Are you spending the weekend in Greensboro and wondering what to do with your loved ones? You’re in luck since there are several free museums in Greensboro, NC that you should visit while you’re there. Greensboro is a city rich in history, therefore there are various historical museums and attractions to visit. In addition to historical attractions, Greensboro has many art museums and exhibits for more culturally immersing activities. You will find that there is something for you in our carefully curated list.
Ambleside Gallery
If you’re in Greensboro, make sure to swing by this independently-owned private gallery, especially if you’re an art aficionado. Its origins are traced back to Manchester, England, where it initially opened in the 1980s. Since then, it’s traveled throughout the world to America, where it currently focuses on presenting English and European art, with its most recent form adorning the sides of Greensboro’s beloved South Elm Street. Currently, the exhibition spans a wide range of materials and amazing pieces from incredible painters like Guan Weizing.
Elsewhere Collaborative
The Elsewhere Collaborative, a non-profit museum, was founded in 2005 and is based on Sylvia Gray’s unique collection. Between 1939 and 1997, she ran a thrift store and amassed a great collection of trinkets and materials. Upon her departure, her old shop was filled with many old objects, which her artistic grandson used to display the items in his grandmother’s memory. Over 600 items are on display, including a massive garment installation, disassembled musical equipment, and more!
Greensboro History Museum
Situated in the former First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro, the Greensboro Historical Museum was founded in 1924 and is one of the city’s oldest museums. It was primarily meant to showcase and preserve the historical artifacts and knowledge related to North Carolina’s Piedmont region. It houses a variety of exhibitions and displays that document the lives of people who played major roles in the city’s history, ranging from Native Americans and Scots-Irish to Quakers. Learn more about the development of the city such as how the railroads attracted the eastern developers and Otto Zenke’s miniature rooms.
The International Civil Rights Center and Museum
Located on Elm Street in Greensboro, the museum is established in the same building where peaceful sit-ins of the civil rights movements occurred. The International Civil Rights Center and Museum commemorate and educate tourists about Greensboro’s significance in the early days of the civil rights struggle. The museum serves as an archive, museum, and educational center all in one. Check out the events calendar if you want to make the most of your visit.
Weatherspoon Art Museum
This museum is located just outside the University of North Carolina campus and is another great art establishment worth seeing. The Weatherspoon Art Museum houses one of the Southeast’s greatest displays of contemporary and modern art. From exquisite prints to bronze pieces, there are over 6,000 works featured in the museum for visitors to look at. The Weatherspoon Art Museum focuses primarily on art movements from the twentieth century and onward, with an emphasis on American art. There is also a steady stream of shows featuring local and emerging artists. You can easily hop on to a guided tour or attend an educational workshop to learn more about the craft.
