Randolph
County
There's more
to do at the home of the state zoo than most people
realize
 ome people will tell you that
Randolph County hit the big time in tourism when the
state selected it as the site for the new state zoo in
1974, largely because it's conveniently located in the
geometric center of the state. But in reality this
picturesque area, with its peaceful, gently rolling
terrain and rare forests, was in the tourism business
long before that — say 200 years or so. It was the pottery business and a
host of talented Quaker settlers that gave impetus to
visitors from other regions. Although the Seagrove area
has seen its number dwindle over the years, more than a
hundred potters still ply their trade and are a vital
part of Randolph's lifestyle, culture and economy.
My host on a recent visit
to the Asheboro area was longtime friend Leo Derrick, a
30-year resident, who summed it up accurately when he
said, “Randolph County has a lot going for it:
beauty, a strategic location, a strong industrial base,
great people, history and heritage, and a variety of
interesting things to see and do. That's a good
combination.”
Racing fans will speed to
the Petty Museum in the Level Cross community of
Randleman, the home of Richard Petty, better known as The
King. The Petty family, Richard, his father Lee, his son
Kyle, and his late grandson Adam made a lasting mark in
NASCAR circles with their many outstanding contributions
to the sport. Visitors can see Petty race cars, trophies,
career movies and buy souvenirs at the gift shop.
In Trinity, the Labonte
brothers hold forth where they build and maintain cars
driven by Bobby, Terry and Justin on the stock car
circuit. Their shop is open to the public.
In keeping with the speed
tradition, the American Classic Motorcycle Museum on
Highway 64 west of Asheboro offers a fine collection of
antique and classic Harley Davidson motorcycles. On
display are more than 30 bikes dating from 1936 along
with a 1948 Harley dealership and repair shop. Admission
is free.
One of the more
interesting attractions is the Peddycord Foundation for
Aircraft Conservation Museum. Located at the Asheboro
airport and near Tot Hill Farm golf course (one of eight
daily fee courses in the area), 10 vintage military
aircraft are featured, including a B-25 bomber, a Grumman
TBM Avenger from 1945, a C-45, and a 1941 Stearman
trainer.
Other war-time memorabilia
include a 1941 Plymouth staff car, a l936 Ford coach, and
a German machine gun from World War I. Air and war buffs
alike will especially enjoy this rare display.
Country music lovers will
find some foot-stomping entertainment and down-home
cooking at Fiddler's Cove on Liberty Street, and some
lively music at the Rand Ol' Opry in Liberty.
Still looking for
something different? Try the herb and flower farm in
Seagrove, take in a stock car race at Caraway Speedway in
Asheboro or enjoy a leisurely hike in the beautiful
Uwharrie Mountains. You also can learn about the raising
and care of sheep (and yarn making) at the Rising Meadow
Farm, or about goats and cheesemaking at the Goat Lady
Dairy. Both are located in Liberty.
But the zoo, which
attracts 700,000 visitors annually, and Seagrove pottery
still rank first and second on an outsider's list of
things to see.
The 500-acre zoological
park, the nation's first state-supported zoo, is located
six miles southeast of Asheboro and features a 37-acre
African Plains exhibit, an aviary, a prairie exhibit and
the Sonora Desert exhibit. Name an animal or a rare
species and you probably will find it here in this
unique, natural habitat setting. Lions, tigers and
elephants meander around the grounds, and don't miss the
fun-loving polar bears playing and cavorting in icy
water.
The North Carolina Pottery
Center in Seagrove is headquarters for the pottery-making
in the area and provides a showcase for the artistic work
of the craftsmen. Here you can pick up a list of area
artisans and plan visits to their shops. The industry
dates to the 18th century.
Where the textile industry
once ruled supremely, tourism is now a major player. With
its many travel attractions growing each year, the
hospitality industry has kept pace and now offers nearly
800 beds in a variety of motels, B&Bs and country
inns, and a variety of restaurants — including
barbecue — to satisfy the discerning diner.
Put Randolph County on
your in-state travel itinerary. A delightful experience
awaits you in this scenic, hospitable area. For more
information, call the Asheboro-Randolph Chamber of
Commerce at 323-626-2626.
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