Fall is the perfect season to leave the bustle of the city behind and soak in wide-open skies, crisp air, and small-town charm just a half-day’s drive from Atlanta. Johnston County (JoCo to the locals) sits at the crossroads of I-95 and I-40 in North Carolina, making it an easy and inviting stop on your seasonal travels. Here, you’re free to roam across more than 15,000 acres of parks, trails, and wide-open spaces. Along the way, fill’er up at JoCo’s many gas stations, where you’ll find not just fuel but hearty meals and unforgettable experiences. This autumn, Johnston County invites you to slow down, stretch your legs, and savor the golden glow of the season.
Free to Roam in the Great Outdoors
When autumn arrives, Johnston County landscapes transform into a palette of golds, oranges, and reds. Farms and fields brim with pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and other seasonal harvests, perfect for a family outing or fall photo op. Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center offers trails for hiking and biking beneath crisp canopies, while kayakers can paddle the quiet waters of the Neuse River. Take a history-filled walk at Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, where more than 7 miles of wooded trails blend Civil War history with autumn scenery. And if the cool weather sends you indoors, explore the well-curated exhibit spaces at our local museums, like the Johnston County Museum or the Tobacco Farm Life Museum.
Fill’er Up With Flavor
In Johnston County, gas stations offer more than a quick fill-up—they’re a culinary adventure. Travelers will find JoCo’s roadside gems serving up everything from crispy fried chicken and slaw-topped local red hot dogs, to country ham biscuits and traditional Eastern-style pulled-pork barbecue. JoCo gas stations are a traveler’s best friend! Let your taste buds lead the way along our many food and drink trails, like the Beer, Wine & Shine Trail, where craft breweries, award-winning vineyards, and the state’s first farm-to-bottle distillery serve up seasonal sips worth savoring.
Stroll Small-Town Streets
JoCo’s small towns shine even brighter in autumn, their sidewalks lined with fall festivals, markets, and community celebrations. In Selma, treasure hunters can browse antiques and retro finds at spots like Trackside Antiques & Collectibles or Retrograde Vintage. Smithfield’s historic downtown is home to the Ava Gardner Museum and boutique shops dressed up for the season. In Clayton, art galleries, live music venues, and cafés make for the perfect fall evening out. Whether you’re hunting for handmade goods at a fall market or sipping cider at a festival, you’ll find that JoCo’s towns embrace the cozy spirit of autumn.
Perfect for a Road-Trip Escape
What makes Johnston County especially appealing to Atlanta area travelers is how accessible it is. A manageable drive up I-85 and I-95 brings you into a world that feels far removed from city bustle. Here, you can fill your itinerary with hiking, farm visits, shopping, and local dining. Family-friendly hotels and unique vacation rentals offer affordable comfort, and you’re never far from a main road when it’s time to continue your journey. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a quick detour on a longer trip, JoCo is ready to welcome you this Fall. So pack the car, pick your playlist, and make Johnston County your next road-trip destination.
