Smithfield

Smithfield is a town in and the county seat of Johnston County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2020 census, its population was 11,292. The town is located near North Carolina's Research Triangle and is about 30 miles southeast of downtown Raleigh. Wikipedia.
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Top attractions in Smithfield

Carolina Premium Outlets
1. Carolina Premium Outlets
4.4
(8798)
Outlet mall
Shopping
Slide 1 of 8
This is great! A nice outdoor mall, strip mall? But these are all high quality stores, and it's a great shopping experience. There's a few restaurants right there, including cracker barrel. And all the good outlet stores that you've come to love. Recognition to the associates that work for the mall. The bathrooms were clean, the food court was limited but clean, and there was lots of families and kids around when I was there.
This outlet has a very convenient location. It has been here for a long time and offers several brand names and specialty stores. Is very busy. Lots of parking spaces. Restrooms are clean but not enough of them during peak hours/seasons. Lounge is large and clean.
Easy to get to, plenty of parking...l go early to avoid any crowds. Went for running shoes at Rack Room Shoes. Buy one get one half price. I find New Balance to be comfortable and longer lasting than other running shoes.
I finally visited the Smithfield Carolina outlet stores today. I'm really not an outlet shopper at all but I heard this location had a variety of stores and brands I enjoy. I did not get a chance to visit every store while on a time limit but I am happy with what I spent within my budget for the quality of items I purchased. I enjoyed shopping at the Adidas store. They had a 60% off clearance sale and I was able to purchase 2 outfits for my daughter priced at $7.99 & 10.99 per piece. The selection was excellent and I saw some adorable IVY Park sneakers and boots by Beyoncé. Customer service was excellent. I also visited the Lane Bryant store to purchase undergarments. The customer service was impeccable and the store was well stocked compared to Raleigh. I was very happy with the sale items I purchased and will definitely return to visit the remainder of the stores. This outlet mall could use a modern renovation so that is the only negative.
I came, I glanced, I conquered (my wallet). Carolina Premium Outlets doesn’t just sell stuff — it magically seduces your senses, your credit card, and your impulse to say, ‘Yes, I definitely need that.’ From the moment the sun crept over the parking lot it whispered, ‘Come. Be fashionably flawed. Embrace the markdown.’ And so I did. Every store beckoned. Coach winked at me. Nike high-fived me. Bath & Body Works tempted me with scents so intoxicating I nearly brought one home for my mailbox. I rounded the corner into Bose and nearly kissed the speaker — the sound was that delightful. At the Pretzel stand, Auntie Anne’s coaxed me with warm doughy promises. Dairy Queen sang sweet siren calls of frozen creamy joy. The layout is so intuitive that my feet (rebelling though they were) followed a perfect pathway through deals and steals. They don’t just show “outlet” — they deliver out-let (as in, letting me out with more stuff). I left with more bags than I came with. I left also with a lightness in my soul (and a slight wobble in my pocketbook). But mostly, I left saying: 5 stars + one more.
Stopped by on the way home. My husband fell on the sidewalk because folks would not move over to let people pass along on the sidewalk safely. I could not find a security guard for medical supplies or anyone checking the area to ensure the mall was safe and accommodating. Will probably avoid this mall in the future.
I luv this store so many unique items!! The customer service is exceptional especially Monique she was so helpful and knew the store inside out!! She also made great suggestions to what I was looking for!! I can’t wait to go back and do my Christmas shopping!!
I went to this place called DeWayne's. First time ever in the store and it was amazing. I had no idea they had that much stuff and the prices were very reasonable. Got some good blueberry plants for 50% off
Ava Gardner Museum
2. Ava Gardner Museum
4.8
(329)
Museum
History Museums
Museum devoted to the legacy of Hollywood actress Ava Gardner, featuring costumes, photos & awards.
Slide 1 of 8
A Beautiful museum. The person in charge of the museum is very enthusiastic and you can tell that she loves her works, she make her best effort to answer any questions you might have and put that extra to make sure your visit is memorable. We visited Saturday afternoon and found parking in front of the museum. I did not see a parking lot. The museum is very clean and cozy. If you want to know more about this iconic artist and are in the area you must pay a visit.
If you are a true classic movie and Ava Gardner fan, you'll enjoy seeing bits of Hollywood history here. Please visit and support this lovely museum.
Wonderful museum to visit. Museum curator was very knowledgeable of Ava Gardeners life and death. Great place to visit.
I really was not familiar with Ava Gardner before I came to the museum. I was just looking for things to do in Smithfield, NC. But I found it was well worth my time. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot about Ava Gardner, particularly the paintings of her, which each have their own unique trait. I would definitely recommend a visit.
A fine museum highlighting and celebrating the glamorous and gorgeous Ava Gardner. It goes through her life and work and tells her story. It's wonderful that this museum exists and is dedicated to the most famous actress to come out of North Carolina.
I knew a few things about Ava Gardner going in as a classic film fan. It's a shame she's not as well known as her male counterparts like Mickey Rooney, Clark Gable, Gregory Peck, Frank Sinatra etc. Movie posters, costumes and even clothes from her off screen life are on display. Lady selling tickets was very knowledgeable and said Ava's niece still loved in town.
For anyone who's interested in the Golden age of movies, this is a great day trip. There's a short movie (18 minutes) to get you started and then you can explore the many costumes, ephemera, and personal items from Gqrdener's life. Be sure to take advantage of the docent and ask a lot of questions, it will make your trip more memorable. I spent 2 hours but you could spend less or more depending on your level of interest.
Very knowledgeable host at the small museum. Great theater room with large screen to watch a short biography of Ava Gardner. Lots of dresses and outfits from personal and professional life. A woman before her time for sure. Plan 1-1 1/2 hours.
Double Barley Brewing
3. Double Barley Brewing
4.7
(236)
Permanently Closed
Brewery
Food & Drink
Family-operated craft brewery featuring a welcoming taproom & a beer garden, plus weekly tours.
Slide 1 of 8
We decided to check this place out because it’s not far from where we just moved. We are from Charleston SC and like to check out different breweries. This place had a great atmosphere, good bear, and the manager was a really nice guy and informative about beer. They had great music playing and we felt super chill. We will definitely be back!
Visited Double Barley on a whim last week with a friend who isn’t a big beer drinker. Josh was AMAZING and made us feel so welcome! When he realized she had never been to a brewery before he explained the beers on the menu and even gave us a tour of the facility! We got the pretzel with beer cheese and mustard to share and it was phenomenal. I cannot recommend this place enough! Thank you Josh and Double Barley Brewing for making our day out so memorable!
Super laid back, friendly and attentive Stagg! No tasting flights, no worries though it's all delish. Ambience inside is very relaxing-cool-vibe. There's an over ample outside area too and u can bring your favoriteb4 legged drinking buddy with. Normally they have a few of the local food trucks, but it was memorial day weekend, so they cancelled. I had the seasonal strawberries beer and followed it with a peaches and cream. Delish and lite and very cold! Great for hit summer drinking.
Traveling through the area and detoured for beer with a side of lunch. Open during COVID-19 but, patronage and staffing was very light. The beers were a bit hit or miss, the amber and blonde ales were excellent. The vanilla and pumpkin (off season) porters were over spiced for my liking. The triple IPA surprisingly smooth and not overpowered with biterness. The food menu wasn't current with the website and was definitely subpar to the beers especially with the price consideration (beer cheap; food expensive). In summary, if a short detour and you just want a couple of beers consider stopping. IF, you need a meal more than a beer (Possible?) then I'd suggest you continue your search.
Went with the wife and, overall, it was okay. The beer is good and people were certainly ordering a variety. Ours was a little too warm for my taste which is not the first time that's happened here. The menu looks better on paper than when you get it. It's like ordering from a good truck which is not my favorite thing to do usually. I wouldn't order the tacos again. If you're looking something different to do this is a nice place to grab a beer and an appetizer, but I wouldn't make it my date night spot.
Food menu was nowhere near as extensive or appetizing as their website indicated when we visited. Many locals were there and seemed to love the place. The beer was decent. I liked the Once You Go Blonde. Good prices. However, when I asked the bartender to describe a couple different beers, he couldn't. When I expressed we were new to the brewery, he offered no information about the brewery or recommendations regarding beer- even when we were clearly unsure of what to order. As a small brewery, I found this disappointing since I had an interest in learning more about them. The bartender didnt check on us once but spent his entire time talking to locals that he clearly knew well. Beautiful outdoor space. So good for locals. Not so much for newcomers. Very disappointed in the experience but could appreciate the beer.
Super cool and quaint brewery. Very cool seasonal selections not available elsewhere. Really enjoyed the visit as well as the friendly staff.
fun atmosphere and great people! The beer is original and tastes amazing!
Carolina Premium Outlets
4. Carolina Premium Outlets
4.4
(8798)
Outlet mall
Shopping
Slide 1 of 8
This is great! A nice outdoor mall, strip mall? But these are all high quality stores, and it's a great shopping experience. There's a few restaurants right there, including cracker barrel. And all the good outlet stores that you've come to love. Recognition to the associates that work for the mall. The bathrooms were clean, the food court was limited but clean, and there was lots of families and kids around when I was there.
This outlet has a very convenient location. It has been here for a long time and offers several brand names and specialty stores. Is very busy. Lots of parking spaces. Restrooms are clean but not enough of them during peak hours/seasons. Lounge is large and clean.
Easy to get to, plenty of parking...l go early to avoid any crowds. Went for running shoes at Rack Room Shoes. Buy one get one half price. I find New Balance to be comfortable and longer lasting than other running shoes.
I finally visited the Smithfield Carolina outlet stores today. I'm really not an outlet shopper at all but I heard this location had a variety of stores and brands I enjoy. I did not get a chance to visit every store while on a time limit but I am happy with what I spent within my budget for the quality of items I purchased. I enjoyed shopping at the Adidas store. They had a 60% off clearance sale and I was able to purchase 2 outfits for my daughter priced at $7.99 & 10.99 per piece. The selection was excellent and I saw some adorable IVY Park sneakers and boots by Beyoncé. Customer service was excellent. I also visited the Lane Bryant store to purchase undergarments. The customer service was impeccable and the store was well stocked compared to Raleigh. I was very happy with the sale items I purchased and will definitely return to visit the remainder of the stores. This outlet mall could use a modern renovation so that is the only negative.
I came, I glanced, I conquered (my wallet). Carolina Premium Outlets doesn’t just sell stuff — it magically seduces your senses, your credit card, and your impulse to say, ‘Yes, I definitely need that.’ From the moment the sun crept over the parking lot it whispered, ‘Come. Be fashionably flawed. Embrace the markdown.’ And so I did. Every store beckoned. Coach winked at me. Nike high-fived me. Bath & Body Works tempted me with scents so intoxicating I nearly brought one home for my mailbox. I rounded the corner into Bose and nearly kissed the speaker — the sound was that delightful. At the Pretzel stand, Auntie Anne’s coaxed me with warm doughy promises. Dairy Queen sang sweet siren calls of frozen creamy joy. The layout is so intuitive that my feet (rebelling though they were) followed a perfect pathway through deals and steals. They don’t just show “outlet” — they deliver out-let (as in, letting me out with more stuff). I left with more bags than I came with. I left also with a lightness in my soul (and a slight wobble in my pocketbook). But mostly, I left saying: 5 stars + one more.
Stopped by on the way home. My husband fell on the sidewalk because folks would not move over to let people pass along on the sidewalk safely. I could not find a security guard for medical supplies or anyone checking the area to ensure the mall was safe and accommodating. Will probably avoid this mall in the future.
I luv this store so many unique items!! The customer service is exceptional especially Monique she was so helpful and knew the store inside out!! She also made great suggestions to what I was looking for!! I can’t wait to go back and do my Christmas shopping!!
I went to this place called DeWayne's. First time ever in the store and it was amazing. I had no idea they had that much stuff and the prices were very reasonable. Got some good blueberry plants for 50% off
Johnston County Heritage Center
5. Johnston County Heritage Center
4.4
(7)
County government office
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 3
Thank you to the Holding family, for this building downtown was once the old First Citizens Bank building. It is a great location for people across the county and state to learn about our history and all of its people. Very clean and new looking place, computers and bookshelves of books, copiers, too! :-)
A great place to do research of your ancestors. A great staff to assist.
Little Brown Jug
6. Little Brown Jug
4.7
(270)
Bar
Nightlife
Slide 1 of 8
I’ve always driven past this older cute building on the river but never went in. Happy we did try it. The staff was so sweet. Comfy bar with an older crowd. Out back they have seating outside. Bottles only. Great prices.
The oldest bar in Smithfield, the Little Brown Jug originally operated as a Pure Oil Station in the 1950's, it was a place where you could get your car serviced and a grab a beer in the back room. This awesome staple of Smithfield has been serving its community in more ways than one for a long time and is very popular with the locals, but you don't have to be a local to feel the love the owners have put into this place. You can't help but relax in this cozy and chill environment! Regardless of whether your sitting outside on the large patio or inside the bar, there is not an uncomfortable chair in the house. As far as I am concerned you wont find a colder beer anywhere, and you certainly won't find a better assortment of beer in any bar within 20 miles. Total Wine or Wegman's doesn't count. This is a great little bar owned by a couple of great owners, Smithfield is lucky to have it. Cheers!
Food is scarce but big on atmosphere. Right next to the water and amazing people. Definitely worth a stop if you are passing through. You will not regret it.
One of my favorite all time bars. Small, cozy, and super welcoming. Awesome beer selection and the pizzas are amazing. Great little slice of Smithfield history.
No menu. Only beer and wine. Unruly crowd. We left after 5 minutes.
One of the best places to come to in Johnston County. Coldest beer, best pizza and amazing staff and owners! You won’t find a friendlier place to come to.
I stopped by as I was intrigued with the location on the river and had looked up the history of the building. Wow, it was full of information and great history. Check it out. I went in to see what they serve for food and the bartender was so kind. Pizza usually and she very willingly showed me it and how it was served. She was very honest and kind. I look forward to having lunch there, with my friends, overlooking the river!
My first visit! It was nice. It is a little small, but welcoming with a digital jukebox. It has an outdoor patio I am looking forward to sitting on maybe my next visit that looks over the water. You can see a lighted path down below. He let me sample a few wines to pick one I liked, and that was a big help. I wouldn't hesitate to tell others about our visit here and to come back again. It was pleasant and we enjoyed it. **just realized the review didn't post when originally done. Sorry. We have been back since and the staff is still as friendly as ever. It was a nice interlude.
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Other notable attractions

Brightleaf Flea Market LLC
Flea market
Shopping
Ready Set Escape
Escape room center
Fun & Games
Smithfield Cinemas
Movie theater
Fun & Games
Local cineplex with 10 screens, stadium-style seating & RealD & digital 3D technology.
Wild Bills Western Town- Shadowhawk
Museum
Fun & Games
Neuse Little Theatre
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Community theater in a riverfront log cabin, hosting dramas, comedies & musicals, plus kids' camps.
Popcorn Haven
Permanently Closed
Popcorn store
Shopping
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Weather in Smithfield

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Monthly temperature highs and lows in Smithfield
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