If you're looking for a fun day trip from Raleigh, add Johnston County, NC (aka JoCo!) to your list. Just southeast of Raleigh, Johnston County is made up of several charming small towns, each with its own local spots, unique shops, good eats and things to do.
We recently spent a day exploring JoCo, where (fun fact) Christy actually grew up! Many of these recommendations are very familiar to Christy, so it was so much fun to get to experience some of her old favorites and discover some new spots along the way. From grabbing specialty coffee and waffles in Micro to browsing antique shops in downtown Selma, enjoying lunch in Princeton and ending the evening with wine and a drive-in movie, there's plenty to fill a day here.
No matter if you're looking for a weekend outing, a fun date day or just somewhere new to explore outside of Raleigh, this is how we'd spend a perfect day in Johnston County!
images from Thriving in Raleigh
Start Your Morning with Waffee Station in Micro
First up, breakfast! Start your morning at Waffee Station, located in the small town of Micro. You may also know the brand as Waffee Wagon! This local spot serves specialty coffee and made-to-order Liège waffles, with both sweet and savory options to choose from.
We loved starting the day here! Grab your coffee, order a waffle (or two!) and enjoy breakfast on the covered patio before heading out to explore the rest of JoCo.
It's a fun little stop and definitely worth adding to your morning itinerary.
images from Thriving in Raleigh
Explore Downtown Selma & Go Antique Shopping
Next, make your way about 15 minutes down the road to downtown Selma. This is a great place to slow down for a bit, walk around and explore some of the local shops.
Selma has that small-town charm we love, with historic buildings, colorful murals and antique shops worth browsing. If you enjoy hunting for vintage finds, home decor or something a little different, give yourself some time to wander around.
You never know what you’ll find!
images from Thriving in Raleigh
Grab Lunch at Bread & Bottle in Princeton 🍴
After working up an appetite, head over to Bread & Bottle in downtown Princeton for lunch.
This spot is known for its scratch-made menu and fresh-baked breads, and it's a great place to stop for a casual lunch. Their breads are baked fresh daily, and the menu features classic favorites made with quality ingredients.
We recommend trying one of their sandwiches featuring house-made bread and checking out their bottled craft sodas to pair with your meal.
It's a great spot to grab a bite, relax and enjoy a little more of Johnston County's local food scene.
images from Thriving in Raleigh
More Local Lunch Spots to Check Out
If you're looking for a few other places to grab lunch while exploring JoCo, here are some additional local spots to add to your list:
The Southern Bostonian / Hahvahd Yahd Cafe – Stop by this unique downtown Selma spot for a little shopping and a bite to eat at the in-house cafe.
Oli & Eli's Grill – Located in downtown Princeton, this local grill is a great option for burgers and casual comfort food.
Crick's Pizza Shack – In Princeton, this is a good option if you're in the mood for pizza and a casual lunch.
Gotham's Deli – Head to downtown Smithfield for New York-style deli sandwiches, fresh-made salads and more.
first image from Hahvahd Yahd Cafe Facebook, second image from Thriving in Raleigh (Oli & Eli’s), third image from Crick’s Pizza Shack Facebook, fourth image from Gotham’s Deli Instagram
Make a Coffee Stop at Pine Street Grind ☕️
You know we can't go too long without a coffee stop!
Just a short drive away in Pine Level, Pine Street Grind is a cute local coffee shop and the perfect place to grab an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you're in the mood for another coffee or one of their refreshing drinks, it's an easy stop to add to your afternoon.
More Local Coffee Shops to Check Out
There are several other local coffee shops throughout Johnston County worth checking out, too! A few to keep on your radar:
Alta's Coffee & Deli – A local coffee and deli option to check out.
Milltown Java – Located in Princeton, this is another great spot to grab a coffee while exploring the area.
Cornerstone Cafe & Coffee – Located in downtown Benson, this cozy cafe is another local spot for specialty coffee and a bite to eat.
The Gilded Pear Brew House – Head to downtown Smithfield for coffee, specialty drinks and a menu of cafe favorites.
first image from Thriving in Raleigh (Alta’s), second image from Thriving in Raleigh (Miltown Java), third image from Cornerstone Cafe Instagram, fourth image from The Gilded Pear Instagram
Spend the Afternoon at Hinnant Family Vineyards 🍷
Just a couple of minutes from Pine Street Grind, you'll find Hinnant Family Vineyards, a family-owned vineyard in Pine Level known for its muscadine wines.
This is such a pretty spot to spend an afternoon! Stop by for a wine tasting and sample some of their different varieties. They offer guided tastings featuring a selection of wines, as well as wine flights if you'd rather pick a few favorites to try.
The vineyard setting makes it a fun place to slow down, enjoy a glass of wine and spend some time with friends. Depending on when you visit, keep an eye out for live music and special events happening at the vineyard, too!
You can find more information about their wine tastings and experiences here.
images from Thriving in Raleigh
End the Day With a Drive-In Movie at Ronnie's Berry Farm 🎬
For something a little different, wrap up your day at Ronnie's Berry Farm in Angier!
This family-owned farm hosts seasonal drive-in movie nights, making it such a fun way to end an afternoon exploring Johnston County. Grab dinner from the food trucks and concessions, find a spot to park and settle in for a movie under the stars.
We visited during the fall and caught a screening of Hocus Pocus 2, which was such a fun way to end the day!
Bring a blanket, grab some snacks and enjoy a little nostalgic fun. Movie selections and dates change throughout the year, so be sure to check their upcoming drive-in movie schedule before planning your visit.
It's definitely not your typical movie night, and that's what makes it so fun!
images from Thriving in Raleigh
Quick List: JoCo Highlights
Breakfast, Coffee & Lunch:
Waffee Station – Micro
Bread & Bottle – Princeton
Pine Street Grind – Pine Level
Alta's Coffee & Deli
Milltown Java – Princeton
Cornerstone Cafe & Coffee – Benson
The Gilded Pear Brew House – Smithfield
The Southern Bostonian / Hahvahd Yahd Cafe – Selma
Oli & Eli's Grill – Princeton
Crick's Pizza Shack – Princeton
Gotham's Deli – Smithfield
Things to Do:
Explore downtown Selma
Browse antique shops
Visit Hinnant Family Vineyards
Catch live music at the vineyard
See a drive-in movie at Ronnie's Berry Farm
A Little About Johnson County
There's a lot of history behind these small towns! Johnston County was established in 1746 from Craven County and named after Gabriel Johnston, who served as North Carolina's royal governor from 1734 to 1752. Today, the county is home to 11 towns, including Smithfield, Selma, Clayton, Benson, Princeton, Micro and Pine Level.
The area has deep agricultural roots, with farming, cotton, tobacco and the railroad all playing an important role in shaping its communities. Smithfield, the county seat, also has a pretty interesting history of its own. The town was an important gathering place during the Revolutionary era, and North Carolina's Provincial Council held its first meeting there in October 1775.
It's that mix of history, small-town charm and local businesses that makes Johnston County such a fun place to explore!
images from Thriving in Raleigh
More Things to Do in Johnston County
Have a little extra time to explore? There are plenty of other things to do around Johnston County! Whether you're interested in local history, getting outside or finding a few more unique places to visit, here are some additional spots worth adding to your JoCo bucket list.
Visit the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield 🎬
Did you know Hollywood actress Ava Gardner was born and raised right here in Johnston County? The Ava Gardner Museum in downtown Smithfield celebrates the life and career of the Hollywood legend with an impressive collection of costumes, photographs, movie memorabilia and personal belongings.
It's a fun stop for classic movie fans and anyone interested in learning a little more about one of JoCo's most famous hometown connections.
Step Back in Time at Bentonville Battlefield
History lovers will want to add Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site to their list. Located near Four Oaks, this is the site of the largest Civil War battle fought in North Carolina, which took place in March 1865.
Today, visitors can explore the historic grounds, walk the trails, visit the visitor center and learn more about the three-day battle. You can also tour the nearby Harper House, which served as a field hospital during the battle.
Explore the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly
For another look at Johnston County's history, visit the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly. The museum highlights the agricultural roots of eastern North Carolina and what everyday life looked like for farming families throughout the early 1900s.
You'll find exhibits featuring everything from farming tools and rural medicine to education and transportation, along with historic farm buildings on the property. It's a great way to learn more about the traditions and industries that helped shape the area.
Get Outside at Howell Woods
If you'd rather spend some time outdoors, head to Howell Woods. This natural area offers opportunities to explore the outdoors, with walking trails, wildlife and educational experiences.
It's a nice change of pace if you're looking to get away from the shops and restaurants for a little while and enjoy some of Johnston County's natural beauty.
Spend Some Time Shopping at DeWayne's
If you love browsing home decor, gifts and seasonal finds, make a stop at DeWayne's in Smithfield. This locally loved shopping destination is a fun place to wander around, whether you're looking for something for your home, a unique gift or just want to browse.
It's especially fun around the holidays when the seasonal decor and displays make it worth a visit!
Johnston County is full of little surprises, and we had such a fun time getting out and exploring everything it has to offer. From local coffee shops and small-town shopping to wineries and unique experiences like drive-in movies, there's a little something for everyone.
If you're looking for somewhere new to explore outside of Raleigh, we definitely recommend adding JoCo to your list. Sometimes the best day trips are the ones that take you somewhere you haven't thought to visit before!