23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Goldsboro (NC)

Goldsboro was initially known as Goldsborough. It is located in Wayne County, North Carolina, United States.

This quaint city is the county seat of Wayne County. It has a population of thirty-three thousand, six hundred and fifty-seven as of the United States 2020 census.

Goldsboro, known for its colorful history, is home to an abundance of fascinating agricultural history and other sectors.

Goldsboro features numerous natural parks, historic sites, facilities, and more. When you visit the city, make sure to stop by Waynesborough Historical Village, Goldsboro Antique Mall, Eastern Carolina Athletic Park, Arts Council of Wayne County, Great Harvest Bread Company, and more.

Goldsboro is a great place to visit with your family and friends. Let’s explore the best and fun things to do in Goldsboro, NC.

Things to Do in Goldsboro, NC

1. The Neuse State Park

Neuse State Park
Credits: Gerry Dincher / Flickr
Neuse State Park

The Neuse State Park is nestled 15 miles from southeastern Goldsboro in Wayne County, with its cliffs resting on bluffs of 90-foot which overlook the Neuse River.

The scope of colors on the cliff is created by layers of gravel, seashells, clay, sand, and shale. As a result, you could spend a longer time than intended just exploring the waters.

It is home to several cabins, campsites, and picnic grounds for those who would like to chill out and have fun outdoors.

The Neuse State Park features a dump station, showers, visitor center, amphitheater, lake bathhouse, and more.

There are numerous activities to do here, such as biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, and paddling, as visitors are offered access to the beach.

Along the way, you might find a wide variety of wildlife living in the area, including foxes, raccoons, and opossums.

Address: Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

2. Busco Beach

Busco Beach
Credits: James Cotugno [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Busco Beach
Busco Beach is one of the best places to visit in Goldsboro, NC, offering fierce power sports drives over a challenging artificially made beach.

Right in the center, you will find a lake. At the same time, the remaining grounds are split up into eight regions featuring changing routes, terrain, and hazards.

You can ride jet skis, ATVs, dirt bikes, go-karts, and other vehicles which are suitable for strong activities.

Busco Beach features campgrounds open for R/V hookups and tent camping, while the lakes are available for fishing and swimming.

It is a venue for live DJs and band performances with drag races, AMA tracks, mudholes, motocross tracks, ATV rentals, and more.

Address: 1243 Bryan Blvd, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

3. Herman Park

Herman Park
Credits: Stock-Asso / Shutterstock

Herman Park is the oldest park in Goldsboro and one of the most popular parks. It attracts many families, especially those with little children.

It was donated to the city of Goldsboro by Henry and Solomon Weli in honor of Herman, their brother.

There is a Kiwanis Miniature Train which only runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm with adequately maintained open spaces and greenery.

Herman Park features numerous play equipment for children, including ten well-lighted tennis courts and a fountain.

There is a goldfish pond and three picnic shelters where visitors can have a nice picnic with their loved ones.

Address: 900 Park Ave, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

4. Neuse River

Neuse River
Credits: 3.26 / Flickr
Neuse River

The first thing to put down on your list of fun things to do in Goldsboro should be exploring the Neuse River, North Carolina’s longest river.

A large component of the Neuse River crosses Goldsboro going through its meandering route; it is one of the most beautiful places to be.

Neuse River is open for different outdoor activities, especially during the summer, such as swimming and fishing.

You can go kayaking on the waters if you need a more laid-back way of exploring the Neuse River. Several outdoor outfitters companies within Goldsboro offer equipment like paddles, vests, and kayaks.

As you explore the relaxing and soothing river, you will sight the thick trees with wildlife like beavers, freshwater fish, and cranes.

Address: Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

5. The Bryan Multi-Sport Complex

Bryan Multi-Sport Complex
Credits: topseller / Shutterstock

If you have always wanted to witness a live match right in the stadium, among your list of what to do in Goldsboro, NC, should be visiting the Bryan Multi-Sport Complex.

The Bryan Multi-Sport Complex was formerly an airbase before becoming a large attraction with numerous standard facilities.

The Complex occupies sixty-three acres of property consisting of eight soccer fields which are available for use by different sports teams.

This establishment has been rated one of the United States’ best soccer facilities by Connect Sports with great consistency.

The city uses the Bryan Multi-Sport Complex as a major attraction that draws partners for organizing sports competitions.

You can take a walk around the complex if there are no ongoing matches and explore the different sections it features.

Address: 501 S Oak Forest Rd, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States

6. McCall’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood

McCall's Bar-B-Q & Seafood
Credits: McCall’s BBQ & Seafood / Facebook
McCall’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood

If you want to have a delicious meal with your loved ones, dining at McCall’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood is one of the best things to do in Goldsboro, NC.

McCall’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood has been serving the city since 1989, offering seafood made in calabash style and BBQ pork.

The restaurant offers delicious homemade delicacies with old-fashioned barbecues cooked to perfection, including homemade desserts and vegetables.

This family-owned and operated restaurant has become a historic landmark in the community and a favorite place for residents.

McCall’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood offers dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients, including southern cuisine.

The menu features Peach Cobbler, Turkey and Dressing, Shrimp Plate, Pasta Salad, Liver and Deviled Crab, Fried Chicken Tenders, Fried Chicken Field Peas Butter Beans, chicken pastry, Collards, and more.

Where else would you like to be rather than a place offering a comfortable environment, delicious meals, and drinks?

Address: 200 N Center St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

7. Stoney Creek Park

Stoney Creek Park
Credits: wellphoto / Shutterstock

Stoney Creek Park is another fantastic attraction in Goldsboro as a beautiful outdoor facility with several amenities.

The Park provides an animal-friendly environment with extensive grounds, contemporary facilities, dramatic vistas, and sports areas.

There is a beautiful garden featuring bright insects unique to the region and the other parts of the country.

Stoney Creek Park comprises an 18-hole disc golf course that offers unique challenges to different kinds of players.

The Park also features numerous dogs wandering the trails with their owners as well as playing around on the green grounds.

There are three climbing boulders, a sand play area, and numerous tree trunks with shapes, numbers, and letters.

Stoney Creek Park features several picnic tables and trees, which serve as shades for an exciting and lovely picnic.

Address: 2200 Ash St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

8. The Waynesborough Historical Village

Waynesborough Historical Village
Credits: Old Waynesborough / Facebook
Waynesborough Historical Village

The Waynesborough Historical Village, also known as the Old Waynesborough park, is the only remnant of Waynesborough.

Waynesborough is Wayne County’s original county seat; you get to sink in its fascinating history when you visit Waynesborough Historical Village.

The Village features several ancient buildings, some of which were built way back in the 1860s. You get the opportunity to have a deeper look into the era when life was a lot easier.

The Waynesborough Historical Village is home to nine ancient buildings, which include a lawyer’s office, a school, and a Quaker meeting space.

Aside from the buildings, there is an ample space of one hundred and fifty acres consisting of walking trails of over four miles passing through a cypress swamp, forest, and open spaces.

If you’re pleased with what you see, you can decide to organize a special event, including weddings, reunions, and so on.

You can also explore the trails and enjoy the sights of the beautiful natural environment surrounding it. The Village is one of the best places to visit in Goldsboro, NC.

Address: 801 US-117, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

Are you planning an exploration of North Carolina, do not miss our list of things to do in Kure Beach, and things to do Morehead City for a memorable experience.

9. Goldsboro’s Golf Courses

Goldsboro's Golf Courses
Credits: New Africa / Shutterstock

Exploring a good number of golf courses in the city is one of the fun things to do in Goldsboro, NC, as the city features nothing but beautiful golf courses.

Goldsboro’s Golf Courses include Walnut Creek Country Club, Lane Tree Golf Course, and Goldsboro Municipal Golf Course.

Each of the golf facilities features amenities that make them excellent for players of all skill levels, including amateurs and professionals.

These are golf courses with nicely manicured lush grass, welcoming staff, and upgraded equipment, making them stand out.

Goldsboro’s Golf Courses features onsite restaurants offering a wide variety of dishes, including golf stores offering equipment for rentals, such as balls, clubs, and carts.

Goldsboro Golf Course is the oldest golf course in the city which was founded in 1948, while Cutter Creek Golf Club is the longest course.

Address: 1501 S Slocumb St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

10. Goldsboro Antique Mall

Goldsboro Antique Mall
Credits: Aris-Tect Group / Shutterstock

Goldsboro Antique Mall, established in 2008, houses more than thirty dealers under one roof, offering numerous commodities.

Goldsboro Antique Mall is where you should visit if you want to shop for unique items of excellent quality at pocket-friendly prices.

The Mall features vendors dedicated to offering customers the latest products, ensuring they have a flawless experience.

You can purchase the best pottery, albums, comics, books, toys, glassware, bottles, albums, clocks, cameras, and more.

Goldsboro Antique Mall offers you stunning jewelry, pictures, tools, coins, and any other unique treasure you might need.

Everything is well organized and properly arranged; you do not need to spend a long time searching for a particular vendor or item.

Address: 3306 E Ash St, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States

11. Arts Council of Wayne County

Arts Council of Wayne County
Credits: Arts Council of Wayne County / Facebook
Arts Council of Wayne County

To your list of top things to do in Goldsboro, NC, include a visit to the Arts Council of Wayne County; this is the major spot for the community’s art scene.

The Arts Council of Wayne County is a favorite place for many locals and visitors in the region due to the activities held here throughout the year.

You can participate in many of the special events, such as mural painting, vendor days, engagements, classes, arts and crafts, and more.

When you visit the center, you can browse through an extensive collection of exhibits, including limited editions featuring gorgeous works made by local artists.

The Arts Council of Wayne County hosts the annual Gingerbread house contest, which is an excellent game for the family.

The Arts Council currently offers voice and painting lessons through Cory R. Whaley, who is a committed joint artist to his community.

Address: 102 N John St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

12. Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield

For those who are curious about the American Civil War and how fierce the era was, the place to visit is Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield.

Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield is a site that tells a lot about the war, as it is where some of the most terrific battles took place.

It was a significant supply chain for the Confederate, which later became the Union’s tactical victory point.

As you tour the battlefield, you will be able to follow in the footsteps of fifteen thousand soldiers while they desperately fought the battle in 1862.

Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield features trails, including stone monuments and landmarks through which you can discover the events that occurred here. You can also tour the live reenactments, which serve as battle scenes for actors filled with guns and horses.

Address: Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

13. Farm Credit Farmers Market

Farm Credit Farmers Market
Credits: Dylan Khor / Shutterstock

Farm Credit Farmers Market is a widely known market that many residents and tourists love in Goldsboro.

Farm Credit Farmers Market was founded to promote the agricultural sector in Wayne County and other surrounding regions.

This platform offers local artisans and farmers opportunities to meet and connect instantly with local consumers.

You can purchase dairy items, bedding plants, frozen meats, home-baked goods, jellies, freshly cut flowers, vegetables, jams, eggs, pickles, fruits, and more.

Farm Credit Farmers Market is open on Tuesday and Friday from 12 pm to 6 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm.

The vendors are committed to offering customers the highest quality and finest products for mindblowing costs.

Address: 3114 Wayne Memorial Dr, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States.

14. Goldsboro Mini Farmers Market

Goldsboro Mini Farmers Market
Credits: Usacheva Ekaterina / Shutterstock

Goldsboro Mini Farmers Market is one of the establishments that celebrates the agricultural heritage of Goldsboro.

Although there are other farmers’ markets, Goldsboro Mini Farmers Market stands out.

The Market offers a wide variety of seasonal fruits and high-quality vegetables, with other specialty produce offering you all you need.

Goldsboro Mini Farmers Market offers the freshest vegetables, flowers, jams, herbs, plants, nuts, honey, and more.

The festive and lively atmosphere of the Market offers the visitors and residents an opportunity to feel the authentic culture of the community.

The Market is open from June to October on Wednesdays from 9:30 am-2:30 pm, bringing farm produce to the doorstep of the people.

Address: Intersection of Herman and Pou, Goldsboro, NC, 27530, United States

15. The Wayne County Museum

Wayne County Museum
Credits: Wayne County Museum / Facebook
Wayne County Museum

One of the top things to do in Goldsboro is touring the Wayne County Museum, as you will need to learn about the history of Wayne County.

The Wayne County Museum is housed in a Greek Revival building, a beautiful structure that fascinates its viewers.

The Museum is packed with an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits dating back to World War II, the Civil War, and other important eras in the history of the city.

The Museum’s main aim is to search, record, preserve and showcase the history of Wayne County and share historical knowledge.

It is dedicated to enlightening the public about this rich heritage using digital and traditional information sources.

The Wayne County Museum is open from Tuesday through Friday from 11 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.

The Museum is a host to several events such as educational seminars, folk band concerts, reenactments, and more.

Address: 116 N William St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

Planning a North Carolina road trip? also, check out our list of things to do in Manteo and things to do in Oak Island for a fun North Carolina trip.

16. Downtown Escapes

Downtown Escapes
Credits: HAKINMHAN / Shutterstock

Have you ever been to an escape game house? If not, check out Downtown Escapes in Goldsboro.

Downtown Escapes is an intriguing escape room that offers players nothing but a memorable experience when they participate.

The center offers three different escape rooms to choose from, with only sixty minutes each to discover means to escape the room.

There are three escape rooms to pick from, and you have 60 minutes to figure out the secrets and puzzles to help you get out.

The game’s main aim is to bring people together and offer them an hour filled with delights and cheers.

You and your team would be given a scene and a mission before entering the room filled with puzzles and riddles.

Address: 208 E Walnut St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

17. Great Harvest Bread Company

Great Harvest Bread Company
Credits: tmalucelli / Shutterstock

Great Harvest Bread Company is owned and operated by individuals who love healthy and nutritious bread.

They have a great passion for operating a business focusing on the community and have been serving cities throughout the United States for over thirty years.

The Company takes pride in running under a Freedom Franchise, “freedom,” implying operating a business that attends to the needs of the community, while “Franchise ” offers permission to the methods and recipes perfected over the years by Great Harvest.

Great Harvest Bread Company offers fluffy cakes, signature sandwiches, Ham & Swiss, Honey Whole Wheat Bread, Breakfast Egg Sandwiches, Pumpkin Chocolate Chips, and more.

Children would love and cherish this place since they get to try out treats they have never had.

Address: 1721 E Ash St, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

18. Lane Tree Golf Club and Conference Center

Lane Tree Golf Club and Conference Center
Credits: S_Wassana / Shutterstock

Lane Tree Golf Club and Conference Center is located along the Little River. John LaFoy, a famed architect, designed it.

The golf course offers tees yards from 2.9 to 3.9 miles which are applicable to both beginners and professionals.

The highest point offers a 360-degree view of the entire course, located on a mountainous landscape with topographical fluctuation.

Lane Tree Golf Club and Conference Center consists of fifteen ponds with five miles of well-paved paths and five holes along the little river.

They have a perfectly designed practice range with a huge practice putting green not too far from the Pro Shop stocked with golfing equipment.

Address: 2317 Salem Church Rd, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

19. AMF Boulevard Lanes

AMF Boulevard Lanes
Credits: AS photostudio / Shutterstock

AMF Boulevard Lanes is a family-friendly fun center in Goldsboro where the entire family can spend quality time together.

There are league-friendly lanes that offer a grand bowling experience in a contemporary and colorful environment.

These league lanes are ideal for beginners, league bowlers, and regular players. AMF Boulevard Lanes offers a variety of video games and vintage classics where gamers can try out their skill, including testing their shots in billiards.

AMF Boulevard Lanes feature a concession stand offering comfort snacks, food, specialty cocktails, and beverages.

The facility is brightly designed with beautiful colors and decor, providing a welcoming feel for the young and old.

Address: 105 S Berkeley Blvd, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States

20. Carl & Chelle’s Grill Room

Carl & Chelle's Grill Room
Credits: Carl and Chelle’s Grill Room / Facebook
Carl & Chelle’s Grill Room

Are you wondering what to do in Goldsboro, NC, with your date? Stop by Carl & Chelle’s Grill Room. It is a wonderful southern establishment that showcases great hospitality and serves delicious meals.

They are prideful about the value, taste, and quality they offer their customers as they share precious moments.

This should be your next destination whenever you want to have a special event or corporate gathering.

You’re highly advised to make a reservation before visiting as they only have ten tables, and you might be asked to wait even after making reservations.

Carl & Chelle’s Grill Room offers grilled meats, steaks, burgers, Grilled Asparagus, Steak, and Baked Potato, Ribeye Steak and Mashed Potatoes, Ribeye Shrimp Skewer, Ribeye Steak Sandwiches, and more.

Their patio is open for drinks before or after dining, with a large list of award-winning wines available for guests to pick from and enjoy.

Address: 702 Corporate Dr, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States

21. Berkley Mall

Berkley Mall
Credits: Mike Kalasnik / Flickr
Berkley Mall

Berkeley Mall, owned and operated by Faison Enterprises, is a shopping center located in Goldsboro, while the headquarters of the company is situated in Charlotte.

Berkley Mall houses over forty stores with numerous out parcel buildings housing multiple restaurants outside the shopping center.

You will find anchor stores like JCPenney and Belk, among other popular brands known nationally, offering the best services.

The Mall is open to everyone who would like to have an amazing shopping experience without stress or difficulty.

There are several restaurants where you can stop by after shopping for some refreshing and energetic meals and drinks.

Address: 625 N Berkeley Blvd, Goldsboro, NC 27534, United States

22. Center Street Jam

Center Street Jam is an electrifying event that is held in the Downtown region of Goldsboro. It is a free summer concert.

Usually, this event features performances by famous bands such as the Embers, Jim Quick & Coastline, Spare Change, and so on.

As you come with your lawn chairs and your loved ones, make sure you come along with your dancing shoes and get ready to vibe to the music.

You get to enjoy fantastic music, delicious food, and chilled drinks with numerous activities for children and adults.

The Center Street Jam brings the most famous live concerts to the community through an extensive list of artists.

Address: Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States

23. Eastern Carolina Athletic Park

Eastern Carolina Athletic Park, 3,000 square feet, consists of a good number of amenities and facilities.

Eastern Carolina Athletic Park features umpire lounges, toilets, tournament lounges, air conditioning, and a scoring booth.

Three is a dining room at the Dug out grill where you can relax and enjoy delicious food with the locals.

The Park offers a large number of ball seating for all the viewers at each field. These fields feature mounds, bases, and fences for people of various ages.

 Eastern Carolina Athletic Park comprises scorers made especially for spectators with customized address stands.

Address: 871 Buck Swamp Rd, Goldsboro, NC 27530, United States.

Want more of North Carolina attractions and activities? Check out our list of things to do in Jacksonvillethings to do in Wilson, and things to do in Pinehurst for a memorable vacation.

Plan Your Trip to Goldsboro

Goldsboro is one of the cities that offers you nearly everything you need to have a fantastic vacation.

The city demonstrates what a thriving and stunning city should be in terms of development and infrastructure.

You are promised a fun experience and will probably want to visit again. So start planning your trip to Goldsboro.