The 20 Best Things to Do in Greensboro, NC for First Timers
Greensboro is a city in North Carolina, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in this state. There is something to see or do for people of all ages and to suit all interests, so it is a destination that attracts a wide range of people. To make sure you get the most out of your stay in this amazing city, you should think about how you would like to spend your time and what your expectations are of the visit. The problem is that there are so many things to do that you may find it tricky to decide what to include in your vacation itinerary. To help you decide how to spend your time in this location, the following are the 20 best things to do in Greensboro, NC, for first-timers.
20. Carolina Theater
If you want to catch a live performance while you are in Greensboro, the best place to visit is Carolina Theater, says Trip Advisor. This historic theater was built in 1927, and it is a landmark of Greensboro. Throughout the year, there is a jam-packed program of live performances, concerts, classic movies, and much more to enjoy. You should check what is on at the theater and book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
19. Antique Market Place
Of all the markets in and around Greensboro, the one that you should take the time to visit is the Antique Market Place. This is a huge market that covers more than 45 thousand square feet, and it is a base for over 150antiques dealers. Whether you are interested in antique furniture, vintage toys, or collectible items, you will find a stall specializing in the wares that interest you the most. Even if you do not buy anything during your visit, it is an interesting market to peruse and people-watch.
18. Blandwood
There are many historic landmarks that you can visit in Greensboro, and one of the best is Blandwood. Trip Advisor says that his beautiful house is located on Washington Street. It is open to the public to take guided tours of the building, and you can see many interesting artifacts, antique furniture, and works of art. Visitors can also walk around the grounds and take in the sights.
17. Greensboro Coliseum Complex
For fans of live music, one of the best attractions is the Greensboro Coliseum Complex, as this is a venue for some of the best live performances you will see anywhere in North Carolina. There is also a range of events held at this venue throughout the year. It is best to check the complex’s calendar before you visit to see what is on during your stay in Greensboro. The complex is divided into various performance venues and exhibition halls, so you are almost guaranteed to find something to interest you.
16. Le Bauer Park
If you are visiting Greensboro on a budget and want a free, outdoor activity to enjoy, then a good choice is La Bauer Park. It is a particularly good place to visit if you have children in your traveling party and want to give them a chance to let off steam. There are playgrounds, splash pads, mini-golf, climbing structures, board games, foosball, ping pong, and much more. It is also a visually appealing place to spend some time as there are trees, lawns, flowerbeds, and fountains.
15. Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe
For some water-based family fun, spend a day at Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe. This water park boasts 36 water rides and attractions, these range from tame children’s slides to adrenalin-inducing wild rides. Therefore, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this attraction. There are even quiet spots where anyone in your party who does not enjoy water slides can relax by the pool. You can spend a full day at this attraction as there are several eateries where you can grab a bite to eat before returning to the fun in the water.
14. The Bog Garden at Benjamin Park
There are some beautiful outdoor spaces in Greensboro where you can enjoy the outdoors and feel close to nature. One spot to visit is The Bog Garden at Benjamin Park. Visitors can walk along an elevated boardwalk through seven acres of natural wetlands. The trail then becomes a stone path that leads visitors through a forested hillside. One of the highlights of this section of the walk is Serenity Falls, which is a re-circulating waterfall. It is worth taking along tour camera when you visit this park as there are so many pretty sights to see.
13. International Civil Rights Center & Museum
Although there are several museums to visit in Greensboro, one that you should not miss is the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. This is a collecting museum and an archival center that is also a teaching facility. The focus of this fascinating attraction is the struggle for civil and human rights, both nationally and internationally. If you are interested in learning more about civil rights, then you will find the exhibitions and information fascinating.
12. Greensboro Ice House
A fun activity for all the family is ice skating, and the best place to give this a try in Greensboro is at Greensboro Ice House. No matter whether you are an ice skating novice or you have lots of experience on the ice, you can have a fun day out at this venue, which is open all year round. There is also an on-site eatery where you can grab a bite ot eat before returning to the ice.
11. Celebration Station
Those who want to have some fun as a family should consider spending a day at Celebration Station. This is a theme and adventure park in Greensboro, that boasts a range of outdoor attractions, rides, and games. Some examples include a go-kart tracks, bumper boats, miniature golf, and over 100 video games in an arcade. There is something for everyone at this park, regardless of their age. It even has its own restaurant so that visitors can refuel before having some more fun on the park.
10. Dine at Undercurrent Restaurant
There are some outstanding restaurants in Greensboro, but one of the best to try while you are in the area is Undercurrent Restaurant Open for more than 16 years, this restaurant serves exquisite dishes that are created using local-sources, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. This is the ideal place to book a table if you want to enjoy a romantic meal during your break as it has a wonderful ambiance. Former diners at this restaurant say that not only is the food high-quality but that the service they have received has been above and beyond their expectations
9. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
History buffs should take the time to visit Guilford Courthouse Military Park, says Vacation Idea. This park commemorates the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, which took place in 1782. This battle is a significant part of the history of Greensboro. It is a preserved National Military Park that is listed on the National Historic Register of Places. Visitors can see the monument to pay their respects to those who were killed in this battle. While at this memorial park, visitors can also explore the natural ecosystems of the area or take a bike ride along the trail. The grounds around the memorial are beautiful, so it is worthwhile taking a stroll.
8. Pig Pounder Brewery
Beer fans should make a visit to the Pig Pounder Brewery. This working brewery hosts tours of their facilities at set times throughout the week. On the tour, visitors can see the factory in operation and learn about the beer production process. After the tour, visitors can sample some of the brewery’s products, and buy some to take home if they wish. Even if you are not a fan of beer, learning about how it is made and seeing this process in action is interesting.
7. Gateway Gardens
One of the most visually appealing outdoor spaces where you can spend your time in Greensboro is Gateway Gardens. This tranquil green space of cultivated gardens covers 11 acres. The gardens are divided into sections, each of which has something different to offer. Gateway Gardens hosts various educational programs and workshops throughout the year, so it is worth checking out what is on before your visit. If you want to get away from the urban vibe, then this is a nice place to spend a couple of hours.
6. Greensboro Children’s Museum
If you have children with you when you visit Greensboro, then a fantastic place to spend a day is at Greensboro Children’s Museum. The exhibitions at this attraction encourage children to learn through play in a fun, safe, and lively environment. There are more than 20 permanent interactive displays that each educate children about a different topic. Throughout the year, there is also a range of educational classes and programs.
5. Greensboro Arboretum
A wonderful place to spend a sunny day is at Greensboro Arboretum, as this is an attraction that will stimulate all the senses. This attraction has been opened to the public since 1991, and it consists of 14 collections of both native and foreign flora species. It covers 17 acres, and it is intended to act as a living gallery of greenery. Around the Arboretum, you will see pathways, bridges, wind chimes, and a gazebo. This is a wonderful place to spend some time if you want to enjoy a peaceful environment.
4. Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden
Nature lovers will adore spending a day at the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden. This is a beautifully sculpted public garden that covers 7.5 acres. Other than beautiful flowers and foliage, the garden is well-known for its impressive bronze structures. Some other notable features include a Sensory Garden and a manmade stream.
3. Greensboro Historical Museum
The top museum in Greensboro is the Greensboro Historical Museum, so you should try to fit this in your itinerary. This museum is a celebration of the history and culture of Greensboro. There are various exhibits and documents that teach visitors about the lives of people who have played an important role in the city’s history. The exhibits also take a look at some of the important periods in Greensboro’s history, such as the rise of textile manufacturing in the area. This is a fascinating place to get a deeper insight into Greensboro.
2. Weatherspoon Art Museum
For art lovers, the best attraction in Greensboro is the Weatherspoon Art Museum. This art museum boasts one of the largest collections of contemporary and modern art in the Southeast. The main focus of the museum is on American Art, although there are some temporary exhibits that display international works. In the permanent collection, there are more than six thousand objects and works that represent the main art movements since the beginning of the 20th century. Some of the artists with work on display in this art museum include Andy Warhol, Eva Hesse, Knox Martin, and William de Kooning. There are no other galleries in the area that are comparable in terms of the size of the exhibition or the variety of art genres on display.
1. Greensboro Science Center
According to Vacation Idea, the best thing to do in Greensboro, NC for first-timers is to spend a day at Greensboro Science Center. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city, and it consists of three separate family-friendly attractions. These are an aquarium, a museum, and a zoo. To get the most out of a visit to Greensboro Science Center, you should set aside at least one full day of your vacation. You may even need to return for a second day to get the most out of all three attractions.
