From the South Carolina state line near Rowland to the Virginia state line near Pleasant Hill, U.S. Route 301 runs north to south for 194 miles through gorgeous North Carolina scenery. This three-hour drive takes you to some of the state's most interesting towns that are often bypassed by Interstate 95. Take a look at what you might be missing if you skip this beautiful drive through North Carolina.
As you can see, Route 301 is a straight line across North Carolina, connecting interesting stops along the way in charming towns.
1. Weldon
This first stop is a river town known as the Rockfish Capital of the World, due to the annual Rock the Roanoke Rockfish Tournament bringing hundreds of people to the Roanoke River. And be sure to visit the Riverside Mill for new clothing, shoes, furniture, art, and antiques. You won't leave empty-handed.
2. Halifax
About 10 miles down the road you'll find Halifax, North Carolina, the nation's birthplace of independence. The historic document the Halifax Resolves was signed there on April 12, 1776.
Locals and tourists alike descend upon the charming town for the annual Halifax Resolves Day Celebration.
Also, Halifax is a joining of the old and new as several historic buildings have been renovated to create new businesses.
The Hen & The Hog is a local restaurant, whose chef crafts delicious locally-sourced cuisine.
3. Enfield
Moving on another 15 miles will take you to the small town of Enfield, North Carolina, and a visit to Marina's Family Italian Restaurant, where Marina whips up her family's secret sauce.
This pizza for one is a meat lover's dream piled high with pepperoni, sausage, and ham.
She also serves traditional dishes, such as eggplant parmesan, spaghetti, and lasagna.
4. Kenly
After lunch, take the 45-minute drive to Kenly, North Carolina, and experience the Tobacco Farm Life Museum, to explore the state's agricultural roots. The 6,000-square-foot gallery features rotating and permanent exhibits, such as domestic skills, southern medicine, rural social life, early transportation, and textiles.
5. Selma
We would be remiss if we withheld information about the sweetest fudge in the world at Trackside Antiques. And they give free samples until you hit the one you love, which is a very difficult choice.
6. Smithfield
Another short drive gives you a big reward at the Ava Gardner Museum, in Smithfield, North Carolina. Holding an extensive collection of artifacts from the actor's career and private life, the museum attracts about 7,000 visitors a year.
7. Fayetteville
Fayetteville, North Carolina, about 45 minutes down the road, offers several attractions to visit, such as the Cape Fear Botanical Garden This lovely 80 acres holds the most beautiful specialty gardens and blooming ornamental plants. Some highlights of this magical place include the Butterfly Stroll and Children’s Garden, and the Heritage Garden showcasing 1886 agricultural structures and a homestead.
And finally, make a stop at the lovely, 142-acre Luther Britt Park.
Don't you see how much fun you'll experience by taking this beautiful drive through North Carolina on Route 301? And every year in June, be sure to look out for the 301 Endless Yard Sale. If you stop in at any of these interesting places along Route 301, please share your experience in the comments below.
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