The neuronal growth cone is a semi-autonomous portion of the developing neuron that is highly specialized for motile activity. Migrating neurons may share some features with neuronal growth cones. I review some of what has been learned about growth cone initiation, the differentiation of axons and dendrites, the role of the cytoskeleton in motility, the movements of membrane vesicles, the factors regulating the rate and direction of growth cone movement, and the further differentiation of growth cones as they enter the target area and initiate synaptogenesis. Where appropriate, I draw comparisons to what is known about the migration of neurons.