Greensboro in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Greensboro

125°F High Temp

91°F Low Temp

0.1 inches Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect outdoor weather with low rainfall (0.1 inches) and 70% humidity makes December ideal for walking downtown and exploring Greensboro's parks without the oppressive summer heat
Holiday festivities throughout December transform the city - downtown's Festival of Lights illuminates Center City Park and local venues host seasonal concerts and markets
Excellent visibility for Blue Ridge Mountain day trips - clear winter skies provide spectacular views from nearby Pilot Mountain (45 minutes drive) and Hanging Rock State Park
Optimal conference and event season - many visitors combine business trips with leisure time, creating busy downtown energy without overwhelming summer tourist crowds

Considerations

Extreme temperature swings from 125°F to 91°F (52°C to 33°C) require packing for both very hot days and surprisingly cool evenings - layers are essential
Variable weather conditions make planning outdoor activities challenging - you might experience intense heat one day and need a jacket the next
Limited pool and water recreation options during cooler periods, though outdoor activities remain viable most days

Best Activities in December

Downtown Walking Tours and Historic Architecture Exploration

December's comfortable daytime temperatures (avoiding summer's brutal heat) make this perfect for exploring Greensboro's civil rights history, including the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. The variable weather means morning and late afternoon tours are most comfortable, avoiding midday heat spikes.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well, or book guided tours 3-5 days ahead. Typically costs $15-25 for museum admission. Plan 2-3 hours for downtown exploration. Check current tour options in the booking section below.

Blue Ridge Parkway and Mountain Day Trips

December offers crystal-clear mountain views without summer haze. The 45-minute drive to Pilot Mountain or 1-hour to Hanging Rock State Park provides perfect hiking weather - warm enough for comfortable trekking but not the exhausting heat of summer months.

Booking Tip: Rent a car or book day trip tours 7-10 days ahead. Tours typically run $75-120 per person. Park entry fees around $5-10. Best departure times are 8-9am to maximize clear weather windows.

Craft Brewery Tours and Local Food Experiences

Greensboro's thriving craft beer scene is perfect in December - outdoor brewery patios are comfortable during warm spells, and indoor tastings provide refuge during cooler periods. The Gate City's brewing renaissance offers 15+ local breweries within 30 minutes of downtown.

Booking Tip: Book brewery tours 5-7 days ahead, typically $40-60 per person including tastings. Many offer food pairings for $20-35 additional. Designated driver services available through local operators.

Greensboro Science Center and Educational Attractions

Indoor attractions with outdoor components work perfectly with December's variable weather. The Science Center's aquarium and museum provide climate-controlled exploration, while the outdoor exhibits and SkyWild aerial adventure course operate comfortably on warmer December days.

Booking Tip: Advance tickets recommended, especially weekends, typically $16-22 adults. SkyWild adventure course additional $25-35. Allow full day for complete experience. Weather-dependent outdoor activities clearly marked.

University and Campus Tours

December campus visits offer ideal weather for exploring UNC Greensboro, NC A&T State University, and Guilford College. Comfortable walking temperatures with minimal rain make this perfect for prospective students and campus sightseeing without summer's oppressive humidity.

Booking Tip: Schedule official campus tours 1-2 weeks ahead, typically free but require registration. Self-guided tours possible anytime. Allow 2-3 hours per campus. Best times are weekday mornings when students are active.

Antique Shopping and Artisan Market Tours

December's comfortable temperatures make browsing Greensboro's antique districts and artisan markets enjoyable. The Replacements Ltd. showroom and various vintage shops throughout the city benefit from pleasant walking weather between indoor venues.

Booking Tip: Most venues open year-round, no advance booking needed. Budget $50-200 for serious antiquing. Allow half-day for thorough exploration. Replacements Ltd. offers free tours - check current schedules.

December Events & Festivals

First Friday of December

First Friday Gallery Walks

Monthly downtown art gallery openings featuring local artists and live music. December typically features holiday-themed exhibitions and extended hours at participating venues throughout the downtown arts district.

Early to Late December

Greensboro Holiday Festival of Lights

Downtown Center City Park transforms with elaborate light displays, local vendor markets, and live holiday entertainment. Features synchronized light shows and family-friendly activities throughout the month.

Mid to Late December

ACC Basketball Tournament Preparation Events

Pre-season basketball events and tournaments at various venues as teams prepare for conference play. Greensboro Coliseum hosts multiple college basketball events drawing regional crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system essential - lightweight t-shirts for 125°F (52°C) days plus sweaters or light jackets for 91°F (33°C) evenings

SPF 50+ sunscreen mandatory - UV index of 8 requires serious sun protection even in December

Comfortable walking shoes with good support - downtown exploration and campus tours involve 3-5 km (2-3 miles) of walking daily

Light rain jacket or umbrella - 10 rainy days expected with brief afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes

Breathable cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions

Portable water bottle - staying hydrated crucial during temperature swings and outdoor activities

Light scarf or wrap for air-conditioned indoor venues - significant temperature differences between outdoors and heavily cooled interiors

Power bank and weather app - variable conditions require monitoring forecasts and keeping devices charged for navigation

Cash for local vendors and small businesses - many craft breweries and artisan shops prefer cash for small purchases

Comfortable day pack for carrying layers as weather changes throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Visit outdoor attractions between 10am-2pm when temperatures are most stable - avoid the dramatic evening temperature drops that catch visitors off-guard

Downtown parking is free on weekends and after 6pm weekdays - significant savings compared to summer tourist season pricing

Local breweries offer 'flight specials' on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings - typically 4 tastings for $12-16 compared to weekend prices of $20-25

UNC Greensboro students create the best local food recommendations - check campus bulletin boards and social media for authentic local spots tourists never find

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for hot weather and being caught unprepared for 91°F (33°C) evenings - the 34°F temperature swing surprises many visitors

Scheduling all outdoor activities for afternoons when heat peaks at 125°F (52°C) - mornings and early evenings are far more comfortable

Underestimating walking distances downtown - attractions appear closer on maps but involve significant walking in variable temperatures