This Ava Gardner MuseumThe historic town of Smithfield in Johnston County, North Carolina, underwent extensive renovations after nearly half of the buildings were damaged by floods earlier this year and has now officially reopened. Fans of Ava Gardner are invited to visit Ava’s unique personal artifacts in the newly remodeled museum and explore Gardner’s five-year film and television career New exhibits featuring clothing in China.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to see rare items on display, including the clothes and jewellery given to Ava by Howard Hughes, a chicken platter linked to Mickey Rooney, and the movie “Pandora Newly purchased jewelry in Pandora & the Flying Dutchman, etc.

Through rotating exhibitions, interactive demonstrations, special events and expert explanations, Ava Gardner Museum
Provide fans with multiple ways to learn about Ava Gardner’s extraordinary life and career throughout the year.

Plan your trip
Head to Smithfield now to experience everything the Ava Gardner Museum has to offer, and enjoy the town’s booming downtown area with new retail stores, restaurants, events, historic attractions, outlet stores, and entertainment. Stroll up the mountains to the Sea Trail that curves along the banks of the Neuse River, watch a show at Neuse Little Theatre, dine at one of several locally owned restaurants, or relax with a local craft beer at Double Barley Brewing.

Whether you are heading to Smithfield as your final destination or just staying overnight on the way, there is no shortage of things to do here.

Visit the Ava Gardner Museum

325 E. Market Street

Smithfield, North Carolina 27577

Business hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Saturday: 9pm to 5pm
Sunday: 2pm to 5pm

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