Howell Woods in southeastern Johnston County encompasses more than 2,800 acres of wetlands, forests and streams. Together, these features shape the natural landscape and offer a different focus from the museums and regional cultural attractions.
Wetlands and Forest Knowledge
The Clemmons Educational State Forest also celebrates nature, but with its own focus: it was the first Educational State Forest in North Carolina. In addition to self-guided trails and exhibits, it offers ranger-led programs. These different formats let you explore a trail on your own or take part in a program. For nature enthusiasts, Johnston offers more than a single perspective on forests and landscapes.
Museums and Historical Perspectives
With more than 4,500 square feet of exhibit space, the Johnston County Museum traces the county’s history from prehistoric times to the present. It is also recognized as North Carolina’s only surviving Freedmen’s Schoolhouse. The broad historical perspective and the specific story of a schoolhouse sit side by side here.
The Tobacco Farm Life Museum focuses on rural life in Eastern North Carolina and has preserved its history and cultural heritage for more than 35 years. Its 6,000-square-foot museum features permanent and changing exhibits on farm life, medicine in the American South, domestic skills, rural social life and historical artifacts. The museum also includes a restored home dating to around the turn of the 20th century, a separate kitchen, a smokehouse, a log tobacco barn and an outbuilding. Together, the exhibits and buildings offer different perspectives on rural history and everyday life.
The Ava Gardner Museum offers another collection, including original scripts, photographs, costumes and personal belongings of film actress Ava Gardner. Film-related items and personal objects can be explored together, so the collection is not limited to just one kind of memorabilia.
Muscadines, Barbecue and the Stage
Hinnant Family Vineyards & Winery is North Carolina’s oldest and largest commercial Muscadine vineyard. Each September, the winery invites the public to pick Muscadine grapes. Since seasonal conditions can affect your visit, it’s a good idea to check them in advance.
The regional food culture also has a clearly defined specialty: Eastern-style barbecue in Johnston County features chopped pork and a vinegar-based sauce.
Live @ the Rudy adds another kind of cultural program. It offers four different seasonal, family-friendly shows throughout the year, featuring music, comedy and other performances. Specific dates change annually, so check the current event schedule before visiting.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Johnston County lies at the intersection of Interstates I-95 and I-40. The Johnston County Visitor Center is at Exit 95 on I-95. RDU International Airport is also useful for planning your trip: it is 30 to 45 minutes from the center of the county. Actual travel time may vary.
Explore more destinations: Clayton, Kenly, Smithfield, Four Oaks, Middlesex, Chatham County, Mecklenburg, Ashe County.
For the state-wide travel overview: North Carolina.
