Attractions and Places To See in Johnston County - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see in Johnston County, North Carolina, include a mix of historical sites, natural areas, and cultural points of interest. Located east of Raleigh, the county features the Neuse River floodplain and various greenways. Its landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of local history and culture.
Best attractions and places to see in Johnston County
- The most popular attraction is Bentonville Battlefield, a historical site that marks the location of the largest Civil War battle fought in North Carolina. Visitors can explore hiking trails, interpretive displays, and the Harper House, which served as a field hospital.
- Another must-see spot is Sam's Branch Greenway Trail, a multiuse trail running through woods and alongside a creek. This trail connects with the Clayton River Walk, offering a scenic route for walking and cycling.
- Visitors also love 9 Bar Coffee House, a cafe located near the Neuse River Trail. It serves as a convenient stop for those exploring the trail, offering a place to rest and refuel.
- Johnston County is known for its historical landmarks, extensive greenway systems, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from battlefields to museums and natural trails.
- The attractions in Johnston County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 photos and 1 upvote contributing to their appeal.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Neuse River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The majority of the trail is in Wake County and changes name at the Johnston County line at mile marker 27.5. The remaining 7 miles consists of the Clayton Riverwalk and Sam's Branch Trail continues to the outskirts of downtown Clayton where it is simple to connect to the main street downtown for restaurants and coffee shops.
raleighnc.gov/places/neuse-river-greenway-trail
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Bentonville Battlefield
Highlight • Historical Site
You can take a self-guided tour of the battlefield and the Harper House, which served as a field hospital during the conflict. Guided tours of the house are available for a small fee.
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Sam's Branch Greenway Trail
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9 Bar Coffee House
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Tips from the Community
Bentonville Battlefield is the site of the largest Civil War battle fought in North Carolina, where Union and Confederate forces clashed in March 1865 during the Carolinas Campaign. The MST passes through the surrounding fields and forests, with hiking trails throughout the grounds that include interpretive displays that help envision the battle’s scale and impact. The visitor center includes museum exhibits and artifacts from the three-day battle. Admission is free, and the gift shop offers books, apparel, and souvenirs. You can take a self-guided tour of the battlefield and the Harper House, which served as a field hospital during the conflict. Guided tours of the house are available for a small fee.
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Sam's Branch Greenway Trail is a short, but beautiful multiuse trail in Clayton. The trail runs through beautiful woods and next to a creek before joining up with the Clayton River Walk.
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Please, for the sake of the hundreds of walkers, joggers and young kids on the Greenway- SLOW DOWN ! The speed limit is 10mph, (not 20+mph as most 2 wheel cyclists think… ) Be safe and be considerate of everyone else and stay under the speed limit. Thank you for slowing down!
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The Neuse River Trail combined with the Clayton Riverwalk and the Sam's Branch Trail creates a 34.5 mile paved, traffic free greenway from the Falls River Dam in Raleigh to Clayton, NC. The trail is a segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail which runs west to east across North Carolina from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Outer Banks. It is also a segment of the East Coast Greenway. The majority of the trail is in Wake County and changes name at the Johnston County line at mile marker 27.5. The remaining 7 miles consists of the Clayton Riverwalk and Sam's Branch Trail continues to the outskirts of downtown Clayton where it is simple to connect to the main street downtown for restaurants and coffee shops. raleighnc.gov/places/neuse-river-greenway-trail
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The Neuse River Trail combined with the Clayton Riverwalk and the Sam's Branch Trail creates a 34.5 mile paved, traffic free greenway from the Falls River Dam in Raleigh to Clayton, NC. The trail is a segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail which runs west to east across North Carolina from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Outer Banks. It is also a segment of the East Coast Greenway. The majority of the trail is in Wake County and changes name at the Johnston County line at mile marker 27.5. The remaining 7 miles consists of the Clayton Riverwalk and Sam's Branch Trail continues to the outskirts of downtown Clayton where it is simple to connect to the main street downtown for restaurants and coffee shops. https://raleighnc.gov/places/neuse-river-greenway-trail
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9 Bar Coffee House is located in the Riverwood neighborhood near the Neuse River Trail. Exit the trail at mile marker 30 and ride up the hill to the village center where it is located. I find it to be a nice destination when I am riding the Neuse River Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Johnston County?
Johnston County is rich in history. You can explore the Bentonville Battlefield, the site of North Carolina's largest Civil War battle, where you can tour the battlefield and the Harper House. Other historical attractions include the Ava Gardner Museum, the Tobacco Farm Life Museum, and the Johnston County Heritage Center & Museum, all offering insights into the region's past.
Are there good hiking trails in Johnston County?
Yes, Johnston County offers a variety of hiking opportunities. The Bentonville Battlefield features hiking trails with interpretive displays. You can also explore the Clemmons Educational State Forest with its wooded trails and educational stops, or the Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center. For more options, check out the hiking guide for Johnston County.
What natural attractions are there for outdoor enthusiasts?
Nature lovers can enjoy the Neuse River Floodplain, which offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center provides 2,800 acres of natural habitat for recreation and environmental education. Additionally, the county is home to extensive greenway systems like the Clayton River Walk on the Neuse and the Buffalo Creek Greenway, perfect for connecting with nature.
Where can I find family-friendly activities in Johnston County?
Many attractions in Johnston County are suitable for families. The Clemmons Educational State Forest is a great outdoor experience with self-guided trails and a 'Talking Tree trail.' Greenways like the Sam's Branch Greenway Trail and the Clayton River Walk on the Neuse are ideal for walking and cycling with children. The Bentonville Battlefield also offers trails and a museum that can engage older children.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in the area?
Johnston County boasts several unique cultural sites. The Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield celebrates the life of the legendary actress. The Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly preserves the agricultural heritage of the region. You can also explore the Johnston County Heritage Center & Museum for local history or enjoy performances at The Clayton Center and Live@The Rudy Theatre.
What are the best places for cycling in Johnston County?
Cyclists will appreciate Johnston County's 'trails crossroads,' where major systems like the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and the East Coast Greenway intersect. Popular local greenways include the Clayton River Walk on the Neuse and the Sam's Branch Greenway Trail, which connects to the Clayton River Walk. For more cycling routes, explore the MTB Trails in Johnston County guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Johnston County attractions?
The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Johnston County's outdoor attractions and historical sites. Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and visiting battlefields or museums. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter is typically mild but some outdoor activities might be less comfortable.
Are there any food and drink experiences specific to Johnston County?
Yes, Johnston County embraces its agritourism with culinary trails. You can follow the Johnston County Beer, Wine, and Shine Trail, which includes local breweries, vineyards like Gregory Vineyards and Hinnant Family Vineyards, and distilleries such as Broadslab Distillery. Historic downtowns also offer unique dining options, and you can find local coffee at places like 9 Bar Coffee House near the Neuse River Trail.
Can I find shopping opportunities in Johnston County?
For shopping, you can visit the Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, which offer a variety of stores. Additionally, the charming historic downtown areas of Smithfield, Clayton, Selma, Benson, Kenly, and Four Oaks provide unique local shops and boutiques.
Are there any dog-friendly places in Johnston County?
Many of Johnston County's outdoor trails and greenways are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. This includes areas like the Sam's Branch Greenway Trail and the Clayton River Walk. Always check specific park or trail rules for any restrictions.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in Johnston County?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center for a peaceful natural retreat, or the Benson Museum of Local History for a deeper dive into a specific community's past. The various historic downtowns themselves, like Selma with its train depot, offer charming, less-traveled experiences.
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