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
The two-year fellowship focuses on developing leadership and policy skills for the next generation of agriculture advocates.
Triangle H received the 2022 Feedyard Commitment to Excellence Award from Certified Angus Beef, gaining national recognition for its cattle care and quality.
Higher food costs are showing up beyond the grocery aisle, with some major restaurant chains shrinking their U.S. footprint.
Sponsored
Like a lot of things, the more you fall in love with a hobby, the more you realize how much you don’t know. Backyard Smart answers the lawn-and-garden questions homeowners seek.
Tennessee 4-H’ers Allie Paschall and Ramey Boone join us to discuss summer opportunities in 4-H, youth leadership development, and community involvement across Tennessee.

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:

Ag Commissioner Sid Miller and Rep. Henry Cuellar say rising costs and generational shifts are making it harder to keep young producers in the industry.
USDA says both crops remain ahead of the five-year average as farmers continue monitoring dry Corn Belt conditions.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canadian farmer sentiment, saying many are also struggling with profitability and long-term outlook in agriculture.
Several fires have merged into Kansas’ largest active wildfire as crews continue battling shifting winds and dry conditions.
The Texas Agriculture Commissioner says crews are still working to contain fires while farmers and ranchers begin assessing damage.
Volunteer firefighters describe devastating scenes as crews continue battling multiple fires across the region.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.
Ray’s Roadhouse is a weekly program featuring the music of Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel. Ray and his band Asleep at the Wheel has had a more than 50 year career in the music industry and over the years have earned nine Grammy Awards. The program also will feature guest performers such as Pat Green, Stoney LaRue and Kelly Willis.
Circle Sessions offers a more personal look at country music’s leading artists, featuring intimate discussions and behind-the-scenes moments filmed in and around the Opry’s circle.
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.