Greensboro: African American History Walking Tour

The Greensboro African American History Walking Tour provides a captivating exploration of the city’s past. Participants can expect to uncover the challenges faced by the black community during Reconstruction and segregation, visiting significant sites that bear witness to their resilience and ongoing fight for racial justice. From the historic Magnolia House to the renowned Bennett College, this tour offers a rich narrative that illuminates the inspiring stories of local trailblazers. Prepare to be immersed in a profound and eye-opening experience.

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Good To Know

The walking tour explores the challenges faced by Greensboro’s black community during Reconstruction and segregation, highlighting resilience and the fight for equal rights.
The tour features historic sites like the Magnolia House, a premier accommodation for Black travelers during the Jim Crow era, and Bennett College, a pioneering women’s college.
Visitors will learn about the entrepreneurial spirit of Kilimanjaro Coffee, a local success story with over 100 employees, and the trailblazing work of civil rights activists.
The tour provides insights into the ongoing struggle for racial justice in Greensboro, with a focus on the community’s resilience and determination.
Recommended attire includes comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera to capture the historic sites and landmarks along the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The African American History Walking Tour in Greensboro is a 1-hour activity that explores the challenges faced by the city’s black community during Reconstruction and segregation.

The African American History Walking Tour in Greensboro explores the challenges faced by the city’s black community during Reconstruction and segregation.

Priced from $19 per person, the tour is guided by a local historian and departs from the United Institutional Baptist Church.

Participants will visit the Historic Magnolia House, the first luxury hotel for African American travelers, and learn about Bennett College, one of only two historically black women’s colleges in the U.S.

The tour also highlights the story of Kilimanjaro Coffee, a multi-million dollar company founded by two brothers from A&T.

Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in Greensboro

Booking Information

Customers can reserve their spot on the African American History Walking Tour in Greensboro without upfront payment.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can check the availability of starting times on the booking page.

The tour is subject to schedule changes, so customers are advised to confirm details prior to the tour date.

With flexible booking and cancellation policies, customers can easily plan their Greensboro adventure and explore the city’s rich African American history with confidence.

Explore the Challenges of Reconstruction and Segregation

As participants embark on the African American History Walking Tour in Greensboro, they’ll explore the challenges faced by the black community during the Reconstruction era and the era of segregation.

They’ll learn how African Americans navigated the obstacles of discrimination, disenfranchisement, and limited economic opportunities.

The tour highlights the resilience and determination of the local black community as they fought for equal rights and built their own thriving institutions, such as the Historic Magnolia House and Bennett College.

Through the stories of trailblazers and trendsetters, the tour provides a powerful glimpse into the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Historic Magnolia House

One highlight of the African American History Walking Tour is the visit to the Historic Magnolia House.

This first-class hotel was the premier accommodation for Black travelers during the Jim Crow era. Built in 1889, the Magnolia House catered to prominent African Americans, including musicians and civil rights leaders.

Visitors can explore the property’s elegant lobby, dining room, and guest rooms, learning how this hotel provided a safe, comfortable space for Black Americans when most hotels were segregated.

The Magnolia House’s legacy as a beacon of hospitality and resistance to oppression is a powerful part of Greensboro’s African American history.

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Bennett College

Bennett College, one of only two historically black women’s colleges in the U.S., is a prominent highlight on the African American History Walking Tour in Greensboro. Founded in 1873, the college has a rich legacy of empowering women through education.

Visitors learn about its pioneering role in the civil rights movement, including the Greensboro sit-ins that sparked nationwide protests. The tour explores how Bennett College remained steadfast in its mission even during the most challenging times, fueling generations of African American leaders and changemakers.

Its story exemplifies the resilience and determination of the local black community.

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Kilimanjaro Coffee

The tour also explores the inspiring story of Kilimanjaro Coffee, a multi-million dollar company founded by two brothers from A&T University. They started with a small coffee shop and grew it into a thriving business, becoming leaders in the specialty coffee industry.

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Their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality have made Kilimanjaro Coffee a point of pride for the local community.

Trailblazers and Trendsetters

Throughout the tour, visitors learn about the inspiring stories of trailblazers and trendsetters who’ve left an indelible mark on Greensboro’s African American community.

The tour highlights:

The tour highlights the pioneering work of civil rights activists, the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses, and the legacy of educational institutions.

The pioneering work of civil rights activists, like Ezell Blair Jr., who initiated the Greensboro sit-in movement in 1960.
The entrepreneurial spirit of the Kilimanjaro Coffee founders, who built a multi-million dollar company from the ground up.
The educational legacy of Bennett College, one of the nation’s few historically black women’s colleges.
The resilience of the community in overcoming challenges during Reconstruction and segregation.

What to Bring

To make the most of the Greensboro African American History Tour, visitors should bring a few essential items.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves exploring the city on foot. Carrying a water bottle is also recommended, as the tour can be physically demanding.

Plus, visitors may want to bring a camera to capture the historic sites and landmarks along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Based on the information provided, pets are not mentioned as being allowed on the tour. The tour appears to be focused on exploring African American history, so it’s likely pets would not be permitted to ensure an optimal experience for all participants.

Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?

The tour is accessible for guests with disabilities. The meeting point and route are wheelchair-friendly, and the tour guide can accommodate guests with special needs. Contact the tour provider for more details on accessibility.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention senior or student discounts. However, it’s best to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any available discounts for these groups.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, visitors should be mindful of not disrupting the guide or other tour members. It’s a good idea to check with the tour staff about any restrictions on photography.

Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers private and customized tours for guests who’d like a more personalized experience. Guests can contact the company to discuss their preferences and request a tailored tour itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Greensboro African American History Walking Tour offers a powerful exploration of the city’s past, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of the black community. Participants can expect to gain a deeper understanding of Reconstruction, segregation, and the ongoing fight for racial justice while discovering the legacy of local trailblazers. The tour’s immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to engage with Greensboro’s rich history.