Historical Museums in Greensboro, North Carolina

Historical sites abound in Greensboro, North Carolina. From colonial times to the modern Civil Rights Movement, Greensboro was involved in historical events. Many attractions are free or low in cost, so families on tight budgets can still have interesting and educational outings.

The International Civil Rights Center and Museum

Greensboro's newest museum is at the very site where the Woolworth store sit-ins took place. On February 1, 1960, four students from North Carolina A&T State University sat down at the "whites only" lunch counter and launched the Sit-In Movement. The museum preserves this lunch counter and tells the story of the Greensboro Four : David Richmond, Ezell A. Blair, Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan,) Joseph McNeil, and Franklin McCain. The museum also teaches about the ongoing international struggle for human rights. Adult tickets are $10, with reduced rates for students and seniors. City parking garages are nearby. Tours are scheduled every thirty minutes.

The Greensboro Historical Museum

This downtown attraction is free, including parking and tours. The museum collection highlights important Greensboro natives such as Dolley Madison and O. Henry. The eighteenth century McNairy House is another featured exhibit. Interactive exhibits include a vintage movie theatre and an old-fashioned pharmacy.

Tannenbaum Park
Greensboro's Tannenbaum Park is a hands-on learning center for colonial history. A narrated battle diorama explains the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, in which General Nathaniel Greene faced Lord Cornwallis in the American Revolution. The interactive museum gives children an opportunity to see themselves in period clothing, lift a heavy musket, and walk through a cabin, barn, and kitchen garden. Costumed re-enactors often volunteer at the center, making the experience really come alive. This museum is free, including free parking.

Guilford Courthouse National Historic Park
Next to Tannenbaum Park is this national site. Park in the lot for free, then go to the visitor's center to check out the bookstore and gift shop. Drive or walk along the park's road, stopping at the historical markers telling the story of the battle. The park has many monuments and statues, including that of General Nathaniel Greene, the man for whom for whom Greensboro was named. Watch the speed limit through the park, as it is a popular spot for locals to walk.

Enjoy a relaxing, yet stimulating, day at one of Greensboro's museums today. Engage the mind without emptying the wallet.