Looking for arts, history, and great eats in one Southern city? Head to Winston-Salem! Known as the “City of Arts and Innovation,” Winston-Salem blends a rich Moravian past with a modern creative scene. From historic villages and craft breweries to vibrant galleries and green spaces, this North Carolina gem offers a laid-back yet cultured getaway.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Winston-Salem is from April to June and September to November. Spring and fall bring pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and lively festivals. Summers are warm and great for outdoor events, while winters are mild with fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Winston-Salem is located at the crossroads of I-40 and US-52, about 1.5 hours from Charlotte and 2 hours from Raleigh.
- By Plane: Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is about 30 minutes away, offering flights to major hubs.
- By Train: Amtrak service is available in nearby High Point (25 minutes away), with connecting shuttles to Winston-Salem.
Where to Stay
- The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel inside the historic R.J. Reynolds building, with retro-modern design and a swanky bar.
- Graylyn Estate – A romantic, European-style estate hotel with luxurious rooms and beautifully landscaped grounds.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown – Great location near restaurants and attractions, with reliable comfort and free breakfast.
Top Attractions
⮕ Step Into the Past at Old Salem Museums & Gardens
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A group of volunteers founded Old Salem, Inc. in 1950 as a way to preserve Salem's historic charm for future residents and visitors. Employees and volunteers have since dedicated hours to restoring the buildings and garden areas within the historic district. Visitors have a wide selection of places to eat, shop, and tour while inside the Old Salem Museums & Gardens.
Entrance ticket prices vary depending on the buildings and tours you plan to visit. The Old Salem Museums & Gardens are also a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and other large gatherings.
900 Old Salem Road, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-721-7300
⮕ Admire American Masterpieces at Reynolda House Museum of Art
© Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Reynolda House, Inc., established in 1964, oversees the Reynolda House Museum's extensive collection of American art. Hundreds of artifacts are displayed in the museum, and Reynolda House also displays unique exhibits throughout the year.
The home itself is a mansion set on a beautifully landscaped 20-acre lot. Reynolda Village is located a short distance from the house and has several spots for eating and shopping. The Reynolda House Museum is a great Winston-Salem attraction for couples.
Additionally, the museum sells overnight packages in conjunction with local hotels and inns.
Reynolda House Museum of American Art, 2250 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 888-663-1149
⮕ Spark Young Minds with Hands-On Fun at Kaleideum Downtown
© Kaleideum Downtown
Kaleideum Downtown is filled with a variety of fun, educational activities, and its displays are aimed at developing literacy, motor skills, and social skills in children. Activities like painting, reading, drawing, and building are integrated into many of the museum's attractions, and kids will also find plenty of room to run, climb, and play. If you are wondering what to do in Winston-Salem on a rainy day with kids, this is a great idea.
A special membership offered by the museum includes benefits like free admission, invitations to members-only events, and discounts at certain retailers. The museum also has space for hosting parties and special events.
390 South Liberty Street, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-723-9111
⮕ Explore Science and Nature at Kaleideum North
© Kaleideum North
Kaleideum North
, a nature and science facility, exists to support literacy, science, and life-long learning. Kaleideum North is one of the top Winston-Salem attractions for families and has an abundance of exhibits that teach visitors about subjects like biology, sound, physics, health, and the environment. The facility also has its own planetarium where visitors can learn about stars, planets, and space.
Nearby gardens and walking trails offer plenty of room for exploring and picnicking.
400 West Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-767-6730
If you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Walk in the Footsteps of Early Settlers at Historic Bethabara Park
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Visiting Historic Bethabara Park is like stepping back in time. The park was once a small religious village for Moravians who settled in the area more than 250 years ago. It's a popular spot for birdwatchers since the park sits on a wildlife preserve that is home to more than 120 species of birds. The park's grounds, gardens, and trails are open year-round at no cost.
The visitor's center and exhibit buildings are only open on certain days.
2147 Bethabara Road, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-0924-8191
⮕ Stroll Through Blooms and Beauty at Reynolda Garden
© bryanpollard/stock.adobe.com
Unwind at the Reynolda Garden as you immerse yourself in its scenic and peaceful landscapes. Originally owned by Katherine and RJ Reynolds of the tobacco industry, the historical garden has been around for over a century with several original pieces still standing. The massive 130-acre garden, originally designed by Buckenham and Miller, welcomes visitors year-round where they may admire the garden’s lush greenery, colorful plants, waterfall, and picturesque walking trails. Visitors may also enjoy a picnic in the Greater Gardens. While there, be sure to view the rest of the Reynolda Estate which includes the 64-room historic house, golf course, greenhouses, and 16-acre lake. The Reynolda Garden is open to the public and admission is free.
100 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, Phone: 336-758-5593
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
⮕ Learn Craftsmanship History at the Frank L. Horton Museum Center
© Frank L. Horton Museum Center
This center contains the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts, known locally as MESDA, a relatively new addition to Winston-Salem's historic area. Once a grocery store, the building underwent renovations in the mid 1990s to serve its new main purpose as a museum. The museum itself is named after Frank Horton, a prolific decorative arts researcher.
MESDA has a series of exhibits and collections and also includes auditorium space for meetings and special events. Along with MESDA, the center contains a research area and several shops. If you are wondering what to see in Winston-Salem on a rainy day, visit this unique attraction.
Frank L. Horton Museum Center, 924 South Main Street, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-721-7360
⮕ Wander the Charming Streets of West End Historic District
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The West End Historic District is known for its rich history and well-preserved buildings. More than 500 structures dating back to 1897 through 1930 still stand in this portion of the town, and a few notable buildings in the district include the H.D. Poindexter houses and the Zevely House.
Architecture styles represented in the West End Historic District include Classic Revival, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and American Craftsman. The district covers about 230 acres of land.
West End Historic District, Winston-Salem, NC, 27120
⮕ Add Adventure to Your Day with Triad ECO Adventures
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Triad ECO Adventures is best-known for its Segway tours. Prior to exploring the city of Winston-Salem for 2 hours on a Segway, the staff will provide you with comprehensive safety training, which includes a special obstacle course. If Segways aren't your cup of tea, you can try one of Triad ECO's stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tours instead as SUP lessons are also available through Triad ECO.
Additionally, the company sells Segways along with Segway parts and accessories. Other environmentally friendly recreational products are sold through Triad ECO, including eBikes and eSkateboards.
176 YWCA Way, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Phone: 336-722-7777
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Bailey Park – Enjoy green space, food trucks, and community events in the heart of the Innovation Quarter.
- Downtown Arts District – Browse galleries, meet local artists, and enjoy lively First Friday Gallery Hops.
Where to Eat
- The Katharine Brasserie & Bar – Upscale French-inspired cuisine in a chic, historic setting downtown.
- Sweet Potatoes – Southern comfort food with a twist—don’t miss the fried chicken or cornbread dressing.
- Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro – Farm-to-table favorites like tomato pie, shrimp and grits, and seasonal specials.
If you are interested in local events:
- RiverRun International Film Festival (April) – Celebrate indie films and filmmakers from around the world.
- Salem Lake Fall Trail Races (October) – Run or walk through beautiful scenery around Salem Lake.
- Winston-Salem Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – Kick off the holiday season with music, lights, and cheer downtown.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Winston-Salem, North Carolina:
- Kernersville (20–25 min) – Visit the quirky Korner’s Folly mansion or explore charming shops downtown.
- Hanging Rock State Park (30 min) – Hike scenic trails, swim in the lake, or take in stunning rock formations.
- Tanglewood Park (20–25 min) – Enjoy horseback riding, golf, walking trails, or the famous Festival of Lights in winter.
- Mount Airy (30 min) – Tour “Mayberry” from The Andy Griffith Show and explore local wineries and shops.
- Bethabara Historic District (10–15 min) – Discover the original Moravian settlement with trails, gardens, and 18th-century buildings.
- Mocksville (30 min) – Stroll a quaint downtown and enjoy antique shops, historic homes, and local eats.
FAQ:
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Where is Winston-Salem located?
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What educational and cultural institutions are in Winston-Salem?
- Today, this town of less than 400,000 people has eight institutions of higher learning, 80 parks, numerous galleries and museums, and many unique restaurants.
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What historical college is located in Winston-Salem?
- Salem College, the oldest college for women in the country, is located here.
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What family-friendly attractions can visitors enjoy?
- Best things to do in Winston-Salem with kids include SciWorks, the Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, and the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art.
Plan Your Trip