50+ Great Things to Do in Winston-Salem NC & Nearby 2024

Looking for Things to Do in Winston-Salem NC?

We live less than an hour away from Winston-Salem, and it’s become one of our favorites to explore. Its undeniable charm captivates us every time.

Winston-Salem is the fifth largest city in North Carolina, located in Forsyth County in the state’s Piedmont Region. The city is a perfect mixing pot of old Southern charm, country vibes, and a bustling metropolis that will keep you intrigued and excited. 

Winston-Salem was the result of a merger between two neighboring towns. The town of Salem was originally settled in 1766 by Moravian colonists. The town of Winston, named after a Revolutionary War hero, wasn’t established until the mid-1800s. In 1913, the towns formally merged into the Winston-Salem that we know today.

By the late 1800s, several tobacco companies had begun operating in the area, including RJ Reynolds and Pleasant Hanes, which would later start the clothing company now simply known as Hanes. Both the tobacco and textile industries had a major impact on the growth of Winston-Salem, with each of the above companies still headquartered there to this day.

Winston-Salem is a highly underrated city and has become more of a vacation destination in the past handful of years. It has become a foodie hub; there are tons of museums, and you can find amazing art throughout the city. This is truly a place you don’t want to skip. 

Where is Winston-Salem NC?

Winston-Salem is in north central North Carolina in Forsyth County. Greensboro lies just east of Winston-Salem, just over 30 minutes away. Charlotte is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to the southwest, while Raleigh is under 2 hours to the east.

Things to do in Winston-Salem NC

Winston-Salem is packed with activities and things to do. In fact, you could easily spend a weekend there and feel like you’d need to come back for more. Here is a guide to help you find the best activities to fit your perfect vacation. 

1. Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Address: 900 Old Salem Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The number one place to visit in Winston-Salem if you are interested in the history of the area is the Old Salem Museums & Gardens. This is a historic site telling the story of the Moravians, the free and enslaved African Americans, as well as the Indigenous peoples that have populated the area over time. Make sure to add this to your list of things to do in Winston-Salem.

At the site, there are living history museums, original buildings, houses, bakeries, and retail shops. It is free to walk around Old Salem, but tickets must be purchased at the Visitors Center to enter any buildings or museums. 

2. Historic Bethabara Park

Address: 2147 Bethabara Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

The Bethabara Historic District is there to preserve and share the heritage of the Morvians from the 1700s when they arrived in the area. This public park and historical landmark has surviving Moravian buildings, archaeological remains, exhibits, artifacts, and more. 

Visitors can explore the grounds on their own or set up personal guided tours. Special events like “Hands on History Day” or “A Celebration of Cultures” happen throughout the year, as well as holiday events where you will find authentic food, music, and costumes. 

3. Truist Stadium / Winston-Salem Dash

Address: 951 Ballpark Way, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Truist Stadium is a large ballpark in Winston-Salem and home to the Winston-Salem Dash minor league baseball team. The Dash are a Class A farm team for the Chicago White Sox, whose Triple-A club is the nearby Charlotte Knights.

4. The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art

Address: 750 Marguerite Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

This art gallery was founded in 1956 and displays multimedia contemporary art by regional artists. 

5. Bailey Park

Address: 445 Patterson Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Bailey Park is a small 1.6-acre downtown public park in Winston-Salem. There are benches, lots of green grass, and a small stage area for live music. Bailey Park is a great lunchtime spot (food trucks park along the edge of the park) and a great place to catch a concert. 

6. Krispy Kreme

Address: 259 S Stratford Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 | 5912 University Pkwy, Winston-Salem, NC 27105

I’m sure you’ve heard of the popular donut chain ‘Krispy Kreme.” But did you know Krispy Kreme started in Winston-Salem in 1937? There are two locations now in Winston-Salem, but the location on Stratford Road is the very first Krispy Kreme that ever existed.

Stop in for a donut or join a tour of the original store and warehouse to learn more about the history of the chain and the area. Tours also give a sneak peek of how their delicious donuts are made. 

7. The Winston Cup Museum & Special Event Center

Address: 1355 N Martin Luther King Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The Winston Cup era was arguably the most acclaimed period in NASCAR history. The Winston Cup Museum and Special Event Center displays 33 years of history all under one roof, including cars driven by Dale Earnhart Jr, Jimmy Spencer, and Wendell Scott. 

8. Kaleideum North

Address: 400 W Hanes Mall Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Kaleideum North is an exciting children’s museum and hands-on science center with a 17-acre environmental park and planetarium. There are hundreds of exhibits, games, learning experiences, and so much to keep young minds busy and intrigued. Kaleideum North is a great place to visit with the family. The exhibits are geared toward ages 2-13. 

9. The Long Branch Trail

Address: Martin Luther King Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 

The Long Branch Trail is a 1.7-mile greenway that goes from Martin Luther King Drive through the Innovation Quarter and ends at the Salem Creek Greenway. The trail is paved and perfect for jogging, walking, and dog walking, plus it’s stroller-friendly. 

10. Reynolda House Museum of American Art

Address: 2250 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

Here is another great stop for your things to do in Winston-Salem. The Reynolda House was originally built in 1917 and owned by RJ and Katherine Reynolds. Today, the house shares a beautiful display of American art ranging from the colonial period and the beginning of Winston-Salem to the present times. 

11. Reynolda Gardens

Address: 100 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

Reynolda Gardens is a 134-acre outdoor garden adjacent to the grounds of Wake Forest University. The landscape is complete with walking paths, colorful botanical gardens, a waterfall, benches, and more. 

12. Salem Lake

Address: 815 Salem Lake Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107

Salem Lake is a gorgeous 375-acre lake that is just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, serving as the perfect escape from the busy city. Popular activities around the lake include boating, fishing, hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Boat rentals are available at the Salem Lake Marina. 

✅ Salem Lake Trail

Address: 815 Salem Lake Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107

The Salem Lake Trail is a 7-mile loop around the entire lake and is one of the more popular trails in Winston-Salem. The path is wide, well-maintained, and kid/stroller friendly. 

13. Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts

Address: 924 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) was founded in 1965 by Frank L. Horton and his mother. They created the museum to share their collection and love of early Southern craftsmanship. 

14. The Quarry at Grant Park

Address: 1790 Quarry Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107

Near the heart of Winston-Salem, The Quarry offers a peaceful escape that feels like you are outside of the city.

The park encompasses over 200 acres, and the highlight is the overlook pier that has spectacular views of the old quarry and the skyline of Winston-Salem.

15. Hanes Mall

Address: 3320 Silas Creek Pkwy, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

The Hanes Mall is a large shopping mall right outside of downtown Winston-Salem, off of the I-40. This mall is quite spectacular as it features over 250 businesses, including designer names, a wonderful food court, a kid’s center, and a carousel. 

16. West End Historic District

Address: 601-699 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The West End Historic District holds some of the city’s most beautiful homes and historic sites. It is mainly a residential section of the city, but very pleasant to stroll around and visit a local coffee shop or brewery. 

17. Theatre Alliance

Address: 650 W 6th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

For 38 years, the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance has been bringing live entertainment to the city. They put on exciting shows and musicals like The Color Purple, Suessical Jr, and The Boys From Oz with real actors, singers, and amazing set designs. 

18. Muddy Creek Greenway

Address: 285 Meadowlark Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

The Muddy Creek Greenway is a 3-mile stretch that runs along Country Club Road through Jamison Park and ends at a bridge by Jefferson Elementary School on the outskirts of Winston-Salem. The path is paved and great for jogging, strollers, or a leisurely walk. 

19. Total Escape

Address: 280 Charlois Blvd #200, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

Are you a fan of puzzles or team-building activities with friends or family? Total Escape is Winston-Salem’s favorite fully immersive escape room. There are a number of themed rooms, from “Prison Break” to “Yacht Heist,” “Enchanted Forest,” and more. Guests must solve their way out in 60 minutes or less. 

20. Artivity on the Green 

Address: 630 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Artivity on the Green was established in 2015 to revitalize this part of the city. It is a half-acre park that connects the city’s art district with Wake Forest University through art installments and murals. 

21. Mast General Store

Address: 516 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 

The Mast General Store is a retail store that has several locations around North Carolina and has been around since 1883. Winston-Salem’s location opened in 1924 and, at the time, was the largest retail store in the Southeast.

Today, you can find a vast selection of clothing/apparel, kitchen supplies, candies, local goods, souvenirs, toys/games, and old pictures of this historic store on the walls. 

22. Rockin’ Jump

Address: 7840 North Point Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

Rockin’ Jump is an exciting trampoline adventure center for kids and adults. They have over 30,000 square feet of trampolines, rock walls, dodgeball, drop zones, a six-and-under jump zone, and more! Rockin’ Jump is a great venue for a birthday party or just a place to enjoy on a rainy day. They also offer food and drinks, 

23. Reboot Arcade Bar

Address: 534 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Reboot Arcade Bar is like stepping into a time machine. There are over 60 retro arcade games and pinball machines from the 80s and 90s inside the bar. Reboot also provides a full-service bar with handcrafted cocktails, local craft beers, and more. 

24. Crooked Tail Cat Cafe

Address: 229 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Crooked Tail Cat Cafe is a nonprofit animal rescue sanctuary and cat cafe. The cafe fosters and hosts the cats until they can find their forever homes.

While you enjoy teas, coffee drinks, pastries, and snacks, you can meet and snuggle up with adorable cats! Reservations are highly recommended. Visits to the cat lounge are donation-based but highly encouraged, as all proceeds go to providing for the cats. 

25. Adventure Landing

Address: 1600 S Stratford Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

Adventure Landing is an exciting activity center with things to do for the whole family. Activities include laser tag, mini golf, go-karts, arcade games, and bumper boats. 

26. Miracle Heights Adventures

Address: 1600 S Stratford Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

Located inside Adventure Landing is a 33-element adventure park called Miracle Heights Adventures. There is a 600-foot zip line and the only ropes course in Winston-Salem. The whole family will have a blast!

27. Diggs Gallery 

Address: O’Kelly Library at Winston-Salem State University, 601 S Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27110

The Diggs Gallery is a cultural center dedicated to sharing the arts of Africa. The gallery has one of the largest exhibition spaces in North Carolina with African-American art.  

Things to Do Nearby Winston-Salem NC

If you worked through this extensive list of things to do in Winston-Salem, here are some other amazing options nearby.

✅ Pilot Mountain State Park

Address: 1721 Pilot Knob Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043

Pilot Mountain State Park is a 3,872-acre park in Surry and Yadkin Counties, about 23 minutes from Winston-Salem. The park is most known for Pilot Mountain, the large geological knob sticking high above the treetops that has served as a landmark and guide for people for centuries. 

The park has many wonderful hiking trails, camping areas, and horseback riding trails. There are also many places to stop and enjoy a picnic. It’s a very cool place to check out for the day or spend a night camping. 

✅ Hanging Rock State Park

Address: 1790 Hanging Rock Park Dr, Danbury, NC 27016

Hanging Rock State Park can be found just 30 miles north of Winston-Salem and makes for the perfect day trip or camping experience. The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking trails, gorgeous waterfalls, and breathtaking views. Hanging Rock itself brings thousands of visitors each year who come to see the fascinating geological features. 

✅ Stone Mountain State Park

Address: 3042 Frank Pkwy, Roaring Gap, NC 28668

Stone Mountain State Park can be found in Alleghany and Wilkes counties, approximately 1 hour northwest of Winston-Salem. There are over 14,000 acres of mountains, forests, hiking trails, streams, and lots more wonderful outdoor activities. The park is most known for the 600-foot granite dome that is a National Historical Landmark. 

Stone Mountain State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails. There are also beautiful camping opportunities and designated areas for rock climbing. You can’t visit Stone Mountain State Park without visiting Stone Mountain Falls, a 200-foot waterfall. 

✅ Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden

Address: 215 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284

Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden is a 7-acre garden found in the heart of Kernersville, about 17 minutes from Winston-Salem. This magical garden is open year-round and offers views of 10 different themed gardens, plant exhibits, and more. 

✅ Horne Creek Living Historical Farm

Address: 308 Horne Creek Farm Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043

Horne Creek is a working historical farm in Pinnacle and Surry counties. The farm includes an original farmhouse, tobacco barn, century-old apple orchards, and more. This is a unique experience to see how life was lived in the early 1900s and learn more history about the area. 

✅ Tanglewood Park

Address: 4061 Clemmons Rd, Clemmons, NC 27012

Tanglewood Park is a beautiful 1,100-acre recreational park. Activities include everything from fishing (from two full-stocked lakes), access to the Yadkin River, paddle boating, tennis courts, picnic shelters, and hiking. There is even an aquatic center, horse stables, a dog park, rental facilities, and a campground. 

Softgolf | Softgolf is a family-friendly golf game that uses larger foam golf balls and specialized clubs. You won’t find anything like this anywhere else!

✅ Day trip to Mount Airy NC

(37 minutes | 36 miles from Winston-Salem) 

While Winston-Salem is full of exciting adventures, it’s nice to get out of town and explore other smaller towns in the surrounding area. Mount Airy is just over 30 minutes from Winston-Salem and has a cute downtown, exciting retail shops, fun museums, and lovely restaurants. 

✅ Yadkin Valley Wineries

(1 hr 16 mins | 76.7 miles from Winston-Salem)

Yadkin Valley, if you aren’t familiar, is the heart of wine country in North Carolina. There are around 44 wineries in the valley alone, all with their own unique style, venue, and flavor. Visiting Yadkin Valley is the perfect day or weekend trip out of Winston-Salem. 

Read More: 12 Beautiful Wineries Near Elkin, NC.

Distilleries & Breweries Winston-Salem NC 

As breweries and distilleries make their name all over their country, they also have been making their way through Winston-Salem. These are some of our favorites. 

🥃 Broad Branch Distillery
Address: 756 Trade St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Broad Branch has a gorgeous distillery in downtown Winston-Salem. They distill fine bourbon and rye whiskeys along with other spirits. The distillery offers supreme tastings and tours, and it is a great place to catch live music and enjoy company. 

🥃 Incendiary Brewing Company
Address: 486 N Patterson Ave #105, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Incendiary began in 2018 and quickly made a name for itself in unique IPAs and stouts and with their vibrant outdoor space called “The Coalpit.” The Coalpit is a local favorite location that has free weekly live concerts, Wednesday trivia nights, and beer tastings and is always a great spot to stop in for a good time. 

🥃 Sutler’s Spirit Co.
Address: 840 Mill Works St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

A “sutler” was an individual who followed the army and sold goods to soldiers. Sutler’s Spirit Co. embraced this name as they sought to “bring the people what they needed.” They strive to create original, bold-tasting gins. 

🥃 Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Company
Address: 772 Trade St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Fiddlin’ Fish is a local brewery in downtown Winston-Salem. They have a spacious taproom housed in a former tobacco warehouse where you can try their wide variety of brews. If you are searching for a good sports bar in town, Fiddlin’ Fish is the perfect place to go. 

🥃 Wise Man Brewing
Address: 826 Angelo Bros Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Sam, a chemist by day, began brewing his own beer in 2004 and, over the years, fell in love with the art. After extensive renovations of a 90-year-old building in Winston-Salem, Wise Man Brewing opened in 2017 and has since flourished. Their taproom is laid back and comfortable; it’s also a popular spot for live music. They host food trucks daily and are kid and pet-friendly. 

🥃 Small Batch Beer Co.
Address: 241 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Like their name, Small Batch Beer Company started as a microbrewery making very unique small-batch beers. Today, they have grown into a full-blown taproom, brewery, and restaurant. Small Batch Beer Co. serves hoppy IPAs, flavorful pilsners, and extremely tasty burgers, sandwiches, and snacks. 

🥃 Lesser Known-Beer Co.
Address: 901 S Broad St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Lesser Known Beer Co. celebrates beer in a way that no one else does. They share beers that are under-represented in style, flavor, and process. Your visit to the taproom will surely be delightful and unique. Lesser Known-Beer Co. also has a nice selection of wine, ciders, and non-alcoholic drinks. 

🥃 Foothills Brewing
Address: 3800 Kimwell Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 & 638 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

In 2005, Foothills Brewing became the first brewery to open its doors in Winston-Salem as craft breweries became increasingly popular. Over time, Foothills outgrew their original downtown brewery on 4th Street and opened their primary production facility and tasting room at the Kimwell Drive location.

The downtown location has since become a pub featuring fantastic food to go with their great beers and awesome atmosphere. Their taproom on Kimwell regularly features food trucks, live music, and other events. Foothills Brewing is a Winston-Salem staple.

🥃 Hoots Roller Bar & Beer Co.
Address: 840 Mill Works St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Located at the West End Mill Works site, Hoots Roller Bar & Beer Company serves as a neighborhood pub that focuses on no-frills quality craft beers. With their welcoming atmosphere, awesome patio space, and great beers, Hoots has become a local favorite. 

🥃 Joymongers Barrel Hall
Address: 480 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Joymongers Barrel Hall is the second location for Joymongers Brewing Company following the success they had at their original Greensboro location. The hall, located in a 90-year-old garage, seats over 200 people with a 50-foot bar and 18 rotating taps.

If you are in the historic West End of Winston-Salem, Joymongers Barrel Hall is a must-do. They host food trucks, have game nights, and have community events. Joymongers is also focused on growing a local music scene at this location as well. 

🥃 Radar Brewing Company
Address: 216 E 9th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Located in Industry Hill, an emerging arts and entertainment district in Winston-Salem, Radar Brewing Company is one of the city’s newest breweries. They have a great selection of rotating beers, wines, and ciders in their modern taproom. 

Annual Events in Winston-Salem NC 

✅ Riverrun International Film Festival (April 18-27, 2024) 
Address: 301 N Main St, Suite 2606, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The Riverrun International Film Festival is a regional-based, annual event put on in Winston-Salem. The festival celebrates the year’s best new international films, including short films, feature-length documentaries, animated films, and student cinema. 

✅ Piedmont Earth Day Fair (April 20, 2024) 
Address: Winston-Salem Fairgrounds

Piedmont Earth Day Fair in Winston-Salem is the largest Earth Day celebration in North Carolina. There will be lots of family fun, educational talks, hands-on games and experiments, food trucks, music, and more. 

✅ Gears & Guitars (May 24-26, 2024) 
Address: 445 Patterson Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

This year marks the 10th year of celebrating bicycles and music at Bailey Park. This is a free event where there will be exciting races, world-class bicycles, and lots of live music.

✅ Juneteenth Festival (June 17, 2024) 
Address: 445 Patterson Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

This year at Bailey Park in downtown Winston-Salem, there will be an exciting and wonderful Juneteenth celebration. All visitors will have the chance to listen to live R&B, soul, and reggae, watch authentic African dance, visit local vendors, try new foods, and lots more! This is a kid-friendly event. 

✅ Pride Festival & Parade (June 24, 2024) 
Address: Downtown Arts District, Winston-Salem

Everyone is welcome and strongly encouraged to join in the fun at the Pride Festival and Parade, which takes place every year in June. There will be so much excitement, live music, food trucks, street vendors, and of course, the big parade. People dressed in costumes in decorated cars and floats will parade down Winston-Salem’s Art District. You won’t want to miss this. 

✅ National Black Theatre Festival (July 29-August 3, 2024)
Address: 610 Coliseum Dr. NW #1, Winston-Salem, NC 27106

This semi-annual festival is at the National Black Theatre in Winston-Salem. Last year, the event brought over 60,000 attendees. There is live music, live performances, guest speakers, and so much more, all there to celebrate international spirit and reunion. 

✅ Winston-Salem Open (August 17-24, 2024) 
Address: 100 West 32nd St, Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Winston-Salem Open is a non-profit that celebrates the beginning of the tennis season. All proceeds go to Forsyth Counties’ middle school athletic programs. There will be big prize money, exciting tennis matches, food trucks, and fun. 

✅ Hispanic League Fiesta (September 9, 2024)
Address: Downtown, Winston-Salem

This year will mark the 31st year of Hispanic street fair fun in downtown Winston-Salem. This event is organized by the Hispanic League of Winston-Salem to bring the townspeople a fun, and free fiesta takeover. 

✅ Bookmarks Festival of Books and Authors (September 26-29, 2024) 
Address: Downtown Winston-Salem

Bookmarks Festival of Books and Authors is the largest book fair in North Carolina. For the past 18 years, Bookmark has been visiting Winston-Salem to share books and the love for reading. There will be “meet the author” areas, food trucks, and lots and lots of books.

✅ Carolina Classic Fair (October 4-13, 2024) 
Address: 2885 Shorefair Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27105

The Carolina Classic Fair is exactly as it sounds! When you think of a fair, the food, the rides, and the games that is exactly what this fair is. For over a week at the end of September, Winston-Salem puts on its very own fair with all the classic favorites. There will be food trucks, kid’s games, rides, live music, and so much more. 

✅ Piedmont Craftsmen’s Fair (November 16-17, 2024)
Address: 601 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The Piedmont Craftsmen’s Fair is held every year on the weekend before Thanksgiving at the Benton Convention Center. This year will mark the 60th Craftsmen’s Fair. There will be many exhibits celebrating local artists and the art they put hard work into. Mediums include clay, wood, glass, fibers, leather, metal, and so much more. 

✅ Festival of Lights at Tanglewood Park (November-January 1) 
Address: Manor House Cir, Clemmons, NC 27012

Tanglewood Park puts on an annual lights display called the “Tanglewood Festival of Lights” during the holiday season. During this time, there are thousands of colorful light displays, themed holiday days, food, and more. A trip there is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. 

​​Where To Stay in Winston-Salem NC

📍Best Western Plus Hanes Mall– Are you searching for the best lodging on a budget? Search no further; the Best Western in Winston-Salem is the perfect place to stay when you’re looking to save. This hotel is located just outside of downtown Winston-Salem and has clean, comfortable rooms to make your stay amazing. Near some of Winston-Salem’s beloved museums. 

📍Winston-Salem Marriott – Conveniently situated close to everything with a 24-hour health club for exercise or enjoy a meal at their restaurant, the Butcher and Bull. This restaurant offers American cuisine throughout the day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Winston-Salem NC: FAQs

📌 Is Winston-Salem worth a visit?
Bursting with unique experiences, fascinating history, friendly people, and beautiful art, Winston-Salem is definitely worth a visit. 

📌 What is Winston-Salem most known for?
Winston-Salem is most known for its tobacco and cigarette industry. Nicknamed “Camel City,” it is the home of RJ Reynolds, manufacturer of Camel cigarettes. Winston-Salem is also home to Wake Forest University.

📌 Does Winston-Salem have a nice downtown?
Winston-Salem has a very large downtown that boasts a unique, artistic personality. There’s a little something for everyone, including art galleries, museums, candy shops, decadent restaurants, and so much more. 

📌 Does Winston-Salem have a beach?
Winston-Salem does not have a beach. The closest beach is Wrightsville Beach, near the southern coast of NC. 

📌 ​​Can you swim at Salem Lake?
Swimming is prohibited in Salem Lake, although you can always take out a kayak or a paddleboard. 

📌 How far is Winston-Salem from the Outer Banks?
Winston-Salem is more than a 5-hour drive or 300+ miles from the Outer Banks, depending on your exact destination. 

📌 Is Winston-Salem a foodie town?
Winston-Salem has always been a foodie town and has become quite the destination food town over the years. After all, Winston-Salem is the birthplace of Krispy Kreme donuts, Texas Pete Hot Sauce, and Moravian Cookies.

📌 Is Winston-Salem a walkable city?
Winston-Salem is large and spread out, and whether it is walkable or not depends on where you are. Downtown Winston-Salem is very walkable, and most attractions, bars, and restaurants can all be reached by foot. Outside of downtown, you may want to think of different modes of transportation. 

📌 Can you just walk around Old Salem?
Yes, it is free to walk around Old Salem. It only costs money when you want to enter any houses or see any exhibits. 

Final Thoughts

Winston-Salem isn’t just another city in North Carolina. There are new and fascinating things to see and do, wonderful restaurants and breweries to try, and so many live events, festivals, and gatherings to make any trip feel special. Whether you are going for the weekend or just a simple day trip, Winston-Salem will not disappoint!