Step into the charming world of Mayberry USA and experience the nostalgia of the beloved “Andy Griffith Show” with a delightful walking tour through the heart of Mount Airy, North Carolina. This picturesque town, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, served as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry, and it’s here that you’ll find a treasure trove of landmarks, attractions, and memories that bring the classic TV series to life.
Embark on a journey that takes you from Andy Griffith’s humble beginnings at his birth home to the iconic Snappy Lunch diner, where you can savor the famous pork chop sandwich. Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating exhibits at the Andy Griffith Museum, step back in time at Wally’s Service Station, and experience the charm of Floyd’s City Barber Shop, just like the characters from the show.
As you stroll through the streets of Mount Airy, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Old City Jail and the Mayberry Courthouse, where you can immerse yourself in the world of Mayberry’s law enforcement and imagine yourself as Sheriff Andy Taylor or Deputy Barney Fife. With a total distance of approximately 3.5 miles, this walking tour is a delightful way to spend an afternoon, soaking up the nostalgia and warmth of a simpler time.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the “Andy Griffith Show” or simply looking for a unique and engaging way to explore a charming Southern town, the Mayberry Walking Tour in Mount Airy promises an unforgettable experience. So, put on your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to step into the world of Mayberry, where laughter, friendship, and wholesome values await you at every turn. There are walking directions and a tour map at the bottom of this page.
#1 Start: Mount Airy Visitors Center
Address: 200 North Main St., Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: The Mount Airy Visitor Center, located in the heart of the city, is a must-visit destination for fans of the classic TV show “The Andy Griffith Show” and those interested in the life of actor Andy Griffith, who was born and raised in Mount Airy. The visitor center houses a wealth of memorabilia and exhibits related to the show and its connection to the city, which served as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry. One of the main attractions at the visitor center is a replica of the courthouse from the show, complete with the iconic sheriff’s office where visitors can sit behind Andy’s desk and have their photo taken. The center also features a statue of Andy and Opie, his son on the show, heading to the fishing hole, a scene reminiscent of the show’s opening credits.
#2. Floyd’s City Barber Shop
Address: 129 N Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Experience the charm of a traditional barber shop at Floyd’s City Barber Shop, inspired by the iconic establishment from the show. The shop maintains its old-fashioned atmosphere, complete with vintage barber chairs, traditional decor, and even a working barber on-site. Visitors can watch as customers get a haircut or a classic straight-razor shave, just like in the old days. The walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia from the show, highlighting the many memorable moments that took place in Floyd’s shop. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sit in the chair for a trim or a shave yourself!
#3. Snappy Lunch
Address: 125 N Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Savor a taste of Mayberry at Snappy Lunch, the famous diner mentioned in the Andy Griffith Show. The star of the menu is the legendary pork chop sandwich, a hearty meal that has been satisfying locals and visitors alike for decades. The diner maintains its original 1960s decor, with cozy booths, a classic counter, and walls adorned with photos and memorabilia from the show. The friendly staff, some of whom have worked at Snappy Lunch for generations, are always happy to chat with fans and share stories about the diner’s history and its connection to the series.
#4. The Andy Griffith Museum
Address: 218 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Dive deep into the world of Mayberry at the Andy Griffith Museum. This extensive collection showcases rare memorabilia, props, and artifacts from the show, providing visitors with a comprehensive look at the series that captured the hearts of millions. From Andy’s sheriff uniform to Barney’s salt-and-pepper suit, the exhibits bring the characters to life. The museum also features interactive displays, photos, and videos that offer behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the show. Don’t miss the gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
#5. Andy Griffith’s Birth Home
Address: 711 E Haymore St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Step back in time and visit the humble beginnings of Andy Griffith, the beloved actor who brought Sheriff Andy Taylor to life in the classic TV series. This historic home, built in the early 1900s, is where Andy spent his early childhood. Now, fans can not only tour the restored home but also have the unique opportunity to stay overnight, immersing themselves in the nostalgia of a bygone era. The home features period-appropriate furnishings and memorabilia that offer a glimpse into Andy’s early life and the influences that shaped his future career.
#6. Wally’s Service Station
Address: 625 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Step into a piece of Mayberry history at Wally’s Service Station, a full-scale replica of the gas station featured in the show. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the vintage gas pumps to the classic 1960s decor. Visitors can pose for photos, sit in the old-fashioned cars parked outside, and even purchase memorabilia inside the station’s shop. The friendly staff, dressed in period-appropriate attire, are always ready to share interesting trivia about the show and the role Wally’s Service Station played in the series.
#7. Mayberry Courthouse & Jail
Address: 625 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
What you will see: Step into the heart of Mayberry’s law and order at the Mayberry Courthouse replica. The courthouse features Andy’s office, complete with his desk, typewriter, and other iconic props from the show. Visitors can sit behind Andy’s desk, pose for photos, and imagine themselves as the sheriff of Mayberry. The courthouse also includes interactive exhibits that highlight memorable moments from the series, such as Barney’s famous “Nip it in the bud!” speech. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to share trivia and behind-the-scenes stories, making the Mayberry Courthouse a must-see for any fan of the Andy Griffith Show. Get a firsthand look at where Otis and the other Mayberry troublemakers spent their nights in the Old City Jail replica. The jail cells, complete with vintage bunks and authentic decor, transport visitors back to the 1960s. Informative displays and exhibits provide background on the role of the jail in the series and the characters who frequently found themselves behind bars. Visitors can pose for photos in the cells, try on replica sheriff’s hats, and even test their skills at a vintage fingerprinting station. The Old City Jail offers a unique, immersive experience that brings the world of Mayberry to life.
Walking directions starting & ending at the Mount Airy Visitors Center:
- Start at Mount Airy Visitors Center (200 North Main St., Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Head south on N Main St toward W Oak St.
- Walk to Floyd’s City Barber Shop (129 N Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Continue south on N Main St for about 0.2 miles. Floyd’s City Barber Shop will be on your right.
- Next, proceed to Snappy Lunch (125 N Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Walk a few more steps south on N Main St. Snappy Lunch is just a few doors down from Floyd’s City Barber Shop, on the right.
- Continue to The Andy Griffith Museum (218 Rockford Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Head south on N Main St for about 0.4 miles.
- Turn left onto W Pine St and walk for 0.1 miles.
- Turn right onto Rockford St. The Andy Griffith Museum will be on your left after 0.2 miles.
- Walk to Andy Griffith’s Birth Home (711 E Haymore St, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Head north on Rockford St toward W Pine St and turn left onto W Pine St.
- Continue to N Main St and turn right.
- Walk north on N Main St, then turn right onto E Independence Blvd.
- Turn left onto S South St.
- Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto E Haymore St. Andy Griffith’s Birth Home will be on your left after about 0.3 miles.
- Proceed to Wally’s Service Station (625 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Head west on E Haymore St toward Worth St.
- Turn left onto S South St.
- Turn right onto E Independence Blvd.
- Continue onto S Main St. Wally’s Service Station will be on your right after about 1 mile.
- Finally, visit Mayberry Courthouse & Jail (also at 625 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- This stop is at the same location as Wally’s Service Station.
- Return to Mount Airy Visitors Center (200 North Main St., Mount Airy, NC 27030)
- Head north on S Main St toward E Independence Blvd for approximately 1.3 miles to return to the Visitors Center.