Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Asheboro, NC

  • Published 2022/10/07

Asheboro is a classical all-American city situated in the very heart of North Carolina.

Nestled in the Uwharrie Mountains, it boasts a breathtaking panorama.

Today, the main attraction for tourists here is the very famous North Carolina Zoo.

But Asheboro is definitely more than just its zoo.

In this guide, we bring to you the 25 best things to do in Asheboro, North Carolina.

Take a Sightseeing Tour at North Carolina Zoo

North Carolina Zoo

Jill Lang / shutterstock.com

Asheboro is home to the world’s largest natural habitat zoo – the North Carolina Zoo.

More than 1,800 animals call this zoo their home.

The visitors can feed the animals under expert guidance.

elephants at North Carolina Zoo

viditi / shutterstock.com

The site also has a Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden, which is open for visitors from 10:30 am-4:30 pm, and a hiking trail that opens at 7:30 am and closes at 5 pm; visiting hours for April to October are 9 am-5 pm.

The zoo is open from 9 am-4 pm from November to March.

Tickets are free for children under two years of age.

tigers at North Carolina Zoo

Gary Rolband / shutterstock.com

However, children from 2 to 12 years have to buy a ticket for $11.

For the age group of 13-61, the ticket price is fixed at $15 and $13 for seniors of age 62+.

Visit the American Classic Motorcycle Museum

A visit to this museum will leave you in awe with its large privately owned collections of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the United States.

The museum is open on the weekdays from 6 am-4 pm.

The ticket is free for visitors.

After taking a tour of the museum, you can treat yourself to a delicious meal from the nearby restaurants.

If you want to purchase gifts or souvenirs, there is a gift shop nearby.

Explore North Carolina Aviation Museum

If you want to immerse yourself in aviation history, a visit to the North Carolina Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame is a must.

From military artifacts to civilian memorabilia, this place has an extensive display.

Furthermore, the museum exhibits a collection of uniforms, static aircraft models, out of which nearly all of them are privately owned.

The collection is switched up from time to time, and the aircraft are superbly taken care of to preserve their flight-worthy conditions.

Since 1996, the museum has conducted a fly-in event annually on the second Saturday of June.

Visitors can avail facilities like free mini-airplane flights for children, aircraft displays, remote control model aircraft, helicopter rides, Ham Radio demonstrations, and a racing car exhibition.

The face painting by the Marines is something worth trying.

Enjoy the Stunning View of Randleman Lake

Randleman Lake

lee thompson / shutterstock.com

This reservoir lake was created in 2004 on the Deep River, situated in the Cape Fear River Basin.

It was constructed to facilitate and fulfill the water requirements of the Greensboro region for a period of 50 years.

The lake was opened for recreational activities such as boating in 2010.

Although fishing and sailing are allowed, there are strict rules and regulations to be followed.

There are restrictions imposed on fuelling the boast near the lake in addition to speed constraints (sailboats with masts fewer than 25 are only allowed to run in the water at a speed of 25 mph).

With over 100 miles of shoreline, the luscious greenery is a sight in itself.

Zip through a Stunning View at Richland Creek Zipline Canopy Tour LLC

Enjoy an exhilarating zip line tour along Richland Creek.

Ride a 14-station zip line over a mile-and-a-half of cable over the picturesque foothills of the Uwharrie Mountains!

Every aspect of the course, from its construction to its operation, meets or exceeds the American Society for Testing and Materials requirements, the Association for Challenge Course Technology, or UZT, and other reputable organizations, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone in the family.

Mendenhall Falls, three sky-bridge obstacles, and our 1,400-foot-long longest line are just a few of the many features of this trip.

Its courteous crew will follow your party and lead you on a fantastic one-and-a-half-hour tour of the ruins.

The North Carolina Zoo is less than three miles away, but Randolph County’s most beautiful wilderness regions are only a short drive away.

You’ll have an unforgettable day in the great outdoors!

Have Some Retail Therapy at Asheboro Mall

The Asheboro Mall has 380,559 square feet of retail space.

In Asheboro, the mall serves as the town’s principal retail attraction for locals and tourists.

Opening in 1982, Asheboro Mall used to be called Randolph Mall.

To begin with, it was home to Woolco and Belk Yates.

The Hull Property Group launched a major refurbishment of the mall in 2020.

The old Sears building was demolished and rebuilt with a new entrance and plaza to house two outward-facing retailers.

Cinemark’s freshly remodeled cinema is now accessible via a new entrance near Dunham Sports.

A previous PNC Bank building was demolished and rebuilt with an outparcel used by other businesses.

Dunham’s Sports and Belk are the mall’s two main anchors. Hull Property Group is in charge of the property.

Paint and Sip Wine at The Preppy Possum

Join local artist Nikki Cherry as she takes you to step by step through the painting process to create your first masterpiece at Asheboro’s best paint-and-sip studio!

Anyone may come to the preppy possum and make stunning artwork.

It offers lessons for people of various skill levels, from beginners to families with young children.

It also provides private parties for special events, including children’s birthdays, family reunions, bachelorette parties, business team building, and ladies’ night out.

Make a stunning piece of art you can be proud of by following its instructor’s instructions step-by-step.

Bring Home Pieces from Latham’s Pottery

Latham’s Pottery features handcrafted items, including coffee mugs and pie plates to miniatures, honey jars, garlic and candles, brie bakers, earring trees, and candle cups.

They also make various other items, such as Yarn bowls for Ikebana.

In addition to being microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe, Latham’s Pottery’s stoneware is useful and classic.

With a handcrafted basket on top and two sides that are always signed with Bruce’s entire name, it has become one of his hallmark pieces.

Intricate patterns in various hues are created using a variety of dyes and pigments.

Colored sponges come in pink, pink and green, and green and blue shades.

All of the Pottery has lead-free glazes and is made by hand.

Climb the Cox Mountain

Cox Mountain

Kwok Min Hui / shutterstock.com

Cox Mountain is known for its trails which are popular among hiking enthusiasts.

Hence, you will find many people always waiting to start their hike from here.

The trail offers a way through the woods and creek, which will make you fall in love with its beauty.

Visitors will need to cross small rivers and lakes on rope-tied wooden bridges.

The trail is best visited from April to September.

Play at Kid’s Play Zone At North Asheboro Park

North Asheboro Park provides a good spot for kids to have fun and spend some great quality time.

It is known for its disc golf and a perfect nature walk.

Thanks to its scenic view, the park is also apt for small outdoor parties and picnics.

It has an outdoor pool, a playground, volleyball court, basketball court, tennis court, and a frisbee golf course with plenty of area for kids to run around.

Admire the Views at Saint Paul Museum

Established in 1966, the North Randolph Historical Society works to ensure the smooth functioning of Saint Paul Museum (also called St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church).

The church is enlisted in the US National Register of Historic Places.

Efforts are made to preserve Randolph County’s vast history by collecting, exhibiting, and preserving artifacts and archives of historical significance.

The museum also consists of a gift shop, best to purchase some souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones.

Anyone can donate to the museum.

Near the museum, an old cemetery is present, marking the old age of the building.

Pay a Visit to Randolph Memorial Park

The Randolph Memorial Park came into existence in 1948 and can be found near Deep River and Randleman Lake.

The park comprises several well-maintained gardens and trails.

This Memorial Park offers traditional ground burying, cremation, and lawn crypts.

The site also has three mausoleums.

Take Pictures at Pisgah Covered Bridge

Pisgah Covered Bridge

Guy J. Sagi / shutterstock.com

One of the only two remaining covered bridges in North Carolina, this wooden structure built back in 1910, is on the list of the US National Register of Historic Places.

The bridge is about 54 feet in length and crosses the West Fork Branch of the Little River.

Pisgah was once carried away by the floods in 2003 but was restored using 90% of retrieved materials.

During refurbishing of the bridge, shingles were laid, giving the bridge a shingle roof.

The bridge now continues to be a direct connection to the county’s long-ago means of transport, when horse and wagon were frequent, and automobile travel was in its infancy.

Go for Shopping in the Flea Markets

A market that sells second-hand goods is called a flea market.

The flea market of Asheboro is a great shopping point for collectors and consists of a large variety of antiques, vintage collections, and common products at a reasonable rate.

Witness Nature’s Glory at Birkhead Mountain’s Wilderness

Established under the 1984 North Carolina Wilderness Act, the area currently covers a landmass of 5,160 acres in Central North Carolina.

It aims to give the public a chance to witness this natural wilderness, but also to preserve the same as the natural habitat.

The place is currently governed by the US Forest Service.

All trails in this area are designated hiking trails, where vehicles of any kind are strictly not allowed.

Be warned, as this includes mountain bikes as well.

Camping is permitted in the region provided that the campers stay away from roads, streams, wildlife fields and creeks at a distance of 200 feet.

Campers are also not allowed to cut grown trees for firewood.

Instead, the use of gas stoves is encouraged.

Read Books at Randolph County Public Library

The Randolph County Public Library provides information for the citizens at the site of the library through remote means or community outreach for those patrons who are homebound or under care facilities.

The general aim of this public library is to preserve, organize and provide the information to those who need to access it.

If you want to hold a meeting at the library, you can do so, which is completely free of cost.

The facilities can also be accessed by anyone – private or business groups, as well as public.

But certain restrictions and guidelines apply for the same like making reservations in advance.

Do read the Meeting Room Policy on the website’s page before applying for a reservation request.

Shop at Collector’s Antique Mall

This antique mall came into existence in 1993 by transforming the old B.C. Moore Department Store into a multi-dealer Collector’s Antique Mall.

Located in the very heart and spirit of downtown Asheboro, its growth through the years has been exponential.

Today, this mall spans across a total area of 35,000 sq. ft and have an expansive range of collections that include artefacts, toys, mid-century books, jewellery, and housewares.

It also houses the state’s authentic pottery-both antique and modern.

Grab Some Beers at Four Saints Brewing Company

This beer company extracts some fine beer around the city.

Tuesday’s are celebrated as Taco Tuesday, and from Wednesday to Sunday, a diner known as Fyes Diner is open to serve the visitors.

Opening hours are different for different days of the week: on Tuesday and Wednesday, the shop is open for beer tasting at 4 pm and closes at 8 pm.

On Thursday, the same open at 4 pm and closes at 9 pm and on Friday opening hour is 4 pm with 10 pm as closing time.

On weekends, you can visit the shop between 1 pm – 10 pm on Saturday and between 1 pm and 6 pm on Sunday.

The timings are hard to catch on but remember to check their blog before visiting.

Admire the Sunny Slope Farm

Established in 2012, this charming family farms continue to be a ray of sunshine for the locals, as well as the visitors.

This well-maintained place allows for visitors to come and meet cattle on the farm.

The site offers many fun activities like a hayride, gem mines and animal feeding.

A visit to the Sunny Slope Farm is guaranteed to make you.

Visit the Tot Hill Farm Golf Club

To experience golf like none other, visit the Tot Hill Farm Golf Club where “legends are made and the brave, rewarded.”

Opened in 2000, this masterpiece was the brainchild of Mr Mike Strantz, whose other famous creations include True Blue and Stonehouse.

The club boasts beautiful sceneries and offers phenomenal amenities.

Ranked as the 7th hardest Course in the United States by the Golf Digest, a visit to this place would be nothing short of awe-inspiring.

A fee of $69 is levied on visitors.

Catch an Event at Bicentennial Park

When planning your trip to Asheboro, don’t forget to include a stop at Bicentennial Park.

The park is around 4 hectares in size.

It’s a well-known grassy area that hosts several gatherings and performances throughout the year.

This park is renowned for its famed summertime festivals and other major events.

Bring some friends and a blanket or lawn chairs so you can all relax and watch the performances outdoors.

Parkgoers may also use the park’s paths and seats to enjoy a stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

The park offers ample and free parking.

Achieve a Strike at Family Sports Center

If you’re looking for a place in Asheboro where you can have a fun time, gather the gang, and go rolling at Family Sports Center!

Suppose you’re looking for a more competitive atmosphere.

In that case, Family Sports Center also offers league evenings, and you don’t even need to be an expert to play!

You may also just come in and play without any pressure.

You won’t have to worry about hunger after a game because refreshments are available at the snack bar.

Cool down at Arbol Mexican Ice Cream

Relieve yourself from the heat on a sunny day in Asheboro at Arbol Mexican Ice Cream

Those searching for delicious ice cream should prioritize this shop during their stay in Asheboro.

Their ice cream flavors and sweet coffee have become well-known for their one-of-a-kind tastes.

Try its signature Mexican flavors, including Arroz con Leche, Mango y Chile, Lemon con Chamoy, or its classics like vanilla and cotton candy.

The store is neat and inviting, making it a fantastic location to hang out with friends, family, or a significant other.

Have a Makeover at Make It Beautiful Salon & Spa

Asheboro is great since it has several options for people looking to improve their appearance.

Whether you’re in need of a haircut or some new skin care products, the service industry has you covered.

The treatments provided by Make It Beautiful Salon & Spa are flexible and designed to meet your individual requirements.

In addition to professional services like hair and skin care, they also sell a wide selection of at-home beauty essentials.

If you want to take your visit to the spa to the next level, you may do so by making an appointment.

Be sure to include this on your list of things to do in Asheboro.

Support Local Farmers and Vendors at Asheboro Farmers Market

Visit the Asheboro Farmers Market for excellent food, unique handmade items, and fresh produce.

You may find the market in the heart of Asheboro.

Local, homegrown, and home-processed goods from Randolph County are sold only at this growers-only market.

Its farmers come from many different ethnic and racial minorities.

Farmers aren’t the only ones selling goods at the market; local restaurants and artists also set up shop there.

You may find rare and exotic items from all around the world at the market.

The farmer’s market is a great place to obtain fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, cheese, bread, eggs, and more.

Final Thoughts

While Asheboro is known for its historic downtown and the North Carolina Zoo, there is so much more to see and do here!

Now is the best time to visit if you haven’t already.

These Randolph County, North Carolina attractions will make it hard not to fall in love with Asheboro and Randolph County.

More North Carolina

Best Things to Do in Hickory, North Carolina

© All rights reserved.