Say what you want about Asheville, but there’s no denying North Carolina’s popular mountain getaway had its hidden gem membership revoked years ago.
While Asheville could undoubtedly benefit from a new tourism boom given the natural disaster in 2024, that doesn’t mean you should sleep on North Carolina’s third-largest city, which has somehow slipped through the cracks behind Charlotte, the Outer Banks, and aforementioned Asheville.
Throw Cary in the mix and you’ll quickly realize there’s much to be discovered in the “Tar Heel State”.
Though another under-hyped city is perhaps NC’s best-kept secret, and backed by Southern Living.
We at Travel Off Path are always on the prowl for lesser-known getaways perfect for avoiding crowds and stretching your budget, so we’re happy to introduce North Carolina’s next big thing: the vibrant city of Greensboro, tucked away in the scenic Piedmont Triad with its own airport (GSO) to minimize travel time.
Discover Down-Harm Charm & Hallowed History
Despite being ‘North’, you’re still in the South — and you know what that means. Southern hospitality is a real thing and you’ll feel it in this city of 302,000 residents with a small town atmosphere.
Downtown’s skyline may not be anything to shake a stick at, but ground level you’ll find cozy cafes as your friendly morning caffeine dealers, lush, green urban parks, numerous Mom n’ Pop eateries, and some of the state’s most intriguing museums to deep dive into the past.
With few towering high-rises, you’ll be captivated by the rows of brick-stacked buildings and vintage character.
Southern Living hyped up Crafted – The Art of the Taco as downtown’s must-eat restaurant despite being nowhere near the border.
If you ask me, I’m salivating over the menu of Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, which definitely feels more apropos for North Carolina cuisine.
As for history, you’ll have to turn on Siri and tell her to take notes. There’s no shortage of awesome museums and landmarks speckled around town.
For sample size, you should scope out these 3 top-rated Greensboro museums:
You won’t want to skip a photo-op outside the Carolina Theater either. This historic performance center dates back nearly a century, though it is aging like fine wine.
Speaking Of Wine…
While Greensboro isn’t specifically a wine destination in its own right, being a proud cardholder of the beautiful Piedmont region, you’re close to an abundance of underrated wine towns, such as Stokedale, Winston-Salem, and Lexington, among others.
Southern Living didn’t touch on wine in their Greensboro feature, but it’s one of the most underrated aspects of visiting the area.
You won’t find vineyards in the city limits like you would in Napa, but it’s a great gateway to see a highly overlooked element of North Carolina in general.
Though local favorite Rioja Wine Bar in Greensboro is a great starting point.
“The Green City”
There may not be vineyards in the city limits, but immaculate scenery abounds. Dubbed “The Green City”, Greensboro certainly lives up to the name with stunning parks and greenbelts, scenic hikes, and sizable lakes for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
One of the most popular places to visit is Greensboro Arboretum, a 17-acre botanical garden to enjoy seasonal blooms.
Connected to the Arboretum is the Bog Garden at Benjamin Park, a lesser-known slice of serenity among natural wetlands boasting an array of wildlife.
Where To Stay & How To Get Here
Anyone else tired of chain hotels?
Sometimes it’s nice to put your points aside and book a classic stay in an old-timey inn or bed and breakfast.
Southern Living recommended Historic Magnolia House, a community staple with a laundry list of famous guests, including Jackie Robinson and Louie Armstrong, so you know you’ll think to yourself “what a wonderful stay”.
*pats self on back*
Getting here is just as simple as finding a comfortable stay. GSO serves major hubs such as Newark, Chicago, Dallas, and even welcomes budget airlines Allegiant and Breeze from secondary airports.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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