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The subject of this article is located on these scenic highways.
Clayton surprised me. The food surprised me. The happy people surprised me. The peaceful Main Street filled with a long line of cars quietly rolling through town surprised me. I love when destinations surprise me, and Clayton surprised me.
Clayton was only supposed to be a three-hour stop on my road trip itinerary through North Carolina. But after a satisfying lunch at Nancy Jo’s and refreshing coffee at Boulevard West, I decided to spend the rest of the day in the charming small town. Always travel with an itinerary to make sure you see the places you want to see but be willing to let spontaneity take over.
The weather was moderately pleasant during my mid-August visit. Not a cloud in the sky, but the temperatures never peaked above the 80s. It was a Thursday, so all the shops and restaurants were open, but the weekenders had yet to arrive.
I arrived just after noon and stayed until well past sunset before continuing my road trip into Smithfield. But the next day, even as I visited the Ava Gardener Museum and browsed through the gargantuan locally owned DeWayne’s, I wanted to return to Clayton.
But I didn’t. And now Clayton has worked its way onto my list of destinations I want to visit again. Because more than anything else, Clayton surprised else.
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Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.
Like many towns across the country, Clayton began as a railroad town in the late 1800s. Originally called Stallings Station, the town was renamed when incorporated in 1869.
Clayton thrived as a commerce hub throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. Cotton, lumber, and tobacco flowed through the city on the railroad. But the Great Depression brought those industries to an end, and Clayton struggled for the next four decades.
As North Carolina’s economy shifted toward textiles and technology, so did Clayton’s. And as Raleigh’s population doubled from 2000 to 2020, Clayton developed as a peaceful escape for the burgeoning capital city.
Today, downtown Clayton is a cornerstone of locally owned America with retail shops, restaurants, and a brewery and distillery in a renovated textile factory building.
READ MORE: 12 Things to Do in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village in North Carolina
Clayton General Store is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Clayton. Inside the small gray building, shelves are chocked full of local jams and butters, a wall is hidden behind dozens of yard flags, and the commercial fridges are stocked with craft sodas.
But the best reason to visit the local mercantile store is the dessert shop in the back. Ginormous, creative milkshakes topped with baked goods are a savory way to begin a day exploring Clayton.
10522 US-70 Business, Clayton, NC | 919-585-2288 | www.facebook.com/claytongeneralstore
Axe throwing has suddenly become a popular evening activity. But it’s not as scary as the name implies. Wooden targets hung on a wall ten feet away, separated from the crowd by nets and walls, where eager participants throw a lightweight axe through the air. Epic Axe is a wonderful place to experience this thrill in Clayton.
The local business describes itself as an “axe throwing and social house.” Plenty of seating surrounds the axe throwing lanes, giving people a chance to hang out even if they have no interest in chucking an axe through the air. Additional furniture outside in a small courtyard offers an opportunity for a peaceful place to enjoy a few drinks.
Epic Axe features World Axe Throwing League targets and hosts several contests throughout the year.
213 West Main Street, Clayton, NC | 984-220-0776 | https://epic-axe.com
Beginning in Wake County, the Neuse River meanders 275 miles across North Carolina to the Pamlico Sound near New Bern. The narrow river is a source of scenic beauty. The 34.5-mile Neuse River Greenway connects Raleigh to Clayton along a developed pedestrian path.
But for outdoor enthusiasts eager to get on the water, Neuse Adventures Canoe & Kayak Rentals is the best business in town. Guided tours begin at the family farm on Covered Bridge Road, about fifteen minutes from downtown Clayton. Participants are shuttled to points on the Neuse River to start a 2-hour or 5-hour tour.
2975 Covered Bridge Road, Clayton, NC | 919-553-3295 | www.neuseadventures.com
READ MORE: 12 Things to Do with a Weekend Getaway to Fayetteville, NC
Even if Boulevard West wasn’t the only coffee shop in town, it would probably still be the best coffee shop in town. Baristas grind coffee beans for every cup served for the best flavor. They have almost every method of coffee you can imagine – drip coffee, cold brew, espresso, latte, and a good selection of recipes for frappuccinos.
The coffee shop is a gorgeous modern industrial space. A painted concrete floor is covered with wood tables and chairs. The entire front wall is glass, and garage doors on the side wall flood the space with daylight. There are plenty of seats inside, but you can also find a comfy seat outside on the grassy courtyard.
104 West Main Street, Clayton, NC | 919-243-1384 | www.facebook.com/boulevard27527
Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.
Opened in 2013 by Paul and Lynn Auclair, Deep River Brewing Company was the first legal brewery in Johnston County. Renovating a former textile factory, the two-vessel brewhouse and enormous taproom offer plenty of room to hang out with friends and family while sampling craft beers. Outside, a food truck is parked a few nights each week with picnic tables on the concrete patio.
Head brewmaster Paul Auclair keeps five beers on tap throughout the year, with others rotated seasonally. Visitors can try a flight to sample a few beers or go straight to ordering by the glass.
700 West Main Street #102, Clayton, NC | 919-585-2296 | www.deepriverbrewing.com
US Army veterans Eric and Leigh and Clayton attorney Tom met and formed a friendship over wine – wait, what? After years of friendship, sharing a passion for wine, and even trying their hands at selling wines, the trio decided to open Johnston County’s first legal distillery.
The distillery occupies the other half of the former textile factory where Deep River Brewing opened. After three years of working to obtain a distillery permit and renovating the space, InStill Distilling Company opened to the public. Stop by to sample their award-winning White Rum, the intriguing Spiced Rum, or their AEVA Aged Rum.
710 West Main Street Suite 111, Clayton, NC | 904-233-3887 | www.instilldistillingco.com
Dave Schearer spent years working on a plan to open a pub house in Clayton. Schearer didn’t hesitate when the opportunity came to move into the 1912 Southern Tradition House. First Street Tavern features over two dozen taps of local craft beer, dozens of options on the wine list, and a bourbon selection.
The charming house features a covered front porch with aidrondack chairs, hardwood floors throughout the house, and beautifully decorated rooms. One or two rustic picnic tables are spread throughout each room of the house, giving visitors a chance for a more secluded and intimate setting than a typical pub.
Browse their menu of flatbreads and homemade dips to go along with your craft beer, a glass of wine, or fine bourbon.
115 East First Street, Clayton, NC | 919-359-3334 | http://firststreettavern.com
Corked & UnTapped does for wine what First Street Tavern does for craft beer. And that makes perfect sense considering Dave Schearer owns them both. The bottleshop features a large selection of wines – and quite a good selection from North Carolina. Visitors can also order a charcuterie board featuring local cheeses.
Like the pub, Corked & UnTapped is located inside a charming house. A large deck in front of the house features outdoor seating. Inside, cozy chairs and high-top tables are scattered throughout the rooms.
459 East Main Street, Clayton, NC | 919-359-2490 | www.corkedanduntapped.com
In a tiny white building with a covered porch entrance, visitors can find some of the best cupcakes in the region. The family-owned Patty Cake’s Littlest Cupcake Shop opened in 2019 to satisfy the sweet tooth of the residents.
Baked fresh every day, the cupcakes, cake pops, cookie sandwiches, and mini donuts are placed in glass displays inside the one-room shop. The locals take the treats and run back home or to the office to be the day’s favorite employee. But out of town visitors can sit at a picnic table outside on the quiet street and enjoy every last morsel of the treat.
318 East 2nd Street, Clayton, NC | 919-243-0011 | www.mylittlestcupcake.com
When Clayton Elementary School closed in 1997, the townsfolk sprang into action to save the school auditorium built in 1926. $8 million later, The Clayton Center opened in 2002 with a renovated 600-seat auditorium, conference center, and event spaces.
The Clayton Center hosts performing arts, concerts, comedy shows, and movie screenings. It’s the center of nightlife in the small town, where families mingle while enjoying outstanding performances. And it would be the best place for a weekend visitor to experience the town.
111 East 2nd Street, Clayton, NC | 919-553-3152 | http://theclaytoncenter.com
Scattered throughout the town in charming commercial buildings and quaint houses, Clayton’s local retail shops feature gorgeous arts and crafts, home décor, used books, and North Carolina craft beer. How much room do you have in your trunk?
In 2015, Christi Burwell Thompson took her love of painting furniture to the next level when she opened Three Little Birds in downtown Clayton. When she moved just a few blocks away into a 10,000 square foot building, she opened The Market at Three Little Birds – a showcase of nearly 50 local arts and crafts vendors.
When a charming, two-story house on Main Street was put on the market, Elaine and Durwood Ball knew they had an opportunity. After an extensive renovation, the pair opened Yellow House – an upscale gift shop. Featuring arts and crafts from locals, visitors can also pick up a savory sweet and enjoy live music on the lush lawn.
READ MORE: 17 Craft Breweries You Need to Visit in Wilmington, NC
Next door neighbors Liz and Debbie realized they shared a passion for upcycling furniture and home décor in a vintage style. They took that passion and opened Bexley House. At the small shop on Main Street, they offer furniture painting classes, upcycled artwork for sale, and a collection of hand poured candles.
Heart2Hands Art Gallery & Studio is a place for learning artwork and shopping. The studio offers workshops for all levels of artists. In the gallery, shoppers can explore artwork from dozens of locals.
As soon as you step inside Pauper’s Books & More, you’re greeted with that used book smell. Bookcases are stacked high with used books, comic books, movies, and music. Not sure what you’re looking for? Let the staff help – they know every used book on those shelves.
One of Clayton’s best hidden retail shops is the Clayton Beverage Company. The bottleshop and bar offers dozens of North Carolina craft beers for sale. The draft list changes frequently, and shoppers can mix and match six packs.
Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.
For local shopping, adventures on the Neuse River, and getting drinks at the brewery, distillery, or pub, Clayton is a wonderful town to visit. But more than anything else, Clayton does local food the best.
Nancy Jo’s Homemade is only open for lunch Monday through Saturday, and you’ll need to make it an early lunch. The made-to-order menu of hamburgers and hotdogs tends to sell out quickly, considering nothing is ever frozen, buns are steamed, and the food melts in your mouth. Finish off a wonderful meal with dessert courtesy of homemade baked goods or Hershey’s ice cream.
Jones Café has been grilling burgers and hotdogs at the same downtown location since 1958. The large restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday and dinner on Thursday nights only. Grab a seat with the cushioned metal chairs on the black and white checkered floor or one of the swivel stools at the counter.
Opened in 2019, Nina’s Restaurant and Bar serves traditional American food. The expansive menu features appetizers, pastas, entrees, and paninis. Take a seat inside on the lime green cushioned benches or high-top tables with moderately comfortable chairs.
Primo Pizza only uses fresh ingredients, many of them from local farms, in their made-from-scratch pizzas. The menu also features calzones, Stromboli, and pasta. Seating is limited inside the rusting building – if possible, get a seat at the ridiculously comfortable plush red booths in front of the picture windows overlooking Main Street.
When Chef Scott Crawford came to Clayton in 2021, he chose an early 20th-century building to open his latest restaurant, Crawford Cookshop. Renovated in a minimalist style, the restaurant’s centerpiece is a U-shaped bar surrounded by hardwood floors, sleek booths, and garage doors opening to patio seating. The menu features an array of grilled appetizers and entrees.
In 2017, Bobbi and Ryan Buckler bought the Clayton Steakhouse after working as a server and cook, respectively. Opened in 2008 by Michael and Betsy Grannis, the restaurant established a reputation for premium hand-cut steaks, mouthwatering burgers, and cold-cut sandwiches. The restaurant features comfortable seating and walls covered with local photography and artwork.
Chef Howard Manning grew up in the Carolinas and graduated from the culinary school at Johns and Wales University in Charleston in 1999. Opening Manning’s Restaurant in Clayton, he established an upscale casual atmosphere where he could put his creative talents to work with southern-style foods. It’s the only restaurant in town with rooftop seating, but you can always get a table on the first floor just in case.
As the old saying goes, “You can tell a lot about a restaurant’s food by how many cars are in the parking lot.” At Vinson’s Pub & Eatery, the parking lot is usually full, and diners have to find parallel parking somewhere along Main Street. The gorgeous modern restaurant features a painted concrete floor, dark brick walls, and comfortable seating inside or outside the covered patio. They have the best burgers in town, but the menu also includes appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees.
When you walk into Revival 1869, you will most likely be greeted with raucous laughter from a crowd enjoying live jazz music. That’s just another night at Clayton’s only whiskey bar. Filling shelves from floor to ceiling, the bar features an impressive 300 whiskeys from around the world. If you’re not sure what to try, that’s okay – the bartenders know their whiskey and will help you find the perfect drink to end the night.
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10 Responses
Thank you for your reviews. I have just moved to Clayton and needed a primer to start my exploration!
Oh I hope you enjoy it! Clayton seemed like it would be an awesome place to live because of all the local things to do.
I left Palm Coast, Florida and moved to Clayton, NC to find a better life. After being there 3 miserable years, i sold my house and moved back to Palm Coast. I’m so glad to be out of that town!!
There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home!
I agree lived there 7 years. What a disappointment
We love Clayton and your article but not nearly enough credit to our favorite restaurant, Manning’s. Howard is a superb chef with consistently the best food, atmosphere and staff in town! Thanks for promoting my friend’s beautiful store The Market at Three Little Birds. An awesome in-person experience but the live sale every Thursday at 8pm on her FB page is awesome too. Beautiful decor and a good way to get to k ow Christi and Erin. They are a hoot!❤️
Agree – Manning’s is by far the BEST
Thank you for posting about our little town! We’re experiencing ‘growing pains’ as so many people are escaping madness of the Triangle to the slower pace of ‘small town’ Clayton. Come and enjoy what we have to offer! We have terrific Police, Fire, Emergency services, Medical Facilities, Pet Rescues (vets, groomers, stores), Bakeries, Restaurants, Music, Farmers Market, American Legion and Legion Riders! There is so much GOOD here!
Thanks, again, for the wink and nod
I use to live in Clayton, NC and I didn’t all of these places exisred.
Moved to Clayton about a year ago and did not know Clayton had all of this to offer.I am going to get to each of these places real soon. This gives me something to do in my retirement time.
I’ve lived in Clayton for about 16 years and always wondered what they were going to do with downtown as there was very little happening there but in the last several years it has blossomed and is a pretty cool town now. Unfortunately Clayton has and is experiencing growing pains with the housing explosion but downtown is holding onto it little town appeal.