Name: Johnston County Museum
Address: 329 E Market St, Smithfield, NC 27577, USA

Discover Johnston County’s past at the Johnston County Museum, located at 329 E Market St in downtown Smithfield. The museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore the area’s local history through exhibits and artifacts connected to Johnston County and its communities.

A worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and residents seeking a deeper understanding of the region, the museum provides a focused cultural experience in a convenient downtown location. Add it to a Smithfield itinerary for a glimpse into the people, stories, and heritage that have shaped Johnston County. 

Johnston County Museum

Smithfield is the county seat of Johnston County, North Carolina, tucked along the banks of the Neuse River about 30 minutes southeast of downtown Raleigh. Chartered in 1777, the town blends small-town Southern charm with easy access to the Research Triangle, making it a convenient home base for visitors passing through central North Carolina. Its position just off I-95 at Exit 95 puts shopping, dining, and lodging within a few minutes of the highway.

Downtown Smithfield's historic district is anchored by early-1900s Art Deco and Classical Revival architecture, including the restored Howell Theatre and buildings dating back to the 1890s. Visitors can pick up a self-guided Smithfield Walking Tour brochure to explore the district's history, or spend an afternoon browsing the independent shops, cafes, and boutiques that line South Third Street and Market Street.

The town is perhaps best known as the hometown of Hollywood icon Ava Gardner, honored with a dedicated museum downtown, and for Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q, the beloved Eastern North Carolina barbecue chain that got its start here in 1977. The Neuse River runs through town, offering walking trails, fishing, and paddling, while Smithfield Community Park and the Buffalo Creek Greenway give families and athletes plenty of room to stretch their legs between activities.

For shopping and dining convenience, Carolina Premium Outlets sits right off the interstate alongside a wide mix of national chains and local eateries, and the town regularly hosts community festivals like the Ham & Yam Festival throughout the year. Smithfield's proximity to Clayton, Selma, Garner, and the greater Raleigh area also opens up additional entertainment, golf, and family-fun options just a short drive away.

Smithfield, NC

Discover the Ava Gardner Museum at 325 E Market St in Smithfield, North Carolina, dedicated to the life and career of actress Ava Gardner. Explore exhibits featuring memorabilia, photographs, costumes, and other items connected to the Hollywood star, who was born nearby in Johnston County. The museum offers visitors a closer look at Gardner’s journey from her North Carolina roots to international fame, making it a compelling stop for film enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers interested in the region’s cultural heritage. 

Ava Gardner Museum

Located at 314 E Market St in Smithfield, Diner offers a convenient local spot for guests seeking a straightforward dining experience. Its central Smithfield location makes it an accessible choice for residents and visitors exploring the area.

Whether you’re stopping in for a casual meal or looking for a nearby place to eat, Diner provides a welcoming option in the heart of town. Visit to discover the menu and enjoy a relaxed dining experience in Smithfield. 

Diner

The Gilded Pear, located at 234 E Market St in Smithfield, offers visitors a welcoming stop in the heart of town. While specific details about its menu, services, and amenities are not provided, its central location makes it a convenient place to explore during a visit to Smithfield. For the most accurate information about current offerings, hours, and available features, contact the business directly before visiting. 

The Gilded Pear

Under the Oak Catering, located at 135 S 3rd St in Smithfield, provides catering services for customers planning meals and gatherings. Its local location makes it a convenient option for Smithfield residents and visitors seeking professional food service for an event or occasion.

Contact Under the Oak Catering directly for current menu options, event availability, service details, and information about dietary accommodations. 

Under the Oak Catering

Gotham’s Deli, located at 224 E Market St in Smithfield, offers a convenient spot to enjoy deli-style food in the heart of town. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to take away, it’s a local option for customers seeking straightforward, satisfying deli fare.

Its central Smithfield location makes Gotham’s Deli easy to visit while exploring the area or running errands nearby. For the most current information about menu offerings, hours, and dietary options, check directly with the business before visiting. 

Gotham's Deli

SoDoSoPa is a local business at 146 S 3rd St in downtown Smithfield, North Carolina. Its name and location make it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area, but specific details about its menu, services, atmosphere, and amenities should be confirmed directly with the business before planning a visit. 

SoDoSoPa

Crickets Grill, located at 506 E Market St in Smithfield, offers a casual local dining option for guests seeking a convenient meal in Johnston County. Its grill-focused menu makes it a suitable choice for diners looking for familiar, satisfying fare in a relaxed setting.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Smithfield, Crickets Grill provides an approachable place to stop for food. Visit to explore the current menu and discover what’s being served. 

Crickets Grill

Neuse Little Theatre, located at 104 S Front St in downtown Smithfield, offers live theatrical performances in an intimate community-theatre setting. It provides an opportunity for audiences to enjoy local stage productions while supporting the arts in Johnston County.

With its welcoming atmosphere and focus on live entertainment, the theatre is a destination for residents and visitors seeking an evening of cultural programming. Check the current performance schedule for show details, dates, and ticket information before planning your visit. 

Neuse Little Theatre

Mariscos El Patrón 323 is a seafood restaurant located at 712 E Market St in Smithfield, North Carolina. Its name reflects a focus on *mariscos*, the Spanish term for seafood, making it a potential destination for guests seeking seafood-inspired dining in the area.

Conveniently situated on East Market Street, the restaurant welcomes local diners and visitors exploring Smithfield. For the most accurate information about menu specialties, dietary options, hours, and available services, guests should contact the restaurant directly or check its current listings before visiting. 

Mariscos el Patrón 323

No 1 Chinese Restaurant, located at 903 S Brightleaf Blvd in Smithfield, serves Chinese cuisine for local diners and visitors seeking a convenient meal in Johnston County. The restaurant offers a straightforward option for enjoying Chinese dishes in a casual setting.

Whether you’re stopping by while exploring Smithfield or picking up food for a nearby gathering, No 1 Chinese Restaurant provides an accessible local dining choice. Contact the restaurant directly for current menu options, hours, and ordering details. 

No 1 Chinese Restaurant

815 Gourmet Grill N Commissary is a local dining destination at 721-15 N Brightleaf Boulevard, Suite 15, in Smithfield, North Carolina. The name highlights a focus on gourmet grilled offerings and commissary-style food service, making it a convenient stop for guests seeking a prepared meal in the Smithfield area.

Whether you’re visiting locally or exploring Johnston County, 815 Gourmet Grill N Commissary offers a welcoming place to enjoy its grill-focused menu. Check with the business directly for current menu options, hours, and ordering details. 

Johnston County Museum

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