The Rockingham center is around 5 miles northwest of Hamlet Amtrak Station and 9 miles west of Rockingham Speedway.
Rockingham, NC has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, making it an enjoyable destination year-round. The temperature typically swings from a low of around 35 °F in winter to a balmy 91 °F in the height of summer. If warm-weather activities are your cup of tea, the best times to visit Rockingham are from late April to early June and from late August to mid-October. During these periods, you can expect more comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the lively downtown, enjoying outdoor pastimes, or attending one of the many local festivities. Speaking of events, the annual Rockingham Dragway Spring Civil Wars in April draws car enthusiasts for a weekend of thrilling drag races. Winters are mild, with occasional cold snaps, providing a cozy atmosphere for visiting local museums and antique shops. No matter the season, Rockingham offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural events, and small-town charm.
In Rockingham, NC, find accommodating deals suitable for any visit. Seasonal offers align with local happenings, providing value as you explore the area's charm. Groups looking to book together, from family gatherings to business events, can make use of discounts that make planning cost-effective. Solo adventurers aren't left out either – with last-minute savings and online specials available through HotelPlanner, ensuring affordable travel options. For guests considering a lengthier stay, reduced rates allow for a more extended exploration of Rockingham's attractions. With HotelPlanner, both individual and group travelers can secure deals that make a journey to Rockingham easy on the budget.
Richmond County's history is a tapestry woven from the early settlements of Highland Scots, who ventured up the Cape Fear River in pursuit of fresh pastures and farmlands, and English settlers who migrated from the northwest "panhandle." The creation of many North Carolina counties, including Richmond in 1779, was a response to the hardships faced by residents who had to endure long journeys to reach the nearest court. The establishment of Richmond County, carved from Anson, was largely driven by the challenges of crossing the Pee Dee River to access Anson's county seat. Named to honor Charles Lennox, the Duke of Richmond and a supporter of the American colonies, the county seat was initially known as Richmond Court House, later renamed Rockingham in 1784. The end of the 19th century saw a division of Richmond County, giving rise to Scotland County. During this period, Richmond County emerged as one of North Carolina's wealthiest, pivoting from agriculture to industry with the success of textile mills that offered employment to thousands. This prosperity was sustained until the Great Depression struck, severely impacting mills as demand dwindled. Many workers relied on agriculture to make ends meet. However, World War II marked a turnaround, with textile production ramping up to support the war effort, bringing affluence back to the county. Post-war, the local textile mills were sold to national manufacturers. Yet Ledbetter Mfg. Co., established in 1890, remained locally owned. Meanwhile, Hamlet rose to prominence with Seaboard Airline Railroad's investment in a state-of-the-art rail yard, becoming a pivotal railroad classification yard. Richmond County also hosted the second Technical School in a state program, now known as Richmond Community College. The landscape started to shift by the mid-1970s. The Seaboard RR faced multiple sales and mergers, and textile mills lost ground to cheaper labor abroad. As these mills aged, they became ill-suited for modern manufacturing, leading to many standing vacant today. Despite this, Burlington constructed a new facility and perseveres as the last of the large plants, marking the enduring spirit of Richmond County amidst changing economic tides. In the foreseeable future, Rockingham, NC plans subtle improvements to its infrastructure and services, enhancing the city's appeal. Building upon its motor racing heritage and natural attractions, it brims with potential for an enjoyable visit. If a straightforward stint filled with rich history and calming green scenery is what you're after, then a trip to Rockingham might be the respite you're looking for.
Below are reviews of the city of Rockingham, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
The racetrack.
The racetrack.
Taco Factory was great
Rockingham is a small town, just being in nature away from the city was nice.