Greensboro might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a North Carolina visit, but it’s a place full of fascinating stories and engaging attractions. What makes Greensboro stand out are its rich layers of history, from the Underground Railroad to its role as an early industrial hub.
We especially like the Downtown Historic Walking Tour for a deep dive into the city’s past and the Gallows, Gunpowder & Graves Ghost Tour for a spine-tingling evening of ghost stories and local legends.
The city offers a variety of ways to experience its unique character, whether you’re interested in history, true crime, or haunted tales.
If you’re wondering what to do in Greensboro, this list of the best Tours & Things To Do will help you narrow down your choices. Each experience offers a different perspective—some educational, some spooky, and others focused on the African American community’s contributions. Whether you have an hour or a full day, Greensboro provides memorable ways to explore its stories.
1. Greensboro: Downtown Historic Walking Tour
For history lovers, this guided walking tour offers a compelling look at Greensboro’s past in just an hour, priced at $19 per person. The tour takes you through the heart of downtown, where you’ll learn about Greensboro’s role as the southernmost stop of the Underground Railroad.
The guide points out impressive landmarks such as the Jefferson Standard Building and the Cone Export Building, revealing their significance in the city’s industrial growth.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on both architecture and stories that shaped Greensboro’s identity as an early industrial center. You’ll see the largest cotton mill on earth — a reminder of the city’s cotton economy — and hear stories about the city’s social fabric.
The guide’s deep knowledge makes the history come alive, from the struggles of enslaved people to the rise of skyscrapers like the Jefferson Standard Building. Visitors often praise the tour for its engaging narration and well-chosen sites.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, affordable taste of Greensboro’s history with insightful storytelling, this tour is a perfect choice. It suits travelers interested in architecture, Civil War history, and the city’s industrial roots.
2. Greensboro: True Crime Walking Tour
For those fascinated by the darker side of history, the True Crime Walking Tour offers a chilling hour exploring Greensboro’s most notorious crimes. Priced at $19 per person, this tour uncovers stories of murder, mayhem, and the people behind some of the city’s most disturbing incidents.
The guide takes you to key sites connected to notable crimes, including tales of Greensboro’s most vicious serial killer.
This tour’s strength is its ability to turn crime stories into engaging narratives that illuminate the social issues of different eras. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy crime history or want a more unusual perspective on Greensboro’s past.
The stories are vivid and often included in reviews as being “terrifying yet fascinating,” making it a memorable experience for those interested in the macabre.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Greensboro’s most infamous crimes and enjoy storytelling with a bit of a spooky twist, this tour is a great pick. It’s best suited for those comfortable with darker themes and looking for an hour of intrigue.
3. Gallows, Gunpowder & Graves of Greensboro Ghost Tours
This haunted tour at dusk is $24 per person and explores the ghostly legends and eerie tales of downtown Greensboro. The guide shares stories of murder, war, and the spirits said to haunt the Carolina Theatre and Exchange Place. The tour combines storytelling with visits to sites known for their ghostly activity, making it one of the most atmospheric experiences in town.
What distinguishes this tour is its blend of history and ghost stories, with a focus on local legends. Guests often find the stories of the Carolina Theatre’s ghosts and the buried secrets under Exchange Place to be both spooky and fascinating. The guide’s engaging narration makes the experience immersive, especially after sunset when the city’s shadows deepen.
Bottom Line: If ghost stories and haunted history pique your interest, this tour offers a fun, spine-tingling way to explore Greensboro’s darker side. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little scare with their history.
4. Greensboro: African American History Walking Tour
This African American history walking tour is priced at $19 per person and highlights Greensboro’s Black community achievements and struggles. The tour visits significant sites like the Historic Magnolia House, a hotel for Black travelers, and shares stories of local trailblazers who challenged segregation and fostered community resilience.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on the stories often overlooked in mainstream narratives. You’ll learn about Kilimanjaro Coffee, a successful Black-owned business, and hear about the challenges faced by African Americans during different periods. The guide’s storytelling emphasizes perseverance and achievement, making it both educational and inspiring.
Although the reviews are not detailed, the content suggests a sincere effort to portray the community’s contributions. It’s especially relevant for those interested in civil rights history and African American culture.
Bottom Line: If understanding Greensboro’s Black history and celebrating community achievements appeals to you, this tour offers an insightful and respectful perspective. It fits travelers interested in social justice, heritage, and local stories.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Greensboro
Picking the best experience depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of story you want to take away. For a quick overview, consider the Downtown Historic Walking Tour if you love architecture and industrial history, or opt for the Gallows, Gunpowder & Graves Ghost Tour if haunted stories are more your style.
History buffs curious about the African American community’s contributions should prioritize the African American History Walking Tour. Meanwhile, fans of true crime stories will find the True Crime Walking Tour uniquely compelling.
Think about your budget and time—each tour is around an hour and costs between $19 and $24. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot. If you’re interested in combining experiences, check if tours are offered on different days or times.
Greensboro offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its past and present. From the rich industrial history uncovered on the downtown walk to the spooky tales of ghost tours, there’s something for every curiosity.
For cultural insights, the African American history tour sheds light on stories that helped shape the city. And for thrill-seekers, the true crime and haunted tours deliver a fun, engaging peek into the city’s darker tales.
No matter which tour you pick, early booking is wise, especially if your trip coincides with busy times. With so many options, you’re sure to find a Greensboro experience that enriches your visit and leaves you with memorable stories to tell.