11 Must-See Attractions in Greensboro, NC

North Carolina’s third-largest city may not have much name recognition, but it has a surprising array of attractions. Wildlife-filled parks, cutting-edge street art, and historic sites that played a pivotal role during the Civil Rights movement are all part of Greensboro’s diverse backdrop.

Whether you’re traveling solo or bringing the family along, Greensboro has plenty of variety, featuring treetop walks above the zoo and intimate rock shows at tiny nightclubs. Consequently, you can maximize your experience by exploring these top activities in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Visit the International Civil Rights Center & Museum

One of the watershed moments during the Civil Rights movement occurred in a Woolworth’s store in Greensboro. On February 1, 1960, four Black students from North Carolina A&T State University staged a sit-in at a whites-only lunch counter. Others joined their cause, and soon sit-ins spread across the country, bringing attention to segregationist policies.

In 2010, marking the 50th anniversary of the sit-in, the former Woolworth’s reopened as the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. News reels, photographs, film footage, and audio narratives, alongside the original lunch counter, narrate the powerful story of the Civil Rights struggle, both in Greensboro and across America.

Look for wildlife in the Bog Garden at Benjamin Park

Northwest of the city center, a piece of verdant wilderness sprouts amid the urban landscape. Although small in size, the seven-acre Bog Garden at Benjamin Park offers a memorable setting to connect with nature.

A half-mile elevated boardwalk winds through forest and wetland, passing a recirculating waterfall, trickling creeks, and a lake where blue herons stalk their prey beneath towering black willows and bald cypress trees. Arriving in early morning or late afternoon enhances your chances of spotting wildlife, including goldfinches, muskrats, foxes, woodpeckers, and even the occasional river otter.

Peer back in time at the Greensboro History Museum

Set in a former Presbyterian church built in the 1890s, this Smithsonian-affiliated museum provides an illuminating perspective on significant events that shaped the region.

Interactive exhibits inside the 17,000-sq-ft space explore pre-colonial history, the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and industries such as textiles that influenced Greensboro in the 20th century. Temporary exhibitions often address pressing topics like democracy, immigration, and oral histories of marginalized people. The free admission makes this visit one of the best budget-friendly activities in Greensboro.

Sip world-class vintages at the Tasting Room

For a delightful date night, head to the Tasting Room (via taxi or rideshare) and enjoy a selection of outstanding wines from around the globe.

The knowledgeable staff can guide you through a diverse range of varietals, from refreshing vinho verde from Portugal to an exuberant Châteauneuf-du-Pape from France’s Rhône Valley. You can also purchase a bottle or two for a picnic on the following day.

Stop and smell the roses at Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden

Greensboro is blessed with ample green spaces, featuring four distinct public gardens on the northwest side of town. The Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is particularly inviting for a flower-filled stroll.

Across 7.5 acres, you’ll discover thematic areas, including a wildflower stroll, rock gardens, and fragrant azalea and camellia zones, enhanced by numerous sculptures from Dutch artist Michiel VanderSommen. Notably, there’s no admission charge at the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden, making it an excellent choice for a free outing.

Take a walk on the wild side at Elsewhere

Greensboro embraces its art-loving eccentric side at Elsewhere. This three-story former thrift store houses an eclectic collection of ephemera gathered by collector Sylvia Gray over 58 years, transformed into quirky installations by contemporary artists.

Prepare to be amazed as you navigate the Ribbon Room and the Alone Zone or peek at vintage textiles in the Aviary. Given the compelling designs on display, it’s clear why Elsewhere is considered one of the most unique attractions in Greensboro.

Hear top local bands at Flat Iron

Greensboro’s lively nightlife begins (and possibly ends) at the Flat Iron, a lively venue downtown where you can enjoy performances from some of the best local bands. The drinks are reasonably priced, and there’s live music most nights, featuring a range from southern folk and indie rock to jazz, roots, and occasional DJ sessions.

See creatures great and small at the Greensboro Science Center

The Greensboro Science Center is one of North Carolina’s top family attractions, combining a science museum, zoo, and aquarium that allure animal lovers and curious minds of all ages. Encounter highlights such as waddling penguins, vividly colored poison-dart frogs, and the formidable Nile crocodiles.

Furthermore, catch film screenings in the 40-foot domed theater or climb through the treetops at Skywild, an adrenaline-fueled ropes course high above the zoo. If you’re traveling with young children, don’t miss the farm, where you can interact with goats, miniature horses, and chickens.

Paddle the placid waters of Lake Brandt

With plenty of enjoyable activities, Greensboro also offers a hefty dose of nature blended with aquatic adventure. Pack a picnic lunch and explore Lake Brandt, where you can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for an exciting day on the water. This 816-acre reservoir is surrounded by forest, providing a serene escape.

Moreover, enjoy hiking or trail running along an 11-mile loop that follows the shoreline. While it’s a beautiful nature retreat throughout the year, don’t miss the breathtaking autumn hues in mid- to late October when the foliage bursts into color.

Take a backstage tour at the Carolina Theatre

Greensboro’s cherished neoclassical theater has entertained audiences for nearly a century, presenting a wide array of musicals, concerts, film screenings, and comedy shows. It also serves as the base for the Greensboro Opera and the Greensboro Ballet. No matter what’s on in the 1100-seat main hall with its stunning chandeliers and ornate plasterwork, the atmosphere is exhilarating.

In addition, the more intimate Crown stage hosts theatre performances, dance, spoken word, and jazz and folk concerts. History enthusiasts can schedule a private tour to uncover the intriguing highs and lows of this historical venue, which was nearly demolished in the 1970s.

Hunt for eye-popping street art across town

You won’t have to search hard to find some of the finest street art in Greensboro—or even all of North Carolina. Kotis Street Art features the work of exceptional artists from across the country and beyond, with about 200 installations scattered throughout the city.

Be sure to seek out Australian artist Adnate’s photorealistic portraits of Native American Lumbee members (located at 1201 Battleground Ave and 1205 W Bessemer) or Dare Coulter’s inspiring mural of Black Cowboys at 1421 E Cone Blvd.