Attractions and Places To See in Guilford County - Top 20

Guilford County is rich in history. You can explore the pivotal Revolutionary War battlefield at Monuments of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Other notable historical sites include the historic Old Mill of Guilford, Blandwood Mansion and Gardens (America's earliest Tuscan-style villa), and the Greensboro Historical Museum, which is housed in a historic 1892 church building.

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro is a significant site. It is located in the former Woolworth's building, the very place where the historic 1960 lunch counter sit-ins took place, sparking a nationwide movement. It is now a National Historic Landmark.

Guilford County offers numerous natural spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. You can visit Haw River State Park, which features diverse ecosystems and river access. Other options include Greensboro Country Park, Bur-Mil Park, Gibson Park, Hagan-Stone Park, Northeast Park, and Southwest Park, collectively offering over 60 miles of trails. Passive parks like Bold Moon Nature Preserve and Company Mill Preserve also provide extensive trail systems for hiking and birdwatching.

Yes, the Bog Garden at Benjamin Park is a unique natural feature. It offers an elevated boardwalk through seven acres of wetlands, stone paths, and features Serenity Falls, a re-circulating waterfall. It's an excellent spot to observe local plants and wildlife.

You can enjoy water activities at Lake Brandt, an 816-acre reservoir that permits stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Lake Townsend also offers boat ramps for private boats, and kayaks and rowboats are available for rent.

Yes, Guilford County boasts an extensive network of trails. The Nat Greene Trail meanders through mixed hardwoods and pines along Lake Brandt’s watershed. Many parks, including Greensboro Country Park and the various county preserves, offer trails for hiking, jogging, and bicycling. For more detailed routes, you can explore guides like Hiking in Guilford County or MTB Trails in Guilford County.

Many of Guilford County's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly. For example, the Horsepen Creek from the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway is a dog-friendly trail. Additionally, the Richardson - Taylor Preserve is noted as a dog-friendly area. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow park regulations.

For families, the Greensboro Science Center offers a zoological park, a ropes course, a butterfly house, and exhibits on dinosaur artifacts. The Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum provides educational activities for children, and Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a popular option for aquatic fun during warmer months.

Beyond historical sites, Guilford County has a vibrant cultural scene. The Weatherspoon Art Museum is a notable attraction for art enthusiasts. Other institutions include the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum, a North Carolina State Historic Site, and the High Point Museum, which interprets the county's history and culture.

The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Guilford County, offering pleasant temperatures for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks. Summers can be warm and humid, while winters are typically mild, allowing for some outdoor enjoyment, though certain attractions or trails might have seasonal considerations.

While specific accessibility details vary by location, the Bog Garden at Benjamin Park features an elevated boardwalk, which can offer a more accessible experience for enjoying nature. It's always recommended to check individual park websites or contact them directly for the most current accessibility information.

Guilford County offers many excellent running trails. You can find detailed information and routes in our Running Trails in Guilford County guide. Popular options include the Greensboro Country Park loop and sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.