· US

Smithfield

Smithfield, North Carolina, United States

Smithfield, North Carolina is a charming town located in the heart of Johnston County, known for its rich history, Southern hospitality, and vibrant community spirit. Nestled along the Neuse River, Smithfield offers a pe…

#Smithfield#North Carolina#United States#Small town#Historic district

1/3

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Smithfield.

Top Hotels in Smithfield

Top Flights to Smithfield

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Smithfield.

Tours

A Walk Through History at Ava Gardner Museum

Dive into the life of Hollywood's golden age star, Ava Gardner, at this dedicated museum.

Shopping

A Day at Carolina Premium Outlets

Explore an array of stores offering the best deals in Smithfield at the renowned Carolina Premium Outlets.

Outdoor

Nature Escape at Johnston County's Neuse River Greenway

Enjoy hiking, biking, or a picnic along the scenic Neuse River Greenway.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Smithfield.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

12,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Smithfield

Jan

5°-3°

Feb

6°-2°

Mar

10°1°

Apr

15°5°

May

20°10°

Jun

25°15°

Jul

28°18°

Aug

27°17°

Sep

23°13°

Oct

18°8°

Nov

11°3°

Dec

6°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Smithfield.

What people love

Smithfield, North Carolina, offers a charming small-town atmosphere with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Smithfield include:

Historic Downtown: Smithfield's historic downtown area is full of quaint shops, local restaurants, and historic buildings. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the streets, exploring unique boutiques, and dining at locally-owned eateries.
Ava Gardner Museum: Smithfield is home to the Ava Gardner Museum, dedicated to the famous actress who was born in the town. Visitors can learn about Ava Gardner's life and career through exhibits and memorabilia.
Outdoor Recreation: The Smithfield area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Nearby parks like Smithfield Community Park and Buffalo Creek Greenway provide scenic spots for picnicking and enjoying nature.
Culinary Delights: Smithfield is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, including barbecue, fried chicken, and other comfort foods. Visitors can indulge in local specialties at restaurants and eateries throughout the town.
Convenient Location: Smithfield is conveniently located near major highways, making it easily accessible for travelers. It's also within driving distance of other popular North Carolina destinations like Raleigh and the Research Triangle Park.

Overall, traveling to Smithfield, North Carolina, provides a mix of history, culture, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for a relaxing getaway.

What to know

Smithfield, North Carolina is a charming town with a rich history and friendly community. However, like any destination, it does have some drawbacks for travelers. Here are some potential cons of traveling to Smithfield:

Limited public transportation: Smithfield is a small town, and public transportation options are limited. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the area and access nearby attractions.
Lack of major attractions: While Smithfield has some interesting historical sites and local shops, it may not offer as many tourist attractions as larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife or a wide range of entertainment options may find Smithfield lacking in comparison.
Seasonal weather extremes: North Carolina experiences hot and humid summers, as well as cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for these seasonal weather changes, which can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Limited dining options: While Smithfield does have some delicious local restaurants and eateries, the dining scene may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities. Visitors with specific dietary preferences or looking for a variety of cuisines may find the options in Smithfield to be limited.
Distance from major cities: Smithfield is located about 30 miles southeast of Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina. Travelers looking to explore larger urban areas may find the distance from major cities to be a drawback.

Overall, while Smithfield has its own unique charm and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential drawbacks when planning a trip to the area.

Smithfield, North Carolina, is a town with a rich historical background, serving as the county seat of Johnston County. The town was named after John Smith, who owned the land on which the town was initially established. Here is an overview of the town's history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Settlement and Founding: Smithfield was established in 1777, during the American Revolutionary era, when Johnston County was formed. It became the county seat, replacing Hinton's Quarter, which was the original county seat.

19th Century

Growth and Development: The 19th century saw growth due to its location along the Neuse River and its role as a trading center. The town developed as an agricultural and commercial hub.
Civil War Era: During the Civil War, Smithfield was involved in the war efforts, with local men joining Confederate forces. After the war, the town faced the challenges of Reconstruction.

20th Century

Economic Changes: In the early 20th century, Smithfield, like much of the South, began to diversify its economy, moving from agriculture to include manufacturing and other industries.
Historic Preservation: The town has made efforts to preserve its historical buildings and sites, contributing to its charm and appeal.

Significant Figures

Ava Gardner: Smithfield is notably the birthplace of the famous Hollywood actress Ava Gardner. Born in 1922, Gardner became one of the leading actresses of her time. The Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield celebrates her life and career and is a major attraction.

Important Landmarks

Ava Gardner Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia from Ava Gardner’s career and personal life, drawing visitors from around the world.
Johnston County Courthouse: Located in the heart of Smithfield, this historic courthouse is an important architectural and governmental landmark.
Riverside Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place for many of Smithfield's early settlers and prominent citizens, offering insights into the town’s history.
Smithfield Historic District: The district includes several historic buildings and homes, showcasing the architectural styles and history of the area.

Modern Era

Cultural and Economic Development: Today, Smithfield is known for its small-town charm, historical significance, and cultural attractions. It continues to develop economically while preserving its historical roots.

Smithfield, with its blend of history, culture, and community, provides a glimpse into the broader story of North Carolina and the American South.