Winston-Salem, North Carolina Travel Guide

Explore Winston-Salem: A charming blend of history, art, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights in the heart of North Carolina.

Winston-Salem, a city in North Carolina, is rich in history and vibrant with modern culture. Known as the 'Twin City' for its dual heritage, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new. Walk through Old Salem, a living history museum, to experience life in the 18th century. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the historic homes, and learn about the Moravian settlers who founded the town. It's a perfect place for history buffs and those who enjoy a quaint, picturesque setting. Art lovers will find a haven in Winston-Salem. The city boasts the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, featuring works from the colonial period to the present. The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) offers exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The city is also home to the annual National Black Theatre Festival, a must-see event that attracts performers and audiences from around the world. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Winston-Salem has beautiful parks and gardens. Reynolda Gardens offers stunning landscapes, while Tanglewood Park provides a range of activities from golf to horseback riding. Foodies will delight in the local cuisine, which offers everything from traditional Southern dishes to innovative farm-to-table fare. The city's breweries and wineries also provide a taste of local flavors. Whether you're interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or food, Winston-Salem has something to offer every traveler. Its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities makes it a unique and inviting destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Winston-Salem.

Visit Old Salem early in the day to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the historic sites.
Check the schedule for the National Black Theatre Festival if you're visiting in summer.
Wear comfortable shoes; many attractions are best explored on foot.
Try the local barbecue and sweet tea for an authentic Southern dining experience.
Don't miss a chance to visit the Reynolda House Museum; it offers more than just art.
Consider staying in a historic B&B to enhance your cultural experience.

Neighbourhoods in Winston-Salem

Old Salem

West End Historic District

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Winston-Salem

Explore Winston-Salem: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Winston-Salem

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The Grand Winston-Salem by Santikos

Discover luxury cinema at The Grand Winston-Salem, where film meets comfort and technology in North Carolina's premier movie theater.

4.6

Boxcar Bar + Arcade

Discover the ultimate fun zone in Greensboro, where arcade games meet delicious pizza and drinks in a lively bar setting.

4.6

Center City Park @ Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc.

Discover the heart of Greensboro at Center City Park, a lively urban park perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.

4.6

Carolina Theatre of Greensboro

Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Greensboro at the Carolina Theatre, where history meets contemporary performance in a stunning venue.

4.8

Best landmarks in Winston-Salem

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Truist Stadium

Discover Truist Stadium in Winston-Salem: a thrilling baseball venue that brings the excitement of America's pastime to life with every game.

4.6

Old Salem Museums & Gardens Administrative Offices

Experience the rich Moravian heritage at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, a living history museum in Winston-Salem, NC, where the past comes to life.

4.7

Historic Bethabara Park

Discover the beauty and history of Historic Bethabara Park, a serene escape in Winston-Salem, showcasing Moravian heritage and beautiful landscapes.

4.7

Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Discover the rich history and enchanting beauty of Old Salem Museums & Gardens, a living testament to Moravian culture in Winston-Salem, NC.

4.6

Best restaurants in Winston-Salem

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Village Tavern

Experience delightful American cuisine at Village Tavern in Winston-Salem – where every meal feels like home.

4.5

Camel City BBQ Factory

Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Camel City BBQ Factory in Winston-Salem—where every bite is infused with rich flavors and tradition.

4.4

Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden WS

Experience gourmet burgers and craft beers at Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden – a delightful culinary retreat in Winston-Salem.

5.0

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Experience exceptional wood-fired steak and seafood at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Winston-Salem – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.3

Best bars in Winston-Salem

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The Quiet Pint Tavern

Experience the cozy charm of The Quiet Pint Tavern in Winston-Salem, where craft beers and delicious pub fare unite in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6

Earl's

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Earl's in Winston-Salem, where delicious food meets live music and sports excitement.

4.1

6th & Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar

Explore the flavors of America at 6th & Vine, Winston-Salem's premier restaurant and wine bar with delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

4.4

West End Cafe

Experience the flavors of Winston-Salem at West End Cafe, a local favorite known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious, diverse menu.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Winston-Salem

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Second & Green Tavern

Discover the lively charm of Second & Green Tavern, where cocktails meet live music in a vibrant Winston-Salem night out.

4.6

Monstercade

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Winston-Salem at Monstercade, a bar and live music venue that promises unforgettable evenings.

4.8

TONY'S NIGHTLIFE

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Winston-Salem at Tony's Nightlife, where great music and vibrant atmosphere await.

3.9

Euphoria

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Euphoria in Winston-Salem—where live music, dancing, and karaoke create unforgettable memories.

4.8

Best shops in Winston-Salem

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Thruway Shopping Center

Discover a shopper's haven at Thruway Shopping Center in Winston-Salem, NC, offering diverse stores, delightful dining, and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

North Side Shopping Center

Discover diverse shopping and dining experiences at the North Side Shopping Center in Winston-Salem, NC, where every visit is a unique adventure.

3.9

Mast General Store Winston-Salem

Explore the Mast General Store in Winston-Salem for a unique shopping experience with outdoor gear, clothing, and local candies in a charming atmosphere.

4.7

Lost In Time Antique Mall

Explore a treasure trove of unique antiques and vintage finds at Lost In Time Antique Mall in Winston-Salem, NC. A must-visit for history lovers!

4.1

Explore Winston-Salem on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Winston-Salem, mapped for you.

Winston-Salem Essentials

Winston-Salem is served by Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), located about 25 miles east in Greensboro. The airport offers numerous domestic flights and some international connections. Alternatively, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is about an hour and a half drive south and offers a broader range of flights. Amtrak trains also serve the area, with the nearest station in High Point, a short drive away. For those traveling by car, Winston-Salem is conveniently located at the junction of Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 52.
Winston-Salem has a variety of transportation options. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) operates numerous bus routes throughout the city. For more flexibility, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Renting a car is another convenient option, particularly for exploring the surrounding areas. For those who prefer biking, the city offers several bike-friendly paths and trails. The downtown area is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other.
The official currency in Winston-Salem is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in the downtown area. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are increasingly accepted as well. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.
Winston-Salem is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is essential to stay vigilant. Areas such as the East Winston and some parts of the downtown area have higher crime rates, particularly during the evening hours. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to stick to well-lit, populated areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Winston-Salem has several medical facilities, including the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergencies, the Winston-Salem Police Department can be reached at (336) 773-7700.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the season. Business casual is appropriate for most dining establishments. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting historical or religious sites. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. If visiting a place of worship, dress modestly and act respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to elderly riders. Don't play loud music or engage in disruptive behavior. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Don't ignore pleasantries, as they are an essential part of Southern hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, including Carolina barbecue and Moravian cookies. Don't forget to tip your server, usually 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Winston-Salem like a local, visit the Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where you can learn about the city's Moravian heritage. Stroll through the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and its beautiful gardens. Check out a performance at the Stevens Center or the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts. For a unique experience, visit the Cobblestone Farmers Market to enjoy fresh local produce and artisan goods. Engage with locals at coffee shops and breweries to get insider tips on hidden gems and upcoming events.

When is the best time to visit Winston-Salem?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Winston-Salem

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Winston-Salem. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey y'all
  [hey y'all]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya later]
- YesYessir/Yessum
  [yes-sir/yes-ma'am]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Sure thing
  [please/sure thing]
- Thank youThank ya
  [thank ya]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pardon me/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
- Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fine. how 'bout you?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [can I see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [I'll pay now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Git!
  [git!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just browsing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much does it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [that's too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do better on the price?
  [can ya do better on the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can ya show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Winston-Salem

In 1753, a group of Moravian settlers from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, established the town of Salem in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The Moravians, a Protestant denomination with roots in what is now the Czech Republic, sought to create a religious community centered on their faith and communal living. Salem quickly became a hub of Moravian culture, education, and industry.
In 1849, the nearby town of Winston was founded, named after a local Revolutionary War hero, Joseph Winston. Initially a small village, Winston grew rapidly with the advent of the tobacco industry. The arrival of the North Carolina Railroad in the 1870s further accelerated its growth, transforming Winston into a bustling industrial center.
Winston's economy surged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the booming tobacco and textile industries. The establishment of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in 1875 by Richard Joshua Reynolds marked a significant milestone. Reynolds' innovative marketing and production techniques turned the company into one of the largest tobacco manufacturers in the world, bringing wealth and development to the area.
In 1913, the towns of Winston and Salem officially merged to form Winston-Salem, creating a larger and more economically diverse city. The merger was driven by the need to streamline services and improve infrastructure, and it marked the beginning of a new era of growth and prosperity for the region.
Old Salem, the historic district of the original town of Salem, has been preserved as a living history museum. Established in the 1950s, Old Salem Museums & Gardens offers visitors a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century Moravian life through restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and engaging exhibits. It is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.
In 1956, Wake Forest University relocated from Wake Forest, North Carolina, to Winston-Salem, bringing with it a tradition of academic excellence and innovation. The university has since become a major educational and cultural institution in the city, contributing significantly to the local economy and community life.
Known as the 'Camel City' due to the iconic Camel cigarettes produced by R.J. Reynolds, Winston-Salem has evolved into a vibrant center of arts and innovation. The city's dedication to the arts is evident in institutions such as the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA), the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, and the annual National Black Theatre Festival. Additionally, the Innovation Quarter, a hub for research and technology, symbolizes the city's forward-thinking spirit.