Angus Barn Kicking Booth
📍 Angus Barn Steakhouse, 9401 Glenwood Ave. Raleigh, NC 27617
Right off Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh—where filet mignon meets roadside folklore—there sits a steakhouse with a surprise tucked behind the trees. The Angus Barn is legendary for its prime rib, its wine cellar, and its unapologetic Southern flair. But if you’ve ever felt the need to kick yourself (metaphorically or otherwise), this spot has an oddly perfect solution.
Introducing: the Angus Barn Kicking Booth. A hand-cranked, leather-booted contraption that delivers humility, laughter, and mild spinal regret—all in the name of fun. It’s nestled discreetly behind the elegant façade of the restaurant, waiting for the kind of traveler who’s just curious enough to wander off-menu.
This handmade booth doesn’t ask questions. It kicks you, politely and comically, reminding everyone that dignity is wildly overrated. You bend over. You crank. You boot yourself back into alignment. It’s self-inflicted punishment—Southern style.
🥩 Wait… This Is Behind a Steakhouse?
Yes, yes it is. Because nothing says “I need a little kick in the pants” like an evening of fine dining followed by backyard shenanigans. The Angus Barn is known for its world-class prime rib, but for the right kind of traveler (that’s you), the true main course is tucked behind the trees out back.
🥾 History with a Heel
The concept of the Kicking Machine has oddball roots. Some credit Thomas Haywood of Greensboro with the original design, while others say it was simply a gag inspired by vintage cartoons. Either way, it’s said that even President Truman tried one—and who are we to argue with a man brave enough to crank the crank?
The Angus Barn’s version? A lovingly handmade replica that locals whisper was crafted under full moonlight by old-timey blacksmiths who definitely knew the value of comedy.
🤣 The Experience: Part Joy, Part Core Workout
Let’s break down The Angus Barn Kicking Booth:
You lean forward, put your face through the frame, and pray no one’s live-streaming.
The crank turns.
The boots swing.
You are kicked. (Lovingly. Comically. With wild joy.)
It’s the most fun you’ll have with both feet off the ground.
📸 Angus Barn Kicking Booth Photo Gallery: Legends Were Made Here
“I laughed so hard I couldn’t breathe.” —Me, after seeing my own socks mid-air.
💬 Pro Tips for Future Kick-ees
Bring a friend. One to crank, one to film. You can’t do both without lawsuits.
Dress for glory. Crazy socks are a must. Capes are encouraged. Pride is optional.
Embrace the ridiculous. This is not the time for cool. This is the time for airborne foolishness.
🎉 Final Thoughts: 10/10 Would Get Kicked Again
If you’re wondering whether this counts as cardio, the answer is “only if you scream.” And trust me, I did. With LAUGHTER!
We’ve seen a lot of roadside attractions—giant peaches, haunted outhouses, a taxidermy squirrel parade—but nothing quite prepared us for the moment those boots connected and our dignity took flight. In the best way. It’s ridiculous. It’s brilliant. It’s exactly what We needed.
🧭 Keep Exploring
If the Kicking Booth gave you a chuckle (or launched you into existential sock contemplation), you’re in for more delightfully odd adventures.
Things to Do In North Carolina — From mountain hikes to roadside oddities, this list is packed with escapades. Some are elegant, some are feral, and some involve eating boiled peanuts beside a statue that may or may not be blinking. Yes, we included the Kicking Booth. Yes, we ranked it high.
Curious how this post came to be? I spilled the beans (and possibly a few tears of laughter) in my behind-the-scenes blog update. From brainstorming mascots to questioning my life choices mid-kick, it’s all documented with reckless honesty. Spoiler: socks were harmed in the making of this post.