Learn about the battle that began the winning Southern Campaign during the Revolutionary War when you explore this military park’s museum and trails.
The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park honours the efforts of nearly 4,500 people who battled on this site on March 15, 1781. The 89-hectare (220-acre) park was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1966. Explore the preserved battlefield and find out about the momentous events that occurred on the Guilford Courthouse grounds. Fascinating exhibits, films and maps on display in the park’s visitor centre provide people of all ages with a special insight into the historic events of 1781.
The museum within the Battlefield Visitor Centre is the perfect place to begin your discovery of the park. Displays of weaponry, uniforms and equipment demonstrate the military innovation of the time, while texts and films bring historical figures to life. Learn about the men and women who lived, worked and fought in Greensboro, as well as the events that took place after the battle and the significance of the War of Independence. Alongside the permanent collection, you might see special temporary displays and exhibitions at the museum.
Check out the map of the battlefield and plan your route around the historic park. As you tour around the park on foot, by bike or in your car, you’ll come across 28 interpretive markers and historical monuments that show the exact sites of important events. Learn about how the American militia and Continental forces followed Major General Nathanael Greene into battle with the Crown forces of Lord Charles Cornwallis. While Greene ultimately had to retreat, his military campaign diminished the strength of the British and German armies and lead to the Crown forces’ eventual surrender at Yorktown 7 months later.
The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is approximately a 15-minute drive northwest of downtown Greensboro. You can circle the park in your car via the loop road or park at the on-site parking lot and explore the park on foot or by bicycle. The park has public restrooms and water fountains. There are no admission or parking fees at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. The Battlefield Visitor Centre is open daily, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
