Benson Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive Benson travel guide, featuring insider tips, must-see attractions, and much more.


Introduction to Benson

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, Benson is a charming town that boasts a rich history and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Known as the “Crossroads of the South,” Benson is easily accessible via major highways, making it the perfect stop on a road trip.

With its quaint downtown area and friendly community, Benson offers a slice of small-town life that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s history, outdoor adventures, or culinary scene, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Benson

When it comes to things to see and do in Benson, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the top attractions to check out during your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Benson Museum of Local History: This museum offers a look back in time at Benson’s rich history, from its early farming days to its growth as a railroad and highway town.
  • Broadslab Distillery: Learn about the art of distilling at this small-batch craft distillery, which produces award-winning spirits using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site: Explore the site of one of the last Civil War battles in North Carolina at this well-preserved battlefield, featuring cannons, trenches, and a museum.

Natural Attractions of Benson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • White Oak River Campground: Spend a night or two camping in nature at this quiet, family-friendly campground, which offers fishing, kayaking, and hiking opportunities nearby.
  • Raven Rock State Park: Go hiking or rock climbing at this scenic park, which features 12 miles of trails, towering cliffs, and waterfalls.
  • Lake Benson Park: Take a relaxing stroll around the lake or cast a line for some fishing at this popular local park, which also offers picnic areas and playgrounds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Benson

Benson is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in North Carolina. Here are a few routes to consider during your visit:

  • Buffaloe Creek Trail: This 7-mile trail passes through lush forests and fields, and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Bentonville Battlefield Trail: This easy 1.5-mile trail allows you to explore the historic battlefield while taking in scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Black Creek Greenway: This 7.2-mile paved trail winds through the heart of Cary and connects to other nearby greenways, making it a great option for a longer bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Benson: Activities and Tours

Looking for something a little different? Check out these unique activities and tours in Benson:

  • Aviator Brewing Company: Take a tour of this well-known local brewery, which has been producing award-winning beers since 2008.
  • Triangle Skydiving Center: Get an adrenaline rush with a tandem skydiving jump at this skydiving center, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Endor Paddle: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the winding Neuse River at your own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Benson

If you have a week to spend in Benson, here’s a sample itinerary that will allow you to experience all the town has to offer:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore downtown Benson, visit the Benson Museum of Local History, and indulge in a Southern-style lunch at Holt Lake Bar-B-Que.
Day 2 Go on a hike at Raven Rock State Park and have a picnic lunch at the summit of Raven Rock.
Day 3 Take a tour of Broadslab Distillery and sample their award-winning moonshine, then spend the afternoon fishing or kayaking at White Oak River Campground.
Day 4 Hop on the Black Creek Greenway for a morning bike ride, then cool off with a swim in Lake Benson. Visit Aviator Brewing Company for a beer and dinner.
Day 5 Spend the day on a farm tour, visiting local farms and learning about sustainable agriculture practices.
Day 6 Go skydiving or take a hot air balloon ride with Triangle Skydiving Center.
Day 7 Explore Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site and have a picnic lunch on the grounds. Stop by Endor Paddle for a relaxing kayaking tour in the afternoon.

Food and Drink Scene of Benson

No visit to Benson is complete without sampling some of the town’s delicious Southern cuisine and local brews. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Southern-style barbecue: Whether you prefer ribs, pulled pork, or chicken, the barbecue joints in Benson are second to none.
  • Sweet potato pie: A Southern classic, this creamy and sweet pie is a must-try dessert.
  • Hush puppies: These crispy, golden fritters are a perfect side for any meal.

Local Beverages

  • Aviator Brewing Company beers: This award-winning local brewery offers a wide variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.
  • Broadslab Distillery moonshine: Made with locally grown ingredients and distilled in-house, this small-batch moonshine is a unique Benson experience.
  • Sweet tea: No Southern meal is complete without a refreshing glass of sweet tea.

Where to Stay in Benson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a budget-friendly motel, Benson has plenty of lodging options to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Inn at John’s Bed and Breakfast: This historic bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and homemade breakfast in a charming setting.
  • Comfort Inn: This affordable hotel offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Selma Inn: Located just a few miles from Benson, this cozy motel offers clean, comfortable rooms at a great price.

What to Buy in Benson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Benson home with you by picking up some of these local products:

  • Moonshine from Broadslab Distillery
  • Handcrafted pottery from local artists
  • Jams, jellies, and other preserves made with locally grown fruits and vegetables

Local Culture and Customs of Benson

Benson is a friendly and welcoming town, where locals are proud of their Southern heritage and happy to share it with visitors. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  • Southern hospitality: Visitors can expect to be greeted warmly and treated like family at local businesses and restaurants.
  • Respect for history: Benson residents take pride in their town’s rich history and are quick to share stories and knowledge about it.
  • Love of the outdoors: Benson is surrounded by natural beauty, and locals love to spend their free time hiking, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Benson

The best time to visit Benson depends on your preferences. If you love warm weather and outdoor activities, spring and fall are great times to visit, with milder temperatures and plenty of foliage. Winter can be chilly, but it’s a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities like distillery tours and museum visits. Summer is the busiest season, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Benson

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when visiting Benson:

Do:

  • Indulge in the local cuisine, especially the barbecue and sweet potato pie.
  • Take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding Benson by going hiking, fishing, or kayaking.
  • Be respectful of the town’s rich history, and take the time to learn about it at the museum and other historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Expect a fast-paced lifestyle - Benson is all about taking it slow and enjoying life.
  • Disrespect the town or its residents - Benson is a friendly and welcoming community, and visitors are expected to behave accordingly.
  • Skip out on trying some moonshine from Broadslab Distillery - it’s a unique Benson experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Safety and Health

Benson is a safe and healthy town, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Benson

  • Be aware of your surroundings when hiking or camping in natural areas.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and locked up in your car or hotel room.
  • Follow all safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities like skydiving or hot air ballooning.

Health in Benson

  • Stay hydrated when spending time outdoors in warm weather.
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from sunburn and bug bites.
  • If you’re feeling unwell, visit the local urgent care center or hospital for medical attention.

Getting to Benson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Benson is easily accessible via major highways, making it a great stop on a road trip. Here are a few transportation options to consider when getting to Benson:

Airports Near Benson

  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
  • Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY)

Bus Stations Near Benson

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Southeastern Stages

Other Options

  • Rental cars: Several car rental agencies are available at nearby airports and in Raleigh-Durham.
  • Taxis and rideshare services: These options are available throughout the area.

How to Get Around in Benson

Benson is a small town that’s easy to navigate on foot or by car. Rental cars and taxis can be easily obtained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Benson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Benson’s central location makes it a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are a few ideas for your next adventure:

  • Raleigh: North Carolina’s capital city is just a 30-minute drive from Benson and offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Wilmington: Take a day trip to this picturesque coastal town and soak up some sun on the beach or tour the historic downtown area.
  • Uwharrie National Forest: Head to this nearby national forest for hiking, camping, and fishing in a secluded and scenic natural setting.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or outdoor adventurer, Benson has something to offer. With its friendly community and natural beauty, it’s no wonder that this small Southern town has become a hidden gem for visitors to North Carolina. By following this guide, you’ll be able to experience all the best that Benson has to offer and have a trip to remember.