Goldsboro was originally known as Goldsborough, and was an important railway town back in the early 18th century. As such, the town has a long history and plenty of historic attractions. You can get a glimpse of the old days in Goldsborough by visiting the Old Waynesborough Park, where a collection of historic buildings can be toured. Also of interest to historians are the Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield and the Wayne County Museum. If you enjoy outdoor pursuits you can visit the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park where you can go hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking and wildlife watching. Other fun activities include guided Ghost Tours, Downtown Art Mural walks, and more.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
The Cliffs of the Neuse State Park covers over 1000 acres along the banks of the scenic Neuse River close to Seven Springs in Wayne County. The remarkable 90 ft cliffs were formed over centuries by the erosive action of the river, resulting in a very beautiful outdoor area demanding to be explored. Visitors have several hiking trails to follow and there is a swimming area, picnic area and camp-site and fishing area. You can learn about the interesting geology of the park at the Park Museum. As you explore the park you may get to see wildlife including squirrels, foxes, opossums and beavers as well as a wealth of bird species.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, 240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs, NC 28578, Phone: 919-778-6234
Old Waynesborough Park
A visit to the Old Waynesborough Park is like stepping back in time to the pioneer days in Wayne County. The park is built on what was once the location of the town of Waynesborough, where it is home to a collection of 9 historic buildings which were moved to their present location from all over the county. You will get to see a general store, blacksmiths shop, school house and a doctor’s consulting room and more. Although the buildings look fairly similar to each other from the outside, it is interesting to learn about their origins and the stories attached to them. The property also has several attractive hiking trails along the Neuse River.
Old Waynesborough Park, 801 US Hwy 1175, Goldsboro, NC 27530, Phone: 919-731-1653
Wayne County Museum
The Wayne County Museum is housed in an impressive Jeffersonian Revival style building which was originally built in 1927 to house the Goldsboro Women’s Club. The landmark building was eventually donated to the Goldsboro Historical Association and opened its doors as the Wayne County Museum in 1988. The museum’s History Gallery is filled with a fascinating collection of artifacts, documents and photographs which trace the long history of Wayne County. Moving on to the Medical Gallery you can admire antique medical instruments from the early twentieth century. There is also a Military Gallery displaying exhibits from major conflicts from the Civil War to the Vietnam War. The museum has something of interest for all ages including an antique toy collection.
Wayne County Museum, 116 North William Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530, Phone: 919-734-5023
Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield
On a cold winter’s day in December 1862, a desperate band of 15,000 soldiers fought the Battle of Foster’s Raid, which resulted in the destruction of the vital Goldsborough Railway Bridge, effectively cutting off the flow of essential supplies from Wilmington to Virginia. Today visitors to the Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield can explore the area on foot along several trails. To help you relive the scale of the battle you can pick up a battlefield map and set off along the trails which feature 8 historical markers and a granite monument which explain the story of the battle. If you would like a more in-depth explanation of the events you can phone ahead to arrange a free guided tour.
Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield, 303 Old Mount Olive Hwy, Dudley, NC 28333, Phone: 919-736-4423
Nai Thai, Goldsboro, NC
Bringing the vibrant and pungent flavors of Thailand to awaken Goldsboro taste-buds, chefs Pik (from Thailand) and Larry (from the US) have combined their talents to offer customers a really different take on comfort food. Most of the dishes on the menu are Thai inspired and several, like their signature Papaya Salad are made using centuries-old authentic Thai family recipes. The menu at Nai Thai offers a very extensive selection of Asian/Fusion dishes which can be tempered to suit your palate – tell your server if you prefer mild, medium or hot versions. Favorites include Basil Crispy Duck, Weeping Tiger (Black Angus Ribeye steak) and a mouth-watering Panang Curry made with chicken, pork, beef, shrimp or veggies.
Nai Thai, Nai Thai 2, 1804 N. Berkley Boulevard, Goldsboro, NC 27534, Phone: 919-583-5699
