ABOUT THE AREA
Located in the "heart" or geographical center of North Carolina, in the state's Piedmont Triad region, is an almost perfectly square parcel of land in the Carolina slate belt. Founded by Quaker settlers, the legislature established it as Randolph County in 1779. This area, known for its rich farmland and historic rivers, includes Archdale, Asheboro, Franklinville, Liberty, Ramseur, Randleman, Seagrove, Staley and Trinity, and is home to the Uwharrie Mountains. Our natural beauty paints a charming and inviting backdrop for area attractions and events with the rich cultural traditions featured in this prominent area of North Carolina.
Festivals & Events
A number of local communities celebrate their heritage by hosting a variety of annual festivals and events. Christmas on Sunset, in downtown Asheboro, the Bush Hill Heritage Festival in Archdale, and the Seagrove Pottery Festival have all been chosen as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. The Asheboro Fall Festival remains a popular annual event, along with the spring and fall Liberty Antiques Festivals, voted the Best Antiques Show in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Museums & Attractions
Find what's in your heart by exploring an assortment of museums and attractions unequal to any other area of North Carolina! From an internationally acclaimed Zoo to the largest private collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles in the country; a plane flown by Orville Wright; a museum honoring NASCAR legend, Richard Petty; the only NASCAR-themed children's camp in the world; the handmade pottery capital of the U.S.; and a tractor museum located on the estate of one of the largest private homes in the Southeast.
Outdoor Fun
For those in search of outdoor fun, leave the stress of the city behind and discover one of North Carolina's two remaining historic covered bridges. Experience the thrill of a lifetime on a zip-line voted a Top 100 Expo Adventure in 2010. Hike America's oldest mountain range in the Uwharrie National Forest at either of the Birkhead Wilderness Area entrances located on Tot Hill Farm and Lassiter Mill Roads. Fish along 100 miles of beautiful shoreline on the new 3,000 acre Randleman Lake; or tour an assortment of pick-your-own orchards and working farms.
Arts & Entertainment
If you love arts and entertainment, you'll be drawn to downtown Asheboro's growing arts district. Experience the nostalgia of the Historic Sunset Theatre, now a popular performing arts venue. Downtown Asheboro is also home to several intimate galleries featuring exhibits of exquisite and enchanting arts and crafts created by local and regional artisans. Stroll through the distinctive outdoor sculpture collection including the now famous "Letter A" marble bench designed and created by the late Horace L. Farlowe. Don't miss the Liberty Showcase theater in downtown Liberty featuring classic country, gospel, bluegrass and rock performances, as well as a variety of special guests and concert events each weekend.
History & Heritage
Trace your roots in the Randolph Room at Randolph Library in Asheboro. The Randolph County Historic Landmark Preservation Commission is preserving our area's past for the future. They have now designated 12 historic sites throughout the County providing a tangible link to the past with people, places, and events that have made significant contributions to shape our present.
Golf
Play some of the area's most beautiful golf courses including the only 4.5 star rated course in the Piedmont Triad, 7th Hardest Course in America as featured in Golf Digest, and a nine-hole public course designed by the famed Donald Ross in 1935 - all located within an hour's drive from Pinehurst, home of a number of America's finest golf courses.
Sports & Racing
Our area is home to semi-professional sports including baseball, racing, and various recreational tournaments including the Bank of America JV Basketball Tournament, now the largest JV basketball tournament in the U.S.
Vineyards & Wineries
Tour the area's first commercial vineyard located on 140 acres at the foot of beautiful Mount Shepherd.
Social Networking
For up-to-the-minute news from the Heart of North Carolina, visit our Web site at HeartofNorthCarolina.com where you can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube!
