Discover the Historic Yates Mill Tour in North Carolina

Historic Yates Mill is Wake County’s last remaining water-powered gristmill, offering guided tours, demonstrations, and educational programs centered around milling, agriculture, and local history. Set within a scenic 174-acre park, it’s a beautifully preserved slice of 18th- and 19th-century rural life.
Why it’s special: The mill still operates using its original waterwheel and machinery — a rare chance to see traditional stone grinding in action.

History/Story of Historic Yates Mill

Built around 1756, Yates Mill served as a community gristmill for more than 200 years, grinding corn and wheat for residents of the region. After ceasing operations in the mid-20th century, the mill was restored through the joint efforts of local historians, volunteers, and preservation groups. Today, it stands as one of North Carolina’s most significant historic mills, surrounded by a nature preserve and educational center.

What You’ll See & Do

• Join a guided tour of the historic mill to explore its interior and original machinery

• Watch live corn-grinding demonstrations on select weekends

• Learn how water power drives the millstones through hands-on exhibits and interpretation

• Visit the Millpond, boardwalks, and scenic nature trails surrounding the property

• Explore the Exhibit Hall at the Visitor Center with displays on milling, agriculture, ecology, and regional history

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements

Tours include opportunities to examine grain, feel ground cornmeal, view the mill’s gears and stones up close, and learn directly from docents who demonstrate how the waterwheel powers the grinding process.

Photo/Video Policy

Photography is welcome outdoors and in public areas. Some interior milling demonstrations may limit flash or close-up photography for safety. Visitors should follow staff instructions.

Souvenirs & Extras

• Bags of freshly stone-ground cornmeal (available on demonstration days)

• Educational books and small souvenirs in the Visitor Center

• Interpretive displays, hands-on learning stations, and historical artifacts

• Seasonal programs, workshops, and living-history events

Practical Info

The mill building can only be accessed on guided tours, offered seasonally on weekends. Outdoor areas, trails, and the Visitor Center are open daily during park hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare for uneven historic flooring inside the mill. Most visits last 30–60 minutes, longer if walking trails.

Pricing

• Guided Mill Tour: ~$5–$7 per person (varies by program)

• Corn Grinding Demonstration Tour: ~$7–$10

• General Park Access & Visitor Center: Free

Nearby

• NC State University campus

• Lake Johnson Park

• Raleigh museums, dining, and downtown attractions

• Local nature preserves and greenway connections

FAQs

When are mill tours offered?

Tours typically run on weekends from spring through fall. Special programs and grinding demonstrations occur on select dates.

Can I walk around the mill without a tour?

Yes — outdoor areas, trails, boardwalks, and the millpond overlook are open to all visitors. The mill interior is only accessible with a tour.

Do they actually grind corn?

Yes. On demonstration weekends, staff operate the waterwheel and millstones to produce real cornmeal.

Is the experience suitable for children?

Absolutely. Kids enjoy watching the gears turn, learning about water power, and exploring the park’s nature trails.

Is the park open year-round?

Yes. The mill, however, only offers tours during scheduled seasons; the grounds remain open daily.