Plan a Johnston County escape just outside Raleigh. Visit the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield, explore Civil War history at Bentonville Battlefield, wander murals and antique shops in Clayton/Selma, and sip local spirits and wines—plus easy nature stops for golden-hour photos.

Craving a tasty Triangle day trip? This guide maps a Johnston County food crawl—featuring slow-smoked North Carolina BBQ, a farm-to-glass whiskey tasting, and old-school red hot dog joints—plus provides information on when to go, how to plan your route, and practical tips for navigating lines and sauces.