Rowan’s railroad history offers a broader look at technology and transportation: the N.C. Transportation Museum in Rowan County covers the history of rail travel, automobiles and aviation. Seasonal train rides add to the experience. The Bob Julian Roundhouse is the largest surviving roundhouse in North America. Alongside this transportation history, historic estates and waterside natural areas offer a variety of ways to explore Rowan.
History you can read in the places themselves
Housed in the 1857 courthouse, the Rowan Museum uses interactive exhibits to tell the history of Rowan County. The museum includes four historic properties in total, including the Old Courthouse, built in 1857. Setzer School offers another perspective on the past, providing insight into the history of public education in North Carolina.
The Old Stone House is the oldest surviving structure in Rowan County. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. from April through November; visits are also available by appointment. Confirm visiting hours before your trip. You can arrange an appointment by calling 704-633-5946.
In Salisbury, the History and Art Trail takes you through five major historical eras, organized by its markers. You can start anywhere; there is no set order. In October, OctoberTour offers access to ten private homes and two significant landmarks. Check dates and participating homes before your trip.
Gold Hill: Mining History and Trails
Gold Hill Mines Historic Park is a 70-acre park in Gold Hill. Its trails span several miles and are suitable for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The Gold Hill Rail Trail offers a distinct connection to railroad history: it links the restored mining town of Gold Hill with the original narrow-gauge railroad branch line from the 1880s. Gold Hill thus offers both a range of trail activities and a specifically identified historic rail connection.
Nature, Water and Wildlife
Dan Nicholas Park brings together a wide range of attractions: a campground, lake, carousel, train, gem mine, aquarium, nature center and animal enclosures. Lake Murtis is a 10-acre lake in the park. Rowan Wild cares for live native North Carolina animals and offers educational programs to visitors to Dan Nicholas Park.
Eagle Point Nature Preserve has just over three miles of trails. Canoe access to High Rock Lake depends on high water levels. Bald eagles use the waters of the preserve, particularly Goldeneye Cove, as fishing grounds. Trail length, water access and the fishing grounds used by the eagles offer different insights into the area, without promising an eagle sighting.
Tiger World is a nonprofit animal conservation and education center. It is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and preservation of exotic animals. During educational tours, visitors are personally guided through the preserve.
Art and Experiences in Salisbury
Waterworks Visual Arts Center features a sculpture garden and presents three rotating exhibitions each year. Since the exhibition program may change, check in advance what will be on display during your visit. The F&M Bank Trolley offers narrated tours around downtown Salisbury. If you are considering a private tour, confirm availability in advance.
Patterson Farm’s market is also part of the local scene: it gives local farmers and small businesses a way to sell their products to families, neighbors and visitors to Rowan County.
Getting to Rowan
Rowan County is located along Interstate 85 and is easily accessible via Interstates 40 and 77. Amtrak serves Salisbury daily, with passengers boarding and disembarking at Salisbury Station. Check the schedule before your trip. If you are driving, check current road conditions, as conditions and construction can change.
Discover more destinations: Salisbury, Rockwell, Onslow County, Gaston County, Granville County, Orange, Mitchell County, Clay County.
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