Located in the former F. W. Woolworth’s, where the sit-in movement began, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum opened in 2010, 50 years after four students made history there. Photo courtesy of Visit NC

• Share

PRINT

If I didn’t know better, I might think Greensboro, North Carolina, was named for its abundance of trees and parks, one of the reasons I’ve visited four times and plan to return again.

Nature lovers will feel right at home here. With beautiful parks, gardens and trails, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them active and engaged.

In reality, however, Greensboro, founded in 1808, was named after Revolutionary War figure Nathanael Greene. He was commander of the American forces in the 1781 Battle of Guilford Courthouse nearby.

Over time, I’ve come to appreciate the city for more than its natural beauty. Greensboro’s deep civil rights history, food, events, affordable hotels and a growing list of places I still hope to visit keep drawing me back.

Sit-ins began here

One of the most powerful places in Greensboro is the International Civil Rights Center & Museum at 134 S. Elm Street, on the main thoroughfare.

Opened in 2010 in the National Historic Landmark F.W. Woolworth Building, the museum was the site of the country’s first sit-in, on February 1, 1960. Four Black students from North Carolina A&T State University took seats at Woolworth’s whites-only lunch counter and refused to leave. Their quiet act of protest helped reignite the Civil Rights Movement nationwide.

Visitors can see the restored lunch counter, and 13 galleries document the struggle for justice and equality in America through artifacts, photographs and interactive displays.

On my last visit, Sage Chioma, a museum guide, gave an outstanding tour. Her commentary in the Hall of Shame exhibit was both poignant and compelling as she pointed out the graphic imagery and language — including scenes of physical violence, lynchings and burnings — that African Americans have endured in the United States.

Less than a mile away is the Historic Magnolia House at 442 Gorrell Street, another Black history site. Purchased by the Gist family in 1949, the Magnolia House was the first hotel of prominence in Greensboro to welcome people of color.

African Americans traveling through the South during the Jim Crow era found the hotel listed in The Negro Motorist Green Book. Many legendary figures passed through its doors, including James Brown, Ray Charles, James Baldwin, Jackie Robinson and Sam Cooke.

Today, Magnolia House is one of the few former Green Book sites still open to guests.

Affordable restaurants

After a long day of sightseeing, I enjoy visiting Greensboro’s many excellent restaurants and casual eateries. One of my favorite stops is Yum Yum Better Ice Cream (1219 Spring Garden St.). Known for homemade ice cream and hot dogs, it’s popular with locals and students. The lines can get long, but they move quickly. The peach ice cream is a must-have.

I also like Stamey’s Barbecue (two locations) for hot dogs and peach cobbler. The cobbler alone is worth the visit.

For excellent soul food I enjoy lunch at the upscale Luxe Soulfood & Cocktails (403 N. Elm St.). The warm, intimate restaurant has a menu that includes savory sandwiches, fresh salads and hearty soul food entrees. I ordered the grilled salmon with cheesy mac and greens — delicious! And of course, peach cobbler, since I love all things peach.

Literary events and festivals

In May 2025, I attended and volunteered for the Greensboro Bound Book Festival, an annual downtown event in a variety of indoor spaces that draws thousands of readers, writers, publishers and scholars. The festival includes author panels, workshops, documentary screenings and musical performances, creating a vibrant experience where readers and writers share stories and ideas.

Every September, locals and visitors can enjoy live music at the three-day North Carolina Folk Festival. Featuring artists across more than 20 genres, the festival blends live music, food and art into a dynamic cultural experience.

Drawing more than 135,000 attendees each year, the festival brings together artists from North Carolina and around the world.

Past performers have included jazz-pop band Sammy Rae & The Friends, hip-hop group Arrested Development, bluegrass band Steep Canyon Rangers and blues guitarist Lightnin’ Wells, reflecting the event’s wide musical range.

On another visit in early December, a friend drove us through the Sunset Hills neighborhood for the Christmas balls displays. Residents decorate their trees with glowing balls made from chicken wire and string lights. The annual display, started in 1996, runs from Thanksgiving through mid-January, and a festive 5K run and walk happens on the evening of December 12 this year.

Even after four visits, there’s still more I want to do. On my wish list is having afternoon tea and listening to live jazz at the O. Henry Hotel (624 Green Valley Rd.) and trying the authentic Southern food at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen (1421 Westover Terr.).

For me, Greensboro offers something special: a blend of history, culture, hospitality and greenery that makes every visit refreshing — and keeps me looking forward to the next one.

If you go

Greensboro is about a five-hour drive from the D.C. area. My favorite place to stay is the Hampton Inn & Suites Greensboro Downtown (222 W. McGee St.). The hotel is reasonably priced and includes a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Within walking distance of Elm Street, it’s close to shops, restaurants and cultural attractions.