Things To Do
in Greensboro

Greensboro, located in the state of North Carolina, is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and bustling city center. Visitors can explore the Civil Rights Center and Museum, stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Bicentennial Garden, or catch a performance at the Greensboro Coliseum. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities, shopping opportunities, and a variety of dining options to suit all tastes.

With its friendly community and Southern charm, Greensboro is a welcoming destination for travelers looking to experience a blend of culture and entertainment.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Nature Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day at the Greensboro Science Center, where you can explore the aquarium and the zoo. Enjoy the morning weather while walking through the beautiful outdoor exhibits.

afternoon
:

Head to the Greensboro Arboretum to stroll through the themed gardens and enjoy a picnic lunch. This beautiful location offers plenty of scenic spots for relaxation.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to the downtown area, grabbing dinner at a local restaurant. Take a relaxed evening walk through the city to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Art and Culture
morning
:

Start by visiting the Weatherspoon Art Museum to appreciate contemporary art. The museum offers a serene environment to enjoy various collections.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Greensboro Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich history. Participate in interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery featuring local cuisine. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Carolina Theatre to enjoy some evening entertainment.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
  • Mild climate with four distinct seasons.
  • Rich history and cultural diversity.
  • Access to various parks and recreational activities.
  • Growing job market, especially in education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
  • Proximity to larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some residents.
  • Higher crime rates in certain neighborhoods.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to larger urban areas.
  • Occasional traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited access to certain entertainment and dining options compared to bigger cities.

Best Activities in Greensboro

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park

Explore the historic battlefield and enjoy the natural scenery on the park's numerous hiking trails.

Fishing at Lake Brandt

Enjoy a day of fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish in the peaceful setting of Lake Brandt.

Cycling on Downtown Greenway

Take a leisurely bike ride along the Downtown Greenway, a scenic urban green space with beautiful views of the city.

Tours

Uncover the best of Greensboro with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Greensboro

Visit one of these nice places.

Pilot Mountain

Offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area and is great for photography

Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden

Beautiful botanical garden with various photo opportunities and scenic views

LeBauer Park

Offers a skyline view of downtown Greensboro and is a great spot for photos

Food in Greensboro

Greensboro, located in the heart of North Carolina, offers a delightful blend of traditional Southern cuisine and diverse international influences. The food scene here is known for its comfort food, BBQ, and eclectic dining options.

Greensboro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pimento Cheese

A Southern classic, pimento cheese is a spread made from cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It can be found at local diners and restaurants across Greensboro, such as Dame's Chicken & Waffles.

Must-Try!

Barbecue

Greensboro boasts a rich BBQ tradition. Must-try variations include Eastern and Lexington styles. Visit Stamey's Barbecue or The Pit for exceptional BBQ experiences.

Cheerwine

This cherry-flavored soda has been a favorite in North Carolina for over a century. It pairs perfectly with local dishes and can be found in many restaurants and stores.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Greensboro better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Greensboro Farmers Curb Market

This vibrant market is a showcase of fresh produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and ready-to-eat foods. It's the perfect place to sample local flavors and interact with the community.

Food Truck Rodeos

Greensboro hosts regular food truck rodeos, where a diverse array of cuisines is served from trucks gathered in one location. These events are a great way to taste a variety of street foods.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as humid subtropical, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. The average temperatures during the summer months, particularly in July, can reach into the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (about 30-35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are typically high, making it feel even warmer. Winters are generally mild, with average lows in January often dipping into the 30s Fahrenheit (around 0-5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is relatively rare, but it can occur occasionally. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an annual average of about 40-45 inches. The late spring and summer months tend to see more rainfall due to thunderstorms, while the winter months may bring light rain or occasional wintry mixes. Overall, this area experiences a distinct four-season climate, allowing for a variety of weather patterns throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting personal space

In Greensboro, it's important to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others, especially in public spaces or social gatherings.

Dining etiquette

When dining out in Greensboro, it's customary to wait for everyone to be served before eating, and to use utensils rather than eating with hands.

Acknowledging diversity

Greensboro is a diverse city, so it's important to show respect and understanding towards people of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs.

Safety

Safety in Greensboro involves a combination of crime rates, community engagement, law enforcement presence, and local initiatives aimed at improving overall security. Like many urban areas, Greensboro experiences varying levels of crime, with certain neighborhoods facing more challenges than others. The city has been proactive in implementing community policing strategies, fostering relationships between law enforcement and residents to enhance trust and cooperation. Various programs and initiatives promote neighborhood watch groups and crime prevention tactics, aiming to empower citizens to take an active role in their community's safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local crime trends, which are often published in reports by the Greensboro Police Department. The city also focuses on addressing issues such as property crime and violent crime through targeted interventions and community programs. Overall, safety in Greensboro is a community effort, with local organizations, law enforcement, and residents working together to create a secure environment. Active participation in community affairs, awareness of one’s surroundings, and engagement in local safety initiatives can greatly contribute to the overall sense of safety in the city.

Tipping in Greensboro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in the United States, including Greensboro. It is common to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment

In Greensboro, as in the rest of the United States, cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods are widely accepted for transactions. Contactless payment options are also popular, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Greensboro, US. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor festivals.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and visiting nearby lakes and parks.

Fall

Beautiful foliage, comfortable temperatures, and various fall festivals and events.

Winter

Cool temperatures, occasional snowfall, and holiday events and festivities.

Greensboro at Night

As the sun sets, nightlife in Greensboro transforms into a vibrant scene offering something for almost every taste. The downtown area buzzes with a mix of cozy bars, lively pubs, and upscale lounges. Elm Street, in particular, becomes a hotbed of activity, featuring a variety of spots that cater to music lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and craft beer aficionados alike. Live music is a staple in Greensboro, with many venues hosting local bands and touring acts across genres like rock, jazz, and blues. Popular spots like The Blind Tiger and The Cone Denim Entertainment Center often draw in crowds eager to enjoy a night of music and dancing. For those looking to indulge in craft beers, taprooms like Natty Greene’s Brewing Co. and Joymongers Barrel Hall offer a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can savor a wide array of locally brewed beers. Wine lovers are not left out either, with establishments like Rioja! A Wine Bar providing an intimate setting for enjoying fine wines. The city’s nightlife also includes a robust food scene, with a myriad of dining options that transition seamlessly into the late-night hours. Restaurants and food trucks serve up everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine, ensuring visitors won't go hungry as they explore the town's offerings. Additionally, Greensboro has a range of cultural and entertainment activities available after dark. Theatres and performance spaces like The Carolina Theatre host plays, comedy shows, and film screenings, providing a cultural touch to the nightlife landscape. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a laid-back evening with friends, or take in some local culture, Greensboro's nightlife has something to offer everyone.

Hiking in Greensboro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hanging Rock State Park

Located just north of Greensboro, Hanging Rock State Park features stunning waterfalls, rock formations, and scenic views with a variety of hiking trails of varying difficulty.

William B. Umstead State Park

This park, situated between Raleigh and Durham, offers over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, surrounded by lush forests and picturesque lakes.

Pilot Mountain State Park

About an hour's drive from Greensboro, Pilot Mountain features striking views, a distinctive summit, and trails that range from easy to strenuous, perfect for various hiking preferences.

Chimney Rock State Park

Though a bit further than others, Chimney Rock offers breathtaking vistas and challenging hikes, including the iconic Chimney Rock itself and nearby waterfalls.

Haw River State Park

Located a short drive from Greensboro, this park offers trails along the Haw River with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Aiports

How to reach Greensboro by plane.

Piedmont Triad International Airport (GBO)

Located in Greensboro, this is the main airport serving the area, providing international and domestic flights.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Located about 90 miles southwest of Greensboro, this is one of the largest airports in the southeastern United States.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Approximately 90 miles east of Greensboro, this airport serves the Research Triangle region and offers numerous international flights.

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)

Located about 250 miles south of Greensboro, this is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for international travel.

Richmond International Airport (RIC)

Around 150 miles northeast of Greensboro, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how well a neighborhood or area accommodates walking, considering factors such as access to amenities, safety, and pedestrian infrastructure. In the context of this city, walkability can vary significantly from one neighborhood to another. In more urban and developed parts of the city, residents often find local amenities such as shops, parks, and public transportation within a reasonable walking distance. These areas typically feature well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly designs that encourage walking. On the other hand, some suburban and rural regions tend to be less walkable, primarily characterized by reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. In these areas, the distances between residences and essential services are greater, and streets may be designed more for car traffic than for pedestrian safety, with limited sidewalks or crosswalks. Efforts to improve walkability have been made through urban planning initiatives and developments, emphasizing the importance of pedestrian access in enhancing the quality of life for residents. Community engagements and surveys often highlight the desire for more walkable spaces, leading to projects aimed at connecting neighborhoods and enhancing the overall pedestrian experience. Overall, the walkability of neighborhoods in the area is influenced by urban planning, community engagement, and investment in pedestrian infrastructure, which play crucial roles in shaping how accessible and inviting the environment is for walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White or Caucasian

The largest demographic group in Greensboro, accounting for a significant percentage of the population.

Black or African American

The second largest demographic group, with a rich cultural history and significant community presence.

Hispanic or Latino

A growing demographic group in Greensboro, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Asian

Includes various subgroups such as Indian, Chinese, Korean, and others; a smaller yet notable population.

Multiracial

Individuals identifying as belonging to two or more races, reflecting the increasing diversity in the city.

Native American

A smaller demographic group in Greensboro, with an important cultural heritage.

Other

Includes various ethnicities that do not fit into the above categories, representing a smaller portion of the population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Greensboro, with notable teams and a strong community focus on youth leagues and high school competitions.

Soccer

Soccer has seen significant growth in Greensboro, with various clubs and leagues for children and adults, reflecting the sport's increasing popularity.

Baseball

Baseball has a rich tradition in Greensboro, featuring local teams and minor league games, contributing to the city's sports culture.

Football

American football is a highly followed sport in Greensboro, especially at the high school level, drawing large crowds and community support.

Tennis

Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Greensboro, with numerous public courts and local tournaments that attract players of all ages.

Golf

Golf is widely played in Greensboro, thanks to its many golf courses and active clubs, catering to both casual and competitive players.

Running

Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are well-supported in Greensboro, highlighting the community's enthusiasm for fitness and outdoor activities.

Traffic

Traffic in this city is characterized by a mix of local and through traffic, reflecting its position as a hub in North Carolina. Major highways such as I-40, I-85, and US-220 contribute to the flow of vehicles, often leading to congestion during peak hours, especially in the morning and evening. The urban layout features several key corridors that are prone to delays, particularly near commercial areas and schools. Public transportation is available, with bus services provided by the Greensboro Transit Authority, but many residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. The road infrastructure includes a combination of suburban neighborhoods and more densely populated urban areas. Efforts to improve traffic flow and safety have included road expansion projects, the addition of bike lanes, and adjustments to traffic signal timings. Pedestrian and cyclist interactions are also a consideration, as the city works to enhance its transportation network for all users. Overall, while traffic can be challenging at times, ongoing initiatives aim to create a more efficient transportation system.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Greensboro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Greensboro offer substantial vegetarian and vegan menus, with some places specializing in entirely plant-based dining, such as 'Bobo Bahnhof.'

Gluten-Free Dining

Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at restaurants like 'Print Works Bistro' and '1608 Martini Bar,' which have dedicated gluten-free menus.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the area features a diverse range of services and facilities, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty services. Major institutions, such as Cone Health, provide comprehensive medical care, encompassing emergency services, surgical options, and specialty treatment. In addition to large hospitals, there are numerous primary care providers and community health centers that focus on preventive care and chronic disease management. Mental health services are also available, with facilities dedicated to both outpatient and inpatient care. The healthcare system in this region emphasizes accessibility and quality, with various programs aimed at ensuring that underserved populations receive adequate care. Additionally, partnerships with local universities and research institutions facilitate medical training and innovation in healthcare delivery. Telehealth options have become increasingly popular, providing patients with convenient access to medical advice and consultations from the comfort of their homes. Overall, healthcare in the region is characterized by a commitment to community health and a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of the population.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2024 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide