Free Things to Do in and Near Burlington, North Carolina

The city of Burlington is located in the heart of North Carolina, almost in the middle of the state When visiting Burlington, you'll want to take advantage of all the free sites and activities that this once mill-town has to offer. Be sure to download and print a map of the city to help you find your way around or, just in case you forget, stop at one of the local gas stations to find a map of Alamance County which will include Burlington and surrounding areas.

When you first arrive, you may want to take a stroll through the historic district where you'll see a cross section of many residential architectural styles of the 20th century. Some homes actually date back as far as the late 1800's and include styles such as Colonial Revival, American Four Square and Victorian. Following Front Street out of the downtown area, you'll see beautiful homes there as well as Davis Street and the historic Fountain Place. Before you take the tour, contact the Planning Department at 336-222-5110 for a brochure.

Before Burlington was 'Burlington,' it was named 'Company Shops' and was a hub of activity during the mid 1880's when rail travel ruled the day. Located in the central business district on Front Street, the Company Shops Depot (dubbed 'The Depot' by the locals) now serves as a meeting place for community groups and outdoor activities. Some couples find the backdrop of the old Depot add a perfect ambiance to their wedding. As spring turns into summer, local farmers sell fresh vegetables, homemade jellies and baked goods in the large grassy expanse between the Depot and Webb Avenue. Each spring through summer, you'll find free concerts presented by various musical artists, including the Alamance Jazz Band, in the Depot's amphitheater. Search for 'Sunset Rhythms' on the City of Burlington's website or call 336-222-5000 to find which concerts are held at the Depot. If you're lucky enough to visit when the Depot is open, you'll see a pictorial, painted by Rodney Moser, of local noteworthy residents and events that occurred as far back as 1893 when the city was incorporated. If you visit during the week, on a sunny but not too hot day, you may see some local residents enjoying their lunch there.

Visiting Burlington on the 4th of July or Halloween? Be sure to take your lawn chairs or blanket to the City Park on Main and Church Streets to enjoy a fantastic fireworks display. Not visiting during those times? The City Park is still a nice place to visit for a stroll with your better half on the walking track or a picnic at one of the shelters with the family. Plus, in its amusement area, the park has a historic Dentzel Carousel built at the turn of the century with hand-carved wooden animals, as well as lighted tennis courts and several athletic fields.

If you're feeling adventurous, take advantage of the bike and jogging trails at Lake Mackintosh or enjoy a picnic down by the lake where you may see some local wildlife as well as fishermen, skiers and boats.

Want to venture out into the country? Visit the historic Alamance Battleground, just outside of Burlington on Highway 62. It's the site of a battle that raged between local farmers and militia prior to the Revolutionary War. While there you may visit a replica of an 18th century home plus a small museum and enjoy a slide show depicting the battle.

If you're heading to Burlington on I-40, take Exit 145 to go South down Highway 49 and six miles down the road you'll see signs to Cedarock Park. Follow those to find a historical farm, complete with animals, and a large rural park with walking trails, two disc golf courses and a waterfall.

A trip to Burlington, North Carolina isn't complete until you've visited the village of Glencoe. As one of the best preserved mill villages in the state, it represents a cotton mill complex which was built on a 100+-acre site along the Haw River between 1880 and 1882. Located just off Highway 62, the mill was developed by two sons of Edwin M. Holt, the most influential textile pioneer in the South in the 19th century. To find out when outdoor bluegrass music is scheduled for their 'Front Porch Monthly Jam,' call 336-260-0038.

East of Burlington is the small but growing town of Mebane. (The locals pronounce Mebane with a short e and emphasis on the first syllable; most out-of-towners put an emphasis on the last syllable and pronounce it with a long e and long a sound). Take Exit 153 from I-40, take Homes Road to Third Street into the downtown area where you'll see the old White Furniture Building which is where the Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation Tribal Office and a small museum is located. You'll find a collection of pottery and baskets plus artifacts, such as arrow heads and rabbit traps, that depict Occaneechi life. You'll also see parts of an old moonshine still that was used by one of the Native American families. Plus, you may want to view the film, "Occaneechi- The Survival of the Circle" right on the site. For more information, call 919-304-3723.

Before leaving the area, be sure to visit Graham, the town known as the county seat of Alamance County. Right next door to Burlington, Graham is home to the Captain White House which houses the Alamance Country Arts Council. An 1871 Queen Anne style mansion with a small beautiful garden perfect for meditation or reflection, it was the home of Captain James and Emma White. Now an art gallery, it features works by local artists and hosts formal receptions. Enjoy the beautiful exhibits inside as well as the expansive front porch to visit with your friends or family. For more information, call 336-226-4495.

Come and enjoy these and more free events found in and around Burlington, North Carolina.