Are you looking for a charming Southern spot with a rich history and vibrant arts scene? Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is your place. It offers a wide range of exciting experiences that will capture your heart. From Old Salem’s living history to Reynolda House Museum’s world-class art, there’s something for everyone here.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the living history of Old Salem, a historic district showcasing beautiful 18th-century buildings and gardens.
- Admire the impressive American art collection at the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.
- Explore the vibrant downtown arts district, home to galleries, murals, and the annual Arts on Main festival.
- Savor craft beverages and locally-sourced cuisine at the city’s thriving restaurants and independent coffee shops.
- Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Reynolda Gardens and Graylyn Estate, offering tranquil outdoor spaces for relaxation.
Explore Old Salem Museums & Gardens
Dive into Winston-Salem’s rich history at the Old Salem Museums & Gardens. This living history museum takes you back in time. It shows what life was like for Moravian settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Experience the Living History
Walk through the historic district and see costumed interpreters at work. They show off traditional crafts like pottery and woodworking. You can also see over 100 historic buildings, each telling a story of the Moravian community.
Visit the Historic Bakery
Don’t miss the Winkler Bakery, a key part of Old Salem. Since 1807, it’s baked Moravian cookies and cheese stars in wood-fired ovens. Watch the bakers and buy treats to enjoy a piece of history.
“The Winkler Bakery in Old Salem is a true gem, where you can witness the time-honored traditions of Moravian baking come to life.”
Savor Local Cuisine and Craft Beverages
Winston-Salem’s food and drink scene is vibrant and full of flavors. Try the authentic North Carolina barbecue at Real Q. Or, enjoy Tex-Mex at The Porch Kitchen and Cantina.
For classic Italian, head to Cugino Forno or Burke Street. Mexican dishes at Monte Del Ray, Mi Pueblo, and La Carreta are also a must-try.
Sip Craft Coffee at Independent Shops
Coffee lovers will find a paradise in Winston-Salem. Dough-Joe’s in Reynolda Village is a favorite among Wake Forest students. Downtown, DeBeen and Krankies offer unique coffee experiences.
For a scenic coffee trip, try The Coffee Mill in Lewisville or Wisteria in King. They serve seasonal and specialty coffee drinks.
Taste Locally-Distilled Spirits at Broad Branch Distillery
Winston-Salem is also known for its craft spirits. Broad Branch Distillery in the Arts District offers tastings and tours. They have premium North Carolina whiskeys and rums.
Try the blueberry-infused Smashing Violet whiskey or the Sungrazer rum, aged in port and whiskey barrels.
Discover Winston-Salem's Art Scene
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a city alive with culture and art. At its center is the Reynolda House Museum of American Art. It’s a treasure for those who love art.
Admire American Art at Reynolda House Museum
The Reynolda House Museum of American Art is a top spot for American art lovers. It’s in the 1917 home of the Reynolds family. The museum has a vast collection of art from 300 years.
See works by famous artists like Mary Cassatt and Georgia O’Keeffe. The museum’s home and grounds are also stunning.
Winston-Salem’s downtown arts district is full of artistic wonders. You’ll find colorful murals and sculptures everywhere. ARTivity on the Green is a highlight, with its striking red “smokestacks.”
Winston-Salem’s art scene is captivating, whether you visit the Reynolda House or explore the city’s public art. It’s sure to inspire and delight.
Winston-Salem, North Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Winston-Salem is the fourth largest city in North Carolina. It’s full of exciting things to do and see. You can dive into history or explore amazing art collections.
Begin at the Old Salem Museums & Gardens. This 100-acre area has over 100 old buildings. It feels like stepping back in time. You can see how people lived long ago and even try some tasty baked goods.
Art lovers will love the Reynolda House Museum of American Art. It has works by famous artists like Andy Warhol and Mary Cassatt. The museum is set in a beautiful old house.
At Kaleideum Downtown, you can learn through fun science exhibits. Nearby, Quarry Park and Reynolda Gardens are perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
Winston-Salem is also known for its food. Try Mission Pizza Napoletana or Sweet Potatoes Restaurant. Don’t miss Foothills Brewing for drinks or the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail for wine.
Winston-Salem has something for everyone. Whether you love history, art, or just want to enjoy the city’s vibe, you’ll find it here. Plan your trip and see what makes Winston-Salem special.
“Winston-Salem is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant present, offering visitors a truly memorable experience.”
Shop and Stroll Along Trade Street
Trade Street in Winston-Salem is a lively spot for shopping. It’s filled with boutiques, specialty stores, and galleries. The Mast General Store is a highlight, offering a wide range of items like clothing, housewares, and old-fashioned candies.
Trade Street also has many independent boutiques and art galleries. You can find unique jewelry, home decor, and more at these local shops. The Piedmont Craftsmen store is a great place to see and buy handmade crafts from local artists.
Visit Mast General Store
The Mast General Store is a 19th-century-style store on Trade Street. It’s been around for decades. You can find vintage clothes, classic candies, and local souvenirs here. It’s a favorite spot for those who love to shop.
Browse Boutiques and Galleries
Trade Street is home to a variety of boutiques and galleries. You’ll find unique items like handmade jewelry, pottery, and home goods. The Piedmont Craftsmen store is especially noteworthy, showcasing local artisans and supporting the community.
“Trade Street is a vibrant hub of independent shops, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience you won’t find anywhere else in Winston-Salem.”
Relax in Scenic Parks and Gardens
Winston-Salem is full of beautiful places for relaxation and fun outside. Take a walk in the Reynolda Gardens, a 134-acre botanical wonder. It was once the Reynolds family estate. The gardens have many plants, peaceful paths, and amazing views.
Enjoy Reynolda Gardens
Not far from downtown, Tanglewood Park invites you to enjoy nature. This 1,100-acre park has trails, events, and Cindy’s Snow Creamery for cool treats.
Unwind at Graylyn Estate
The Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem is a luxury retreat. It was once a private home and now a hotel and conference center. Guests can see its grandeur. The estate also hosts “Tour Pour du Jour” events for wine tastings and tours.
“Graylyn Estate offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the elegance of a bygone era.”
Venture into the Yadkin Valley Wine Region
Just a short drive from Winston-Salem, the Yadkin Valley is a top wine region in North Carolina. It has over 45 wineries and vineyards. You can try many wines, from Muscadine to red blends. Childress Vineyards is famous for its beautiful grounds and bistro, perfect for wine tasting and dining.
The Yadkin Valley is known for growing great grapes. It’s the first federally approved area for this in North Carolina. The climate is like Bordeaux, France, and the soil is similar to Tuscany, Italy. This makes it great for dry European-style wines, unlike the sweet muscadine wines common in North Carolina.
In the Yadkin Valley, the Swan Creek AVA has a cooler climate and rich soil. Childress Vineyards, started by NASCAR legend Richard Childress in 2004, has over 70 acres of vines. It has won more than 750 medals. Dynamis Estate Wines has a $100+ Cabernet, grown at 1,640 ft above sea level, in mineral-rich soil.
| Winery | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Dobbins Creek Vineyards | Stunning views from Hemric Mountain to landmarks like Winston-Salem and Grandfather Mountain on clear days. |
| Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery | Dog-friendly winery with a tasting room converted from horse stables, offering an opportunity for a 4-mile hike to Carter Falls. |
| Haze Gray Vineyards | Veteran-owned farm sitting on 85 acres, producing notable Yadkin Valley wines like Chambourcin and Petit Verdot. |
| JOLO Winery & Vineyards | Key player in the Yadkin Valley wine scene since 2013, offering signature wines such as Pilot Fog and a diverse tasting menu. |
The Yadkin Valley is a great place to explore North Carolina’s wine culture. It has many wineries for both wine lovers and curious visitors. This beautiful region will delight your senses and create lasting memories.
Discover Local Landmarks
Winston-Salem is filled with amazing local landmarks. You can see a giant tin coffee pot and a preserved Shell gas station. These spots give a peek into the city’s history and invite you to explore.
Marvel at the Giant Coffee Pot
The giant tin coffee pot is a famous landmark in Winston-Salem. It’s over 7 feet tall and is known as “Mickey’s Coffee Pot.” Built in 1858, it was a promotional piece for a local tin shop.
Today, it’s a beloved symbol of the city. You can find it in a grassy area where Old Salem Road and Main Street meet. It’s a great spot for photos.
Visit the Last Clamshell Shell Station
At the south end of Winston-Salem, there’s a unique Shell station. It’s the last giant yellow clamshell Shell station in the country. Built in the 1930s, it was once used to advertise Shell.
Now, it’s a preserved landmark on Peachtree Street. You can see photos and memorabilia of this classic piece of American roadside architecture.
“The giant coffee pot is a beloved symbol of Winston-Salem, capturing the city’s quirky charm and rich history.”
| Landmark | Year Established | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Locomotive No. 12 (“Tweetsie”) | 1917 | The only surviving steam locomotive of the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad |
| Linville Historic District | 1883 | Showcases a localized style of architecture with chestnut-bark shingles |
| Todd Historic District | 1915 | Experienced a timber boom in the early 1900s but declined rapidly by 1934 |
Conclusion
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is full of exciting things to do. You can explore Old Salem’s history or check out the city’s art and food scene. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a great time.
The city has a cozy feel and lots of activities. It’s close to the Yadkin Valley wine region too. This makes Winston-Salem a top choice for a memorable trip.
Plan your next trip to Winston-Salem. You’ll love diving into the area’s history, trying local foods, and seeing the mix of old and new. It’s a place that truly stands out.
