Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cary, NC and Stantonsburg, NC

Overview

If you are looking for a road trip that can bring you close to nature and take you through historic places with amazing food, then the route from Cary to Stantonsburg, North Carolina is a must-try. This 120-mile trip is full of surprises with multiple small towns and natural areas. The beautiful rocky stream and bridges on Route 231 make for a great drive. The halfway point of the trip is Zebulon, NC, which has its own attractions including fun outdoor activities and historic landmarks.

Top 5 Things to do

Hiking at Castle Lager Vineyards & Winery (Apex, NC)

The Castle Lager Vineyards & Winery is worth a stop for wine lovers, and hikers alike, with amazing views. The Castle Lager Vineyards and Winery trail spans 5 miles, and whether you hike it all, or only a portion of it, you will be amazed by the lush greenery and scenic beauty. In addition to wine tastings and tours of the vineyard, visitors can relax to the sounds of music every Friday and Saturday during Wine Down Weekends.

Interesting fact: Castle Lager Vineyards and Winery boasts a range of award-winning craft beers produced in nearby Apex Brewery.

Visiting the Ava Gardner Museum (Smithfield, NC)

The Ava Gardner Museum is a must-visit, as it celebrates the life of Ava Gardner, a Smithfield native, and film actress. Visitors can see costumes, photographs, and personal items that belonged to her. The museum has recreated the Hollywood era and her life in North Carolina. The museum is laid out in a way that showcases her life, from her humble beginnings to her stardom, from her marriages to her untimely death.

Interesting fact: Ava Gardner was a big animal lover, and she would adopt animals that no one else wanted. She once had more than 100 dogs on her estate.

Exploring Goldsboro Downtown Historic District (Goldsboro, NC)

The Goldsboro Downtown Historic District is full of history, art, and culture. Visitors can step back into time and see the restored, historic buildings with unique architecture. In addition, the district is home to Wayne County Museum that features exhibits and artifacts celebrating local history and the people who lived there.

Interesting fact: The historic district has several buildings designed by one of the country's most acclaimed architects, Charles Clinton Hart.

Kayaking at Contentnea Creek (Kinston, NC)

Kayakers and water sports enthusiasts won't want to miss Contentnea Creek. This beautiful waterway features natural views and plenty of opportunities to experience wildlife. This spot is ideal for a casual or adventure-packed day of kayaking.

Interesting fact: The Contentnea Creek is almost 82 miles long with 120 named tributaries, and it is one of the longest blackwater streams in the nation.

Dining at Skylight Inn BBQ (Ayden, NC)

Any foodie on a road trip would be remiss to miss the chance to dine at one of the nation's most famous BBQ joints, Skylight Inn BBQ. This classic establishment has a history of using genuine wood burning ovens and a menu full of their own special seasonings and secret recipes. Skylight Inn BBQ has been serving traditional pit-cooked barbecue for more than 65 years.

Interesting fact: Sam Jones IV, a pitmaster and heir to Skylight Inn BBQ, won the 2019 James Beard Best Chef Southeast Award.

Conclusion

Overall, this road trip from Cary, NC to Stantonsburg, NC is full of surprises, including outdoor activities, history lessons, and good food. The trip is an easy 2-hour drive each way, and the scenic beauty on the way makes it worth the effort. The journey takes travelers through small towns and natural areas that are full of surprises. Don't forget to stop and enjoy all the unique and amazing places along the way.