Discover Winston-Salem: 10 Best Places You Must Visit in North Carolina's Gem

Posted on June 4, 2024  •  9 minutes  • 1875 words

Welcome to Winston-Salem, North Carolina’s hidden gem! This charming city beautifully blends history, culture, and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination. While the vibrant colors of fall and the pleasant spring weather attract the most visitors, there is something to do all year round in Winston-Salem. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, you’ll find plenty to explore. In this article, we’ll take you through the top 10 places you must visit in Winston-Salem. Get ready to discover a city full of surprises and unforgettable experiences!

10 best things to see in Winston Salem

10. Old Salem Museums & Gardens

If you find yourself in Winston-Salem, a visit to Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a must. This historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into early American life, with beautifully preserved buildings and engaging exhibits that showcase the Moravian community’s rich heritage. As you walk through Old Salem, you can explore charming homes, interactive museums, and lush gardens, all telling the story of this unique settlement. To reach Old Salem, simply drive to 900 Old Salem Road in Winston-Salem, or if you’re downtown, it’s just a short drive or bike ride away. Pay special attention to the Single Brothers’ House and the St. Philips African Moravian Church, which provide deep insights into the area’s diverse cultural history. Don’t forget to stop by Winkler Bakery for some delicious Moravian cookies and treats!

9. Reynolda House Museum of American Art

When you’re in Winston-Salem, visiting the Reynolda House Museum of American Art is a must. Located just a short drive from downtown, this museum is housed in the historic home of the Reynolds family, founders of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. You’ll see an impressive collection of American art, featuring works from well-known artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Frederic Church. Don’t miss the stunning gardens and the charming village shops nearby. To get there, head west on Reynolda Road from downtown Winston-Salem. There’s plenty of parking available on-site. Make sure to explore both the art galleries and the beautiful grounds for a complete experience.

8. Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem

When you visit Winston-Salem, you shouldn’t miss the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem. It’s a fantastic place for families, offering loads of fun and education for kids. Here, children can explore interactive exhibits, play in themed areas, and get hands-on with creative activities. To get there, set your GPS to 390 S Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC. If you’re driving, there’s easy parking nearby. Inside, be sure to check out “Kaleidoscape” and “Amazing Airways,” which are crowd favorites. Wear comfortable shoes because your little ones will want to run around and enjoy every corner of the museum!

7. Kaleideum North

If you’re in Winston-Salem, a visit to Kaleideum North is a must! This museum is perfect for families and anyone who loves science and fun. You can explore interactive exhibits about health, the environment, and physics. Kids will especially love the planetarium shows and the playful outdoor science park. To get there, just follow US-52 and take exit 115 onto Germanton Road. Look out for special events and seasonal exhibits when planning your visit. Don’t forget to check their schedule for live demonstrations – they’re super exciting and educational!

6. Bailey Park

If you’re in Winston-Salem, don’t miss a visit to Bailey Park! This vibrant urban park is the perfect spot to relax, hang out, or catch a live event. Located in the Innovation Quarter, it’s a mix of green spaces, walking paths, and cool features like an outdoor stage and seating areas. Getting there is easy—just head to downtown Winston-Salem and look for North Patterson Avenue. Parking is available nearby, but it can get busy during events, so plan ahead. Keep an eye out for the schedule of events; there’s always something fun happening, from concerts to food truck festivals. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and make the most of your day at Bailey Park!

5. Hanes Mall

If you’re visiting Winston-Salem, you definitely should check out Hanes Mall! This shopping hotspot offers over 200 stores, so you can shop ’til you drop or just enjoy some window shopping. There’s something for everyone, from big-name brands to unique local shops. Plus, you can grab a bite at one of the many restaurants or food court options. It’s easy to get there—Hanes Mall is conveniently located off I-40 at exit 190. Just follow the signs, and you’ll find plenty of free parking. When you visit, pay attention to the mall’s map to make the most of your time and don’t miss seasonal events or special sales that the mall often hosts. Happy shopping!

4. Historic Bethabara Park

If you’re visiting Winston-Salem, you should definitely make a stop at Historic Bethabara Park. This park offers a fantastic glimpse into the past with its well-preserved 18th-century buildings and lush walking trails. Founded in 1753 by Moravian settlers, it’s a great place to explore history and nature together. You can take a self-guided tour or join a guided one to learn about the early settlers’ way of life. To get there, drive on Indiana Avenue towards Bethabara Road, and you’ll find the park’s entrance clearly marked. Look out for the Visitor Center as your first stop; it offers maps and information to help you get the most out of your visit. Don’t miss the medicinal garden and the reconstructed palisade fort—these are major highlights that offer a unique peek into the past.

3. Tanglewood Park

When you’re in Winston-Salem, a visit to Tanglewood Park is a must! This beautiful park offers a bit of everything—lush gardens, scenic walking trails, and even horse stables. It’s a perfect spot for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy some outdoor fun. Getting to Tanglewood Park is easy. Just head west on I-40 and take exit 182. Follow the signs, and you’ll be there in no time. Make sure to bring a camera for the scenic views and check out the Arboretum and Rose Garden. If you’re visiting in winter, the Festival of Lights is a can’t-miss event that will add a touch of magic to your trip.

2. Wake Forest University

If you’re visiting Winston-Salem, make sure to stop by Wake Forest University. It’s a beautiful campus known for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and a vibrant academic community. To get there, you can easily drive or use local bus services. The university is just a short drive from downtown Winston-Salem, so it’s very convenient. While on campus, don’t miss the iconic Wait Chapel, the picturesque Reynolda Gardens, and the fascinating Wake Forest Museum of Anthropology. It’s a great way to experience the rich culture and academic excellence of the area.

1. BB&T Ballpark

When visiting Winston-Salem, you should definitely check out BB&T Ballpark. It’s a fantastic spot to catch a baseball game and soak up the exciting atmosphere. The ballpark is home to the Winston-Salem Dash, a minor league team, making it perfect for a fun family outing or a casual evening with friends. The park offers great views of the downtown skyline, and there’s plenty of delicious food to enjoy while you watch the game.

Getting to BB&T Ballpark is easy. If you’re driving, you can take U.S. Route 52 and exit at Stadium Drive, where you’ll find plenty of parking options nearby. If you prefer public transportation, you can use the city’s bus service, which has stops close to the ballpark.

While at the park, make sure to explore all the amenities. There are lots of interactive areas for kids and a team store where you can grab some souvenirs. Also, keep an eye on the schedule for special events and promotions that might be happening during your visit. Enjoy the game!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time of the year to visit Winston Salem?

The best time to visit Winston Salem is during the spring, from March to May, and in the fall, from September to November. These months offer mild temperatures, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, exploring historic sites, and strolling through scenic parks. The blooming flowers in spring and the colorful fall foliage add to the city’s charm. If you prefer fewer crowds and are looking for more economical options, consider visiting in the winter months of December to February. While it can be colder, you’ll find better deals on accommodations and attractions.

2. Should I rent a car in Winston Salem?

If you’re considering renting a car in Winston Salem, here are a few things to know. The roads are generally in good condition and the traffic is manageable, especially compared to larger cities. Parking is usually not a problem; many areas offer free or affordable parking. However, public transportation might also be a viable option for you. Winston Salem has a bus system that covers most of the city, and taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. If you plan to stay mostly downtown or in areas with good public transport access, you might not need a car. But if you want to explore more distant attractions or enjoy the flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car could be a good choice.

3. What are different ways to get to Winston Salem?

There are various ways to get to Winston-Salem, making it easy for travelers to choose the best option for them. If you’re flying, the nearest airport is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), which is about 25 miles away. You can also consider Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) for more flight options, though they are a bit farther away. For those preferring public transport, Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Winston-Salem, and Amtrak offers train routes that connect to nearby cities like Greensboro, with local buses available to complete your journey. If you’re driving, Winston-Salem is conveniently accessible by major highways: from Raleigh, take I-40 West for about 2 hours; from Charlotte, take I-77 North and I-40 East for around 1.5 hours; and from Greensboro, it’s a short 30-minute drive west on I-40.

4. Are there things to do with children in Winston Salem?

Absolutely! Winston Salem offers plenty of fun activities for children. Visit the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and creative play. The Kaleideum North is another great spot, combining science and nature exhibits. If your kids love animals, Tanglewood Park has a petting zoo and lots of space to run around. For some outdoor adventure, head to Salem Lake for hiking and fishing, or check out one of the many local playgrounds. There’s no shortage of family-friendly fun in Winston Salem!

5. Is Winston Salem safe to travel to?

Yes, Winston-Salem is generally a safe place to travel to. This North Carolina city has a friendly atmosphere, and most tourists have a trouble-free experience. However, like any city, it’s important to stay alert. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas or popular tourist spots. To stay safe, keep your valuables out of sight, be mindful of your surroundings, and don’t flash expensive items. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy all that Winston-Salem has to offer without worry.