A bountiful helping of family-friendly activities makes for an unforgettable fall
By Lena Miano | Photography by John Michael Simpson
Escape to this charming destination nestled just south of Greensboro for an unforgettable fall weekend getaway filled with family-friendly adventures and a vibrant downtown culture.
Start your visit at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, where you’ll encounter a fascinating array of animals from across the globe. Wander through the captivating treehouse trails, enjoy a whimsical ride on the carousel or embark on a Zoofari tour of the Watani Grasslands through October. Keep your eyes peeled for the newest additions to the zoo family, an adorable baby chimp named Gombe and sand cat kittens Amira, Cleo and Jabari.
Grab a bite to eat at The Table, also in Asheboro, and enjoy a sweet treat from its bakery or sip on a seasonal coffee or tea. You’ll find Four Saints Brewing Co., renowned for its exceptional craft beers, just around the corner. Try the Potter’s Clay Amber Ale, a brew that originated as part of a campaign to support potters using artisan-crafted beer mugs. Then stroll down Sunset Avenue to peruse gifts and specialty home decor pieces inside Antiques and Geeks Collectibles and By Minkology.
Immerse yourself in the charm of yesteryear as you traverse the 54-foot Pisgah Covered Bridge, one of only two historical covered bridges in the state, located within the picturesque Uwharrie National Forest. This architectural marvel serves as a testament to a time when horse-drawn wagons graced the roads, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the bridge lies Seagrove, known as “the handmade pottery capital of the United States.” This quaint countryside town is home to the largest community of potters along the Eastern Seaboard. Explore the rich history of pottery at the North Carolina Pottery Center, where you can admire remarkable works of art and gain insights into the craft’s evolution. Crystal King Pottery owner Crystal King offers hands-on classes to create your very own face jug – a design that her family has perfected over two generations. And don’t miss the chance to visit the prestigious Ben Owen Pottery, founded by Ben Owen III, a descendant of the celebrated Owen family, whose salt-glazed creations played a significant role in Seagrove’s pottery legacy. Make sure to mark your calendar for the 16th annual Celebration of Seagrove Potters Festival Nov. 18-19, 2023 – an event that kicks off the Christmas season for local potters.
Escape into nature at Millstone Creek Orchards in Ramseur, which hosts story times and fruit-picking afternoons, ax throwing, a pumpkin patch and more. On Saturdays and Sundays in November, Millstone Manor crafts specialized luxury picnic packages catered by The Black Lantern Tea Room and Bakery – an indulgent experience that will leave you feeling pampered and content. The whole family can find their own brand of excitement at Kersey Valley Attractions, from thrilling ziplines and ax throwing to exhilarating escape rooms and outdoor bowling, as well as the captivating Maize Adventure in the fall, which features a charming train ride, a mega slide, a treehouse adventure and many more engaging activities. And if you dare, visit its spine-chilling Spookywoods Haunted Attraction on weekends toward the end of September, throughout October and the beginning of November.
The town of Randleman also hosts the highly anticipated 10th Annual N.C. Food Truck State Championship at Commerce Square Park on Sept. 9. Peruse a tempting array of farm-fresh vendors in the morning at Timken Farmers Market, and witness the state’s finest food trucks compete for prestigious prizes and bragging rights alongside live musical entertainment.
As your day draws to a close, treat yourself to a dinner or unwind with a libation at The General Wine and Brew in Seagrove. This charming establishment is owned by the town’s mayor, David Fernandez, and his wife, Alexa Modderno, who are, naturally, both potters themselves and showcase their work at Seagrove Stoneware Pottery.
