ABOUT THE AREA
Located in the “heart” or geographical center of North Carolina, in the state’s Piedmont 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. Known as the Uwharrie Reservation when it was purchased by the federal government in 1931, and declared a national forest by John F. Kennedy in 1961, it is one of four national forests in the state and the only one in the Piedmont. This natural beauty paints a charming and inviting backdrop for area attractions and events, and 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 special events. Christmas on Sunset, in downtown Asheboro, is an annual holiday celebration that was recently named one of the Top 20 events in the Southeast. The bi-annual Liberty Antiques Festival has been voted the Best Antiques Show in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Museums & Attractions
In addition to pottery, race cars, and bears, other exciting area attractions include the American Classic Motorcycle Museum, John Deere Vintage Tractor Museum, North Carolina Aviation Museum & Hall of Fame, Museum of North Carolina Traditional Pottery, North Carolina Pottery Center, and Victory Junction Camp.
Arts & Entertainment
If you love the nostalgia of historic theatres, don’t miss the Sunset Theatre in downtown Asheboro and Liberty Showcase in downtown Liberty. The W.H. Moring, Jr. Arts Center features exhibits of exquisite and enchanting arts and crafts created by local and regional artisans, alike. Tour the Downtown Asheboro Sculpture exhibit for an artist’s perspective of this unique outdoor collection, including the now famous “Letter A” marble bench by the late Horace L. Farlowe, along with 12 other distinctive works.
Outdoor Fun
For those in search of outdoor adventure, there are a variety of perfect settings to choose from. Leave the stress of the city behind at Goat Lady Dairy and the Pisgah Covered Bridge, Rising Meadow and Sunny Slopes Farms, Routh Horse Ranch, the Birkhead Mountains Wilderness Area and an assortment of local farms and orchards. Zimmerman Vineyards, located on 102 acres at the foot of Mt. Shepherd, offers fabulous weekend tours and wine tastings. Experience the thrill and excitement of a lifetime on Richland Creek Zipline!
Golf
Area golf includes Tot Hill Farm Golf Club, recently named the only 4.5 star rated course in the Piedmont and 7th Hardest Course in America by Golf Digest; Asheboro Municipal Golf Course, a nine-hole course designed by Donald Ross in 1935; Asheboro Country Club; and Holly Ridge Golf Links – all located within an hour’s drive from Pinehurst, home to a number of America’s finest golf courses.
Sports
The area is home to semi-professional sports including baseball, racing, and various recreational tournaments. In 2010, the city Asheboro will host the North Carolina American Legion State Baseball Tournament at McCrary Park.
History & Heritage
Tracing yours roots? The Randolph Room at Randolph Library in Asheboro. Interested in historical sites? The Randolph County Historic Landmark Preservation Commission has now designated six sites throughout the County. For more information, contact the Visitors Bureau.
Social Networking
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