Introducing recommended tourist spots in Greensboro, North Carolina

Greensboro is a city located in the north-central part of North Carolina, United States. The city was named after General Nathanael Greene, who commanded troops in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse during the American Revolutionary War. At that time, the area was an undeveloped forest and is said to have been bought and sold for $98.

Later on, the city developed through the railroad and was once called the "Gateway City." Textile factories were established in the surrounding areas. Even today, the textile industry continues, and several major companies have their bases in the city. Greensboro is still a hub for rail transportation. It is a stop for Amtrak trains traveling from Washington, D.C., through Atlanta, to New Orleans.

1. Greensboro Science Center

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Greensboro! It’s a facility that combines an aquarium and a zoo, but it also includes a museum, theater, and activities. There are many highlights such as dinosaur replicas and fossils, snakes and lizards, sharks, and more. There are also many rare animals you can interact with, which is super exciting for kids! The tigers you can see up close and the baby gibbons are especially popular.

Be sure to try out SKYWILD, the outdoor activity experience. You’ll navigate through unsteady footholds as you move from tree to tree in the forest. Not only is the experience thrilling and fun, but it also has an important meaning—it helps you understand the animals’ perspective.

At Greensboro Science Center, you’ll find yourself learning about animals without even realizing it while enjoying your visit. This valuable experience awaits you about 8 km northwest of downtown Greensboro.

2. Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden

Why not take a stroll through a park loved not only by tourists but also by the locals of Greensboro? This beautifully maintained 7.5-acre park is filled with various flowers in full bloom. You can enjoy different scenery all year round.

There are sculptures and objects everywhere, so you can also enjoy art along with nature. The main highlight is the Wedding Gazebo, where couples exchange vows in American weddings. It’s so beautiful you’ll want to snap photos for sure. Throughout the year, local Greensboro wedding parties and photo shoots are often held here.

It’s only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Greensboro, making it the perfect spot for a morning walk to start your day of sightseeing.

3. Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum

The Greensboro Children’s Museum is a tourist spot where kids can learn through a variety of experiences. In the market corner, kids can push child-sized carts and shop for bakery items, seafood, meat, and more using real cash registers.

There are also role-play corners where kids can act as pizza shop workers taking orders and serving, or as doctors and nurses caring for newborns.
One popular area for girls is the idol stage, where they can wear cute dresses and dance, feeling like a pop star—parents won’t be able to stop taking photos! For boys, there’s an area where they can pretend to drive real police cars, fire trucks, and big trucks.

It’s said to be the first place in the U.S. with an edible garden field, where kids can learn about nature and life through food.

Located in downtown Greensboro, it’s easily accessible. Why not bring your kids for a fun and educational day?

4. Antique Marketplace

A must-visit place for antique lovers! This 45,000-square-foot market is packed with around 150 shops at all times.

It’s said to be the best antique marketplace not only in Greensboro but also in all of North Carolina. Their collection is vast, including jewelry, silverware, pottery, porcelain, artworks, and all kinds of items. You might even find rare treasures that can’t be found anywhere else!

In addition to antiques, they also sell brand-new furniture at wholesale prices.

Buying silverware as a souvenir from your trip would be a wonderful idea. Located about 10 km west of downtown Greensboro, just south of Piedmont Triad International Airport.

Why not stop by when you’re sightseeing around Greensboro?

5. International Civil Rights Center & Museum

This museum, which opened in February 2010, was established with the goal of ensuring that the actions and history of those who participated in the American civil rights movement are never forgotten. You can take a guided tour of the facility for a fee. The tour starts with a video presentation about segregation policies in the 1960s and continues to "The Hall of Shame," where violent acts against civil rights protestors of all races across the U.S. are displayed.

After that, you’ll pass through a replica of the "Colored Entrance" that was once installed at Greensboro’s train depot. This location was historically significant as a place where movements for civil rights in churches, schools, politics, and courts took place. The tour guides are known for their extensive knowledge and insightful explanations, so joining a tour is highly recommended by many visitors.

This museum spans 2,800 square meters and houses a vast collection of materials. It’s a tourist spot where you can learn not only about Greensboro but also about American history.

◎ Summary

Greensboro is a city rich with history museums and antique shops, offering a deep sense of American history. Since Amtrak passes through the area, it’s definitely worth stopping by Greensboro, especially if you’re planning a train trip.