Art & Entertainment Fun Itinerary

We believe in our small towns and that local art and entertainment makes for a fun weekend trip to Johnston County. Why not explore and find the unexpected joy in local theater and enjoy concerts held in historic restored buildings like The Clayton Center and W. J. Barefoot Auditorium in Benson. Small can be intimate and talent comes in all forms. Check out the possibilities here in JoCo!

Where to stay on this Art Themed Itinerary

Visitors choosing this 48 hours in JoCo trip will find staying in the Benson, Clayton, and Smithfield areas will offer many arts and entertainment attractions, art glasses, museums, and events. Several of our theaters have performances and concerts throughout the year, so we suggest searching the Arts & Entertainment Calendar of Events is your first step in planning a visit.
 

Suggested Itinerary to Enjoy the Arts

DAY ONE

Throughout the year, The Rudy Theater produces four uniquely themed shows, and several special guest concerts as well. If you are coming to town just for one of their shows, here's our suggested itinerary to make this a weekend excursion to Johnston County. For planning your trip, the four shows are:  (March-April) Easter Jubilee is a fun filled celebration of the Easter Season, with contemporary and classic songs, (May-July) Throwback Sounds of Summer will take you back in time with the sounds of R&B, Motown, Beach and Pop songs, (August-Oct) Classic Country Jubilee performances are inspired by country legends, and the very popular (Nov-Dec) Christmas Jubilee is alive and well with all the Christmas classics. These concerts are family friendly and group friendly as well.

11:30am      Arrive in time for lunch at The Old North State Food Hall

Everyone in your group will find something to try, with regional, unique vendors in one space and a variety of cuisine, the Old North State Food Hall is the nation’s first roadside food hall right off I-95’s Exit 97.

12:45pm     Matinee Show at Live@ The Rudy

Take in the show of your choice at the matinee, leaving time in the afternoon to explore the area.

4:00pm       Tour and Tasting at Hinnant Winery

Hinnant Family Vineyards and Winery, the largest muscadine vineyard in North Carolina with over 100 acres, is truly a tradition in the making. Enjoy a tasting and tour of the winery.

Check into your hotel and discover the dining options in Downtown Smithfield or there are many chain options at Exit 97 and 95.

DAY TWO

9:30am       Tour the Ava Gardner Museum

The Ava Gardner Museum is home to an incredible collection of memorabilia including original scripts, photos, costumes, and personal effects of screen legend Ava Gardner—a true Hollywood “Cinderella” story. Experience her rise to fame from a country girl to one of Hollywood’s film goddesses. Born near Smithfield, in the rural crossroads known as Grabtown, Ava’s friends and co-stars included Mickey Rooney, Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra, and Gregory Peck. Her grave site is located in nearby Sunset Memorial Gardens, approximately two miles from the museum.

10:30am    Get on the Smithfield and Selma Mural Trails

For some fun art excursions before leaving for home, explore several of the murals located in the Smithfield and Selma area, get some selfies for taking memories home.

For more arts and entertainment trip ideas to Johnston County - check the Calendar of Events!

 

List of Arts & Entertainment Venues