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Goldsboro grew up in the 1840s where the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad crossed the road to New Bern. The settlement took its name from railroad engineer Matthew T. Goldsborough, and in 1847 residents voted to move the Wayne County seat here from nearby Waynesborough, according to local legend with a little help from moonshine poured into the town well. As a rail junction it mattered in the Civil War: Union troops burned the Neuse River railroad bridge in 1862, and in 1865 more than 100,000 of Sherman's soldiers camped around the town.
Since 1942, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base has been a big part of local life, and the city's downtown along Center Street mixes historic commercial buildings with restaurants, galleries and the rebuilt Paramount Theatre. Victorian homes, the restored Union Station and the Waynesborough Historical Village recall earlier eras.
Goldsboro is also a classic stop for eastern North Carolina barbecue, with whole-hog pitmasters serving vinegar-sauced pork. Outdoors, the cliffs above the Neuse River at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park make an easy half-day trip.
WiserMap travel guideGoldsboro North Carolina Cliffs of the Neuse and BarbecuePlan a Goldsboro, North Carolina trip with Center Street, the Paramount Theatre, Union Station, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, Waynesborough Historic Village a...Read the guide
Goldsboro's wide main street runs through the historic downtown, with a landscaped median, restored brick storefronts, restaurants, cafes and shops. It hosts festivals, farmers markets and holiday events through the year. It is easy to explore on foot, and free parking is available along the street.
A grand brick passenger station completed in 1909 where several rail lines met, restored by the city as an event and community space at the north end of Center Street. Its tall waiting room and arched windows recall the city's railroad boom. Look at the exterior any time; interior access depends on events.
Home of the 4th Fighter Wing and its F-15E Strike Eagles, this base on Goldsboro's southeast side shapes much of the city's life. The base is not open to the public day to day, but it hosts the Wings Over Wayne air show in some years. Watch for jets overhead, and check for open-house dates.
A city-owned theater on Center Street, rebuilt after a fire in 2005 within the walls of the original 1880s building. It hosts community theater, concerts, comedy, film screenings and touring shows. The auditorium is small, so most seats have good views. Check the season calendar and buy tickets ahead.
The arts council runs the Goldsboro Arts Center downtown, with gallery exhibitions by regional artists, art classes for children and adults, and seasonal art markets and events. Gallery visits are free. It is a good stop while walking Center Street; check opening hours, as they vary on weekends.
A county history museum in downtown Goldsboro covering Wayne County from Native American times through the Civil War, farming and the arrival of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, with changing exhibits and local artifacts. Exhibits are compact and well presented. Admission is free; check opening days before visiting.
A collection of restored 1800s buildings moved to the site of the old town of Waynesborough on the Neuse River, including a schoolhouse, a doctor's office, a church and homes. It sits within Waynesborough Park, which has river trails. Tours and open days are limited, so check the schedule before visiting.
A state historic site about 25 miles west of Goldsboro marking the 1865 Battle of Bentonville, the last major Confederate offensive of the Civil War. The visitor center, the restored Harper House used as a field hospital, trenches and driving tour stops explain the fighting. Admission is free.
A state park southeast of Goldsboro where the Neuse River has cut 90-foot cliffs of colorful sand, clay and shell layers. Trails lead to cliff-top overlooks and through mixed forest, and there is a small lake with a swimming area and paddle boats in summer. Stay behind the railings at the cliff edges.
One of Goldsboro's oldest city parks, with large old trees, a playground, picnic shelters, a community center and space for events. It is close to downtown and makes a pleasant shady stop for families. The park hosts seasonal community events, so check the city calendar for concerts and festivals.
A city park in Goldsboro along Stoney Creek with wooded walking trails, boardwalks, a playground and picnic areas, linking to the city's greenway. It is a quiet place for a nature walk and bird watching close to town. Bring insect repellent in summer and expect wet ground after rain.
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North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
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