Rich in natural beauty, culture and history, Halifax County, North Carolina, is a treasure hiding in plain sight just off Interstate 95 in the northeastern corner of North Carolina.
The county’s abundant parks and recreation areas provide the setting for hiking, paddling, biking and bird-watching adventures. At the same time, unique local businesses like Weldon Mills Distillery and Timber Waters Brewery serve their own blend of fun. Founded in 1758 and one of the cradles of the American Revolution, Halifax County is also steeped in history.
Halifax County, North Carolina, is a Haven of History
“Known as the ‘Birthplace of Freedom’ for its pivotal role in American independence, Halifax County invites visitors to step back in time with historic sites like Historic Halifax and the Roanoke Canal Museum,” says Lori Medlin, executive director of the Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the serene waters of Lake Gaston or the Roanoke River. At the same time, families can enjoy unique attractions like Sylvan Heights Bird Park, home to one of the world’s largest waterfowl collections,” Medlin continues. “With vibrant local events, award-winning distilleries and warm hospitality, Halifax County promises an unforgettable getaway for travelers of all interests.”
1. Fun on the Water
From leisurely fishing and paddleboarding to wake surfing, jet skiing and more, Lake Gaston and the Roanoke River offer boundless opportunities for enjoyment. The 20,000-acre Lake Gaston is stocked with many varieties of popular game fish – the town of Weldon on the Roanoke River is celebrated as the Rockfish Capital of the World. Numerous local businesses offer rentals of fishing boats, jet skis, kayaks and other equipment and craft for exploring the waterways. Plus, the Lake Gaston and Roanoke Rapids Lake recreation areas provide fishing piers, public swimming access, a sand volleyball court, a disc golf course, walking trails, a playground and other amenities. Those wanting to learn a new sport can take wake surfing lessons at WakeSurf NC.
2. Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail
Explore the fascinating history of one of the most impressive and well-preserved engineering accomplishments of the 1800s at the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail. Finished in 1823, the canal was one segment of an ambitious 400-mile water navigation system developed for the steamboats and barges of the time. Visit the interactive museum to learn how the canal was built, used and transformed over the years. Take advantage of the museum’s Bicycle Loaner Program and pedal part of or all the 7.5-mile trail to see the canal’s locks, 35-foot arched aqueduct and other points of interest.
3. Medoc Mountain State Park
Whether you bring a picnic, hiking boots, mountain bike, a horse or a fishing pole, Medoc Mountain State Park is a serene and scenic spot for outdoor excursions. Wildlife such as river otters, pileated woodpeckers, flying squirrels and the rare Neuse River waterdog (a large salamander found only in the Tar and Neuse rivers) can be spotted along the park’s many creek-side trails, including six miles of bridle paths for equestrians and nine miles of multilevel mountain-biking trails. Anglers can fish for bluegill, bass, sunfish and pickerel along 2.5 miles of pristine water on Fishing Creek. A large open meadow area provides an ideal locale for nighttime stargazing.
4. The Acorn Center
Tucked in the charming small town of Littleton, The Acorn Center is a family-friendly performing arts and events venue that offers something for everyone. Along with community markets and concerts featuring chart-topping musicians, The Acorn’s nearly half-century-old theater program provides a rotating lineup of plays, dinner theater and other entertaining offerings. Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy the weather at outdoor shows in the complex’s new Ed Fitts Amphitheater.
5. Sylvan Heights Bird Park
Bird is the word at Sylvan Heights Bird Park in Scotland Neck. The 9-acre park features more than 2,500 birds from around the globe – the world’s largest collection of waterfowl – housed in continent-themed aviaries. The Landing Zone allows guests to feed and interact with flamingos and parakeets, while the fully accessible Treehouse Observatory and Beaver Pond Blind provide both sweeping and up-close views of the natural surroundings and wildlife. Walking trails, picnic areas, gardens and a playground fill the grounds with other opportunities for adventure and fun.
6. Halifax Underground Railroad Trail
Halifax County is home to three sites on the National Parks Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom – the Halifax State Historic Site, River Falls Park in Weldon, and the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail. All are near the Roanoke River, which was often used as an escape route by Freedom Seekers. At these sites, historical markers tell the harrowing story of the Underground Railroad through historic “runaway” wanted ads that were run in North Carolina newspapers. The Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail explains how the canal was both built by enslaved people and used as their escape route.
7. Historic Halifax
Just off I-95, the Halifax State Historic Site transports visitors back to the 1770s, when Halifax emerged as the flashpoint for revolution with the adoption of the Halifax Resolves on April 12, 1776. Stop by the Visitor Center for exhibits and a film on the town’s history, then experience life in Colonial-era North Carolina by exploring the site’s nine preserved historic structures, including a jail, tavern and several homes. Costumed interpreters bring history to life with demonstrations on Colonial clothing, toys and games, butter churning, apple pressing, quill writing, ink making, and much more.
8. Weldon Mills Distillery
Inspired by the great distilleries of Kentucky, friends Bruce Tyler and Michael Hinderliter decided to open a facility in Weldon dedicated to crafting fine spirits. Located in a renovated mill building on the banks of the Roanoke River, the award-winning Weldon Mills Distillery produces two types of bourbon, regular and sweetpotato whiskey, plus vodka, gin and tequila. Tour the historic facility, sample the spirits in the Mill tasting room and buy bottles to take home.
9. Timber Waters Brewery
Craft beer lovers in search of a sip will find something worth raising a glass to at Timber Waters Brewery in downtown Littleton. The operation is committed to honoring and enhancing the flavor of its community, crafting fine beers using North Carolina ingredients – taste orange blossom honey, for example, in Timber Waters’ flagship Spincast honey blonde. Kid-friendly snacks and drinks are available, and the taproom’s patio and firepit are ideal for unwinding in nice weather.
10. Weldon Mills Theatre
After relaxing with a cocktail or beer at a local brewery or distillery, stately Weldon Mills Theatre is the perfect destination for entertainment. From friendly community gatherings to live shows featuring national touring acts, the venue maintains a busy lineup of musical concerts and other performances and events throughout the year.
For more information, visit visithalifax.com.
