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There’s an abundance of things to do in Greensboro, North Carolina, activities that give this city its charm. However, Greensboro’s charm runs deeper than its attractions; it’s ingrained in the people.
With a history that is traced as far back as the 1700s, this delightful city has seen it all. The momentous experiences are immortalized in the several museums that are a draw for tourists. More on the places to visit a bit later.
The sun seems to always shine in Greensboro. What with sunny weather almost throughout the year, this destination urges its people to spend time outdoors. And with mild winters, you can visit Greensboro any time of the year and still experience cheerful weather. If you do visit in summer, expect the quintessential Southern heat.
To get around the city, you can take advantage of the reliable bus system which is the main mode of public transport. However, opt to get a workout while seeing Greensboro, by touring on a bicycle or even on foot.
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Finding The Best Things To Do In Greensboro
Before we dive into our recommended list of things to do, here’s a guide to finding the best activities for you.
In a city that’s so rich with attractions, you might find it hard to choose the perfect activities, especially if you only have a few days in Greensboro. Below, are the things you need to consider when looking for the perfect things to do in Greensboro.
What’s your budget?
If you have a fixed amount of money then you’ll need to be careful about where you visit. Thankfully, Greensboro has a variety of free places to visit and things to do. More on the things to do below.
Figure out how much you have to spend on touring and identify the different attractions in the city. This should help you narrow down to the most appropriate for you.
Knowing your budget will also help you figure out whether you can afford the cost of transport to attractions far from your accommodation. If you’re trying to save on cash then consider the spots that are within walking distance from where you’re staying.
Are you traveling with kids?
The art gallery you’ve always wanted to visit might be a bore to children. Consider kid-friendly attractions to keep the young ones entertained. Thankfully, Greensboro has a few waterparks, children’s museums and nature park that your kids will love.
Also, consider the places to eat near the tourist sites and whether you might opt to pack meals rather than buy. We all know how the little ones get when they’re hungry!
What’s the weather like?
Finding appropriate things to do also depends on the prevailing weather conditions. For instance, if it’s too hot, perhaps hiking might be too uncomfortable. Likewise, if it’s raining you’ll be thinking about indoor activities rather than a day at the park.
Do prior research to find out what the weather is like. This information will help you plan an appropriate itinerary.
Below, we’ve put together a list of our top 10 recommendations of things to do in Greensboro. Keep reading to find out more.
Top 10 Things to do in Greensboro, North Carolina
1. Visit Greensboro History Museum
If history fascinates you then the first place you should visit is the Greensboro History Museum. Formerly a 1800s-built church, the very building is a testament to the area’s rich history. Inside, you’ll get a chance to learn about this city’s history and its significance to American history.
There is a vast collection of exhibits in the 12 galleries, ranging from old firearms to displays on Greensboro’s textile manufacturing history.
This museum is a treasure trove of information that is a benefit to both adults and children. Add to it the fact that the museum is free, there’s no reason not to visit.
The Greensboro History Museum is open on Tuesdays to Sundays and remains closed on Mondays.
2. Take your kids to the Greensboro Children’s Museum
This attraction is tailor-made for kids, a parents’ dream come true. Greensboro Children’s Museum believes in hands-on learning and so your children will be occupied with a variety of fun activities. For instance, there are cooking classes and science programs, both tailored to spark curiosity in the young ones.
Your children can also run wild in the outdoor play plaza which boasts climbers, swings, and lots more.
The entrance fee is $10 for anyone below 60 years and $9 for 60-year-olds and over. You can only visit from Tuesdays to Sundays since Mondays are for members only.
3. Greensboro Science Center
Spare a whole day to visit the Greensboro Science Center. This spot offers three attractions in one: a zoo, an aquarium, and a museum. Yes, it’s a great place for kids but if you’re traveling alone, you’ll also find lots to see and do.
Drop by the zoo and get to see animals like a crocodile, gibbons and meerkats. If you have children who are captivated by animals then also bring them to the farmyard area and allow them to play with the goats and sheep.
There’s even more to see at the indoor aquarium and the museum.
Greensboro Science Museum is open every day from 9 am and it costs $13.50 for children and seniors and $14.50 for adults.
4. Visit the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden
How about a tranquil getaway? The Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is a modest 7.5-acre (3-hectare) park that was first opened in 1976.
Since then, the flora population has grown, thanks to the annual plantings. Dotting the elegantly landscaped real estate are bronze sculptures that add an artistic flair to this lush destination.
Although you’ll learn a lot about the variety of plants in the Tanger Family Garden, this is basically a place where you retreat to and just chill out.
The park is open year-round and it’s free to access.
5. Outdoor fun at Lake Brandt Marina
Have some fun on water when you visit the stunning Lake Brandt Marina. First of all, you’ll be enchanted by the picturesque view. Once you’re roused from your reverie, you can hop on a rowboat and go fishing or simply explore the lake.
There are also kayaks and canoes for rent but if you’re not interested in the water, you can walk along the nature trail and stroll in the woods.
You’ll only pay to rent the kayaks or canoes but accessing the park is free.
6. Ice Skating at Greensboro Ice House
Whether you’ve tried ice skating before or not, you must drop by Greensboro Ice House for fun on the ice. In case it’s your first time, there are private lessons to bring you up to speed. You can also learn figure and hockey skating if you’ve always wanted to gain the skills.
If you come on a weekday, you’ll pay $7 for public skating and this includes skate rental. However, from Friday to Sunday, the cost goes up to $10 and another $3 for skate rental. If you’re trying to cut costs, then visit on a weekday.
7. Have some fun at Celebration Station
Celebration Station is an amusement park in the heart of Greensboro. This destination is perfect for family outings, offering lots of fun-filled rides and games. You can enjoy video games in the game room or get the thrill of riding go-karts. There are also batting cages, bumper boats and laser tag; your day can’t possibly get better.
Each activity costs an average of $8 but if you want to save some cash, pay $17.99 for the Friday and Saturday night unlimited go-kart and bumper boat rides.
8. View the art at GreenHill Center
For a perfect representation of Greensboro’s art scene, drop by GreenHill, an art center in the Downtown area. This nonprofit helps to promote the work of local artists, providing them a platform to showcase and, hopefully, sell their creations.
By visiting, you’ll not only be helping out these creatives, but you’ll also get a chance to tap into your own artistic flair. You can attend workshops if you’re looking for a more hands-on experience or simply stroll through the gallery and check out the latest exhibits.
Before you leave, drop by the gift shop and by yourself (or a loved one) a souvenir; a memento of your trip.
9. Have fun in the water at Wet ’N Wild Emerald Pointe
Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Pointe claims to be the best waterpark in North Carolina. Having been ranked among America’s top 10 waterparks, there’s no doubt about their status in the region.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or not, this waterpark is a must-visit attraction in Greensboro. Its vast real estate consists of tens of rides, most of which offer an adrenaline-inducing experience. The star attraction, in my opinion, is the gargantuan 350-foot (106-meter) Twin Twisters slides. With twists and turns that see you whizzing within enclosed chutes, you won’t forget this experience anytime soon.
You’ll spend about $42.99 for a general admission ticket but if you buy the four-pack ticket, you’ll spend $34.99.
10. Shop for souvenirs at the Antique Market Place
We couldn’t end this list without a bit of shopping. And there’s no better place to buy the best souvenirs than at the Antique Market Place.
This store is basically a convergence of antique vendors in one place, offering a massive variety of products to choose from. The market place operates every day, although they open at 1 pm on Sundays.
This is simply the perfect place to buy your gifts and souvenirs, with authentic, historic items offered for sale. However, take your time to visit as many of the vendors as you can, since some sell at cheaper prices than others.
11. Visit the International Civil Rights Museum
Finally, head to the International Civil Rights Museum, housed in a building that played host to a non-violent sit-in protest in the civil rights movement. As the name betrays, this museum contains exhibits from the civil rights movement, teaching visitors about the brave individuals who were monumental in the fight for human rights.
Admission to this museum costs $15 for adults and $12 for seniors, $10 for those between 6 and 12 years, and $8 for kids below 5 years.
How far is the beach from Greensboro?
If you crave some beach action when in Greensboro, then you’ll have to travel to Wrightsville Beach which happens to be the nearest. It’s a 200-mile (322-km) trip so spare at least three hours to get there.
Where is the best place to live in Greensboro?
The best neighborhoods are Cone Mills, Downtown Greensboro, Lindley Park, Glenwood, and Highland Park West.
Finally
If you have an interest in history, you’ll love your time in Greensboro. However, with lots of fun activities and fascinating places to visit, you don’t have to spend all your time in a museum.
This city will embrace you with its warmth (literal and figurative). The people’s charm will allure you to stay longer. With our list above, you know exactly what things you should do first.
Looking for sports, concerts, or music festivals? Find your perfect holiday or city break and save now at Expedia.com
Further read:
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