Escape To Andy Griffith’s World In Mount Airy, North Carolina
In today’s world, where everything moves so fast and we are always connected, it’s refreshing to think back to a time where life was simpler. For many, that idyllic place is Mayberry, the fictional town where The Andy Griffith Show took place. This show captivated audiences for eight seasons and has remained popular decades later. But did you know that Mayberry was based on a real town? Mount Airy, North Carolina, was the inspiration for Mayberry, and it still captures the essence of that simpler time.
If you’re looking for an escape from the chaos of modern-day life, a visit to Mount Airy is just what the doctor ordered. Here are some of the best things to do in this small North Carolina town that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into Andy Griffith’s world.
The Snappy Lunch
Open since 1923, the Snappy Lunch is the only existing business mentioned on The Andy Griffith Show. This cute little diner is best known for its world-famous pork chop sandwiches, which are still as delicious as ever. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a day when they’re serving pork chops, you won’t be disappointed.
Wally’s Service Station
Wally’s Service Station is a must-visit for any fan of The Andy Griffith Show. This station looks just like the one from the show, and you can even pose for pictures next to a life-size Barney Fife cutout. The best part is the retro vehicles and storefronts from the show you’ll see, including Gomer and Goober’s tow truck, Mayberry Union High, Foley’s Market and the Mayberry Hotel, and the Darlin’s truck and cabin.
Squad Car Tours
Want to see all of the best spots in town? Then hop in a replica 1960’s Ford Galaxie squad car for the Mayberry Squad Car Tour. Your local guide will take you around to the most popular Mayberry locations, like Andy’s childhood home and Floyd’s City Barber Shop. This is a great opportunity to get the inside scoop on the making of the show and to hear about the town’s history.
Mayberry Courthouse
Located on the Wally’s Service Station property, the Mayberry Courthouse is open and available for visitors. Take a seat behind Sheriff Taylor’s desk, or pretend to be Barney Fife with a bullet in your pocket. You can even step inside the famous jail cells and pose for pictures. It’s a fun way to see one of the most famous jails in television history.
Andy Griffith’s Home Place
If you’re looking for a unique overnight stay, you can rent Andy Griffith’s childhood home for the night. Though it’s not quite the same as the house portrayed on the show, it’s a lovely place to stay with a vintage feel. You can relax surrounded by retro furnishings, including an old-fashioned radio and rotary phone. The complimentary breakfast at the nearby Hampton Inn is a nice bonus, too.
Opie’s Candy Store
Opie’s Candy Store is one of the best places in town to embrace the nostalgia of Mayberry. Their selection of candy and treats will make you feel like a kid again, and they even have old-fashioned soda fountain drinks. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the life-size Opie cutout before you leave.
Floyd’s City Barber Shop
If you’re due for a haircut, Floyd’s City Barber Shop is still up and running. You can sit in one of the original 1929 barber chairs and hear retired teacher Bill Hiatt share stories about the shop with visitors. This place will take you back in time, and it’s always a treat to visit a place that has remained virtually unchanged for decades.
Walker Soda Fountain
The Walker Soda Fountain is a classic spot to grab a bite to eat. Fans of the show will remember that Ellie Walker, Andy’s girlfriend on early episodes of the show, worked at Walker’s Soda Fountain. In real life, Andy even worked there as a delivery boy for a summer job. Today, you can still enjoy milkshakes, floats, and sandwiches while sitting in a retro booth or a counter stool.
Five Faces Of Andy Mural
This captivating mural was completed in May 2022 and is located at 212 Moore Avenue. It shows the likeness of Andy Griffith, starting from his days as a small-town boy to his status as a cultural icon. Painted by Greensboro artist Jeks entirely with spray paint, this mural brings Mount Airy to life in a colorful and vibrant way.
Related Facts
– Mount Airy is known as the birthplace of actor Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the town of Mayberry.
– Griffith based many of the characters and places on his real-life experiences in Mount Airy.
– The Andy Griffith Show ran for eight seasons and remains a beloved cultural touchstone.
– Mount Airy is home to many Annual Andy Griffith Show events, including Mayberry Days and the Mayberry Christmas.
Key Takeaway
A visit to Mount Airy offers a chance to step back in time and experience the charm of The Andy Griffith Show. Whether you’re looking to see the famous sites from the show, embrace nostalgia with sweets and treats, or stay overnight in Andy Griffith’s childhood home, there’s something for everyone in Mount Airy. And for a true blast from the past, hop in a replica squad car for a tour of the town. This charming little community is perfect for an escape from the stress of everyday life.
In conclusion, Mount Airy, North Carolina, is a charming town that offers visitors a chance to escape to an idyllic world that may have only existed in black and white. With so much history and nostalgia, it’s easy to see why Mayberry and The Andy Griffith Show continue to captivate audiences nationwide. If you’re looking to step back in time, this is the place to be.
