Former Tobacco Farm Grows into North Carolina Family Destination

Smith’s Farm Market now draws visitors with produce, flowers, and homemade ice cream.

BENSON, N.C. (RFD News) — A former tobacco farm in North Carolina has grown into a thriving destination centered around local food, flowers and family activities.

Smith’s Farm Market offers fresh produce, seasonal U-pick berries, a garden center, homemade soft-serve ice cream and family attractions that draw visitors from across the region.

The operation also includes 12 acres of nursery plants currently in production for both wholesale and retail sales, along with pottery and handmade soaps.

Arlene Smith says one of the things she enjoys most is that no two days are ever the same.

“I love it. No day is the same. Every day is a little bit different, and you’re right here. You get to work outside, you’re around beautiful plants, and people are here because they want to be here.”

Smith’s Farm Market says its busiest season runs through Mother’s Day, but strawberries and field trips continue to bring in visitors from across the area.

Related Stories
This show-stopper holiday main dish recipe will impress any guest lucky to sit at your table! The crunchy, salty pistachio crust on the succulent, slow-cooked ribeye roast pairs perfectly with the rich mushrooms, shallots, and red wine sauce.
In this go-to summer grilling recipe, Beef Back Ribs are marinated in an Asian-inspired marinade and then grilled to perfection.
A spicy sauce made with chili sauce and crushed red pepper flakes gives these Spicy Beef Back Ribs amazing flavor.
“Our focus is on trying to attract people from rural Oklahoma, train them, and get them back to rural Oklahoma.”

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The coalition says the program was designed to make cover crop enrollment faster and easier for producers.
European officials say the temporary move is aimed at easing pressure on farmers as conflict in the Middle East disrupts fertilizer markets.
Canadian industry leaders argue the tax policies cited by U.S. officials are similar to exemptions already used by American growers.
Seven McIlhenny Company employees received the Louisiana Honor Medal for their military service.
The operation focuses on seasonal cut flowers while supporting local businesses across the region.
Farmers say weather extremes and rising costs are creating a more challenging season across Georgia peach country.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.