· US

Goldsboro

Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States

Located in eastern North Carolina, Goldsboro is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer visitors. One of the key attractions in Goldsboro is the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, which boasts…

#Southern charm#Historic downtown#Military history#Barbecue capital#Family-friendly

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Goldsboro.

Top Hotels in Goldsboro

Top Flights to Goldsboro

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Goldsboro.

Tours

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Explore the rich history and charming architecture of Goldsboro's downtown district.

Shopping

Goldsboro Antique Mall

Explore a vast collection of antiques and collectibles from various eras.

Berkeley Mall

A popular shopping destination featuring a variety of stores and restaurants.

Outdoor

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

Enjoy nature trails, fishing, and picnics at this beautiful state park near the Neuse River.

Herman Park

A central park in Goldsboro, perfect for family outings, walking, and feeding ducks.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Goldsboro.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

33.8 thousand

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Goldsboro

Jan

11°0°

Feb

13°1°

Mar

17°4°

Apr

22°8°

May

26°13°

Jun

30°18°

Jul

32°21°

Aug

31°20°

Sep

28°17°

Oct

23°10°

Nov

18°5°

Dec

13°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Goldsboro.

What people love

Goldsboro, North Carolina, offers several attractions and activities that make it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Goldsboro include:

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base: Visitors can explore this military installation and learn about its history and significance. The base also hosts air shows and events that are open to the public.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park: This state park is a beautiful natural area with hiking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking.
Historic Downtown Goldsboro: The downtown area is full of charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Visitors can stroll along the streets, visit local boutiques, and dine at unique eateries.
Wayne County Museum: This museum showcases the history and heritage of Wayne County, providing insights into the region's past. Visitors can see artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays.
Local Events and Festivals: Goldsboro hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including music concerts, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

Overall, Goldsboro offers a mix of history, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States may include:

Limited tourist attractions: Goldsboro is a smaller city with fewer tourist attractions compared to larger cities in North Carolina. Visitors looking for a wide range of entertainment options and cultural activities may find Goldsboro to be lacking in this aspect.
Limited dining and shopping options: While Goldsboro does have some dining and shopping options, the variety and quantity may not be as extensive as in larger cities. Visitors looking for a diverse culinary scene or a wide range of shopping opportunities may find Goldsboro to be limited in this regard.
Transportation challenges: Goldsboro may not have as robust public transportation options as larger cities, making it more challenging for visitors to get around without a car. This could be a drawback for travelers who prefer not to drive or rent a car during their trip.
Limited nightlife: Goldsboro may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as larger cities, with fewer options for bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Visitors looking for a lively nightlife experience may find Goldsboro to be more subdued in the evenings.
Limited accommodation options: While Goldsboro does have hotels and other lodging options, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide range of accommodations to choose from may find Goldsboro to be lacking in this aspect.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel expectations. Additionally, Goldsboro does have its own unique charm and attractions that may appeal to some travelers.

Goldsboro, North Carolina, is a city with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It serves as the county seat of Wayne County and is situated in the eastern part of North Carolina. The city has played an important role in both regional and national history, with significant events, historical figures, and landmarks contributing to its development.

Early History

Goldsboro's history dates back to the late 18th century when settlers began to inhabit the area. The city was named after Major Matthew T. Goldsborough, an engineer with the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad, which was crucial to the town's development.

19th Century

Incorporation and Development: The town was incorporated in 1847. The arrival of the railroad was pivotal, as it made Goldsboro an important transportation hub in the region, facilitating trade and the movement of goods.
Civil War: During the American Civil War, Goldsboro played a significant role due to its strategic location. The Battle of Goldsboro Bridge occurred in December 1862, when Union forces attempted to destroy a vital railroad bridge used by the Confederacy. The bridge was successfully burned, disrupting Confederate supply lines.
Reconstruction Era: After the war, Goldsboro continued to grow as a commercial center. The population increased, and the city developed its infrastructure, including schools and public buildings.

20th Century

Military Significance: In the 20th century, Goldsboro's significance was further cemented with the establishment of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in 1942. The base has been a crucial part of the local economy and contributes to the city's defense industry presence.
Civil Rights Movement: Goldsboro, like many Southern towns, was involved in the Civil Rights Movement. Activists worked to desegregate public facilities and schools. The city saw peaceful protests and gradual changes in civil rights during the 1960s.

Historical Figures

Charles B. Aycock: Born near Goldsboro, Charles Brantley Aycock served as the Governor of North Carolina from 1901 to 1905. He was known for his advocacy of public education, although his legacy is complicated by his support for racial segregation policies.
Ella Baker: A noted civil rights activist, Ella Baker was born in Norfolk, Virginia, but her family moved to Littleton, North Carolina. While not directly from Goldsboro, her work had a significant impact on the region and the broader Civil Rights Movement.

Landmarks

Wayne County Courthouse: This historic courthouse is an iconic landmark in Goldsboro, reflecting the architectural style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Goldsboro Union Station: Once a bustling hub of transportation, the station is now part of the city's historical fabric.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base: Though an active military base and not a traditional landmark, its presence has shaped much of Goldsboro's modern history and economy.
Governor Charles B. Aycock Birthplace: Located nearby in Fremont, this historic site preserves the boyhood home of Charles B. Aycock and provides insight into the history of the area.

Modern Goldsboro

Today, Goldsboro continues to be a vibrant community, balancing its rich historical legacy with modern growth and development. The city is known for its culture, historic downtown, and the significant role played by Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. It remains an important part of North Carolina's history and continues to attract visitors interested in its historical and cultural offerings.