Battlefield - Greensboro, NC

Battlefield takes its name from the Battle of Guilford Court House, a significant battle in the Revolutionary War that was fought not more than a mile south of the neighborhood. On March 15, 1781, General Cornwallis and his British troops managed to defeat Nathanael Greene’s American side, but not without heavy casualties. Historians consider the battle a tipping point in the war for American independence, as the losses suffered contributed mightily to the British’s eventual surrender.

The neighborhood of Battlefield maintains a strong connection to the site of this battle, both in name and geographically. History lives at your doorstep here - just walk around the National Military Park to view the many monuments and memorials scattered throughout. Don’t miss the Colonial Heritage Center at Tannenbaum Historic Park, which displays a scale model of the battle and the farm Cornwallis used to gather his men.

Battlefield’s location in northwest Greensboro includes an impressive array of diverse dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza delivered from Domino's or a classy sit-down experience, there’s a restaurant for you right around the corner. Locals rave about Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, which serves authentic Mexican fare within walking distance from the neighborhood. The carne asada is eerily reminiscent of the same dish found in the actual city of Monterrey, and you can choose from plenty of vegetarian dishes.

For coffee lovers, Beans Boro Coffeehouse and Roastery is a hidden gem that even manages to escape the notice of some residents. Even if you’re not a coffee fanatic, add this tranquil place to your daily routine. The laid-back staff are experts in their craft and are often roasting their own coffee when you walk in. Beans Boro is a perfect spot to open up your laptop and get some work done for a few hours while sipping on a freshly brewed beverage.

Tailgaters Bar & Billiards, less than a mile from the Battlefield neighborhood, draws local residents looking for a fun time, especially during sporting events. The welcoming bartenders make sure you enjoy yourself, but don't root against the UNC Tar Heels or Carolina Panthers in this sports-crazed city. Much of the Greensboro nightlife takes place downtown, where a number of bars line South Elm Street. M’Coul’s Irish House, a classic pub, offers a rotating beer selection and groovy music over the speakers. Bring your drink up to the deck on the second floor for a birds-eye view of downtown Greensboro.

On a city-wide level, driving is the best option for travel around the greater Greensboro area, since the smooth, wide roads rarely see much traffic. Driving into downtown Greensboro on winding Joseph M. Bryan Boulevard is generally a pleasant experience. Once you get there, expect to pay around $5 for parking in a lot, or find a metered spot on the street.

Pedestrians can easily navigate the cozy Battlefield neighborhood, and the military park to the south also encourages a stroll or a hike. Some, but not all, amenities can be reached by foot. Most require a short drive. Since the introduction of bike routes and lanes, many residents have turned to biking as a widespread mode of transport around the area. Public transportation operates around Battlefield, but not extensively. The 17 bus takes you into downtown Greensboro if you want to leave your car at home, as do a number of cab companies or an Uber driver.

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park borders the neighborhood from the south, containing an array of activities that continually delight residents. Every March, the Guilford Battleground Company conducts a re-enactment of the famous battle fought on this very land. This popular event signals the arrival of spring in Greensboro.

Battlefield families are lucky to have the Greensboro Science Center nearby in Country Park. Check out the Museum for an enormous T-rex replica, or walk outside for a chance to see live (and less intimidating) animals in the Animal Discovery Zoological Park. For a complete experience at the Science Center, don’t miss the Carolina SciQuarium, an interactive aquarium featuring penguins, otters, and eels. One exhibit even allows you to “pet” stingrays on the back as they glide by.

The relatively low cost of living in Greensboro explains why many people are attracted to this region, and residents of Battlefield live in an especially affordable neighborhood of the city. The average monthly rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment in Battlefield average is only $498, while the Greensboro metro area average rental rate sits at $641 a month. In the local bars, expect to drop $3 to $4 dollars for a beer (preferably a pint of Greensboro’s own Natty Greene’s). At the gas pump, prices are 18 percent below the national average. A bus from Battlefield to downtown costs $1.50 for a one-way trip.

The Greensboro area makes avid shoppers downright giddy. Drive less than 15 minutes from Battlefield to four major shopping clusters: downtown, Friendly Center, Target Center, and Wendover Village. These stores range from local boutiques to national chains such as REI. Botanica Flowers & Gifts is a neighborhood favorite for locals seeking floral arrangements for special occasions. The staff at this family-run shop provides excellent service and prompt delivery.

Residents of Battlefield often shop at the convenient Brassfield shopping center, not more than a two-minute drive on the western side of Battleground Ave. The Home Depot anchors the complex, which also houses a Fed Ex Printing and Shipping Center and Hobbytown USA. Run some errands, and then catch a matinee at Cinemark Brassfield, a popular movie theater next to the Home Depot. The cinema charges reasonable prices and always draws a huge crowd for midnight premieres.