Local Hobby Shops in North Carolina
North Carolina has a thriving hobby community with specialty shops serving collectors and enthusiasts across the state. Whether you're looking for diecast models, RC vehicles, model trains, or plastic kits, here's your guide to finding local hobby retailers in the Tar Heel State.
⚠️ Important Note:
Hobby shop hours and inventory change frequently. Always call ahead to confirm they stock what you're looking for and to verify current hours before making a special trip.
Triangle Area (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill)
Raleigh Area
🏪 Great Escape Games
Specialty: Tabletop gaming, some diecast and models
Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh area
What They Carry: Board games, miniatures, paint supplies, limited diecast
🚂 Trains N Things
Specialty: Model trains (N, HO, O scales)
Location: North Raleigh
What They Carry: Locomotives, rolling stock, track, scenery, some diecast vehicles
🏎️ Local RC Hobby Stores
Specialty: Remote control cars, trucks, drones
What They Carry: RC vehicles, parts, batteries, upgrade accessories
Durham Area
🎨 Atomic Empire
Specialty: Gaming, comics, collectibles
Location: Durham
What They Carry: Board games, card games, miniatures, paint, hobby supplies
Charlotte Metro Area
🚁 Parker's Hobbies
Specialty: RC airplanes, helicopters, drones
Location: Charlotte area
What They Carry: RC aircraft, parts, repair services, beginner kits
🎮 All Fun & Games
Specialty: Tabletop gaming, collectibles
Location: Matthews (Charlotte suburb)
What They Carry: Games, miniatures, modeling supplies
Greensboro/Winston-Salem Area
🚂 Carolina Trains & Hobbies
Specialty: Model railroading
Location: Greensboro
What They Carry: Trains, track, scenery materials, modeling tools
Coastal & Eastern NC
🌊 Coastal Hobby Retailers
Areas: Wilmington, Jacksonville, Greenville
Note: Check local shopping centers for hobby and craft stores that carry some diecast and RC items
Western NC & Asheville Area
🏔️ Mountain Hobby Shops
Specialty: Outdoor RC, drones for mountain terrain
Note: Some shops specialize in RC rock crawlers and trail trucks perfect for mountain landscapes
National Chain Stores in NC
🎨 Michaels Craft Stores
Found: Most major NC cities
What They Carry: Model paints, brushes, display cases, diorama supplies, glues
🛒 Hobby Lobby
Found: Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Winston-Salem
What They Carry: Model kits, paints, RC cars, trains, diecast (varies by location)
🧵 Joann Fabrics
Found: Statewide
What They Carry: Diorama materials, paints, crafting supplies
Why Shop Local?
- Expert Advice: Staff knowledge beats online reviews - get personalized recommendations
- See Before You Buy: Inspect paint colors, model details, and RC performance firsthand
- Immediate Gratification: No shipping wait times or costs
- Support Community: Local shops host events, races, build sessions
- Building Networks: Meet fellow hobbyists, join clubs, learn techniques
- Repair Services: Many shops offer RC repair and custom builds
What to Ask When Visiting
Smart Questions for Staff:
- "Do you special order items not in stock?"
- "Do you offer discounts for bulk purchases?" (wholesalers take note!)
- "Do you host any clubs or events?" (RC races, build nights, train shows)
- "What's your return policy on opened items?"
- "Do you repair RC vehicles or offer tech support?"
- "Do you have a loyalty or rewards program?"
Online NC-Based Retailers
🏪 HiteckHobby.com (That's Us!)
Based in: North Carolina
Specialty: Diecast models, display cases, RC accessories, hobby supplies
Advantage: NC-based shipping means faster delivery for local customers, plus retail and wholesale options!
Shop Our Collection →Hobby Shows & Events in NC
North Carolina hosts numerous hobby events throughout the year:
- Model Train Shows: Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro (check local clubs for schedules)
- RC Races: Local tracks host weekend races (onroad, offroad, drift)
- Model Car Shows: Diecast and full-size car shows often coincide
- Gaming Conventions: Many include miniature painting and modeling
Tips for Finding More Shops
- Google Maps Search: Try "hobby shop near me" or "RC store [city name]"
- Facebook Groups: Join NC hobby groups - members share shop recommendations
- Yelp/Google Reviews: Read recent reviews to confirm shops are still open
- Model Club Websites: IPMS chapters and RC clubs list local retailers
- Ask at Train Shows: Vendors know all the regional shops
For Wholesale Buyers
Are you a NC shop owner looking for wholesale diecast and hobby supplies? HiteckHobby offers wholesale programs for qualified retailers:
📦 Wholesale Program Benefits:
- ✓ Competitive wholesale pricing on diecast models
- ✓ Drop-shipping available for online retailers
- ✓ Fast NC-based fulfillment
- ✓ Wide selection of collectibles and hobby supplies
Conclusion
North Carolina's hobby shop scene continues to evolve, with passionate shop owners serving collectors across the state. While many smaller shops have closed, those remaining offer valuable expertise and community connections. Don't forget to shop online with NC-based retailers like HiteckHobby when local options don't have what you need - you'll still be supporting NC businesses!