Things to Do in Lumberton

Savor Lumberton's hometown flavors and take advantage of its opportunities to play, shop and learn with a trip to North Carolina's Inner Banks region.

Go on a Walkabout

Put on your comfy shoes and hit Lumberton's urban trail to experience the city's past and present. With nearly 90 buildings dating back to 1840, Lumberton has earned a place on the National Register of Commercial Districts. You'll find maps for a self-guided tour available at local merchants and at the Lumberton Visitors Bureau. Each of the three loops is just over a mile—a perfect outing if you're short on time or pushing a stroller. The Old Lumberton loop traces the city's boundaries as plotted in 1787 and highlights the French Quarters. The Riverside loop takes the Old Lumberton Trail and offers views of the Lumber River, a federally designated natural and scenic landmark. Stroll the Plaza loop for a look at the historic courthouse.

Childhood Bliss

The Exploration Station gives children a place to explore with hands-on exhibits, including a hospital, school and farmhouse. If you're an adult, admission is free! Top off the day with a visit to the Sweet Candy Café. This candy parlor will entice the entire family with 92 different classic and modern candy delights, from Mary Janes to gummies. Just wait until you try the fudge.

Enjoy Outdoor Play

Explore the Lumber River corridor and bask in North Carolina's natural beauty. River Way Guided Tours offers family-sized canoes, kayaks and pontoons for every season. You can schedule long or short trips to match your schedule and abilities, or forge your own paddling excursion by renting canoes or kayaks. During the summer months, take a dip in the swimming hole or fish along the river bank. The two lakes in Luther Britt Park are the perfect place to cool down on a humid day. Ply the tree-lined waters in a paddleboat or canoe, fish, walk or bike all the breathtaking trails.

Experience Southern Cooking

You’ll find the gamut of familiar chain restaurants in Lumberton, but if you want your fill of Southern comfort food, the city's cafeteria and buffet-style restaurants are your ticket. Fuller's Old Fashioned Bar-B-Que satisfies appetites daily with an all-you-can-eat buffet. Go ahead—heap your plate with chicken, biscuits and gravy galore. When you're in the downtown district, check out the cafeteria line at Candy Sue's. Known for its home-style cooking, this eatery is a local lunchtime favorite. Save room for one of their classics: the fried green tomato sandwich, or shrimp and grits.

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