Historic Charm of Old Salem

Discover the timeless charm of Old Salem, a historic Moravian settlement in Winston-Salem, where history, culture, and tradition come alive in every corner.

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Step back in time as you wander through Old Salem, a meticulously restored Moravian settlement in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This captivating neighbourhood offers a rare glimpse into 18th and 19th-century life, complete with preserved buildings, costumed interpreters, and engaging exhibits. Each corner of Old Salem tells a story of the Moravian community's rich traditions, craftsmanship, and daily life. Explore the cobblestone streets lined with original structures, including homes, shops, and churches, each revealing fascinating insights into early American history. Must-visit spots include the Single Brothers' House, the Winkler Bakery, and the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. The area's lush gardens and tranquil setting provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and immersive experiences. Old Salem is not just about history; it's a vibrant cultural hub with events, workshops, and seasonal celebrations that bring the past to life. Whether you're savoring freshly baked goods from traditional recipes or participating in hands-on crafts, Old Salem promises a memorable journey through time for visitors of all ages.

Local tips in Old Salem

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
Visit the Winkler Bakery early to enjoy freshly baked Moravian cookies.
Check the event calendar for special activities and seasonal celebrations.
Stop by the Visitor Center for maps and guided tour information.
Explore the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts for unique exhibits.

File:Old Salem-1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Salem Tavern, Old Salem, NC.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Single Brothers Home, Old Salem, NC.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:St Philips Moravian Church.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:NathanielBonnellHouse.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Home Moravian Church, Old Salem, Winston-Salem, NC (49036541457).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old Salem Museums & Gardens Administrative Offices

Explore Old Salem Museums & Gardens, a living history museum showcasing the rich Moravian heritage of North Carolina in a beautifully preserved setting.

Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Explore Old Salem Museums & Gardens for an immersive journey into the 18th-century Moravian lifestyle in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Old Salem Museum & Gardens

Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the Moravian community at Old Salem Museum & Gardens in Winston-Salem, NC.

Historic Town of Salem

Explore the rich history and beautifully preserved architecture of Historic Salem, a captivating museum experience in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Single Brothers House

Discover the charm of the Single Brothers House, a historical landmark in Winston-Salem, NC, showcasing Moravian heritage and 18th-century life.

Old Salem Teapot

Explore the historical charm of Old Salem Teapot in Winston-Salem, NC, where Moravian culture and craftsmanship come to life in a beautifully preserved landmark.

Single Sisters' House Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Moravian community at the Single Sisters' House Museum in Winston-Salem, NC.

Recreation of first Moravian house in Salem

Discover the historical treasures of the first Moravian house in Salem, a captivating glimpse into 18th-century life in Winston-Salem.

First Official 4th of July Celebration Plaque

Explore the First Official 4th of July Celebration Plaque in Winston-Salem, NC, and discover the roots of American Independence.

Old Salem

Experience the rich history of the Moravian settlement at Old Salem, a living museum that brings 18th-century life to the present in Winston-Salem, NC.

Unmissable attractions to see

Old Salem Museums & Gardens Administrative Offices

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Moravian community at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, a captivating historical landmark in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Historic Town of Salem

Discover the rich history and charming architecture of the Historic Town of Salem, a living museum that brings early American life to life.

Essential places to dine

Sweet Potatoes

Discover Sweet Potatoes: A Southern culinary delight in Winston-Salem serving up American comfort food with local flair.

The Old Fourth Street Filling Station

Discover the culinary delight of The Old Fourth Street Filling Station in Winston-Salem - where local ingredients meet innovative New American cuisine.

Lasso Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse

Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Lasso Gaucho Steakhouse in Winston-Salem - a must-visit for food lovers seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

Mozelle's

Experience exquisite southern cuisine at Mozelle's, where every meal is crafted with care and served in an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere.

Di Lisio's Italian Restaurant

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Di Lisio's in Winston-Salem - where every meal is a delightful journey into Italy's rich culinary heritage.

Young Cardinal Cafe and Co.

Experience delicious breakfast delights at Young Cardinal Cafe and Co., a culinary treasure in Downtown Winston-Salem.

Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar

Discover innovative American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Spring House Restaurant in Downtown Winston-Salem.

Muddy Creek Cafe & Listening Room

Experience delightful cuisine and captivating live music at Muddy Creek Cafe & Listening Room in Winston-Salem.

Meridian Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at Meridian Restaurant—Winston-Salem's premier destination for fine cuisine and exceptional service.

Founders Restaurant

Experience Southern hospitality and delectable local cuisine at Founders Restaurant in Winston-Salem.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Design Archives Vintage and Handmade Emporium

Explore the charm of vintage fashion and unique handmade items at Design Archives Vintage and Handmade Emporium in Winston-Salem, NC.

Camel City Goods Co.

Explore Camel City Goods Co. for unique Winston-Salem gifts and trendy local apparel that capture the essence of the city.

Jewellery Unique Gifts & Accessories

Explore a world of unique gifts and fashionable accessories at Jewellery Unique Gifts & Accessories in downtown Winston-Salem, NC.

The Boho Depot

Explore a curated collection of unique gifts, jewelry, and metaphysical supplies at The Boho Depot in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Major Tomms Oddities & Vintage

Discover a treasure trove of antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky novelties at Major Tomms Oddities & Vintage in Winston-Salem.

Just Be

Explore Just Be, the premier gift shop in Downtown Winston-Salem, NC, for unique treasures and quality brands that inspire creativity.

V's Treasures

Explore V's Treasures in Winston-Salem, NC, where every corner hides a unique antique waiting to be discovered.

LoLo

Explore unique antiques and vintage collectibles at LoLo Antique Store in Winston-Salem, NC – a hidden gem for treasure hunters.

Salem Mercantile

Explore Salem Mercantile: Your Gateway to Unique Local Gifts and Artisan Treasures in Winston-Salem, NC.

Gallery At Old Salem

Discover the rich artistic heritage of North Carolina at the Gallery At Old Salem, showcasing local talent and historical artistry.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Second & Green Tavern

Discover Winston-Salem's vibrant nightlife at Second & Green Tavern, a lively bar offering cocktails, live music, and a fun atmosphere for all.

Tate's Craft Cocktails

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Tate's Craft Cocktails in Downtown Winston-Salem, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.

Silver Moon Saloon

Discover the lively ambiance and affordable drinks at Silver Moon Saloon, a must-visit bar in downtown Winston-Salem, NC.

Single Brothers

Discover the lively nightlife of Winston-Salem at Single Brothers Bar, a top destination for great cocktails and unforgettable experiences.

Joyner's Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Joyner's Bar in Winston-Salem, where unique drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.

West Salem Public House

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of West Salem Public House, where craft brews meet cozy coffee culture in the heart of Winston-Salem.

Fair Witness Fancy Drinks

Discover the chic cocktail culture of Fair Witness Fancy Drinks in Downtown Winston-Salem, where every sip tells a story of flavor and creativity.

Thirsty Pallet

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Thirsty Pallet, Downtown Winston-Salem's favorite bar for crafted cocktails and lively entertainment.

The Wrong Number

Discover The Wrong Number, a vibrant bar in Downtown Winston-Salem, offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding with friends.

Top of 4th Rooftop Bar

Discover the perfect blend of breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Top of 4th Rooftop Bar in Winston-Salem.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Old Salem

Discover Old Salem with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
- GoodbyeFare thee well
  [fair thee well]
- YesAye
  [ahy]
- NoNay
  [ney]
- Please/You're welcomeIf you please
  [if yoo pleez]
- Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-jed]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [pahr-dn]
- How are you?How do you fare?
  [haw doo yoo fair?]
- Fine. And you?Well enough. And yourself?
  [well en-uhf. and yur-self?]
- Do you speak English?Dost thou speak English?
  [dawst th-ow speek ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI reckon I don't follow
  [ahy reck-en ahy don't fah-low]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMayhap I could peek at the bill of fare, please
  [may-hap ahy kood peek at th-uh bil uhv fair, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't partake of flesh
  [ahy don't pahr-teyk uhv flesh]
- Cheers!Huzzah!
  [huh-zah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd be beholden if I could settle up, please
  [ahyd bee bih-hohl-duhn if ahy kood set-l up, pleez]
- Help!Succor!
  [suhk-er]
- Go away!Be off with thee!
  [bee awf with thee]
- Call the Police!Summon the Watch!
  [suhm-uhn th-uh woch]
- Call a doctor!Send for the healer!
  [send fawr th-uh hee-ler]
- I'm lostI know not where I am
  [ahy noht nawt wh-ehr ahy am]
- I'm illI'm taken unwell
  [ahy'm tay-kuhn un-wel]
- I'd like to buy...I'd fancy purchasing...
  [ahyd fan-see pur-chey-sing]
- I'm just lookingI'm merely gazing
  [ahym mer-lee gay-zing]
- How much is it?What be the price?
  [wut bee th-uh prahys?]
- That's too expensiveThat's more than I'd care to pay
  [thats mor than ahyd kair to pay]
- Can you lower the price?Might thee lower the cost?
  [meyt thee loh-er th-uh kawst?]
- What time is it?What hour is it by the sun?
  [wut aw-er iz it bay th-uh sun]
- It's one o'clockIt be one by the hour
  [it bee wun bey th-uh aw-er]
- Half past (10)Nigh unto (10)
  [nahy unto (10)]
- MorningMorn
  [mawrn]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYestermorn
  [yester-mawrn]
- TodayThis day
  [this dey]
- TomorrowOn the morrow
  [awn th-uh mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [fawr]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [eyt]
- 9Nine
  [nahyn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where be a/the...?
  [wh-ehr bee a/the]
- What's the address?What be the location?
  [wut bee th-uh loh-key-shun]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Couldst thou guide me (on the chart)?
  [koodst th-ow gahyd mee (on th-uh chahrt)]
- When's the next (bus)?When doth the next (coach) arrive?
  [wen dohth th-uh nekst (coach) uh-ryv]
- A ticket (to ....)A billet (to ....)
  [a bil-et (to ....)]

History of Old Salem

Old Salem's history begins in 1753 when a group of Moravian settlers, led by Bishop August Gottlieb Spangenberg, established the town of Salem as a religious community. The Moravians sought to create a self-sustaining and orderly society, which they achieved through agriculture, crafts, and trade. Salem became an important cultural and religious center in the region, embodying the principles of the Moravian Church and its commitment to education and community service.
The Moravian community in Old Salem developed a rich cultural heritage characterized by its unique customs, music, and craftsmanship. The Moravians are known for their contributions to American music, particularly choral and instrumental traditions. The community also excelled in trades such as pottery, woodworking, and textiles, which were essential for local commerce and played a significant role in shaping the economy of Winston-Salem.
During the American Revolutionary War, Old Salem served as a gathering place for Moravian leaders who supported the Patriot cause. The town's strategic position and its well-organized community allowed it to serve as a supply depot and a refuge for those fleeing conflict. The Moravians' commitment to peace and neutrality, however, often placed them in a complex position during this tumultuous period.
In the 19th century, Salem's growth and the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s led to the merging of Salem with the neighboring town of Winston, resulting in the establishment of Winston-Salem. This merger marked a significant transformation in the region, as the combined towns became a major commercial and industrial hub in North Carolina. The Moravian heritage continued to influence the cultural landscape of the city.
In the 20th century, efforts to preserve Old Salem's historical and architectural significance gained momentum. The Old Salem Museums & Gardens was established, focusing on restoring and interpreting the Moravian community's history. This initiative has transformed Old Salem into a living history museum, showcasing period buildings, traditional crafts, and the everyday life of Moravian settlers, attracting visitors and scholars interested in early American history.

Old Salem Essentials

Old Salem is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Winston-Salem. If you are arriving by car, you'll find ample parking available near the entrance. Public transport options include the Winston-Salem Transit Authority buses, which connect to Old Salem from downtown Winston-Salem and other neighborhoods. The closest bus stop is located on Main Street, just a short walk from the historic site. If you prefer to bike, there are bike lanes and racks available for secure parking.
Old Salem is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets. Guided walking tours are available to enhance your experience. For those with mobility issues, consider renting a wheelchair at the visitor center. There are no train services directly within Old Salem, but the city’s buses can connect you to other parts of Winston-Salem. Bicycle rentals are also available for those wishing to explore the area more extensively.
Old Salem is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is wise to exercise caution, especially in areas away from the main tourist spots. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas of Winston-Salem, particularly in neighborhoods like East Winston and parts of the downtown area, which have higher crime rates. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local hospital, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, is equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers health-related incidents. For minor health concerns, there are pharmacies in the vicinity of Old Salem where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and dress appropriately for the weather. Don't wear offensive graphics or slogans, as Old Salem is a historic site. Religion: Do respect the practices of those who attend services at local Moravian churches. Don't interrupt ongoing ceremonies or take photographs during services. Public Transport: Do be polite and allow others to exit before boarding. Don't play loud music or disturb fellow passengers. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and 'hello.' Don’t assume familiarity; use a respectful tone. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local delicacies at cafes and restaurants. Don't eat or drink while walking through historic areas to maintain the integrity of the site.
To experience Old Salem like a local, take time to visit the Moravian Book & Gift shop for unique souvenirs and baked goods. Participate in a hands-on craft workshop for a more immersive experience in local culture. Attend a community event or festival if your visit coincides with one, as these are great opportunities to meet locals and experience the traditions of the Moravian community. Don't forget to explore the gardens and historic buildings beyond the main attractions for a quieter and more authentic experience.

Historic Charm of Old Salem

Local tips in Old Salem