Burlington North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Burlington, North Carolina.
1. Animal Park At The Conservators Center
BIG CAT WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Animal Park At The Conservators Center is a wildlife sanctuary offering close-up encounters with big cats and other rescued animals, including unique species. The center provides interactive adult tours and photography opportunities for visitors to capture memorable moments with these magnificent creatures. Guests can experience educational presentations about wildlife conservation while enjoying the natural habitats created for these rescued animals.
2. City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMUSEMENT PARK
City Park in Burlington offers a perfect outing spot with an amusement park section featuring fun rides for visitors of all ages. The park provides a variety of recreational activities and green spaces for families to enjoy together. It serves as a central gathering place for community events and leisure activities throughout the year.
3. Cedarock Park
HISTORIC NATURE RESERVE
Cedarock Park is a sprawling 500-acre nature park established in 1975, situated in the foothills of the Cane Mountain Range. The park features gently rolling terrain with abundant plant and wildlife, offering hiking trails, disc golf courses, and equestrian paths for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore a historic farm restored to its 19th-century appearance while enjoying picnic areas along Rock Creek.
4. Alamance Battleground State Historic Site
REVOLUTIONARY WAR HISTORY
Alamance Battleground State Historic Site preserves the location of a significant pre-Revolutionary War battle that shaped American history. The site offers educational exhibits and interpretive displays that tell the story of the 1771 conflict between colonial militia and Regulators. Visitors can walk the grounds where this pivotal moment in pre-Revolutionary history unfolded, gaining insight into early American struggles for fair governance.
5. Textile Heritage Museum
MILL TOWN HERITAGE
The Textile Heritage Museum is located in the historic village of Glencoe, one of the most well-preserved 19th-century textile mill villages in the southern United States. The museum showcases Burlington's rich textile history through artifacts, machinery, and exhibits depicting mill life. Visitors gain insight into how the textile industry shaped the region's economy and community development over generations.
6. Granddaddy's Antique Mall
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Granddaddy's Antique Mall offers an extensive collection of vintage items, collectibles, and unique treasures for antique enthusiasts. Shoppers can browse through numerous vendor booths featuring furniture, jewelry, toys, and nostalgic memorabilia from various eras. The mall provides a nostalgic shopping experience where visitors often discover unexpected pieces of history and craftsmanship.
7. Glencoe Mill Village Historic District
PRESERVED INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
Glencoe Mill Village Historic District preserves an authentic textile mill community that operated from the late 1800s through the mid-20th century. The district features restored mill buildings, worker housing, and community structures that showcase industrial architecture and living conditions of the era. Visitors can stroll through this living museum to experience the daily life of textile workers who shaped the region's industrial development.
8. Burlington Athletic Stadium
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
Burlington Athletic Stadium serves as the home field for local baseball teams and hosts various sporting events throughout the year. The stadium offers an intimate setting for fans to enjoy America's pastime with affordable tickets and family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can experience the charm of minor league baseball while enjoying concessions and activities in this community-centered venue.
9. Haw River Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
The Haw River Trail forms part of North Carolina's Mountains-to-Sea Trail, stretching along the historic Haw River with breathtaking natural views. The trail highlights the region's deep connection to its textile history while providing excellent opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Nature enthusiasts can explore diverse ecosystems while learning about the mills that once powered the local economy along this scenic waterway.
10. Historic Dentzel Carousel
VINTAGE AMUSEMENT RIDE
The Historic Dentzel Carousel is a beautifully preserved vintage merry-go-round featuring hand-carved wooden animals and ornate decorations. This nostalgic attraction offers families the chance to experience an authentic piece of early 20th-century amusement history. Children and adults alike delight in riding this meticulously maintained carousel that continues to create memories for new generations of visitors.
11. Paramount Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS
The Paramount Theater is a beautifully restored historic venue in downtown Burlington showcasing performing arts, films, and community events. The theater's elegant architecture and intimate setting provide an exceptional experience for patrons enjoying live performances and cultural programs. This cultural landmark serves as a centerpiece for Burlington's arts community, hosting a diverse calendar of entertainment options throughout the year.
12. Ace Speedway
RACING AND MOTORSPORTS
Ace Speedway offers high-octane entertainment with stock car racing events that draw motorsports enthusiasts from across the region. The track features regular weekend races with various vehicle classes competing on its asphalt oval. Spectators enjoy the thrill of live racing action complete with concessions, driver meet-and-greets, and the unmistakable sounds and smells of grassroots motorsports.
13. African-American Cultural Arts & History Center
CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The African-American Cultural Arts & History Center preserves and celebrates the rich contributions of African Americans to Burlington and Alamance County's history and culture. The center features exhibits highlighting local achievements, historical artifacts, and educational displays that tell often overlooked stories. Visitors gain valuable insights into the community's diversity and the important role African Americans have played in shaping the region's development.
14. Alamance Arts
COMMUNITY ART GALLERY
Alamance Arts showcases local and regional artistic talent through rotating exhibitions in its welcoming gallery spaces. The organization offers art classes, workshops, and cultural events that engage community members of all ages in creative expression. This cultural hub helps nurture artistic development while making visual arts accessible to the broader Burlington community.
15. JR Discount Outlet
BARGAIN SHOPPING DESTINATION
JR Discount Outlet attracts shoppers seeking significant savings on name-brand merchandise, clothing, and household goods. The expansive retail space offers a treasure-hunting experience with constantly changing inventory and unexpected deals. Visitors often travel considerable distances to browse this landmark discount retailer known for its competitive prices and diverse product selection.