13 reasons why HWY 301 is better than I-95

If you’ve ever traveled I-95 through North Carolina, you’ve experienced the traffic jams as you pass mile after tedious mile of loblolly pines and highway construction barrels. Consider taking 301 instead of 95. You’ll still see loblolly pines, but a few less cars!

You’ve seen the  New Jersey snowbirds travel south in winter. And you’ve followed the Floridian headed north for summer.

There has got to be a better way, right? 

That’s exactly what you get with taking HWY 301 instead of I-95. We’ve long known the secret to use HWY 301 as an alternate route for I-95 north or south to avoid the traffic jams.

But, HWY 301 is more than an alternate route for I-95.

Long before there were interstates, this road served as the historic byway connecting many small towns in eastern North Carolina that exist mostly because of cotton farming and the tobacco industry.

While those industries have largely given way to subdivisions and sweet potato farms, the charm of these small towns has not changed. If you’re road tripping on the East Coast, this is a great route to use.

Drive this scenic route, famous for the 301 Endless Yard Sale, to discover small town, southern Americana. And while you’re at it, enjoy the break from highway gridlock!

Scenic travel on HWY 301

Let’s take this scenic road from north to south, starting in Rocky Mount, a town built on both cotton and tobacco. If you happen to be driving from South Carolina toward Virginia, just scroll to the bottom of this post and go in reverse! The post, not your car!

1. Explore historic Rocky Mount

Today, Rocky Mount’s cotton mill has been repurposed as Rocky Mount Mills, a mixed use community with homes, restaurants, breweries, shopping and more. Rocky Mount Mills is a mile east of HWY 301 and worth the stop.

They have restored the “mill homes,” where cotton mill families lived, to create a vibrant community with historic charm. Enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants and stroll through the neighborhood, imagining what life might have been like for the mill workers who lived here.

In downtown Rocky Mount, right by HWY 301, you can explore the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences.

Built in an old tobacco factory and historic library, the center houses a science museum, art museum and theater complex. My personal favorite is KEVA: A Permanent Interactive Exhibit that lets you be the creator, challenging you to think outside the box. Speaking of outside, check out the sculptures on the grounds while you’re there.

2. Watch whimsical whirligigs in Wilson

Drive south on Highway 301 about 16 miles to the town of Wilson to marvel at the whirligigs of Vollis Simpson. The Whirligig Park is located a mile east of HWY 301 on Goldsboro Street, in Wilson.

A repairman by trade, Simpson spent his retirement tinkering with sculptures to create the whimsical whirligigs that make Wilson, NC a place to see. Locals have long enjoyed Simpson’s metal whirligigs, but they are known far beyond this small city. They were even featured at the 1996 Olympic games!

Wilson Whirligig Park & Museum was created to preserve Vollis Simpson’s creations. It is open daily and free to the public.

It’s a spectacular place to stretch your legs while the kids watch the wind spinners go. Who knows, maybe they’ll inspire your family to create your own outdoor whirligigs!

Closer to HWY 301, the Freeman Round House Museum honors another artist, Oliver Nestus Freeman. Born in 1882 to former slaves, Freeman was educated at Tuskegee and came back to Wilson to build affordable housing for World War II veterans. The Freeman Round House Museum shares African-American history, art and culture that is central to the history of this area.

3. Experience East Carolina Barbecue at a local favorite

Before leaving Wilson, grab a spot in line at Parker’s Barbecue for authentic eastern Carolina barbecue, fried chicken and corn sticks. Parker’s is located at 2514 HWY 301 in Wilson.

Parker’s has been a Wilson staple since 1946, and with the rave reviews, they’ll be here for a long time to come.

PRO TIP: Parker’s is a cash-only restaurant, and while the lines can get long, service is quick, so don’t be intimidated. The best things are worth it!

4. Discover the life of a tobacco farmer

The history of this region is best learned with a stop at the Tobacco Farm Life Museum at 709 Church Street in Kenly, NC.

The museum was created by local families who wanted to preserve the way of life of their parents and grandparents for future generations to appreciate and has developed into an internationally recognized and accredited museum. The exhibits tell the story of everyday life on the farm, how the tobacco was grown, harvested and cured, early medicine and social life of tobacco farm families.

5. Go treasure hunting in Selma

About 15 miles from Kenly, Selma is a popular destination for antique treasure hunters.

The town’s history is directly tied to the railroad coming to town, and Union Station is still an active AMTRAK station today. Stroll through the shops to find a treasure for yourself. 

7. Rediscover the magic of Old Hollywood

In Smithfield, take a quick detour to the Ava Gardner Museum, just a half mile from HWY 301 on Market Street.

If you’re like me (or at least like I was), you might know very little about Ava Gardner. Trust me, her life story is amazing!

Two hours here will allow enough time to learn how Ava went from tenant farmer’s barefooted daughter to Hollywood “royalty.” 

8. Skip the fast food and eat local

While you’re in Smithfield, grab dinner at one of our favorite restaurants.

For southern food with flair, try SoDoSoPa, a block from the Ava Gardner Museum at 146 S. Third Street. I highly recommend the Southern Fried Rangoon, a southern twist on a popular Asian dish.

For farm to table goodness, we really like Simple Twist, a block from the Ava Gardner Museum at 227 Market Street. My favorite dish is the Food Truck Tacos! 

9. Shop for hand-crafted goods in Four Oaks

Four Oaks sure sounds like a crazy name for a small town! The name goes back to the 1800s when the town grew around the railroad. Four oak trees grew from an oak stump, and a name was born.

But there’s more to Four Oaks than its name.

The commercial district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll along Main Street, imagine what life might have been like when the railroad came through bringing visitors and business every day, and enjoy a look back in time.

While you’re in Four Oaks, pop in to three unique stores! The first, Ogi (pronounced O-gee), at 206 S. Main Street, creates custom wood furniture and restores old pieces as well. You’re sure to find the perfect unique piece for your home here — or they can custom build it for you.

The second, Vine & Branch,  at 303 N. Main Street, is a flower and gift shop. They’re well-known locally as the place to go for floral arrangements, unique gift items and for turning shabby into chic.

Third is Stanfield’s General Store at 105 North Main Street. Here you can shop for unique treasures or just sit a spell and enjoy a cold soda served in a glass bottle! 

FUN FACT: Did you know that Four Oaks marks the halfway point between New York and Miami? So, snowbirds, whichever way you travel, you can celebrate the halfway mark every time you pass through this cute little town!

11. Enjoy a doughnut at Sherry’s Bakery

In the town of Dunn, about 15 miles south of Four Oaks, you will find one of our favorite bakeries!

Sherry’s Bakery, still owned by the original family, has been serving fresh baked doughnuts since 1967. You can eat in, they’ve got seating for 100, or get a box to go. Doughnuts are huge, so we understand if you choose to share!

12. Stroll through southern gardens

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden in Fayetteville is a wonderful place to stop on long road trips. It’s about 5 miles off I-95 on Hwy 301 in Fayetteville.

The botanical garden spans 80 acres with walkways along the Cape Fear River, a fun children’s garden, water features, and green space (to name just a few).

There’s plenty to discover as you stroll under tall shade trees. Outside food (no glass) is allowed, so bring a picnic to enjoy while you relax. Seasonal displays mean you’ll see something different every time you go. Admission is required. 

If you’re reading this as you search for an alternative to I-95 north or south, take the next exit and drive along HWY 301 instead.

And…. If you’re ready to stop for the night, we recommend the TownePlace Suites in Fayetteville at Cross Creek. This spacious, all-suite hotel is convenient to I-95 and Hwy 301, and is close to a number of restaurants and attractions — many of them free!

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For even more, here’s a list of roadside attractions in North Carolina and South Carolina!

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You’ll discover some great places along the way — without the aggravation of stop and go traffic.

If you’re one of the lucky few who is driving through without 100,000 of your favorite snowbirds nearby, skip the fast food break at the exit and venture just a little further from the interstate to discover great food, unique finds and interesting places. There’s some great history, shopping and food just waiting to be (re)discovered!

Road tripping with kids?

We’ve got some great ideas for surviving road trips! Check these articles for some easy car games and other fun ideas!

• How to Survive “ARE WE THERE YET?”
• Best Kept Secrets: Roadside Attractions in the Carolinas
• Travel activities for kids to save the day!
• Tips for surviving road trips with tweens and teens (start with a deep breath)

And if you’re stuck in traffic (not the driver) and just need a few minutes to escape the chaos around you…

…here is my absolute favorite road trip story of all time! I still read it from time to time, just for the smile. I hope it brings you one, too.