It’s easy to spend a day (or two) exploring North Carolina’s wine, cider, and mead trails. Take a tasting tour through small towns, meet local makers, and sip a variety of unique blends.

Not to be missed are the Childress Vineyards, located in Lexington and owned by NASCAR owner, Richard Childress.  

Our choice for this experience:

UNCORKED Touring Company is based in Lexington, N.C. and transports guests to award winning vineyards, local tasting rooms and breweries. They offer custom wine tours in Davidson, Surry, and Yadkin Counties. Let them drive so you can get UNCORKED!

UNCORKED Touring Company – Wine Tours & Boozy Field Trips

Barbecue means different things in different places, but in Lexington, barbecue is pork shoulders cooked over hardwood coals, the way it’s been done for more than a century. After smoking for hours, the pork is chopped or sliced, often with bits of crispy, brown skin mixed in. The meat is served with a thin ketchup-and-vinegar sauce called “dip,” a distinctive red slaw, hushpuppies, and sweet tea.

Legends include:

Lexington Barbecue – opened in 1962 and is sometimes called “Lexington #1” or “The Honey Monk” – served President Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, and others at a Presidential State Dinner

Backcountry Barbecue – the closest to EXX – opened in 1984 and is also known for its 20 oz. sirloin steak and skin sandwiches.

Barbecue Center – opened in 1955 and is known for its huge banana splits.

Smokey Joe’s – opened in 1972 and has been featured in several Southern Living magazine articles.

Speedy’s – opened in the 1930s as Tussey’s Barbecue and featured in Southern Living magazine.

Our Crew has favorites and they don’t all agree so feel free to ask and let them help you map out the tour!

Best BBQ Restaurants in Lexington, NC | Barbecue & Chicken | VisitNC.com

Thomasville, North Carolina is a charming town to spend a day or a weekend in. From local eateries to antique shops, historic landmarks, and the “Big Chair”, Thomasville offers something for everyone. 

A Day in T’Ville sample itinerary:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café or diner. Thomasville has several cozy spots where you can enjoy a true Southern breakfast.

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area. You can admire the architecture, browse through unique local shops, and maybe pick up a souvenir.

No visit to Thomasville is complete without seeing the iconic “Big Chair,” a landmark that celebrates the city’s furniture-making heritage.

For lunch, try one of the local restaurants or bistros. Thomasville offers a variety of dining options, from classic Southern cuisine to more contemporary fare.

Spend the afternoon exploring local artisan’s hand-painted murals across town and be sure to visit the Thomasville Depot and Visitor Center, which is a great spot for train watching in the late afternoon. The red caboose in Thomasville, North Carolina, is a significant historical artifact, reflecting the city’s rich railroad heritage.

For dinner, enjoy Southern hospitality and cuisine at a local restaurant. Thomasville’s culinary scene includes barbecue, seafood, and international flavors.

Depending on the season, you might find an evening community event, especially if it’s during a festival or a special occasion.