Welcome to Goldsboro

Goldsboro isn’t just where we live — it’s a community with deep roots, vibrant culture, and a surprising amount of charm. Whether you’re here for a week or a few months, we hope you’ll take a little time to get to know the place we call home.

F-15 Flyover from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Downtown Goldsboro.

Goldsboro was founded in the 1840s as a railroad town, and that spirit of movement and connection is still alive today. The city grew around the Wilmington & Weldon Railroad, which once held the title of the longest railroad in the world. Because of this key transportation link, Goldsboro quickly became a hub for commerce and community in eastern North Carolina.

During the Civil War, Goldsboro was an important location for both the Confederate and Union armies. The Battle of Goldsborough Bridge in 1862 was a pivotal moment in the area’s history and is still commemorated at historical sites today.

🛫 Military Roots Run Deep

Goldsboro is proud to be home to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, established in 1942 and named after U.S. Navy pilot Seymour A. Johnson. The base has played a critical role in American military history and continues to be a central part of the city’s identity. Many families here have ties to the base — either through work, service, or history.

The presence of the base brings a diverse and dynamic energy to Goldsboro, with people from all over the country and the world coming to live, work, and visit here.

🌳 Natural Beauty & Small-Town Charm

Wayne County, where Goldsboro sits, offers the best of both worlds: peaceful countryside and an accessible downtown. Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is just a short drive away and features hiking trails, a peaceful lake, and scenic picnic spots. It’s the perfect weekend escape — and it’s less than 30 minutes from your front door.

Downtown Goldsboro has been revitalized in recent years, with murals, live music, local shops, and great eats. Whether you're grabbing a craft beer at a local brewery, enjoying First Fridays, or walking through the farmers market, there's always something to discover.

🧡 We’re Glad You’re Here

We’re more than just a place to stay — we’re part of the community. We want you to feel connected, comfortable, and welcomed during your time here. Whether you're visiting loved ones, serving on base, or just exploring a new part of the country, you're part of the Goldsboro story now, too.

So go ahead — unpack your bags, pour yourself a coffee, and settle in. You’re in good company.