Things to Do in Greensboro (2025)

Stand at the original Woolworth’s lunch counter where the Greensboro Four sparked a national movement. Frequently recommended by national outlets and highlighted by Southern Living, the museum remains a vital, guided experience of American history with deep local roots.

A living museum inside a former thrift store, Elsewhere invites you to play, tinker, and rethink art and reuse. Celebrated by National Geographic and profiled by culture writers, it anchors South Elm’s creative energy with rotating artist residencies and intimate tours.

A cornerstone of the Cultural Center, GreenHill champions contemporary art from across North Carolina with thoughtful exhibitions and ArtQuest studios. Praised by regional arts press, it’s where locals meet new voices and collectors find emerging talent.

Opened in 1927 and restored with care, this nonprofit venue hosts film, comedy, and concerts beneath its gilded ceiling. Lauded by local critics and historians, it remains Downtown’s grand stage for community and touring acts alike.

Downtown’s literary living room blends an indie bookshop with a cafe pouring wine, beer, and espresso. Noted by Southern Living and Axios for shaping the regional scene, Scuppernong’s calendar hums with readings, clubs, and community conversations.

A family-run, grain-to-glass distillery crafting award-winning gin, vodka, and whiskeys with North Carolina grains. Visit for tastings, pop-up cocktail menus, and a peek at production; praised by local business press and spirits judges.

Set in a restored 1930s bottling plant owned by the Oden family, this taproom pairs heritage and hops with a leafy beer garden, food trucks, and live music. Frequently spotlighted by local guides, it’s a community hangout with rotating taps.

One of the Southeast’s most comprehensive nonprofit makerspaces, The Forge offers classes, tours by appointment, and member access to wood, metal, ceramics, laser, and 3D labs. Recognized by Triad Business Journal and IndustryWeek for workforce and community impact.

Operating since 1874, this community-run market is a Saturday ritual for seasonal produce, cheeses, flowers, and heritage recipes. Southern Living regularly points travelers here—arrive early for conversation with growers and small-batch makers.

A restored Green Book hotel turned boutique B&B and restaurant, Magnolia House honors civil rights travel history with soulful brunches and events. Featured by the National Park Service and Southern Living, it’s living history you can taste.

On Thursday evenings, locals gather in the O.Henry’s lobby for free live jazz with craft cocktails and tapas from Green Valley Grill. Celebrated by local media and musicians, this independently owned hotel keeps Greensboro’s jazz tradition thriving.

This Fisher Park standout redefined Greensboro dining with seasonal, shareable plates and a stellar wine program. Recognized by Eater Carolinas and honored with James Beard attention, MACHETE is an independent restaurant with city-shaping culinary ambition.