A two hour drive will enable us to experience one of North Carolina’s most remarkable attractions, the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield.  Born in Smithfield, Ava Gardner is honored with 5,000 square feet of exhibits, honoring the life, loves and legacy of one Hollywood's most glamorous leading ladies.  Begin with a 15-minute biography shown in the Museum Theater followed by a self-guided tour of numerous exhibits.  These range from the new "Hemmingway's Heroine Exhibit" to the popular "Discover the Real Ava Gardner" exhibit of her extraordinary costumes, movie posters, awards and a collection of personal items.  Other highlights include an exhibit on her many homes,  the story of her life-long friendship with Gregory Peck and 40 portraits of her.   Lunch will be on your own with several choices in Smithfield's historic district.  

Ava's beautiful collections are bound to inspire our desire to shop so following lunch we set out to the Premium Outlets and the distinctive shopping destination, DeWayne's for some Holiday shopping.  Shops at the Outlets include Carolina Pottery, Chico's, Clarks, Coach, Columbia, Lane Bryant, Samsonite and Talbots to name a few.    DeWayne's is special this time of year with the added  magic of Christmas Land featuring room after room of dazzling holiday decor - each with its own unique decorative theme. There will be something  for everyone on your list, as you browse the Christmas Shops, Gift Shop,, Garden Center, Boutique & Men’s Shoppe.   The deadline for trip registration is November 19th.