You’d surely never run out of fun things to Do in Burlington, NC. Whether you’re going on a vacation or hoping to relocate to Burlington, this city is bound to keep you busy, doing very interesting things.
The city of Burlington, Carolina, was founded in 1857 and was named Burlington in the 1850s.
The town was built to promote offices and stores for the North Carolina Railroad Company and proved to be a huge tourist destination in North Carolina.
Located in Alamance County, Burlington boasts nature preserves, historic attractions and parks with many outdoor recreational opportunities.
Fun Things to Do in Burlington
1. Textile Heritage Museum
The Textile Heritage Museum was started in the year 2002 by a group of men and women who thought it wise to preserve the history of the textile industry.
The museum was created to teach guests about the processes involved in fabric production, especially for the US military during WW1.
When you visit, items you can see in the museum include the textile machine, the clothes that were made, and the various fabrics made in the mill.
The museum allows free access and as a visitor, you can sign up for a guided tour or explore the museum and its surroundings at your discretion.
It will take you one to two hours to walk the entire property.
2. The Great Bend Park
Another iconic place worth visiting is Great Bend Park, perched on the Haw River.
It consists of a 30-acre wooded area where locals gather near the Glencoe Dam.
Visitors can also see excellent trails for a good walk; a fantastic hike can also be enjoyed on the one-mile Highland Trail, which takes you through a scenic wooded area and riverfront.
On the next walk, the route takes you to Haw Quay, a unique fishing spot.
Finally, if you’re still fit for a longer hike, this trail crosses the Haw River and covers 80 miles, taking hikers into Rockingham-Guilford County.
The park can be visited from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm when the park closes. Please visit and enjoy your stay here.
3. Hoe River Trail and Paddle Trail
Another enticing item on your list of things to do in Burlington, North Carolina is the Hoe River Trail.
This destination offers over 20 miles of hiking trails along the scenic Howe River.
Visitors have the opportunity to see a beautiful plant ecosystem and woodland animals in this area.
In addition, visitors can fish or picnic in the areas next to the crystal clear water. You can also opt for some kayaking or canoeing fun; the place is open to all and sundry, no matter your experience or skill.
The paddling trail and Haw River form an important part of the community’s goal to support the preservation of a variety of historic natural resources.
Thanks to this extraordinary initiative, the results have been a lot and the water, and other habitat ecosystems are excellent.
Things to Do in Burlington, NC, at Night
1. Ace Speedway
If you’re a fan, one of the many fun things to do in Burlington, North Carolina, is Ace Speedway in Elon, North Carolina, which is 10 miles north of Burlington.
The destination hosts a short-lived racing competition that features prominent and local North Carolina racers each week.
Featuring a quarter-mile paved oval, Ace Speedway is home to most championships ranging from stock, modified, UCAR divisions, late models, limited late models, and mini stocks.
The grounds can accommodate more than a thousand people and be sure to enjoy the exuberant experience this place has to offer.
In addition to regular racing events, there are also other accompanying attractions such as car shows, tractors, and go-karts.
The location is also home to several notable NASCAR drivers.
2. Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum of History
Check out the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum if you have a love history buff and get an amazing experience learning about the history of a famous black woman who focused on helping many African-American boys during her time on earth.
Founded in 1902 by Hawkins Brown, this destination sits right inside the Palmer Memorial Institute. The environment you can meet is therefore unique to explore the history of this place, its heritage, and its philanthropy.
Many of the collections here provide detailed information on women’s history, the many contributions and efforts of Afro-Americans in the field, and education.
The museum is available for visits Tuesday through Saturday, morning through afternoon, and is only a 10-minute drive from West Burlington City.
3. Alamance Battleground State Historic Site
Another attraction you should visit when you visit Burlington City is the Alamance Battleground State Historic Site.
This destination is a tribute to the battle that took place in Alamance between the British Imperial Army and a few local residents.
Many historians assume that the Battle of Alamance caused the American Revolution. So for history buffs, here’s a great step to explore this site that honors a pivotal war that helped define the history of the United States.
One of the focal points of the attraction is the Allen House. The log cabin you will find here is well maintained to show how many backwoods farmers conducted their activities in North Carolina back then.
Visitable daily from morning to afternoon, this destination is one of Burlington, North Carolina’s top attractions for history buffs.
Things to do in Burlington for Couples
1. Zack’s Hotdogs
If you like good food, one of the interesting things to do in Burlington, NC, is to have dinner at Zack’s Hotdogs, which should be a priority.
This restaurant is the asset and responsibility of a Greek immigrant named Zack Touloupas, who has served delicious hot dogs to locals and visitors since 1928.
The restaurant had only eight bar stools and four to four tables in its early days, but it gradually became a top destination in this city.
The restaurant is known for its scented hotdogs and sweet and savory breakfast options, which include hamburgers and sandwiches.
The restaurant allows visitors to check in every day from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
2. Village of Glencoe Mill
For history buffs, another of the top things to do in Burlington, North Carolina, is to visit Glencoe Mill Village.
It’s a great destination for exploring the city’s rich history.
The attraction has over 50 buildings and structures dating back to 1880 and includes a cotton mill and textile complex on site.
Glencoe Mill Village has a residential area reserved for staff and employees to live. The entire property includes 105 acres of land along the Hoe River.
Explore the entire property to see ancient structures and buildings up close, or explore more of the area from your car. You can finish your tour with a visit to the Textile Heritage Museum. Here you can see exhibits showing remnants of the site’s history.
3. City Park
A visit to Burlington is incomplete without a visit to a city park.
This is a great family event center with an amusement park associated with a wagon ride and a mini train having the choice of a tractor, fire engine, boat ride, police car and jeep.
The Dentzel Carousel is currently undergoing renovations to be completed as soon as possible. Currently, the National Register of Historic Places recognizes the museum as it attracts many people from different parts of the country.
It also has a large playground with swings, slides, and climbing equipment opposite a beautiful fountain.
Guests can have a nice picnic in the park or rent the pavilion for special events.
If you like nature, you can take a beautiful walk next to the paths in the garden, and the bridges that cross the small Almanac Creek.
City Park offers some of the best fun activities in Burlington, North Carolina, and deserves to be on your checklist.
Things to Do in Burlington for Kids
1. BMX Track
Visiting the BMX Track is among the exciting things to do in Burlington, NC.
If you are a rider, you definitely want to see and enjoy the immense excitement of this destination.
The BMX track is open to riders of all skill levels, where you can ride one of the most famous tracks in the country.
Cycling activities held here include unicycle races and off-road bike sprint tournaments. Cycling events take place from February to early December, weather permitting.
The sport is supported by the American Bicycling Association (ABA); the excitement and fun here are also first-class.
Regardless of your racing skill level, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or pro, don’t worry because BMX racing has everything to suit your level.
2. Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina
Mackintosh Park & Marina was established in 1993 and is Burlington City’s primary water source. The park is full of beautiful attractions you don’t want to miss.
Marina Park is 150 acres perched on 661 miles of shoreline. It has two tributaries that supply water to the lake, Greater Alamance creeks, and Little Alamance creeks, the primary sources of fishing stock in the lake.
The lake is perched along Huffman Mill Road, outside the city’s edge. In addition to paddling and fishing, this park provides many recreational opportunities for visitors.
Since this destination is the city’s primary water source, the park administration does not allow people to move their boats on the lake or swim.
Top attractions to look out for when visiting include a large playground, shore and pier fishing, kayak and rowboat rentals, boat ramps, and outdoor shelters.
3. Children’s Museum of Alamance
This destination is a 9-minute drive from East Burlington City. This is the perfect place to bring your kids for lots of fun and learning.
If children want to participate, be sure to bring them. A great place to get creative, spark your curiosity, and be creative and imaginative.
The Museum offers a classic environment for parents and children to enjoy, with various themed activities and exhibits.
There are many activities for children, including science, reading and history.
Indoor Activities to Do in Burlington
1. Granddaddy’s Antique Mall
If you are an antique lover, one of the best things to do in Burlington, North Carolina, is to visit Granddaddy’s Antique Mall, which should be a must when you call.
The Antique Mall spans 2 hectares and offers treasure-hunting activities and 230 stalls selling collectibles and antiques.
The Antique Mall also takes you back in time as it has a Pop and Mom General Shop. The mall also has an extensive collection of many antiques, including shops, unique advertising signs, clothing and toys, vintage items, and an abundance of antique art and memorabilia.
Granddaddy’s Antique Mall was originally established in 1997 and is one of the largest shopping centers in this part of the country for extraordinary home decors and classic gifts.
2. Paramount Theatre
If you love theatre, one of the best fun things to do in Burlington, NC is to visit the Paramount Theater. This destination has been in the business of providing quality to locals in Alamance County and Burlington since 1929.
It was formerly known as the Great Theatre. It underwent massive renovations initiated by the Burlington city government and was later renamed the Paramount Theatre.
The theater was reopened in 1998 after a total renovation on the property. In 2021, the theater was recognized as an Alamance County Historic Entertainment Attraction and Institution.
The theater organized several religious events, social events, films, plays, musicals, and concerts.
It has a capacity of 398 seats which are well located near the stage, and the facility has a beautiful setting which is ideal for musicians to perform.
3. Michelle’s Kitchen and Table
Burlington, The City, has some interesting restaurants to look out for when you visit, and one of them is Michelle’s Kitchen and Table.
If you like good food, definitely don’t miss this restaurant.
Michelle’s Kitchen and Table was founded in 2007 by local Michelle Morton, whose incredible cooking and baking techniques have earned her restaurant a massive following in the community.
As the restaurant gained popularity and high recommendations causing an influx of guests, it had to move to a more prominent location to provide maximum comfort and satisfaction to its visitors.
In addition, the current location provides diners with a delicious farm-to-table menu made with locally sourced ingredients.
Recommended items include Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, Apple Brisket, and Chocolate Chess Pie.
Romantic Things to Do in Burlington
1. Cedarock Park
Cedarock Park is an extensive nature park established in 1975 by Alamance County. Poly and John Garett established the nature park in 1800, covering an area of 500 acres.
This destination is well-known in Burlington for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, sports, and hiking. The park also has a foot golf course and many disc golf courses.
In addition to outdoor activities and sports, it is an ideal place for taking beautiful photos. You can take fantastic pictures at the park’s waterfalls and ponds, and it also has campgrounds, canoe rentals, picnic tables, and more.
The park is open daily from morning to afternoon.
2. Eat at Grill 584
Established to celebrate the city’s history, this restaurant called ‘Grill 584’ offers visitors delicious fare such as tacos, sashimi, and steak, all served at the salad bar.
The Grill 584 name was given to the restaurant because it was derived from an expression called “excellent” that was commonly used during the Burlington Railroad era.
The restaurant was also built to remember its residents who lived in this town amidst the challenges they faced when the railway company ceased operations in 1886.
Nowadays, the restaurant is a renowned destination where people can gather and eat good food while having a good time in this beautiful city.
3. Ford Shallow Natural Area
Shallow Ford Natural Area is a popular camping area for people who love the outdoors and is an exciting place worth adding to your checklist of fun things to do in Burlington, NC.
Hiking is the main activity you can participate in at this destination. However, you can also visit other attractions such as Wildflower Meadows, Hoh River, and the Mountains to Sea Trail.
Shallow Ford Natural Area is located near Shallow Road and is an iconic river crossing in North Carolina. From the 1800s to the 1900s, the intersection formed an essential part of Northern Alamance County’s access road.
Cheap Things to Do in Burlington
1. See The Big Cats at the Conservation Center
One of the best things to do in Burlington, North Carolina, is to visit the Conservators Center in the city’s lush forest, where you will see about 70 different types of cars, such as lions and tigers.
These big cats are kept outside and in special wards and can roam freely in these areas.
In addition, the Conservation Center was established in 2007 for the general public and serves as a home for exploited and homeless non-domesticated animals.
Here’s where you can take the kids with you to see this wild animal for yourself; there are various species of big cats, such as tigers, mountain lions, cougars, lions, and lynxes.
Their onsite experts are well-trained to give you a great experience and guide you through the entire facility.
The facility is available for weekend visits from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Hursey’s Pig Pickin’ Bar-B-Q
Hursey’s Pig Pickin’ Bar-B-Q is a family-owned business that turned into a spot in 1949, becoming North Carolina’s first wholesale barbecue restaurant.
Before its popularity, Hursey’s Pig Pickin’ Bar-B-Q opened in 1946 in Sylvester and in the backyard of Daisy Hursey, who served delicious hickory smoked pork to her friends daily.
Currently, the restaurant smokes more than 1,200 pork shoulders per week and numerous hams. The catering menu you’ll find here consists of a wide selection of dinner plates of pulled pork with coleslaw, chicken and ribs, hushpuppies, and sandwiches.
The restaurant also offers its guests fried seafood plates, shrimp and flounder. It also consists of quaint bread pudding, apple twists, lemon tart, and handmade cobbler.
3. Lake Cammack Park & Marina
Another place worth visiting in Burlington, North Carolina, is Cammack Park and Marina. A great place to be with family and friends and should be on your checklist.
This destination is an exciting location off Union Bridge Road in North Burlington. It occupies over 800 acres of land, and its shores stretch for over 50 miles.
Main offers recreational activities for its guests, such as fishermen, walkers, boaters, and paddlers.
Nature lovers can see deer grazing near the lake or enjoy views of eagles soaring in the sky.
It also provides outdoor shelters, boat ramps, a building, a pool, rental offices, and a playground. Except for schedule changes, the park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Free Things to Do in Burlington
1. Burlington City Park Recreation Area
Burlington City Park Amusement Area is a famous place in the 76-acre Burlington City Park.
A popular park area is the 100-year-old Dentzel Menagerie Carousel, which was located in the city in 1910.
The government made an effort and contributed to Burlington to fix the famous carousel. The goal is to preserve its importance in the territory.
Apart from the merry-go-round, this destination offers other side attractions, including amphitheater attractions, a water center, a children’s playground, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
In addition to the carousel, the park has other attractions that you can visit, such as an aquatic center, attractions, sports facilities, a picnic area, an amphitheater, a gazebo, and a children’s playground.
The park is available for weekend visits
2. Alamance County Historical Museum
A notable attraction to look out for when visiting Burlington City is the Alamance County Historical Museum, where visitors can explore the area’s rich and fascinating history.
The Burlington Museum is not the average museum you’ll find in a building. Instead, the museum occupies 1,700 acres and sits on a 19th-century grain plantation.
However, many of the artifacts and exhibits you’ll find here are housed in a two-story plantation home built in 1790.
In addition to the usual items found in a museum, the museum also has a parlor with well-maintained bedrooms that have a history dating back to the early 20th century.
In addition, you can see the old grain plantation, which consists of grain, a granary, a day cemetery, and a carriage house.
3. Burlington Athletic Stadium
The most popular sport in Burlington City is baseball. Burlington Stadium was built to show his love for sports.
Here’s an exciting landmark to check out that should be on your to-do list.
The 3,500-capacity sports stadium was originally built in Danville, Virginia, and later moved to Burlington.
The Kansas City Royals play Major League Baseball at this destination, while the Burlington Royals play Minor League Baseball.
This should be a must-see for anyone planning a city break because of the incredible experience you can have here. You can also watch league action for different teams.
So if you love this sport, be sure to visit.
Cool Places to Visit in Burlington
1. Glencoe Mill
Glencoe Mill in Burlington, North Carolina, has been around for nearly a century. Mrs Walter G. Green Jr. has owned it since 2006 and Mr Myron A. Rhyne. After the death of their husbands, Green became part owner.
The mill is one of the best-preserved mill complexes in North Carolina. It was built by the Holt family at the end of the 19th century and replaced a saw and mill.
Glencoe also needs people. Residents are needed to help their neighbors and participate in village activities.
The village is a great place to walk around to pick up cigarettes or a coke. Visiting a mill village is a great way to meet new people.
2. Athletic Stadium
The athletic stadium holds about 3,500 people and is home to the Burlington Sock Puppets, an Appalachian League team.
The stadium was originally built in Danville, Virginia, and was recently renovated.
Besides the Athletic Stadium, there are many other entertainment venues in Burlington. The city is home to many recreational parks, including City Park.
There are also several attractions and restaurants in the area.
Conclusion
Burlington’s history is rich. In the 1850s, the North Carolina Railroad chose the town as a site for repairs. The city grew as a result of the railroad and diversified into manufacturing.
Burlington has grown from a rich history to a beautiful present, making feet twitch to come here.
When you are finally on that plane and headed to Burlington for the greatest time of your life, ensure you include these 28 things to do in Burlington in your itinerary.
Again, have fun.
