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Summer is coming, which means it's time to start planning the best weekend getaways near Salisbury, NC. Start mapping out your top trips with our go-to destinations within a few hours' drive (or less!) 4 Great Weekend Getaways You Can Drive to Near Salisbury, NC 1. Durham, NC A weekend trip to Durham takes about 2 hours from Salisbury, NC, but it's well worth the journey if you're intrigued by the history behind the city's revitalized downtown area. You'll be able to stay in your choice of trendy hotels within walking distance of top-rated restaurants, eclectic boutiques, and modern cocktail spots. If the weather cooperates, stroll through the lush plant displays at Sarah P. Duke Gardens or take a walking tour of Durham's historic African American communities. more 2. Chapel Hill, NC Consider Chapel Hill for another great weekend getaway within a 2-hour drive of Salisbury. This destination will appeal to visitors who enjoy outdoor recreation, with attractions like the Riverwalk in Hillsborough and hiking trails at Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area. You may want to plan your visit around one of Chapel Hill's many community festivals, from Arts on Market to weekly wine tours. 3. Myrtle Beach, SC You can be enjoying the sun and sand of Myrtle Beach in just under 4 hours, so make it a long weekend and fully enjoy this popular surfside resort city. If you're not planning on spending most of your time on the shore, you'll also find tons of activities from go-karts and amusement parks to mini golf and boardwalk shopping. For a bit of adventure and an unforgettable view, ride the SkyWheel at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. The city also has some of the country's best golf courses. 4. Charlotte, NC Charlotte is the perfect place to spend a few days if you don't want to venture too far from Salisbury. Although it's less than an hour's drive away, the city has so much to offer all types of travelers. You can stay in a quaint bed and breakfast or a luxury hotel while enjoying some of the best restaurants in the region. Charlotte is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Discovery Place science museum. You can also spend an exciting day at Carowinds theme park. 5. Knoxville, TN Located about four hours from Salisbury, Knoxville gives you the chance to explore vibrant Southern nightlife, a cool art scene, and lots of incredible food. It's also an enjoyable destination for outdoor lovers, with miles of hiking and biking trails within city limits. You need plenty of space to pack your road trip essentials, so it might be time to upgrade your ride to the expansive Toyota Highlander SUV. Contact Cloninger Toyota and make your appointment to see it in person today.

You don't have to drive far to find beauty and tranquility in nature. Everything nature lovers need is right here in Salisbury, NC. Pack your outdoor gear in a rugged and tough Toyota Tacoma, put on your hiking boots, and explore three incredible natural areas down miles of scenic nature trails. Just Down the Road: 3 Fun Spots for Nature Lovers Near Salisbury, NC 1. Eagle Point Nature Preserve The breathtaking 200-acre Eagle Point Nature Preserve at 665 Black Road is the ideal spot in Salisbury to enjoy nature's beauty and solitude. The preserve has over three miles of back-to-back loop trails, including an interpretive plant and tree identification loop. The scenic trails cut through different types of forests typical to Central North Carolina and run to beautiful isolated coves and observation overlooks with spectacular views. more As you make your way down the trails, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles around Goldeneye Cove, owls, egrets, herons, and kingfishers, and if you're lucky, you may spot raccoons and white-tailed deer along the way. The preserve also offers canoe and kayak access to High Rock Lake in summer when the water is at its highest. 2. Dan Nicholas Park Dan Nicholas Park at 6800 Bringle Ferry Road in Salisbury offers outdoor enthusiasts a wide range of fun outdoor activities. The park has a scenic lake, nature center, aquarium, animal habitats, and a campground. The Rowan Wild facility provides educational opportunities for kids and adults and is home to indigenous North Carolina animals, including black bears, bobcats, foxes, raccoons, white-tailed deer, alligators, raptors, and snakes. Paddle and fish for catch and release smallmouth bass, keeper bream, and catfish in the 10-acre spring-fed Lake Murtis, barbecue at a covered shelter with picnic tables and grills, and stay for a few nights in a lovely cabin or campsite in the woods. 3. Dunn's Mountain Park The peaceful 80-acre Dunn's Mountain Park at 1740 Dunn's Mountain Road in Salisbury is the newest Rowan County park. Hike to the summit of Dunn's Mountain on the easy half-mile trail through picturesque woods carpeted with wildflowers in the spring and summer months or when the leaves change color in fall. Once you're at the top, there are long-range binoculars and the best views of downtown Salisbury and Rowan County. It's also a great place to spend time outdoors, birdwatching, admiring the beautiful surroundings, enjoying peaceful picnics, and watching spectacular sunsets. Dunn's Mountain Park has a shuttle service over weekends that will take you up to the top of the mountain and back down again. Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and discover beautiful natural areas filled with native plants, birds, and animals. Before you hit the road, call Cloninger Toyota today to schedule a maintenance service and ensure your car will get you safely anywhere you want to go.

You should get out there and enjoy a picnic while the weather is nice. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places for residents to enjoy picnics around Salisbury, NC. If you are looking for a great way to spend an afternoon, here are our six favorite spots for a picnic. more Foil Tatum Park This is a nice little park with a playground, some trails, and plenty of green grassy spots for a blanket. The park is also pet-friendly so you can bring the kids and your dog too. You will love sitting out in the warm sunshine, and this is a great way to enjoy your lunch while the weather is warm. Cannon Park This spot offers plenty of large grassy spots and even a gazebo. You can enjoy your lunch and then practice shooting hoops when your lunch is done. It is the best way to work off that extra piece of cake. Kelsey Scott Park If you're looking to grill out, look no further than Kelsey Scott Park. This location has a wonderful playground and a picnic pavilion with grills. When you have finished off your meal, choose between basketball, softball, or disc golf. Get out and stay active for a happy and healthy afternoon. Dunn's Mountain Park If you are looking to escape, check out Dunn's Mountain Park. Here you will find 83 acres of pristine conservation land and picnic tables with shelters too. After your meal, you can enjoy a nice hike on the walking trails or you can relax and enjoy the serenity of the natural environment around you. Salisbury City Park The city park is situated at the site of a beautiful lake. You can enjoy your picnic at one of the picnic shelters with grills, and then you can feed the geese too. After that, you will have the option to play tennis or pickleball, and the kids can play on the playground or climb the rock wall. There is so much to do here, which is why it is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic. Dan Nicholas Park If you are looking to take your afternoon up a notch, check out Dan Nicholas Park. Aside from picnic shelters with grills, you can fill your afternoon with tons of family fun. You can choose from activities like gem mining, riding a carousel, or even a train ride. The park also has an aquarium and animal exhibits too. Aside from this, there is a playground, and if you find yourself wanting more, you can even camp at the campgrounds too. We are happy to see you getting out there and enjoying the parks in our beautiful community. If you are looking for a great car to help get you around town, then we would be happy to help with that too. Contact us today at Cloninger Toyota of Salisbury, and we can help you find a new or used Toyota that will make your travels even better. We look forward to seeing you soon!

When you are bored with the home environment, there's no better way to break the monotony than exploring the great outdoors. Salisbury, NC, has numerous camping sites you can take your friends, loved ones, or even your spouse. Pack up your tent, food supplies, and insect repellents as you are about to learn about some nearby destinations that are guaranteed to surpass your outdoor experience expectations. more 1. Hanging Rock State Park The Hanging Rock State Park is located in Sauratown Mountains and features 73 campsites. Some of the exciting excursion activities at the park include rock climbing, canoeing, and mountain biking. The 20 miles of hiking trails help fitness enthusiasts lose unwanted calories, while the waterfalls offer excellent spots for cooling off. 2. Dan Nicholas Park and Campground Whether you want a getaway place with your whole family or your spouse, this park provides limitless fun spots for everyone. Challenge your loved ones to a game of mini-golf or a volleyball match. Alternatively, visit the 10-acre lake to engage in angling or paddle boating. The 70-site family camping area has an outdoor theater, and it is open throughout the year. 3. Crashpad 1620 This campground is suitable for individuals looking for a jungle experience. Pitch a tent in the woods or an open area. If it rains, there's a shelter on-site with a fire pit to keep you warm all night. During the day, explore swimming at the Whitewater Center, fishing at High Rock Lake, or sit back and watch birds outside your tent. 4. Morrow Mountain State Park The Morrow Mountain State Park is situated on Uwharrie National Forest's western edge. You will choose your camping spot from over 100 sites. Some of the thrilling amenities awaiting you include vast paddling and fishing space, hiking trails, a bathhouse, a swimming pool, and horse riding paths. For the fishing enthusiasts, you can hire and launch rowboats at Lake Tillery. 5. Sleep With Sheep! Creekside Camping This campground offers a serene place for meditation, away from the urban hustle and bustle. Pitch camp near a shallow creek so that you interact with the property owner's mini horses, sheep, donkeys, and goats as they graze. Also, treat yourself with varied lyrics from wild turkey, red fox, deer, red-tailed hawks, and songbirds while sky gazing. 6. Suspended Sanctuary Tentsile Tree Tent This camp provides an opportunity for three campers to sleep suspended on trees at a time. Climb up the tree tent, listen to your favorite music, or watch horses grazing below the camp. When you bring your whole family, carry bacon or beef for grilling on the rocket stove at the site. Before you call it a night, the fireflies will glitter like natural Christmas lights while the tree frogs lullaby you. Camping is a great way to escape your routine lifestyle, connect with nature, and explore new destinations. North Carolina has numerous unique spots that seasoned and new campers will cherish. While preparing for an outdoor experience, contact Cloninger Toyota today to test-drive some fun and stylish vehicles ready for camping excursions.

Salisbury, NC, is a town full of character and personality. The historic downtown district is a fascinating mixture of contemporary architecture and charming old buildings, alive with music, art, theater, and excellent culinary options. The town is also proud to be the home of Cheerwine since 1917, the oldest soft drink company in the country and still owned and operated by the same family! more 1. Downtown Charm Take a stroll through the downtown district with its historic buildings and old-world charm. Or go on a historic guided trolley ride past filming locations of popular television shows and movies, the Cheerwine building, and other prominent sites around the town. You will even hear a ghost story of two. Pop into one of the many antique shops, enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants, and along the way, marvel at the beautiful murals and public art. 2. Architectural Masterpieces The town boasts five Local Historic Districts and ten National Register Historic Districts and is filled with architectural wonders. The Historic Salisbury Foundation, a private, non-profit organization, and the non-profit Rowan Museum are both committed to preserving and protecting the town's historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The museum's properties include the Old Stone House, Utzman-Chambers House, and the China Grove Roller Mill. 3. Lively Art Scene The town with its East Square Cultural Arts District doesn't have a shortage of art venues, galleries, and private artists' studios. Waterworks Visual Arts Center is a non-profit art museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and an anchor for art in the region. The museum's focus is on exploring artistic and cultural realms. 4. Top Class Entertainment Piedmont Players Theatre, Inc., is a non-profit organization and owns and operates both the historic Meroney Theater and the new Norvell Theater. The organization has been going strong for nearly 60 years and was recognized by the North Caroline Theater Conference for its outstanding community theater. The Piedmont Players produce ten 10 shows every season, of which five are youth theatre productions. The Lee Street Theater presents alternative forms of performance art to the community. The Salisbury Symphony hosts a variety of orchestral music events throughout the year. 5. Beautiful Parks and Recreational Facilities The town has 29 beautifully maintained parks that spread out over 508 acres. There is an athletic and sports complex, ten tennis courts, a swimming pool, splash pad, and almost 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. Dan Nicholas Park The favorite park is the 425-acre Dan Nicholas Park with a ten-acre lake, Nature Center, playgrounds, ball fields, tennis and volleyball courts, miniature golf, freshwater aquarium, two 18-hole golf courses, and so much more. You can paddleboat and fish at the lake or go gem mining with the kids. At the Barnyard, kids can look at historic farming equipment and meet the farm animals. The Nature Center has turtles, snakes, alligators, bears, wolves, and other captivating creatures to look at. When you need to cool off, the Water Plaza in the center of the park is just to place to splash around. Magnificent historic buildings, vivid art and cultural scene, beautiful parks, and friendly residents make this town the gem of Rowan County. Visit Cloninger Toyota today. We provide our clients with the best quality automotive services, parts, and exceptional finance opportunities.

Salisbury is a small city in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Despite its size, it's an iconic city, drawing folks from across the country. The town has many parks and recreational spots, so if you're looking to get some fresh air and natural scenery, you'll enjoy the many open spaces and hiking trails. more 1. Reservoir Park Greenway The Reservoir Park Greenway is a 2.5 mile stretch of concrete, gravel, and sand. The trail is part of a larger system of greenways in the Southern Pines community. Winding through the 95 acres of the Southern Pines reservoir, the trail takes you past a dam, a metal bridge, and the greenery of the pine forest on the other side. As such, there's more than enough to keep your eyes occupied. If you get tired, you can always take a break by the water's edge as you cast for fish. Like many trails in the area, this one is also open to bikes and wheelchairs. 2. Salem Lake Trail At seven miles, this is perhaps the longest trail in the area. It circles the Salem Lake park, changing from dirt to sand and then gravel. You'll often find people cycling along the path or fishing in the lake, as both of these activities are permitted. Other attractions are a playground and a year-round water fountain. The park closes at different times during the year, sometimes as early as 7:30 in the evening, so the best times to visit are in the morning and early evening. 3. Dan Nicholas Park Trail This 2.0-mile natural surface trail loops around Lake Murtis in the Dan Nicholas Park, taking you past several bridges and a couple of fishing spots. It may prove a bit difficult to use wheelchairs and strollers on the trail, as roots in the dirt trail will get in the way. However, dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they're on a leash. 4. Forest Creek Trail This trail is a 3.5-mile dirt path connecting the Longleaf Trail in the south and Nick's Creek Trail in the north. The trail is frequently used by students from the nearby Sandhills Community College and O'Neal School. Bicycles and wheelchairs are also allowed, but the path is wide enough so both foot and vehicular traffic shouldn't be a problem. 5. Muddy Creek Greenway If you love bird watching, you'll definitely love Muddy Creek Greenway. This four-mile asphalt trail stretches through woodlands and meadows as it follows the muddy creek it's named after. You can spot various birds like Cardinals, Bluebirds, Chickadees, and Woodpeckers in the trees, and when you reach the open areas, Wild Turkeys and Meadowlarks. Bicycles and wheelchairs can ride on the asphalt trail. Inline skating is also allowed. Visit one or all five trails. Either way, you're sure to enjoy the fresh air and scenic beauty. And while you're in the area, feel free to stop by Cloninger Toyota. We've got great deals on family cars, repairs, and spare parts.

There's no shortage of things to do near Salisbury, NC. From vast parks with horse riding and hikes to wine tours and spa days, there's plenty just a short trip from home. more 1. North Carolina Zoo With 2,600 acres, the North Carolina Zoo isn't a place to see animals behind glass. It's a chance to get up close and personal with animals in natural habitats. The zoo has several sections based on the different continents, each housing animals native to that location. Here you'll find everything from lemurs to grizzly bears to sand cats. 2. Tanglewood Park Go for a swim, ride a horse, or play a game of tennis all at Tanglewood Park. Bring your furry friends along with you and take advantage of the two 2-acre dog parks. There's also golf and soft golf for a slightly easier round of the game. 3. Sea Life Charlotte-Concord Divided into ten different areas, Sea Life at Charlotte-Concord meets all your sea creature loving needs. Walk the ocean tunnel, touch sea urchins, or learn more about Sea Life's conservation mission. You can also sign up for a behind the scenes tour to see just how aquariums work. 4. Kersey Valley Attractions There are indoor and outdoor activities aplenty at Kersey Valley Attractions. Zipline over treetops, overcome an obstacle course 30 feet in the air, or run through the corn maze for a more grounded experience. If the weather doesn't cooperate, don't worry. Just check out one of Kersey's four escape rooms or join in on an ax-throwing game. 5. Catawba Science Center Children and adults alike will enjoy the Catawba Science Center with its two aquariums, planetarium, and hands-on exhibits. You can pet sharks, feel what it's like to get caught in a tornado, and even launch a rocket. Don't forget to check out the sustainably farmed greenhouse and garden on the grounds outside. 6. Stone Mountain State Park You won't run out of things to do at Stone Mountain. There are hikes ranging from one mile to twelve, or try your hand at rock climbing. If you're searching for a more leisurely way to spend the day, fish for trout along the miles of streams. Pack your lunch and take advantage of the 75 picnic sites or one of the larger picnic shelters if you're traveling with a group. 7. Biltmore Spend an hour or two touring the house and winery before taking a carriage ride or biking through the 8,000 acres at Biltmore. Top the day off with a massage at the spa and a fine dining experience at one of the many restaurants on site. Kids will enjoy the day here too, with outdoor excursions, crafts, and time at the active farmyard. Don't miss out on all the great adventures just a day's trip away! Visit Cloninger Toyota in Salisbury, NC today to find your next vehicle to take you and your family to one of these great places just a short drive from Salisbury.

Looking to spend some time with nature or have a little outdoor adventure? There's no need for a cross-country trip because a great spot exists in Lexington just a few miles off the NC 150 Highway. It's called Boone's Cave Park, and there are plenty of reasons you should check it out. more So Many Things to Do The park spans over 100 acres of land and has spaces dedicated to a variety of activities including 15 trails for hiking and biking. There is a sheltered area with tables for picnics that has a beautiful view of the Yadkin River to enjoy while you eat. There are easy access points to the river throughout the park as well that you can use for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Large, open spaces where you can play disc golf are provided, and primitive and semi-primitive campgrounds are available for tent (no trailers) camping. If you are interested in using the campgrounds, the park asks you to call two weeks in advance to confirm availability. Amazing Scenes of Nature Nearly half the park (46 acres) is noted as a Natural Heritage Site and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. The hiking trails run through a secluded rolling forest of various trees similar to the North Carolina mountains, and several of the trees species are normally only seen in the Appalachian Mountains. Also, one hundred wildflowers native to the land and 125 varieties of butterflies have been observed. You may wish to bring your binoculars to have an optimal view of the migrant birds in the spring and fall. Catch a glimpse of Cedar Waxwing, Brown Thrasher, and others. Animals including deer, hawks, reptiles, and much more all call the park home as well. Walk in Daniel Boone's Footsteps Local legend says that the Boone family--including 16-year-old Daniel--came to live in Yadkin Valley of North Carolina in 1750 and supposedly spent their first year nearby if not at the park site itself. And while there may not be any documentation to prove that this was the case, there his heavy presence of the Boone name throughout Davidson County (Boone's Bottom, Boone's Ford, Boone's Spring, Boone's Cave) to suggest this legend is true. Additionally, many locals have family stories passed through the generations wherein their elders have testified to the Boones having lived east of the Yadkin. So the likelihood of Daniel Boone having roamed through the area is virtually uncontested. Today, the park still maintains 7.5 miles of trails that hold the 200-year-old character that early American settlers like Boone once utilized, and offers the best representation overall of the land they encountered back then. We know all the best places to visit in the area, and proudly serve the communities of Lexington and others surrounding Salisbury in their travel needs. Visit Cloninger Toyota today to speak with a representative and start driving toward your next adventure.

Now is a great time to get the entire family out of the house for something fun you can all enjoy together. And there are plenty of family-friendly environments you'll find in and near Salisbury that will help to create memories everyone will cherish. Here are some great spots to check out. more Bounce City This indoor play center gives kids a fun place to play safely any time of year. The center is filled with inflatables to jump on and toys to play with that are not only fun but offer great exercise for your little ones as well. You can reserve parts of the center, but walk-ins are welcome at any time. A special play area is always available that provides wall-to-wall jumping, as well as sliding, riding, dancing, and even an obstacle course. Of course, they've considered you too, parents. You have your own area to relax, where you can sit and watch your kids having too much fun to bother you. But if you'd rather, they have their Parents' Night Out experience that allows you to drop your kids off knowing they'll be well taken care of, and you are free to enjoy a night alone together. Dan Nicholas Park If you're looking for a day of family fun outside under the North Carolina sun, a trip to Dan Nicholas Park is just what you need. This beautiful park has a wide variety of activities the whole family can enjoy together. There is no entry fee, just a charge per activity, and there are so many activities available you won't know where to begin. They have an aquarium where you can meet underwater creatures and a barnyard for a hands-on experience with some domesticated land dwellers. You can even take a ride on the carousel, mine for gems, play a round of mini-golf, and then take a trip on the paddle-boats all at this park. And still, there is so much wildlife to be found here as well. This place is sure to please everyone in the family. Boones Cave Park Located a few miles out in Lexington is an amazing 100 acres of park that is upholding the heritage of this site. The cave is open for exploration, and the park is packed with hiking trails surrounded by wildlife and wildflowers, including a spot with flowers that normally only grow in the Appalachian Mountains. The scenes are breath-taking and you may want to bring a camera. If you have a canoe or kayak you may bring it to access the river from the main parking lot. This is an awesome way for you to enjoy the park, or just spend your time fishing. But don't forget to take a trip to the cave! It's said that Daniel Boone and his family used the cave, but for what purpose and if that's true has yet to be discovered. All this makes for a fun family day. When you need to get the family out of the house, fun is never too far away. Contact Cloninger Toyota today for a family fun vehicle and go out into the world together.