Henderson: Big Adventures in Lonesome Valley
The city of Henderson, NC got its name in honor of Leonard Henderson, a Supreme Court Chief Justice, and friend of Henderson's first settler Samuel Reavis. It was incorporated as a city in 1841 by the North Carolina General Assembly. Today, with nearly 15,000 residents on record, Henderson is the county seat of Vance County, North Carolina, United States. It may be just a few miles from Raleigh, but Henderson has managed to keep its small-town feel. It is the proud home to several notable people including New York Knicks superstar Isaiah Hicks and pop singer Ben E. King. Although Henderson does not have a wide array of modern-day amenities like those found in huge cities, it does offer every creature comfort a traveler needs. Nearby Henderson-Oxford Airport 9 miles away caters to the city's aviation needs. Several charming inns, homestays, and deluxe hotels are also available for short-term or long-term stays.
Best Time to Visit
Henderson's weather is characterized by hot, muggy summers and usually mild to cold winters. Tourism in Henderson, North Carolina peaks in July all through September. Hotel prices and airfares are most expensive during this month. Those who are looking to avoid high foot traffic are discouraged to travel to Henderson during this season. Instead, consider a trip in mid-March to late April when the weather is cooler but accommodations are $15 less compared to room rates in July. Temperatures hover in the low 60s, a bit cooler than the high-80s during the high season.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Tourists are drawn to Henderson, NC’s small-town feel. The city provides exciting warm-weather outdoor activities like camping, boating, golfing, fishing, and trail hikes. Spots like the Kerr Lake Country Club and Vance County Regional Farmers Market are worth checking out. Film aficionados can spend quality time with family at the Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre, one of the only 6 left operating in North Carolina. Travelers can also drop by McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center and the Vance County Historical Museum. While in town, check in at Travelodge by Wyndham Henderson or at the cozy Lamplight Inn set on an old tobacco farm.