Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages

Things To Do Near Raleigh Oaks

A canon rests at historic Bentonville Battlefield, just one of many Things to Do in Central North Carolina

Things To Do Near Raleigh Oaks

Johnston County sits at the crossroads of I-95 and I-40 in central North Carolina, a region with genuine character and easy access to Raleigh. Great barbecue, living history, outlet shopping, and a few genuinely one-of-a-kind stops are all close at hand.

Johnston County sits at the crossroads of I-95 and I-40 in central North Carolina, a region with genuine character and easy access to Raleigh. Great barbecue, living history, outlet shopping, and a few genuinely one-of-a-kind stops are all close at hand.

Nearby Adventures

Ava Gardner Museum — Smithfield

A genuinely great small museum dedicated to Johnston County's most famous daughter. Costumes, memorabilia, and photographs from one of Hollywood's most captivating careers. About 10 minutes away in Smithfield.

Bentonville Battlefield

The largest Civil War battle ever fought in North Carolina, and the last full-scale Confederate offensive of the war. 17 miles from the resort. The preserved battlefield and museum tell a pivotal story that most people drive past without knowing.

Nahunta Pork Center

The largest pork retail store in the eastern United States, about 30 minutes away. People drive from across the state for it. Bring a cooler.

Downtown Raleigh

About 35 minutes west on I-40, the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Art Museum (free), breweries, and a walkable downtown food scene. An easy half-day or full-day trip.

Hinnant Family Vineyards

A true Johnston County institution. Tour the vineyard, settle in on the wraparound porch or scenic back patio with a flight or a glass, and enjoy the live music, food trucks, and pick-your-own grape weekends that happen throughout the season.

Broadslab Distillery

Johnston County's legendary farm-to-flask spirit maker and the first legal farm distillery in North Carolina since Prohibition. Tastings, a gift shop, and frequent live music & food truck nights in the tasting room make this a destination worth lingering at.

Family Favorites

Carolina Premium Outlets — Smithfield

Over 80 outlet stores just minutes from the resort. A solid afternoon for the shoppers in the group.

American Music Jubilee — Rudy Theater

A two-hour live music variety show in Selma with country, gospel, and Americana. The kind of entertainment you don't find in many places anymore.

Marbles Kids Museum

One of the most engaging children's destinations, the museum is packed with colorful, hands-on exhibits where kids can explore, create, build, and imagine.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The most-visited museum in the state, it brings the natural world to life through an extraordinary range of exhibits covering everything from live animals and tropical butterflies, to deep-sea fish, reptiles, and an Arthropod Zoo. Admission is completely free.

Local Eats

Grady's BBQ — Dudley, NC

One of the most revered whole-hog barbecue operations in eastern North Carolina. Cash only, limited hours, and absolutely worth planning around. About 45 minutes east on US-70.

White Swan Bar-B-Q & Fried Chicken

A Johnston County institution that has been making customers family since 1930, White Swan is the definition of Eastern North Carolina barbecue done right. Honest, affordable, and deeply satisfying, it does not get more authentically local than this.

The Mellow Mushroom — Garner/Raleigh

A reliable craft pizza and beer spot about 30 minutes west, near the Raleigh exit. Good for a group dinner after a day trip to the city.

Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q

A North Carolina favorite serving classic barbecue, fried chicken, hushpuppies, and Southern sides in a casual, family-friendly setting.

Before You Go

Stanfield's General Store

Stanfield's General Store carries on the great tradition of the North Carolina country store with style and warmth. You'll find a well-curated mix of local wines, handmade art and gifts, classic candies, antiques, and collectibles.

Ronnie's Country Store

A beloved community institution that carries everything from fresh local vegetables, boiled peanuts, and hoop cheese to boots, hardware, pocket knives, and more.

Carlie C's IGA

The closest full-service grocery store to the resort, Carlie C's is a great option for stocking up on everything you need for your stay. The Four Oaks store is well-regarded for its meat selection and fresh produce.