CITY SPOTLIGHT:

YOUR GUIDE TO Lumberton, North Carolina

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Know Before You Go: About Lumberton

Plan your trip to Lumberton with our guide to the largest city in Robeson County.

The boldly painted red, white and blue water tower is your first clue that you've arrived in Lumberton. It's a North Carolina town that values its past, but also has a quirky sense of humor. You can get a sense of its character at the local antique mall, filled with hidden treasures, or at the county fair, where cotton candy, popcorn and hair-raising rides rule. The pedestrian-friendly downtown and local hiking trails offer a more low-key sort of fun, so whether you’re with your friends or family, you’re sure to find something to meet every traveler’s wish list.

Warm Summers and Mild Winters

Summers are usually warm in Lumberton, with daytime temps averaging in the high 70s during July and August with occasional spikes into the low 90s. Evening temps during those same months average in the high 60s, making it comfortable around the clock. The most rain tends to fall during this period and can average more than 5 inches in July. The rain tapers off heading into fall, but the humidity increases, especially in the mornings. Temperatures start to cool by the end of September or October, which triggers the fall "leaf peeping" season. There may be a dusting of snow, perhaps up to an inch a month from December through early March.

Antiques and Parks

The rusted out pick-up truck next to the Carolina Country Peddlers Mall welcomes you to this combination antique mall and flea market. Open daily, with shortened hours on Sunday, you'll find everything from psychedelic peace sign purses from the 1960s to antique cupboards and china. Continue your walk through time and check out the collection of vintage toys at the Robeson County History Museum. If you're in town the first week of October, head for the Robeson Regional Agricultural Fair for old-fashioned fun. If you want to stretch those legs and do a bit of bird-watching, head for the Riverwalk. The 1.5-mile trail, one way, follows the Lumber River from downtown Lumberton to Luther Britt Park.

Snowbirds, Tourism and Manufacturing

Lumberton is the halfway point between New York and Florida when you drive down Interstate 95. "Snowbirds," those escaping the harsh northern winters, usually spend a night or two going in either direction on their spring and fall migrations. In 2010, Lumberton officially became North Carolina's first certified retirement community, so tourism and health care are important industries in the region. Lumberton also has a strong manufacturing base, with companies such as American Industries setting up shop within the city limits.

Planes, Buses and Scenic Drives

The easiest way to get to Lumberton is by car, via I-95 from the north or south, or I-74 if you're driving east or west. If you fly, you'll most likely arrive at the Fayetteville Regional Airport, about 30 miles northeast of this old-timey city. If you prefer to drive, rent a car and hop on I-95. It's a scenic drive from the airport, particularly in the fall when the leaves start turning red and gold. If you’d rather take the passenger seat, Lumberton has its own Greyhound Bus Station, right in the downtown core.

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Things to Do in Lumberton

Halfway between New York and Florida, Lumberton may be the best of both worlds.