the consistent quality, reasonable prices, and friendly atmosphere that has made this restaurant a community gathering place for generations.
14. Sallie Mae Ligon Museum & Archives
EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Sallie Mae Ligon Museum & Archives preserves the history of the Oxford Orphanage and its impact on generations of children in North Carolina. The museum houses photographs, documents, and personal items that tell the stories of those who lived and worked at this historic institution. Visitors gain insight into the changing approaches to child welfare from the orphanage's founding in 1873 through its evolution into today's Masonic Home for Children.
15. This & That Antique Shop
VINTAGE TREASURE TROVE
This & That Antique Shop offers an eclectic collection of vintage items, collectibles, and unique finds that attract treasure hunters from across the region. The charming shop features everything from furniture and household goods to toys, jewelry, and memorabilia from bygone eras. Knowledgeable staff members are always ready to share the stories behind special pieces, making shopping here both an educational and entertaining experience.