When you attend a large event, part of the magic is the seamless experience. You might not notice how well the layout is suited your group’s plans or how easy it was to walk from your hotel room to the gatherings and back. However, at the Twin City Quarter, the entire team of hospitality experts is working behind the scenes to make sure that the synergy of large events melts into the background while you innovate, engage, and enjoy, and the fun doesn’t stop after the event is over.
Large group gatherings begin with the combined benefit of hosting at the Benton Convention Center while guests stay at the interconnected Marriott Winston-Salem, both located centrally downtown. As you plan a major event, you’ll work with centralized points of contact that coordinate the timing, capacity, and needs of your event and the available facilities. Between the Marriott’s 319 guest rooms/ suites and 157,000 square feet of meeting space, you’ll find your expectations met and exceeded, from comprehensive branding and signage for your events to thoughtfully chosen menus and layouts for your space use. Within the Benton Convention Center, you’ll find inspiring architectural touches and more than 20 works of art from North Carolina
artists; no matter what event you attend, the inspiring spaces always yield dividends of creativity and connection.
And what if you want to take in downtown Winston-Salem even beyond your group’s event, whether it be a couple of days before or after a conference, or simply a local staycation or getaway? The Marriott’s location, beautifully redesigned rooms and suites, and amenities beckon you to relax and explore. Elite guests love the M Club, a sleek and comfortable lounge space perfect for productivity or recharging; any guest can purchase an upgrade and access the Club for 24/7 snacks, sips and even breakfast. Head to the spacious 2,500-square-foot health club for an energizing workout. Take in the museums, galleries and shopping of downtown without even having to head back to your car. For dinner, make sure you don’t miss Butcher & Bull, a contemporary steakhouse open for both breakfast and dinner.
Make the most of your vacation or conference visit to the City of Arts and Innovation.
At the Marriott Winston-Salem and Benton Convention Center, all the details have been handled: the spaces have been arranged, the delicious food prepared, and the rooms are ready — your visit awaits. twincityquarter.com
PUBLISHED BY DESTINATION CREATIVE GROUP
5710 W. Gate City Blvd., Ste. 237 Greensboro, NC 27407 destinationcreativegroup.com
PRESIDENT Steve Mitchem Steve@ DestinationCreativeGroup.com 336.601.1271
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Robin Sutton Anders
ART DIRECTOR
Jody Mustain
CUSTOM CONTENT ART DIRECTOR
Lynn Gianiny
COPY EDITOR
Anna Brannin
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Breedlove
Tina Firesheets
Laura Lee
Lisa O’Donnell
Eleanor Spicer Rice
Jimmy Ryals
Alice Manning Touchette
City of Arts, Innovation & Experiences
Dear Visitors, Welcome to Winston-Salem — one city with two names that is Twice as Nice.
History runs deep here — etched into the bricks and skyline, and alive in the stories unfolding every day. At Historic Bethabara Park and Old Salem Museums & Gardens, America’s earliest chapters come to life through immersive, hands-on experiences that reveal how our story began. And that’s just the beginning. As America celebrates 250 years, Winston-Salem invites you to experience nearly every era of the nation’s journey — from colonial beginnings and industrial growth to 20th-century breakthroughs in art, culture and civil rights.
Beyond downtown, you’ll find outdoor spaces that are just as inspiring — miles of trails and greenways, scenic parks and gardens, and the rolling vineyards of the nearby Yadkin Valley — all tucked within the picturesque North Carolina foothills.
Inside this guide, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for planning your own Winston-Salem getaway. Discover can’t-miss annual events, expert-led tours, and one-of-a-kind museums that showcase our culture and creative spirit.
So go ahead, come on in, and experience Winston-Salem for yourself. You’ll find a city that delights, surprises and inspires — and welcomes you back again and again.
Info@VisitWinstonSalem.com
Visit Winston-Salem and DCG have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Printed in the United States.
Today, known as the City of Arts & Innovation, Winston-Salem carries that same spirit of creativity into the present. You’ll see it throughout the city — especially downtown, where restored factories now hum with artist studios, biotech labs, craft breweries and more. The culinary scene is equally inventive, with award-winning restaurants earning national praise and James Beardnominated chefs putting fresh spins on Southern classics.
Warm regards, Stephanie Pace Brown President & CEO, Visit Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is proud to be named a winner in Good Housekeeping’s 2026 Travel Awards, one of only 22 cities recognized worldwide. The honor reflects evaluations from more than 125 travel testers who reviewed hundreds of destinations across five continents. It’s a meaningful milestone that highlights why travelers return and new fans keep discovering us.
LET'S CONNECT!
There are lots of ways to learn what’s new in Winston-Salem. If you’re in the neighborhood, come see us at 200 Brookstown Ave., or visit us at VisitWinstonSalem.com.
Photo by Wialexka Nery IG: @WialexkaNeryPhotography
DOWNTOWN DELIVERS
What makes downtown Winston-Salem a desirable destination to visit is also what makes it an attractive place to work, reside and do business. There’s an unmistakable creative and collaborative spirit in the restaurants, shops, arts venues and innovative businesses centered here.
Annual events like Shop the Block (November) showcase dining and shopping. The Winston-Salem Cycling Classic and Gears and Guitars Music Festival (May) bring exciting road racing and great music to the city streets.
Arts and culture are celebrated year-round here. Check out the free concerts during the Summer Music Series, with jazz on Fridays and local bands on Saturdays.
Discover emerging artists at gallery shows and catch indie cinema at a/perture. Hear grand orchestral works and opera at the Stevens Center. Visit downtown attractions like Old Salem, the West End Historic District, Innovation Quarter and the Downtown Arts District. A minor-league baseball game at Truist Stadium is a relaxing way to spend a summer afternoon or evening.
The Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership (DWSP) is working behind the scenes to ensure the city center’s success. By supporting businesses and organizing events, the not-for-profit group is helping to make downtown Winston-Salem a vibrant place for all.
downtownws.com
downtownWS
downtownwinstonsalem
#DTWS IS BOOMING
Here’s what you’ll find:
5,400 housing units
10,000 residents
27,295 employees daily
More than 100 restaurants and coffee shops
9 breweries + 36 bars and nightclubs
More than 85 galleries and shops
1 Sink your teeth into a soft “Hot Now” Krispy Kreme doughnut at the flagship store. (259 S. Stratford Rd.)
2 Stand in silence at God's Acre, the Salem Moravian graveyard located in Old Salem. (501 S. Main St.)
3 Tour Reynolda Gardens, home to nature trails, formal gardens, wetlands and a historic greenhouse. Free and open daily. (2250 Reynolda Rd.)
4 Purchase local art from an Art-o-mat machine. A Winston-Salem original, Art-o-mats are retired cigarette vending machines that have been converted to vend art. See more at artomat.org.
5 Score big at ROAR, a multi-level fun hub offering duckpin bowling, mini golf, arcade games and more. (633 N. Liberty St.)
25 Things to Do- Only in Winston-Salem
WINSTON-SALEM IS YOUR DESTINATION FOR ART, HISTORY, FOOD AND RECREATION. | BY TINA FIRESHEETS
W inston-Salem is where past and present live side by side — and where something unexpected is always around the corner. Think storied streets and bold new flavors, indie art hubs and scenic trails — all wrapped into one easygoing destination. Whether you're here for a quick visit or a long weekend, you’ll find character, charm and adventure — and plenty of reasons to come back. Let this be your starting guide to the city’s standout sights and signature experiences.
6 Do it all at Bailey Park — check out live music, perfect your yoga pose and more. This space checks all the boxes. (445 Patterson Ave.)
7 Explore Old Salem, a living history district where 18th-century customs come to life with costumed guides and hands-on experiences. Be sure to stop at Winkler Bakery for gifts and fresh-baked goodies.
8 Race to Bowman Gray Stadium for an evening at NASCAR’s first and longest running weekly track. (1250 S. MLK Jr. Dr.)
9 At the award-winning Truist Stadium, root, root, root for the home team, the Winston-Salem Dash (951 Ballpark Way)
OLD SALEM MUSEUMS & GARDENS
BAILEY PARK
REYNOLDA GARDENS
WINSTON-SALEM DASH
10
Snap a selfie at the Insta-worthy, 12-foot tall Mickey Coffee Pot.
11
Sway the night away at the Downtown Summer Music Series, at various downtown locations June through August.
12
Snap a selfie in front of the only Shell Oil clamshell station in the U.S. (1111 E. Sprague St.)
13
Dine at James Beard-nominated restaurants: Bobby Boy Bakeshop (1100 Reynolda Rd.), Mission Pizza Napoletana (707 N. Trade St.) and Heff’s Burger Club (285 W. 4th St.)
14
Tour Historic Bethabara Park, the first Moravian settlement in the Southeast.
Now a national historic site and nature preserve that's free to explore. (2147 Bethabara Rd.)
15
Share a secret through the whisper dishes at ARTivity on the Green, a small but ultra-photogenic, art-themed park in the Downtown Arts District.
16
Place a lock for your love on the chain link fence that encloses the observation deck at The Quarry at Grant Park (1790 Quarry Rd.)
17 Bring out your inner child at Kaleideum, downtown's dazzling new hands-on learning museum. (120 W. 3rd St.)
18 Rock out at The Ramkat, downtown's most revered music hall. (170 W. Ninth St.)
19 Tour "the strangest home in America," historic Körner's Folly (413 S. Main St., Kernersville)
20 Forget Netflix. Instead, take in an indie flick at a/perture cinema, downtown's nonprofit art-house cinema. (311 W. 4th St.)
21
Order a pint or tasting flight at Foothills Brewpub, downtown's oldest and most esteemed brewery. (638 W. 4th St.) Not a beer drinker? Check out the options at Foothills' sister business, Footnote Coffee & Cocktails, next door.
22 Explore the galleries, shops and murals in the Downtown Arts District (Trade Street). Bonus points if you visit during Art Crush, a monthly block party held every third Friday (April-Dec.).
23 Nibble on crispy Moravian cookies from any of the city's iconic Moravian bakeries — Winkler, Dewey's Wilkerson or Mrs. Hanes
24 Take a walk along the 1.2-mile Winston-Salem Strollway that links historic Old Salem with the downtown business district.
25 Choose your own adventure with Triad ECO Adventures, which offers guided e-bike, Segway, paddleboard and trolley tours through some of the city's most popular spots. (176 YWCA Way)
ART CRUSH
ARTIVITY ON THE GREEN
SHELL OIL CLAMSHELL STATION
KALEIDEUM
A/PERTURE CINEMAS
1700s
1753
Moravians, a religious group from Central Europe, settle in the Bethabara area.
1772
1766
Moravians establish the town of Salem near Bethabara and create the nation’s first public waterworks.
Salem College, the oldest continuously operating educational institution for women in the United States, is founded.
1800s
1851
The town of Winston is founded a mile north of Salem and becomes a thriving industrial center.
1875
R.J. Reynolds opens a tobacco factory in Winston, changing the town’s fortunes forever. The company, still headquartered locally, is now part of the world’s secondlargest tobacco operation (British American).
1892
Slater Industrial Academy is founded. Now known as Winston-Salem State University, the school has become one of America’s leading HBCUs.
1900-1920s
1901
Hanes is founded locally. The company is rebranded as Hanesbrands in 2006.
1917
1913
Winston and Salem unite as one city: Winston-Salem.
Reynolda House, the historic home of R.J. and Katharine Reynolds, is completed.
Reynolda House
Bethabara Park
1891 map of Forsyth County
HISTORY, VITALITY, INNOVATION
ONCE KNOWN AS A TOBACCO AND TEXTILE TOWN, WINSTON-SALEM HAS REINVENTED ITSELF AS A HUB FOR TECHNOLOGY, BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING.
In Winston-Salem, today’s flourishing arts scene and bustling downtown have colonial roots and a manufacturing backbone. The Salem area was first settled in 1753 by the Moravians, a group of German-speaking religious migrants. A century later, the city of Winston became an industrial hub for textiles and tobacco. In 1913, the two united, and Winston-Salem was born.
These days, the city is home to over 260,000 residents, making it the fifth-largest city in the Carolinas. Known as the “City of Arts and Innovation,” it lives up to its name with a vibrant arts scene, thriving medical community and nationally acclaimed schools. In the downtown area alone, you’ll find over 100 restaurants and bars, 20 galleries and museums, and dozens of live entertainment venues, creating a dynamic big-city culture with small-town charm.
From past to present, this timeline highlights just a few of the many pivotal moments that have shaped Winston-Salem — from local firsts and national milestones to cultural breakthroughs.
1920s-1950s
1929
The art deco R.J. Reynolds Building is completed. It later inspires NYC’s Empire State Building.
1937
Krispy Kreme is founded in Winston-Salem.
1949
Winston-Salem establishes the nation's first Arts Council, which celebrated 76 years in 2025.
1954
Wake Forest University moves from Wake Forest, N.C, to Winston-Salem.
1960s-1990s
1989
1963
UNC School of the Arts opens. It is the first state-supported school of its kind in the nation.
Winston-Salem hosts the first biennial International Black Theatre Festival.
1994
Piedmont Triad Research Park opens in downtown. Renamed the Innovation Quarter, it’s now among the nation’s fastestgrowing research parks.
2000s
2010
Winston-Salem’s downtown ballpark (now Truist Stadium) opens. It’s later named the nation’s top ballpark by BaseballParks.com.
2021
The renovated Salem Parkway wins America’s Transportation Award.
2025
2024
Kaleideum, an experiential learning museum for children, opens in downtown along West 3rd Street.
The Clash brings sell-out crowds to iconic Bowman Gray Stadium, giving the city its first NASCAR race in 50-plus years.
Truist Stadium
International Black Theatre Festival
R.J. Reynolds Building
BAILEY PARK
Welcome
to the Neighborhood
EACH OF WINSTON-SALEM’S HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOODS BRINGS ITS OWN PERSONALITY, HELPING SHAPE A CITY THAT’S WALKABLE, WELCOMING AND RICH IN COMMUNITY SPIRIT. | BY
LARA IVANITCH
“Downtown always has something going on — festivals, shows, 5k races — so it’s a gathering place for townies and visitors alike.
You’ll meet lots of characters, too, like the Bongo Man who sits outside our wine bar [Little Pep] and adds a fun beat to our end of Trade Street.”
— Anna Impson, co-owner of Little Pep
Downtown
The heartbeat of the city, downtown beautifully blends Winston-Salem’s past and present — 1920s art deco landmarks, repurposed tobacco factories, and more than 100 bars and restaurants. This walkable hub is alive with greenways, murals and nonstop entertainment.
DON’T MISS:
Innovation Quarter: Centered around Bailey Park, this urban hub has inspired local favorites like Incendiary Brewing, Tuscany by Sage & Salt, and DeBeen Espresso.
Restaurant Row: Fourth Street pairs standout hotels with top-tier dining options, from modern Indian fare at Oh’ Calcutta to award-winning brunch at Young Cardinal Cafe.
Industry Hill: The city’s biggest music club, The Ramkat, three breweries and Broad Branch Distillery are part of a wave of creative businesses revitalizing the north end of downtown.
Arts District: Bold murals brighten the landscape along Trade and Liberty streets, as artists display work at Piedmont Craftsmen, Delurk and other galleries. Don’t miss Mast General Store, Little Pep and ARTivity on the Green.
West Salem
Just west of historic Old Salem, West Salem — which dates back to the 18th century — blends a vibrant spirit with peaceful energy. Lush private gardens reflect its farmland roots, now dotted with coffee shops, restaurants and the popular Cobblestone Farmers Market.
DON’T MISS:
Old Salem Heritage Bridge: This 120-foot covered bridge connects the Old Salem Visitor Center to the historic village, echoing the area’s 18th-century Moravian architecture.
Downtown Strollway: Walk past historic homes, and cross Salem Parkway via a pedestrian bridge that connects Old Salem and downtown.
East of Texas: Dig into a tray of brisket and barbecue on the open-air patio, where dogs lounge tableside and kids play cornhole.
Easytalk: Owned by N.C. Bartender of the Year David Bowen and wife Maddie Fox — both UNCSA grads — this cocktail bar mixes fun concepts with creative flair.
West Salem Arts Hotel: This vibrant, bohemian-style Airbnb features six uniquely themed rooms — aka “art-partments” — and doubles as a gallery with rotating exhibits and local artwork for sale.
“We’re only two minutes from downtown, but it sometimes feels like a hidden retreat — tranquil, lush and full of character. Its diverse mix of people and cultures creates a warm, unpretentious vibe.”
— Haydee Thompson, owner of West Salem Arts Hotel
n Clockwise from top left: Downtown dining; East of Texas Opposite: Bailey Park
DOWNTOWN DINING
EAST OF TEXAS
“West End is a great neighborhood with lots of wonderful shops, bars and restaurants. But most of all, it’s the people — business owners and visitors — who make it special.”
West End
Built for the city’s upper class in the late 1800s, West End was once dubbed the most beautiful neighborhood in the Carolinas. Today, it charms with lush greenery and a mix of Tudor, Queen Anne and bungalow-style homes — plus shops, sidewalk cafés and places to unwind.
DON’T MISS:
The Remedy: Located in the 1928 Summit Street Pharmacy Building, this cozy coffee-and-tea shop transforms into a pub by night.
The Porch: Located in the West End Millworks complex, this colorful Tex-Mex cantina is known for dishes like Texas Pete Chicken Flautas and Friday margarita flights.
Hanes Park: For over a century, this former dairy farm-turned-park has hosted generations of play on its courts, fields and playgrounds.
Cafe Gelato: Known for house-made gelato and refreshing boba teas, this sweet spot is a neighborhood favorite. Joymongers: This brewery ages beers to perfection in bourbon and wine barrels.
East Winston
This tight-knit community just east of downtown includes several smaller neighborhoods like Skyland, Bowen Park and Reynoldstown. Home to Winston-Salem State University, it’s rich in culture and history, with landmarks like Goler Metropolitan AME Zion Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. spoke in 1964.
DON’T MISS:
Forsyth Seafood: A staple for more than 30 years, this family-run seafood market and restaurant is beloved for its fresh fish, hushpuppies and Southern sides.
Quarry Park: Officially known as The Quarry at Grant Park, this 200-acre retreat features walking trails, dramatic views and a mining-themed playground.
Winston Lake Golf Course: Designed by renowned architect Ellis Maples, this historic municipal course spans 500 acres of rolling woodlands, offering a fun challenge for all skill levels.
Delta Arts Center: A cultural fixture for over 50 years, the Delta Arts Center hosts rotating exhibitions, artist talks, poetry slams and other free events. Tours are available by appointment.
“Here, the history of Black life in this city isn’t just preserved — it’s lived daily. From elders who’ve called East Winston home for decades to younger generations shaping its future, there’s a shared pride you can feel in the rhythms of everyday life.”
— Whitney Harness, director of Delta Arts Center
— Ciska Weber, owner of Cafe Gelato in the West End
n Clockwise from left: Quarry Park; The Remedy; Winston Lake Golf Course
QUARRY PARK
WINSTON LAKE GOLF COURSE
THE REMEDY
“We love meeting the families who come in and watching kids grow up. Over time, they feel like part of your extended family — and they bring more with them. It’s a privilege to be part of that.”
Washington Park
Only two miles south of downtown, Historic Washington Park is known for its friendly front porches, tree-lined streets and architectural variety — from cozy Craftsman bungalows to stately Georgian mansions.
DON’T MISS:
Washington Park: Kids love the dinosaur playground, dogs love the fresh air and everyone enjoys the wild, wooded feel of this 75-acre urban oasis.
Monstercade: Covered in graffiti and proudly offbeat, this small bar might not be for everyone — but if you’re into quirky vibes and original live music, you’ll feel right at home.
Acadia Foods: This casual deli and market is a neighborhood gem. Try the Collard Green Melt — available for breakfast, lunch or dinner — then browse the market for fresh produce and pantry staples.
Slappy’s Chicken: The homemade sauce on this sweet-and-spicy fried chicken pairs well with Southern sides like mac and cheese and collards.
Ardmore
A few miles west of downtown, Ardmore is Winston-Salem’s largest historic district, home to 2,300 properties. It’s known for its walkable streets, charming homes and its central crown jewel: Miller Park.
DON’T MISS:
Stella Brew: This neighborhood bottle shop offers a well-curated selection of craft beers and wines from across the country and world.
P.B.’s Takeout: Grab a seat at the counter or picnic tables out front — but during lunch rush, plan to get your hot dogs and tater tots to go.
Miller Park: Enjoy wooded, creekside trails, a fenced playground and picnic shelters ideal for cookouts.
Ginger Bread Man Bakery: This all-vegan bakery is known for fun, flavorful treats — think playful pastries, toaster pastries, colorful cupcakes and deluxe cookie sandwiches.
“I chose to open my bakery in Ardmore because it’s such a community-based neighborhood where everybody is welcoming and friendly.”
— Wade Lindsay, owner of Ginger Bread Man Bakery
— Jessica McClure and Jon Engel, owners of Acadia Foods
n Clockwise from left: Washington Park neighborhood; Washington Park playground; Ardmore Historic District
Right:
photo by Linda Arns
WASHINGTON PARK NEIGHBOROOD
ARDMORE
WASHINGTON PARK PLAYGROUND
ANNUAL EVENTS
EXPLORE MORE THAN TWO DOZEN STANDOUT EVENTS — FROM STREET FESTIVALS TO FILM FESTS AND HOLIDAY FAVORITES.
Spring
EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE
April 5, 2026
Now in its 254th year, this simple yet powerful tradition takes place in God’s Acre — Old Salem’s serene Moravian graveyard. It’s recognized as the nation’s oldest and largest Easter sunrise service. MoravianSunrise.org
RIVERRUN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
April 17–25, 2026
This Academy Award–qualifying festival, named a Top 10 film event by USA Today, screens 150+ films across multiple venues — from documentaries to animated shorts to indie gems. RiverRunFilm.com
PIEDMONT EARTH DAY FAIR
April 18, 2026
The largest Earth Day celebration in the Carolinas unfolds annually at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds with food, live music, kids’ crafts and green-lifestyle exhibits. PeaNC.org
KERNERSVILLE SPRING FOLLY
May 1–3, 2026
Downtown Kernersville welcomes 40,000+ for carnival rides, games, live music on multiple stages, food trucks, a beer garden, local vendors, classic-car shows and more. KernersvilleNC.com
SUMMERLARK
May 9, 2026
Atrium Health’s annual benefit concert in Innovation Quarter raises funds for local cancer patients with a full day of live music, headlined by a national artist, plus food trucks and family activities. InnovationQuarter.com
GEARS & GUITARS
May 22–23, 2026
Held over Memorial Day weekend, Gears & Guitars brings free concerts to downtown Winston-Salem’s Bailey Park, featuring performers from local favorites to national chart-toppers. The shows take place alongside the Winston-Salem Cycling Classic, a pro criterium race that attracts top cyclists from across the country. GearsandGuitarsFest.com
Summer
PRIDE FESTIVAL & PARADE
June 13, 2026
One of the largest Pride celebrations in the Southeast unfolds annually in downtown. The day begins with a colorful parade along Fourth Street, followed by an all-day festival on Trade Street with 100+ vendors, a food truck rodeo, family fun and live entertainment on multiple stages. PrideWS.org
JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL
June 20, 2026
The region’s largest Juneteenth event — now in its 27th year — brings thousands to downtown’s Innovation Quarter for music, dance, exhibits, vendors and children’s activities. TriadCulturalArts.org
INTERNATIONAL BLACK THEATRE FESTIVAL
July 27–Aug. 1, 2026
Held every two years, this world-class event brings thousands of theatre pros and patrons to town for a week of performances, panels, parties and more. NCBlackRep.org
CAROLINA CLASSIC FAIR
WINSTON-SALEM OPEN
Aug. 22–29, 2026
Ranked ATP Tournament of the Year, this pro tennis event serves as a final tune-up for the U.S. Open (and, as a result, draws dozens of the world’s top players).
WinstonSalemOpen.com
DOWNTOWN SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
Weekly, June–August
This free series has lit up downtown since 1998 with two unique concert events held on alternating weekends: Downtown Jazz on Fridays at Corpening Plaza with national jazz artists, and Summer on Fourth on Saturdays, a lively block party with regional bands. DowntownWS.com
Fall
HISPANIC LEAGUE FIESTA
Sept. 19, 2026
Spanning multiple downtown blocks, this vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month event has been going strong for 35 years. Enjoy a variety of food options, margaritas, merch vendors, live entertainment and familyfriendly fun. HispanicLeague.org
APPLE FESTIVAL AT BETHABARA
Sept. 26, 2026
Step into fall at Historic Bethabara Park, with 18th-century crafts, reenactors, live music, food vendors and fresh-apple tasting in scenic colonial surroundings. HistoricBethabara.org
BOOKMARKS FESTIVAL
Sept. 26, 2026
The Carolinas’ largest book festival takes over several downtown blocks near the Milton Rhodes Center. Meet dozens of authors — including many bestsellers — plus enjoy exhibits, book sales, food trucks and family activities. BookmarksNC.org
OUT AT THE MOVIES FILM FEST
Oct. 1–4, 2026
As the second-largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the Carolinas, this 13th-annual event features dozens of screenings, nightly parties, panels and more at venues across the city. OutattheMovies.org
CAROLINA CLASSIC FAIR
Oct. 2–11, 2026
The state’s second-largest agricultural fair draws 300,000+ for rides, games, fireworks and some of the South’s best fair food. Daily entertainment includes rodeos, magic shows, demolition derbies and nationally known musical acts. CarolinaClassicFair.com
KERNERSVILLE OKTOBERFEST
Oct. 3, 2026
Raise a glass to fall at Körner’s Folly during this annual fall fundraiser. Sample seasonal brews paired with small bites donated by local breweries and restaurants — all set against the backdrop of this whimsical historic home. KornersFolly.org
PIEDMONT CRAFTSMEN’S FAIR
Nov. 21–22, 2026
A juried show entering its sixth decade, this Benton Convention Center fair features 100+ Southeast artisans, live demos and handmade holiday-gift shopping. PiedmontCraftsmen.org
Holidays
TANGLEWOOD FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Nov. 13–Jan. 1
Drive through over a million lights and 80 festive scenes at Tanglewood Park, named the Carolinas’ best light display by Travel + Leisure TanglewoodPark.org
OLD SALEM HOLIDAY EVENTS
November–December 2026 (various dates)
Explore candlelit tours, weekly Saturday events, ChristmasFest German Market and Moravian Candle Tea in the Single Brothers House — celebrating Old Salem’s rich traditions. OldSalem.org
SEASONAL SPECTACLES IN KERNERSVILLE
November–December 2026 (various dates)
Enjoy Victorian Christmas at KÖrner’s Folly, then wander the Ciener Garden’s Spectacular Holiday Blooms — 10,000 handcrafted recycled flowers in a unique botanical display. KornersFolly.org
HOLIDAY PARADE + TREE LIGHTING
Dec. 5, 2026
Downtown’s festive first-Saturday events begin with a Fourth-Liberty parade at 5 p.m., followed by the annual tree-lighting ceremony at Corpening Plaza. WSParade.com
Recurring Events
ART CRUSH
Monthly, April 17–Dec. 19
The Downtown Arts District’s signature block party lights up Trade and Sixth streets every third Friday. Meet local artists, explore new exhibits, and enjoy vendors, live entertainment, kids’ activities and extended gallery hours. ArtsDistrictWS.org
WINSTON-SALEM FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Multiple 2026 dates
Held in downtown’s Industry Hill neighborhood, this biannual festival brings the region’s best food trucks and live music to Ninth Street. Festivals are scheduled each May and September, with an occasional bonus event in August. WinstonSalemFoodTruckFestival.com
READY TO PLAN YOUR VISIT?
Check out our online Events Calendar for details on all upcoming events. VisitWinstonSalem.com/Events
n Above, left to right: Juneteenth Festival; International Black Theatre Festival; Gears & Guitars
Opposite: Carolina Classic Fair
JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL
GEARS & GUITARS
INTERNATIONAL BLACK THEATRE FESTIVAL
KÖRNER’S FOLLY
Körner’s Folly is an architectural wonder that preserves the timeless connection between passion and art. Built in Kernersville in 1880, the 22-room museum was once home to Jule Körner and still displays his interior design portfolio. Wandering through the house museum intrigues visitors at every turn, with unique original furnishings and artwork, cast-plaster details, carved woodwork and elaborate hand-laid tile. And it’s just 15 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem.
kornersfolly.org
336.996.7922
kornersfolly
WINSTON-SALEM’S HOME FOR ENTERTAINMENT
Whether you’re visiting or you call Winston-Salem home, the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds deliver nonstop excitement. The Carolina Classic Fair draws 270,000+ guests annually, and the Fairgrounds host more than 100 public events like ice skating, concerts, festivals and trade shows. With over 600,000 yearly visitors, the Fairgrounds is Winston-Salem’s home for entertainment! Just down the road, Bowman Gray Stadium thrills with historic NASCAR short track racing and WinstonSalem State University football. Discover what’s happening next at wsfairgrounds.com.
HISTORIC BETHABARA PARK
Established in 1753, Bethabara is the site of the first Moravian settlement in North Carolina and the birthplace of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Today, Historic Bethabara Park offers free special events for the community, 183 acres of wildlife preserve, historic gardens, over ten miles of trails, centuries-old buildings, a reconstructed French and Indian War palisade fort and a Colonial village. Also featured at the park is the 1788 Gemeinhaus, the oldest standing church with attached residence in the United States. The gift shop, located at the Visitor Center, offers a unique array of handcrafted items.
FROM GHOST STORIES TO GOURMET BITES, GUIDED TOURS OFFER A MEMORABLE WAY TO EXPLORE WINSTON-SALEM.
BY JIMMY RYALS
Atrolley tour with Triad ECO Adventures transformed Rylee Fanfan’s view of the city she’d called home for 15 years. Now, she helps give others the same experience as a tour guide.
Her “aha” moment came during the Twin City Tour — a two-hour ride designed to mirror Winston-Salem’s own timeline.
“We start in Old Salem, then go through the Reynolds family and the railroad, and progressively we build Winston-Salem,” she says. “It flows with the flow of history.”
In addition to trolley tours, Triad ECO Adventures offers guided Segway and e-bike outings, plus paddleboard tours at Salem Lake. While the Segway and e-bike tours typically cover the greater downtown area — including its greenways — the Twin City Tour spans the entire city. See all the options at TriadEcoAdventures.com
Of course, Triad ECO Adventures is just one way to take in Winston-Salem. Here are more expert-led tours to help you experience the city from new angles.
History, Haunts & Culture
CAROLINA HISTORY & HAUNTS
The shadows you’ll see on this lanternlit walking tour of Historic West End probably aren’t ghosts. Book a tour to be sure. Offered nightly, these 90-minute tours are part history lesson, part harrowing adventure.
CarolinaHistoryandHaunts.com
TRIAD CULTURAL ARTS
HERITAGE TOURS
On foot, by bus or in a trolley, these engaging tours dive deep into local African American history, culture and the arts. Tours are customizable and available by appointment.
TriadCulturalArts.org
TRIANGLE WALKING TOURS
Step into the past with guided tours through downtown covering topics such as Industrial Heritage, African American History and True Crime. Tours take place on Saturdays or by appointment.
TriangleWalkingTours.com
COLONIAL HAUNTS
(U.S. GHOST ADVENTURES)
Explore the spooky side of Old Salem during this one-hour nightly walking tour offered by U.S. Ghost Adventures. USGhostAdventures.com/ Winston-Salem
More to See & Do
These are just a few of the tours available year-round. Major attractions like MESDA, Reynolda House Museum of American Art and Historic Bethabara Park also offer guided experiences, while additional options — limo tours and more — add to the mix. Find more, including seasonal and wine-country tours, in the “Things to Do” section at VisitWinstonSalem.com.
Food, Drinks & Fun
TASTE CAROLINA
GOURMET FOOD TOURS
Named a top travel experience by AAA Carolinas, this brunch-themed downtown tour features food and drink pairings at local restaurants. Held Saturdays, with private tours available any day.
TasteCarolina.net
HOOK & LADDER PARTY PUMPER
Climb aboard a retired firetruck for a high-energy, BYOB ride through downtown. Retired firefighters lead the way with music, lights and stops at bars or breweries.
HookandLadder.club
TROLLEY PUB
Bring your favorite drinks and playlist and pedal through town on a bar on wheels. Tours run nearly every night, with a six-person minimum to power the ride. TrolleyPub.com/WinstonSalem
SPARKY’S RICKSHAW
From art and architecture to breweries and historic sites, Sparky’s offers customizable rickshaw tours for two, tailored to your interests. SparkysRickshaw.co
OLD SALEM WALKING TOUR
TASTE CAROLINA TOUR
TRIAD ECO ADVENTURES
The Historic Brookstown Inn is where Southern hospitality meets a living museum, surrounded by history, art and treasure. The inn’s 70 spacious guest rooms offer modern amenities in an architecturally unique setting. Sample Southern-style hospitality with a hot breakfast, an evening wine and cheese reception and cookies and milk at bedtime. The Brookstown Inn is more than just a getaway. Grand banquet facilities and two lovely courtyards plus on-site catering make the inn a memorable setting for a business meeting or wedding and reception. brookstowninn.com
Greater Winston-Salem Inc., the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Forsyth County, invites you to experience all that makes our city unique. From a thriving business community to a rich arts and cultural scene, Winston-Salem is a place where innovation meets southern charm. In just the past five years, more than $700 million in new investment has fueled our growth, while our WELCOME TO WINSTON-SALEM!
800+ member companies help shape the vibrant, welcoming community you’ll enjoy during your stay. Discover more and connect with local businesses at winstonsalem.com. winstonsalem.com greaterwinstonsaleminc
WINSTON-SALEM BY THE NUMBERS
● #1 National Chamber of the Year Greater Winston-Salem Inc, 2024 (Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives)
● #2 best city for business costs (Source: Wallethub)
● #4 best city for food manufacturing (Source: Global Location Strategies)
● 180,000 – Total Workforce in Forsyth County, 2025
● $746 Million – Investment generated through incentivized location and expansion projects since 2021 (Source: Greater Winston-Salem Inc.)
● Cost of Living Index: 88.9 (Source: Council for Community & Economic Research)
Photo by Truliant Federal Credit Union
Photo by Sail Off Photo
Photo by Visit Winston-Salem
A Day at TANGLEWOOD PARK
JUST WEST OF WINSTON-SALEM, TANGLEWOOD PARK
OFFERS NEARLY 1,100 ACRES OF WIDE-OPEN ESCAPE. | BY JIMMY RYALS
Towering trees, rolling greenways and peaceful lakes frame a full slate of recreation — whether you're teeing off, casting a line, saddling up or simply unwinding beneath the oaks. With playgrounds, water adventures, bike trails, gardens and more, Tanglewood offers plenty to explore. Here’s how to fill a full day.
TANGLEWOOD ARBORETUM
Things to Do
A Leisurely Start
Begin your morning surrounded by natural beauty in the Arboretum and Gardens, one of Tanglewood’s signature spaces. Nestled behind the park’s historic Excelsior at the Manor House, the 3-acre Arboretum features 26 distinct gardens and nearly 100 plant species, from carnivorous curiosities in the Bog Garden to vibrant native wildflowers.
Ready to tee off? Tanglewood has long been a favorite for golfers, offering multiple driving ranges, the relaxed Par 3 course (ideal for beginners, with rentable clubs) and two scenic, 18-hole, par-72 courses designed by legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr.
Rest Up for Round Two
Extend your stay with a night under the stars — Tanglewood offers 44 RV campsites available March through November. For a more refined experience, book a stay at The Excelsior at the Manor House, a restored Victorian bed-and-breakfast and events venue. And tomorrow brings another chance to explore this classic Carolina getaway all over again.
Festival of Lights: A Holiday Must-See
Each winter, Tanglewood transforms into a wonderland for its iconic Festival of Lights, a drive-through display featuring more than 80 festive scenes. Running nightly during the holidays, it’s routinely named North Carolina’s top light display by Travel + Leisure
Light Up The Night
When the sun goes down, the fun keeps going. Concerts are often held at Tanglewood, especially during the warmer months. Another great evening option is Softgolf — a full-swing game played with oversize clubs and foam balls. While open during the day, it truly comes alive after dark when the course glows under the lights. Playable by anyone over age 3, “The World’s Most Fun Golf Game” levels the playing field between beginners and pros.
Lunch, Launch, Lounge
By midday, it’s your choice to pick up the pace — or ease into a slower rhythm. Tanglewood features more than 18 miles of trails for walking, mountain biking and horseback riding. First time on a horse? No problem. Tanglewood Stables welcomes walkups for pony rides and trail rides, though reservations are recommended.
The park’s 10-court tennis center offers a chance to practice your serve, while Mallard Lake provides fishing and seasonal pedal boat rentals (available May through September). Families will find multiple playgrounds throughout the park — including a brand-new one near the Tanglewood Barn — as well as a vintage 1894 locomotive permanently stationed on-site, perfect for a photo op. Don't miss the Aquatic's Center's lazy river and pool.
If all that activity stirs up an appetite, picnic shelters are sprinkled throughout the park, or you can grab a bite. Try the bar and grill inside the new Tanglewood Clubhouse and enjoy the views from its expansive back deck. TanglewoodPark.org
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
TANGLEWOOD GOLF COURSE
MANOR HOUSE
MALLARD LAKE
TANGLEWOOD STABLES
Take a Hike
HANGING ROCK
Only 30 minutes from town, Hanging Rock boasts some of the Southeast’s most scenic trails, waterfalls and mountain views. The namesake trail leads to a breathtaking overlook after a moderate 1.3-mile climb. For something shorter, try the Lower Cascade Falls Trail, which ends at a waterfall-fed pool — perfect for cooling off.
PILOT MOUNTAIN
One of North Carolina’s most visited — and most recognizable — state parks, Pilot Mountain is best known for its iconic Big Pinnacle. Take in sweeping views from Little Pinnacle Overlook or hike around the base via the Pilot Knob Trail. Just 20 minutes north of downtown, the park is also a top regional destination for rock climbing.
STONE MOUNTAIN
Three distinct state parks lie within an hour’s drive of Winston-Salem — each offering stunning landscapes and unforgettable trails. 1 2 3
Named for its dramatic 600-foot granite dome, this park features a 4.5-mile summit loop, multiple waterfalls, camping areas and historic 19th-century farm buildings that showcases early Appalachian life.
OUTDOORS
WINSTON-SALEM IS HOME TO DOZENS OF PARKS AND MORE THAN 30 MILES OF PAVED TRAILS AND GREENWAYS, INVITING LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE TO EXPLORE THE CITY’S SCENIC SIDE.
n Top: Salem Lake Above: Long Branch Trail Left: Downtown Strollway
SALEM LAKE
HANGING ROCK
DOWNTOWN STROLLWAY
LONG BRANCH TRAIL
PILOT MOUNTAIN
Things to Do
WINSTON-SALEM GREENWAYS
The city maintains a growing network of paved and unpaved trails, boardwalks and bridges that connect neighborhoods with natural spaces. Long Branch Trail stretches 1.6 miles along a former rail corridor through downtown and is popular with cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. It connects downtown to the Salem Creek Greenway, a 5.1-mile paved path that links to other popular routes, including the Downtown Strollway and Salem Lake Trail CityofWS.org/Greenways
SALEM LAKE
It’s easy to forget how close you are to downtown when walking the sun-dappled, 7.1-mile loop around Salem Lake. The 365-acre lake is open for fishing from the pier or by boat — rent a kayak by the hour or a jon boat by the day from the on-site marina. Calm waters and wooded banks make it a favorite among paddlers and birders.
THE QUARRY AT GRANT PARK
Just five minutes from downtown, this reclaimed quarry-turned-public park offers sweeping views from multiple overlooks — highlighted by a see-through metal observation deck that extends 100 feet over the cliff’s edge, with dramatic views of the downtown skyline and the deep-blue water below. Paved paths loop through the 200-acre property, which also features a popular mining-themed playground.
TRIAD PARK
Located about 15 minutes east of Winston-Salem in Kernersville, Triad Park is a favorite among families, hikers and disc golfers thanks to its rolling hills, shaded trails and multiple playgrounds. While you’re there, visit the Carolina Field of Honor — a moving tribute to U.S. service members anchored by a 57-foot granite obelisk.
HORIZONS PARK
Just 20 minutes north of downtown, Horizons Park feels worlds away. This 160-acre retreat features wooded hiking loops, mountain bike trails, a disc golf course and a 2-acre dog park — all set against a backdrop of rolling meadows, red barns, trickling streams and distant views of the nearby Sauratown Mountains.
Downtown Arts District
Downtown’s creative heartbeat lives along Trade and Liberty streets. Just a few blocks in size, the Arts District bursts with color and culture — think bold murals, working studios and a lively mix of independent shops.
Highlights include Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery, featuring jewelry, leather, clay and more from its storied regional guild, and Visual Index, the only gallery in the U.S. representing makers from all 50 states.
Nearby, longtime anchor Body & Soul showcases Africanmade fashion, handcrafted décor and a cozy bookstore. Secondhand fans will love Off the Rack and Still Grimey For the truly curious, don’t miss Major Tomms, a trove of oddities, and CasaShanti, a Victorian-style sanctuary for crystals, incense, and mystical gifts. Other favorites like Fancy Groceries, Kin & Cottage and Just Be round out the district’s creative flair. No visit is complete without a stop at the iconic Mast General Store, packed with nostalgic candy, outdoor gear and local treasures. ArtsDistrictWs.org
RETAIL Revelry
WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A ONE-OF-A-KIND FIND OR YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNER BRANDS, THESE UNIQUE SHOPPING DISTRICTS HAVE IT IN THE BAG. | BY
ELEANOR SPICER RICE
Reynolda Village
Nestled along the Reynolda Mile and adjacent to Reynolda Gardens, Reynolda Village is among Winston-Salem’s most distinctive places to shop and stroll. Once the farm buildings of the R.J. Reynolds estate, these repurposed barns and stables now house modern shops full of history and style. Browse Monkee’s and Gazebo for high-end women’s fashion, or visit Norman Stockton for classic menswear. Local favorite Half Past Three bridges “college gal” and “cool mom” with a fun mix of fashion, bath and home goods, while Winston-Salem institution McCalls (est. 1925) offers timeless children’s apparel, linens and gifts. Don’t miss The Bookhouse, a cozy neighborhood bookstore where you can sip wine as you browse. Together, these shops offer a seamless blend of elegance, heritage and boutique retail — all five minutes from downtown. ReynoldaVillage.com
Reynolda Road Shopping District
Stretching approximately two miles, the Reynolda Road Shopping District connects downtown's West End to Reynolda Village, a collection of shops and restaurants. It’s best known for its elevated secondhand shops, including Yours Truly, a two-story consignment haven for designer fashion and furnishings; Collage, packed with funky thrift finds; and Elizabeth’s at Hanes Park, beloved for creatively refreshed vintage furniture. Those shopping for new pieces will find sleek, North Carolina-made options at Idlewood Interiors and Contempo Concepts Style seekers enjoy women’s apparel at
LOUIE & HONEY
THE BOHO DEPOT
REYNOLDA VILLAGE
PIEDMONT CRAFTSMEN GALLERY
Rebecca & Co. and Primm’s, while children’s boutique Bella + James offers timeless clothing and gifts. Another standout, The Boho Depot, blends free-spirited fashion with crystals and eclectic décor. The district is also a haven for pastry lovers, bookended by two beloved bakeries — Louie & Honey and Bobby Boy Bakeshop — with Cafe Gelato at the midpoint. VisitWinston Salem.com/ShopReynolda
Stratford Road Shopping District
Just two miles west of downtown, the Stratford Road Shopping District is one of Winston-Salem’s top retail destinations. At its heart is Thruway Center, home to national favorites like Lululemon, J.Crew Factory, Talbots and Athleta, plus regional gems like Vestique, Great Outdoor Provision Co. and Southern Home & Kitchen ThruwayCenter.com
Thruway’s popularity has sparked a thriving cluster of nearby centers, including Stratford Village and Miller Street Market. Here, you’ll find beloved boutiques like Gaia and Kim Taylor, along with specialty shops such as Ski & Tennis Station, Fiddle & Fig and Schiffman’s Jewelers. As an added bonus, the district is home to two local icons: the flagship Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and Dewey’s Bakery. Enough said.
More to Explore
Winston-Salem’s retail scene stretches far beyond the districts highlighted here. From indie boutiques tucked downtown to big-name stores on Hanes Mall Boulevard — anchored by the 175-store Hanes Mall — there’s something for every style and budget. Find more at VisitWinstonSalem. com/Shopping.
HOME & KITCHEN
LOUIE & HONEY
FIDDLE & FIG
City of CHAMPIONS
WINSTON-SALEM’S SPORTS SCENE IS STEEPED IN HISTORY AND PACKED WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO COMPETE OR SIMPLY CHEER ALONGSIDE FELLOW FANS. | BY
JIMMY RYALS
What to See
WINSTON-SALEM DASH
Dash games deliver the full spring-and-summer experience — skyline views, local brews, crowdpleasing eats and a lively Kids Zone. As the High-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, the team plays at award-winning Truist Stadium, with promo nights like Thirsty Thursdays and Fireworks Fridays adding to the on-field action and family-friendly fun.
TWIN CITY THUNDERBIRDS
The Thunderbirds bring fast-paced hockey to a high-energy, fan-friendly setting. Games at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Arena are electric, affordable and fun for all ages. The season runs October through April, with most games played on Friday and Saturday nights.
RACES AT BOWMAN GRAY STADIUM
Since 1949, stock cars have roared around Bowman Gray (aka “the Madhouse”), home to NASCAR’s longest-running weekly track. That legacy brought NASCAR’s Clash here in 2025 and again on Feb. 1, 2026. But you don’t have to wait for the Clash — head to the stadium on Saturday nights in spring and summer for short-track thrills that never disappoint.
WINSTON-SALEM OPEN
Recently named ATP Tour 250 Tournament of the Year, the Winston-Salem Open brings pro tennis’s rising stars — and occasional legends — to the Wake Forest Tennis Complex each August. Past players include Andy Roddick, John Isner, Andy Murray and three-time Wimbledon champ Carlos Alcaraz.
WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
A mainstay on North Carolina’s Tobacco Road, the Demon Deacons compete in 16 NCAA Division I men’s and women’s sports — earning championships across multiple disciplines. Recent highlights include the 2025 NCAA title in men’s tennis and 2024 championship runs by both the men’s and women’s soccer teams.
WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
One of the nation’s most decorated HBCUs, the hometown Rams compete in the CIAA, an NCAA Division II conference. Part of the draw is the school’s iconic on-campus venues: Fans pack historic Bowman Gray Stadium for football and the Clarence E. Gaines Center for basketball — named for the coach who retired with the second-most wins in college hoops history.
WINSTON-SALEM DASH
Things to Do
Where to Play
HIT THE LINKS
Golf Digest recently named Winston-Salem and the surrounding Triad one of America’s best regions for golf, thanks to its mild climate, affordable green fees and abundance of quality courses. More than a dozen public options await, including local favorites like Oak Valley, Olde Homeplace and Reynolds Park. All skill levels will enjoy Tanglewood Park, home to a family-friendly Par 3, Softgolf and two championship-level Par 72 courses.
GOLF WITH A DISC
Looking for a fun, free way to enjoy the outdoors?
Try disc golf at several Forsyth County parks. Beginner-friendly courses can be found at Triad Park in Kernersville, Jack Warren Park in Lewisville and Horizons Park in Rural Hall
GET YOUR JUMP ON
Get your jump on at one of Winston-Salem’s three kid-friendly adventure parks — Surge, Urban Air and Airbound Trampoline Park. Each features tons of trampolines along with high-energy extras like mega slides, bumper cars and Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses.
WINSTON
COURSE AND REYNOLDS PARK GOLF COURSE
Designed by famed course architect Ellis Maples, these rolling, tree-lined courses showcase the best of Triad golf. In 2010, Winston Lake was inducted into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame.
ENJOY BIG THRILLS, INDOORS
You don’t have to go all the way to the mountains to scale new heights. Head to FirstHand Climbing, an indoor bouldering gym in downtown’s Industry Hill, open to all skill levels. Just a half-mile away, ROAR offers a variety of activities, including boutique bowling, golf simulators, next-generation mini golf and a 50-game arcade.
n
Above, clockwise from top left: Winston-Salem Dash; Twin City Thunderbirds; Races at Bowman Gray Stadium; Winston-Salem Open
Left: ROAR
LAKE GOLF
TWIN CITY THUNDERBIRDS
WINSTON-SALEM OPEN
RACES AT BOWMAN GRAY STADIUM
ROAR
Endures Reynolda
THIS HISTORIC HOME, NOW AN ART MUSEUM COMPLETE WITH FORMAL GARDENS, IS ONE OF THE COUNTRY'S FEW EXAMPLES FROM THE AMERICAN COUNTRY HOUSE MOVEMENT. BY
ROBIN SUTTON ANDERS AND LAUREN EBERLE
"When I marry, I shall go to Europe on my wedding trip and I shall bring home a wonderful work of art. And then, I shall buy a great estate and I shall have a thousand cattle on a hill, and flowers all around."
— Katharine Smith Reynolds
The Reynolda Estate’s undulating green landscape, with paths that wind under majestic cypress trees, manicured gardens and a 64-room home was all Katharine Smith Reynolds’ idea. Even before she married the tobacco tycoon R.J. Reynolds, Katharine shared her dream in a letter to her college roommate. Her note was postmarked in 1899. Six years later, Katharine married and began assembling the pieces for a self-sustaining model farm, complete with a working dairy, vegetable and flower gardens, a 16-acre lake, and even a school for the Reynolds’ four children and families of the farm’s workers.
REYNOLDA HOUSE
Dine and Shop Reynolda Village
When they were built in the early 1900s, the Reynolda Estate’s dairy barns, cattle shed, school, post office, smokehouse, blacksmith shop and carriage house were modeled after an English village.
Now, the charming buildings with green roofs that blend into the landscape house a boutique collection of stores and restaurants. Drink mimosas in the original dairy barn, shop for fine fashion in the old smokehouse or enjoy lunch in the blacksmith’s shop.
Come Back Soon
All 64 rooms of the historic Reynolda House feature a dazzling collection of art, plus a trove of family relics and period architecture and furnishings. Though the historic house portion of the museum is closed for renovations January to August 2026, the Babcock Gallery, museum store, trails and gardens and Reynolda Village continue to welcome visitors.
Fun Fact
Katharine intentionally placed the gardens right along Reynolda Road — rather than tucked behind the estate — to ensure they were welcoming, accessible and free to the public.
Explore the Babcock Gallery and Museum Store
Get a lay of the land — and learn more about R.J. and Katharine — in the Orientation Gallery. On display are letters from R.J. and Katharine, historic family photos and plans from the farm’s early days.
Inspired by her grandparents’ philanthropic spirit, Barbara Babcock Millhouse began acquiring important works of American art in the 1960s to form what is now Reynolda’s permanent collection — on view throughout the historic home. For rotating exhibitions, visit the Babcock Gallery, a modern gallery space attached to the house that showcases standout works from Reynolda’s collection and beyond.
Save time to peruse the Museum Store’s selection of art-inspired gifts, books, jewelry and home décor.
Visit Reynolda’s Gardens
Today, the Reynolda Estate stands as evidence of Katharine’s commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle. Scenic walking trails wind through the rolling landscape’s woodlands and meadow; the Reynolda Village Trail passes a waterfall.
Colorful gardens, open to the public from dawn to dusk, give Winston-Salem neighbors a place to meet for a morning or afternoon stroll. Park at the Reynolda Village entrance, and make your way through the Brown Family Conservatory to reach the four acres of formal gardens.
REYNOLDA VILLAGE
REYNOLDA VILLAGE TRAIL
BABCOCK GALLERY
REYNOLDA GARDENS
Ready for Liftoff
Kaleideum's Digital Dome Planetarium invites you to shoot through the stars and take a tour of the planets, all from your cozy seat under an expansive, 40-foot dome. Kaleideum.org/ Digital-Dome
Explore More
In addition to these museums, don’t miss Winston-Salem’s most-visited attractions, Old Salem Museums & Gardens and Reynolda House & Gardens.
n Clockwise from top: Lam Museum of Anthropology; Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts; KÖrner’s Folly; Kernersville Auto Museum; Kaleideum Opposite: Kaleideum
MUSEUM OF EARLY SOUTHERN DECORATIVE ARTS
KALEIDEUM
LAM MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY
KERNERSVILLE AUTO MUSEUM
KÖRNER’S FOLLY
MUST-SEE MUSEUMS
DISCOVER ART, HISTORY, SCIENCE AND HANDS-ON FUN AT STANDOUT MUSEUMS THROUGHOUT THE WINSTON-SALEM REGION. | BY
KALEIDEUM
Engineer a roller coaster, travel through space, create animation and explore a one-of-a-kind rooftop playground at this children’s museum where art and science collide. Spanning five floors in the heart of downtown, Kaleideum features 10 interactive exhibit areas, an art studio, a Digital Dome planetarium and more. Adults can join the fun at monthly After Dark events, featuring drinks, music and hands-on activities. Kaleideum.org
MUSEUM OF EARLY SOUTHERN DECORATIVE ARTS (MESDA)
Tucked inside Old Salem, MESDA wows with its maze of gallery rooms filled with preserved furniture, décor, pottery and everyday objects — all telling the story of the early American South. Admission is included with an Old Salem ticket, and MESDA-only tickets are also available. Book a curated tour to explore the museum’s full collection and architectural spaces. Mesda.org
KÖRNER’S FOLLY
LAURA LEE
Built in 1880 in nearby Kernersville, this architectural gem — often dubbed “the strangest house in America” — features intricate details, hidden rooms and a whimsical layout. Its 22 rooms span three floors and seven split levels, all connected by a spiraling staircase. Open year-round for self-guided tours, the house is especially magical during the holiday, when it transforms into a Victorian Christmas wonderland. KornersFolly.org
LAM MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY
Located on the Wake Forest campus, this is North Carolina’s only museum dedicated to global cultures past and present. Intimate, hands-on exhibits showcase artifacts from more than 350 cultures, with rotating displays like the popular “Day of the Dead” each fall. Admission is free, and thoughtful storytelling brings each tradition to life. LamMuseum.wfu.edu
KERNERSVILLE AUTO MUSEUM
If vintage, classic, or exotic cars rev your engine, head to this hidden gem just 15 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem. Dozens of beautifully restored, fully drivable vehicles are on display — from iconic U.S. muscle cars to timeless European classics. Engaging displays share the stories behind each model, showcasing more than a century of automotive history.
KernersvilleAutoMuseum.com
NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART WINSTON-SALEM
Founded in 1956, NCMA Winston-Salem (formerly SECCA) offers a front-row seat to the art of our time through exhibits and programs exploring contemporary art and culture from leading global artists. With its primary campus closing in 2026 for renovations, the museum will return to its downtown roots and open a new Fourth Street space with museum-quality shows, immersive experiences, and artist engagement.
NCMAWinstonSalem.gov
KALEIDEUM
Imagined as a blend of two ideas — a kaleidoscope and a museum — Kaleideum engages all ages in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. Located at 120 West Third Street, this experiential learning museum spans four stories and nearly 70,000 square feet, including an expansive Rooftop Adventure playground. Hands-on exhibitions, from Wonders of Water to Storytelling, offer experiences that invite curiosity and inspire exploration. Step inside Kaleideum and discover a world where learning and fun collide.
kaleideum.org
336.767.6730
kaleideum
TRIAD ECO ADVENTURES / TRIAD TROLLEYS
Discover Winston-Salem in multiple new ways! Locally originated, owned and operated, Triad ECO Adventures and Triad Trolleys have the expertise and enthusiasm to guide guests in and around the community with historical and fun unique tours. Explore the city and a variety of neighborhoods on a Segway narrated excursion, a rented Pedego electric bike or on a Jolly Trolley. Or take to one of three local lakes for a PaddleFit PaddleBoard (SUP) lesson/ tour. Custom private combo packages are available to depart from your downtown hotel. Advance reservations are always recommended.
triadecoadventures.com
336.772.7777
triadecoadventures
triadecoadventr
LAM MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY
WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY
North Carolina’s only museum dedicated to the study of global cultures is at once intimate and immersive. Visitors can explore stories of humanity, from ancient archaeological sites to the celebrations and struggles of today. The Museum features changing exhibits throughout the year, highlighting its diverse collection of nearly 30,000 artifacts from more than 350 cultures and 90 countries. Don't miss the annual Day of the Dead exhibit in the fall. Whenever you visit, admission is always free. lammuseum.wfu.edu
336.758.5282 lammuseum
Old Salem: A Living Legacy
EXPLORE HOW THIS PRESERVED TOWN — NOW AN IMMERSIVE LIVING HISTORY SITE — HELPED SHAPE A CITY AND A NATION. | BY
MICHAEL BREEDLOVE
GET YOUR TICKET
Old Salem Museums and Gardens is open February through December, Wednesdays through Saturdays. Tickets can be purchased online at OldSalem.org or in-person at the Old Salem Visitor Center or Horton Museum Center (MESDA).
Just a mile from downtown Winston-Salem, Old Salem is one of America’s most immersive historic sites. Spanning nearly 100 acres, the restored district transports visitors to the 18th and 19th centuries through costumed interpreters, working trade shops, heirloom gardens and centuries-old buildings.
Founded in 1766 by German-speaking Moravians, Salem was a community rooted in faith, craftsmanship and innovation. Today, that legacy lives on at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where you can explore original structures, meet skilled artisans and experience stories that helped shape the early American South.
From one of the first July 4th celebrations to a bakery still using centuries-old methods, Old Salem is more than preserved — it’s alive. And with America preparing to mark its 250th anniversary, there’s no better time to visit and connect with the nation’s beginnings in a way that’s personal, tactile and unforgettable.
Heritage Bridge
This covered pedestrian bridge links the Old Salem Visitor Center to the historic district. It’s a favorite photo spot, especially during the holidays when Moravian stars light the way.
Salem Square
The heart of Old Salem, this grassy square with a working water pump hosted America’s first documented July 4 celebration in 1783.
God’s Acre
Dating to 1771, this uniquely serene graveyard holds more than 7,000 flat white headstones — symbolizing Moravians’ belief in equality in death.
Salem College
Stroll the beautiful campus of America’s oldest women’s college and visit the Single Sisters’ House, home to a free museum on early women’s education.
St. Philips Heritage Site
Home to North Carolina’s oldest African American church, the 1823 log church, and Stranger’s Graveyard, this site anchors Old Salem’s Hidden Town project, which explores the lives of African Americans who lived and worked in Salem.
Start at the Visitor Center
Begin your experience at the Old Salem Visitor Center, where you can pick up an all-in-one ticket, watch an orientation video and browse Moravian-themed souvenirs in the gift shop. From there, cross the Heritage Bridge into the Historic Town of Salem, and explore more than a dozen historic buildings staffed by interpreters and open for touring.
Your ticket includes access to the 1769 Single Brothers House — the largest half-timbered building in North Carolina and Salem’s original trade school. Boys 14 and up once lived here to apprentice in trades like carpentry, pottery and blacksmithing. Today, you’ll meet costumed interpreters demonstrating
many of those same techniques.
Another highlight is the Boys School, the oldest surviving building in the world devoted to Moravian education. Designed for boys ages 6 to 14, the school offers a hands-on look at 18th- and 19th-century learning, complete with period-appropriate materials and a Cabinet of Curiosities that invites exploration through sight, touch and smell.
Step into the Salem Tavern Museum, where George Washington stayed during his 1791 Southern Tour. The tavern reveals how this once-bustling stop connected Salem to the outside world and explores the cultural crossroads of colonial Americans, Moravians and enslaved people of African descent.
SAVOR THE PRESENT, EXPERIENCE THE PAST
Take a break at Lot 63, a modern coffee and taproom housed in a historic building that once served as a Moravian gathering space. Then stroll through Old Salem’s heirloom gardens, where horticulturists teach the art of seed saving and traditional gardening.
Just off Salem Square, Muddy Creek Cafe & Listening Room offers a cozy lunch stop in an 1850s building, with folk music, gourmet sandwiches and a beloved local favorite — Moravian chicken pie.
Another option is the newly reopened Salem Tavern, which serves a mix of Moravian fare and Southern classics.
Be sure to stop by Winkler Bakery, where costumed bakers prepare sweet, old-world treats like Moravian Sugar Cake and whisper-thin Moravian Cookies. Upstairs, Winkler Book & Gift is stocked with locally made candles, books, ornaments and home décor — perfect reminders of your journey through one of America’s most enduring historic treasures.
MORE OLD SALEM MUST-SEES
COSTUMED INTERPRETERS
n Clockwise from top left: The Gardens at Bethabara; Bethabara's Annual Apple Festival; 1788 Gemeinhaus; Costumed interpreters
THE GARDENS AT BETHABARA
1788 GEMEINHAUS
HISTORIC BETHABARA PARK
HISTORIC BETHABARA PARK
STEP BACK IN TIME AT THIS CULTURAL LANDMARK, WHERE EARLY MORAVIAN SETTLERS SHAPED NORTH CAROLINA’S HISTORY.
In 1753, 15 German-speaking Moravians embarked on a perilous journey down the Great Wagon Road from Pennsylvania to North Carolina’s Piedmont region. Bethabara Park, considered the official birthplace of Winston-Salem, is a feast for history buffs and casual explorers alike.
Set on 183 acres, this National Historic Landmark features a reconstructed palisade fort, colonial village, nature trails and preserved wetlands — all offering a glimpse into 18th-century life. Before heading out on the grounds, start your visit at the Visitor Center with a short orientation video; then tour the site alongside costumed interpreters offering trades demonstrations and insights into early American life.
A SACRED PLACE
At the heart of Bethabara is the 1788 Gemeinhaus — the oldest surviving church in the U.S. with a minister’s residence still attached. Translated to “congregation house,” the Gemeinhaus originally wore many hats, including a community gathering space and school. Not only did the minister live here, but so did other church workers.
Today, visitors can view the building’s period furniture, some of which is original, plus a reconstructed Bulitschek organ.
IN FULL BLOOM
Bethabara’s outdoor space is a collection of firsts.
Bethabara’s Community Garden dates back to 1759, when it was known as the kitchen garden and bore the immense responsibility of producing food for the entire community. Today, it’s the only known well-documented colonial community garden in the United States.
Meanwhile, Bethabara’s Medicinal Garden — still actively tended and open for visitors to explore — is the oldest known medicinal herb garden in America.
When visitors view the plants that were used to treat common ailments like stomach aches and headaches, they’re looking at the same layout used when the Doctor Kalberlahn planted it in October of 1756. HistoricBethabara.org
| BY ROBIN SUTTON ANDERS
HEAR IT LIVE
NO MATTER YOUR PASSION — OR THE NIGHT OF THE WEEK — WINSTON-SALEM’S MUSIC SCENE DELIVERS. FROM COLISEUM STAGES AND COZY DIVE BARS TO SUMMER FESTIVALS AND SYMPHONY CONCERTS, THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING WORTH HEARING. | BY
JIMMY RYALS
Go-to Music Spots
THE RAMKAT
This two-story warehouse venue in downtown’s Industry Hill is the city’s largest music club, hosting regional favorites and national acts across genres. Its 1,000-person main hall is complemented by a cozy 100-capacity upstairs lounge that showcases local artists. TheRamkat.com
EARL’S WHISKEY BAR
Adjacent to Wise Man Brewing, Earl’s offers Southern comfort with its food and music. Local and regional country and bluegrass bands perform most weekends, plus a popular open mic every Monday evening. EarlsWS.com
MONSTERCADE
Dubbed the “strangest bar in North Carolina,” this divey spot in Washington Park — five minutes south of downtown — hosts the kind of offbeat sounds you won’t hear anywhere else. Expect punk, avant-garde, metal and more. Facebook.com/MonstercadeBar
MUDDY CREEK LISTENING ROOM
Adjacent to Muddy Creek Cafe in Old Salem, this intimate venue hosts acoustic folk, bluegrass and old-time acts — mostly on weekends. The simple 60-seat space ensures the music remains front and center. MuddyCreekCafeandMusicHall.com
Downtown's Next Act
A new 5,000-seat downtown amphitheater is set to debut in 2026 — possibly as early as April — bringing live music, community events and large-scale shows to the heart of Winston-Salem. The open-air venue spans the block between Fifth, Sixth and Marshall Streets, next to the Benton Convention Center.
Summer Concert Series
COALPIT LIVE
Decades after it stopped storing coal for tobacco factories, the CoalPit is now a hub of downtown’s Innovation Quarter. Adjacent to Incendiary Brewing, this massive concrete courtyard hosts free shows on most warmweather weekends, anchored by the CoalPit Live Summer Series, which brings top local and regional acts — plus the occasional national headliner — to the stage. Facebook.com/CoalPitLive
DOWNTOWN SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
Since 1998, this free series alternates between two venues: Downtown Jazz cools Friday nights at Corpening Plaza, while Summer on Fourth brings upbeat sounds Saturdays in front of Foothills Brewing on Fourth Street. DowntownWS.com/Music
SALEM BAND SUMMER SERIES
Founded in 1771, the Salem Band is America’s oldest continuously performing mixed-wind ensemble. From May through September, they perform themed, free concerts — covering everything from disco to ’80s hits — on select Tuesdays in Salem Square in Old Salem. SalemBand.org
Orchestra & Ensembles to Hear
WINSTON-SALEM SYMPHONY
Now in its 80th season, the Winston-Salem Symphony continues to reimagine classical music for today’s audiences. The current season blends masterworks with pop culture, featuring symphonic tributes to “Harry Potter,” “Wicked” and other fan favorites.
WSSymphony.org
PIEDMONT WIND SYMPHONY
The only professional wind ensemble between Washington D.C. and Atlanta, the Piedmont Wind Symphony takes classical music out of the concert hall and into the community. You can catch them at breweries, coffee shops and other popular spots year-round. PWSymphony.org
UNCSA PERFORMANCES
There’s always something to see and hear at the UNC School of the Arts. Student and faculty ensembles present dozens of performances each year, including concerts by the UNCSA Symphony Orchestra, Cantata Singers, A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute and more. UNCSA.edu
MORE TO SEE & DO Live entertainment in Winston-Salem goes far beyond the concert halls. From indie film festivals and local theater to late-night poetry jams, there’s something to enjoy every night of the week. Stay in the loop by scanning the QR code or going to VisitWinstonSalem. com/Events.
n Clockwise from left: The Ramkat; Downtown Summer Music Series; Winston-Salem Symphony; UNCSA performance
UNCSA PERFORMANCE
DOWNTOWN SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
WINSTON-SALEM SYMPHONY
ARTS COUNCIL LEADS THE WAY
Winston-Salem, known as a City of Arts and Innovation, owes much of its artistic reputation to Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Established 76 years ago in 1949, Arts Council is the nation's first and oldest arts council. It remains dedicated to leading the way in promoting, supporting and sustaining artistic, cultural and creative endeavors throughout the region.
Arts Council owns and operates a vibrant 75,000-square-foot campus that includes three theaters and two galleries: Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, Sawtooth School for Visual Art, Hanesbrands Theatre, Reynolds Place Theatre, Mountcastle Forum and the Arts Council Extension Building. This bustling campus hosts over 670 concerts and events each year, attracting 60,000 attendees who come to enjoy theater, dance, comedy, music, visual arts, literary arts and more. With performances by local, regional, national and international artists, Winston-Salem and Forsyth County offer a rich array of entertainment possibilities throughout the year.
International Black Theatre Festival
Photos clockwise from top: Arts Council, Owens Daniels, J Farley Photography and Owens Daniels
9th Wonder Master Class
Winston-Salem Symphony
Arts Council Campus
MOZELLE’S
Mozelle’s sits at the corner of Brookstown and Fourth in historic West End and has been serving a Southern-inspired menu for lunch, brunch and dinner since 2008. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; join us for a casual lunch or a special night out. Check our website and Instagram for specials, menu updates and to book a table in our cozy dining room. Or walk in for our first-come, first-served seats on the sidewalk or at the bar. Proudly serving locally-sourced ingredients and a carefully-curated wine list with gracious hospitality.
Tucked away on Burke Street in the historic West End, Betty on Burke is the latest endeavor from the team behind Mozelle’s. At the intersection of quiet comfort and small town charm, you’ll find classic cocktails in an elegant dining room and internationally-inspired dishes on a covered outdoor patio, accompanied by gracious hospitality. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for lunch, brunch and dinner, we also offer validated parking in our lot just steps away. Check our website and Instagram for daily specials and current menus, and to book a table. Or walk in for our first-come, first-served seats at our bar or outdoor community table.
BETTY ON BURKE
Mozelle's
INSIDERS Dish
FINE DINING, INTERNATIONAL CUISINE, ELEVATED PIZZA: WINSTON-SALEM HAS IT ALL. WE ASKED A FEW OF THE CITY’S TOP CHEFS FOR THEIR PERSONAL FAVORITES. HERE’S WHAT THEY SAID. | BY JIMMY RYALS
WHAT HE LOVES ABOUT THE FOOD SCENE
“We’ve been fortunate in the way restaurants are evolving, in terms of focusing on the quality of food itself and not just the bottom line.”
Chef Harrison Littell
DOWNTOWN GRILLE DowntownGrille.com ACCOLADES
2025 OpenTable Diners’ Choice
BEST ETHNIC FOOD
La Botana for true Mexican food. New Sichuan for Dan Dan noodles and other authentic, spicy Szechuan-style food.
FAVORITE INDULGENCE
Pistachio cream croissant at Bobby Boy Bakeshop.
FAVORITE DATE NIGHT
Mission Pizza. Try the tasting menu.
DON’T LEAVE TOWN WITHOUT TRYING
We’ve got two of the best bakeries in the state: Bobby Boy and Louie and Honey’s.
BEST FINE DINING
Ryan’s Restaurant is just a classic. You know you’re going to get a well-prepared steak and a classic, well-done sauce.
BEST PLACE FOR A DRINK Single Brothers.
BEST BREAKFAST
Midtown Cafe & Dessertery or Mama Zoe’s. Go for the shrimp and grits omelet at Zoe’s.
FOODIE TIP
The pop-up scene has grown here, with chefs like Jordan Rainbolt at Native Root. I think we’ll see more of that trend over the next couple of years.
Chef Jeff Bacon
PROVIDENCE PROGRAMS FOR SECOND HARVEST ProvidenceWS.org ACCOLADES
Best Chef 2025 Greensboro News & Record Readers Choice Awards
BEST ETHNIC FOOD
El Rancho Taqueria for carnitas tacos.
FAVORITE INDULGENCE
A big steak and old school she-crab soup at Ryan’s.
DON’T LEAVE TOWN WITHOUT TRYING
The ricotta and preserved lemon pizza at Mission Pizza.
BEST PLACE FOR A DRINK Joyner’s.
BEST BREAKFAST
Young Cardinal. Best huevos rancheros I’ve ever had.
FOODIE TIP
Start downtown and branch out. There are lots of different styles and price points downtown, but there’s great options in the suburbs, too.
WHAT HE LOVES ABOUT THE FOOD SCENE
“We have a very unified culinary community. There’s competition in a healthy way, but when someone’s struggling with staff or something, we send help their way.”
— Chef Harrison Littell
— Chef Jeff Bacon
DOWNTOWN GRILLE
WHAT HE LOVES ABOUT THE FOOD SCENE
“There are not a lot of cities where so many chefs work together, know each other, and do events (like pop-ups) together. There’s a lot of opportunity to bring back traditional processes, like working with live cultures and fermentation, that are getting lost.”
— Chef John Bobby
Chef John Bobby
BOBBY BOY BAKESHOP
BobbyBoyBakeshop.com
ACCOLADES
2024 James Beard Semifinalist (Best Bakery)
BEST ETHNIC FOOD
Taco Rico; their Costillas de Puerco are a go-to for us. It’s a soulful, solid meal every time.
FAVORITE INDULGENCE
Going to a local coffee shop, like Sayso or Camino. All the coffee shops here all have their own vibe that is unique and fun.
DON’T LEAVE TOWN
WITHOUT TRYING
There are some hole-in-the-wall places I love for fried chicken. My 7-year-old and I love going to J&J Food Mart for the quarter dark meat with collard greens, mac and cheese, and potato salad.
BEST PLACE FOR A DRINK
Fair Witness for cocktails. Easy Tiger for a light beer.
BEST BREAKFAST
I’m usually here when it’s time for breakfast! I tend toward savory, like a quiche or the ham and cheese croissant.
FOODIE TIP
Pick a neighborhood, park your car and hang out for a while. That’s how you find the treasures.
Chef Ashley Armstrong
FORSYTH SEAFOOD CAFÉ
ForsythSeafood.com
ACCOLADES
Eater Carolina’s 18 Essential Restaurants in Winston-Salem, Heinz x Lee Grant Recipient
BEST ETHNIC FOOD
Nawab’s chicken vindaloo, with jasmine rice and garlic naan.
FAVORITE INDULGENCE
Louie and Honey’s brown butter rice crispy treat.
FAVORITE DATE NIGHT
The Downtown Grille’s menu is always changing to source local flavors. The handmade pasta is always going to be good, and the dining room is beautiful.
BEST COFFEE
BYgood Coffee.
WHERE TO GET A DRINK
I like that Joyner’s pays homage to classic craft cocktail.
BEST BREAKFAST Midtown Cafe.
WHAT SHE LOVES ABOUT THE FOOD SCENE
“We have notable chefs who love local flavors and experimenting with dishes you’d find in a larger city.”
— Chef Ashley Armstrong
SINGLE BROTHERS
BOBBY BOY BAKESHOP
RYAN’S
by
Photos
The Plaid Penguin
GARDEN PARTY GOALS
Rooster’s: A Noble Grille’s patio delights from the moment you arrive. The space is lined with lush planter boxes and adorned with string lights and stylish furniture to help guests relax and unwind. This expansive outdoor space is one of the best patio dining options in the Triad. The herbs grown on-site are the same ones used to add flavor to their delectable dishes.
The restaurant’s tried-and-true menu of local and regional ingredients is sourced with integrity and cooked simply.
“Sur tout, faites simple,” is owner Jim Noble’s motto, a quote from chef Auguste Escoffier; translated, it means “above all, keep it simple.” For decades, Chef Noble has applied that phrase to his cooking and culinary mentorship, allowing the quality ingredients to speak for themselves. You won’t find food that is overseasoned or over-sauced, but instead dishes prepared simply and with attention to detail.
The menu includes small and large plates served à la carte, featuring items from the sea, the patieure and the garden. The culinary team sources the finest ingredients from local farmers and only premium chicken raised in the Southeast.
Rooster’s: A Noble Grille also hosts private gatherings within unique spaces, both indoor and out. Private dining areas can accommodate parties small and large, whether you’re looking to host an intimate dinner party or a corporate event. The restaurant also hosts local musicians for added ambiance on the patio every Tuesday evening from May to October.
Copain Bakery aspires to bring great bread to the Triad, serving up fresh and classic baked goods in a boulangeriestyle bakery. Combining patience, technique and high-quality ingredients is the key to the flavors that Copain unlocks and serves. With a sourdough starter over 30 years old, tradition is infused into every loaf, baguette and bun. Stop by for your bread needs, but stay for a savory breakfast; an espresso drink or cup of tea from the café; or a salad or sandwich from the lunch menu. Whether you settle on a caprese sandwich on focaccia or the rich French toast casserole, every morsel is made with care.
copainbakery.com copain_bakery
OH SO SWEET
FROM SUNRISE TO SUNSET, WINSTON-SALEM’S BAKERIES SATISFY EVERYONE’S SWEET TOOTH. | BY LAURA LEE
BOBBY BOY BAKESHOP
Moravian MORSELS
Dewey’s Bakery
Pick up a fresh Moravian sugar cake or their signature cookies. Shop at two bakery locations in town, or pick up products at select grocery stores around the country. Deweys.com
Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies
This family-owned business still makes its world-famous cookies by hand, including best-sellers Sugar and Ginger Spice. Visitors can tour the factory, enjoy free samples and browse the on-site gift shop. HanesCookies.com
Winkler Bakery
America’s oldest continuously operating bakery, this Old Salem landmark dates to 1799. Stop in to chat with period-dressed staff, browse the gift shop and pick up freshbaked treats made from centuries-old recipes. OldSalem.org/Winkler
Wilkerson
Moravian Bakery
Wilkerson continues five generations of hand-baked tradition, serving sugar cake, cheese straws and other irresistible treats from its Stratford Road location. WilkersonBakery.com
BOBBY BOY BAKESHOP
A James Beard Award semifinalist, this beloved bakery is known for fresh artisan breads and photo-worthy pastries. Bobby Boy now has two locations: the original Reynolda Road bakery and a larger space at Salem Bottleworks near Old Salem. BobbyBoyBakeshop.com
CAMINO BAKERY
With two downtown locations, local favorite Camino is all about community. Whether you stop by the original Fourth Street bakery or the cozy Brookstown spot, you’ll find fresh-baked treats, inviting patios and plenty of good vibes. CaminoBakery.com
COPAIN BAKERY
Run by the local culinary legend Chef Jim Noble, this French-inspired, boulangerie-style bakery focuses on organic, naturally leavened breads. CopainBakery.com
DOUGH-JOE’S
This cozy bakery in historic Reynolda Village was recently named one of America’s Top 50 Doughnut Shops on Yelp. Each doughnut comes out fresh and warm with customizable options like cinnamon sugar or chocolate glaze with Oreos. DoughJoesNC.com
GINGER BREAD MAN BAKERY
Opened in 2024 in the Ardmore neighborhood, just a few miles west of downtown, this all-vegan bakery puts a fun, whimsical spin on classic treats. You’ll want to try everything — but start with a gingerbread man cookie sandwich.
GingerbreadManBakery.Shop
LOUIE & HONEY’S KITCHEN
From their stylish West End café, a motherdaughter duo is inspired by family recipes, local ingredients and European baking trends. Specialties include Amish cinnamon rolls and salted honey pie. LouieandHoneysKitchen.com
NATABELLES DESSERTS
Tucked in a strip mall near Miller Park, NataBelles is a hidden gem-turned-social media star, thanks to its world-famous sweet potato brownies and other scratch-made sweets. NataBellesDesserts.com
TO YOUR HEALTH BAKERY
This 100-percent gluten-free and peanut-free facility offers vegan, keto and paleo options. Located on Hanes Mall Boulevard, it’s operated by award-winning baker and Food Network standout Anna Simeonides.
ToYourHealthBakery.com
n Clockwise from top left: Ginger Bread Man Bakery; Copain Bakery; To Your Health Bakery; Dough-Joe’s Opposite: Bobby Boy Bakeshop
GINGER BREAD MAN BAKERY COPAIN BAKERY
DOUGH-JOES
TO YOUR HEALTH BAKERY
WINKLER BAKERY
QUANTO BASTA ITALIAN EATERY & WINE BAR
Seated in the heart of downtown, Quanto Basta (QB) evokes the classic Italian neighborhood restaurant and gathering place. Led by the same team behind the award-winning Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar, QB’s cuisine draws on the Italian heritage of chef/partner Timothy Grandinetti.
Menu highlights include rustic pastas and sauces from Grandinetti’s treasured family recipes, antipasti paired
with wines, handcrafted pizzette and classic Italian fare like Tagliatelle and Chicken Piccata Bucatini. The wine bar boasts selections from Italy and other major wine-growing regions around the world. QB is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday.
Quanto Basta Italian Eatery & Wine Bar has a second location in downtown Wilmington, NC. quantobastanc.com • 336.893.6144 qbwinstonsalem
SPRING HOUSE RESTAURANT, KITCHEN & BAR
Whether it’s an intimate dinner, wedding celebration, business dinner or special gathering of any type, Spring House is a choice destination. Award-winning chef/ partner Timothy Grandinetti and his team craft a creative menu using seasonally available regional ingredients. A must try is the nightly multicourse chef’s tasting menu (you can call ahead to see what’s being served).
Located in downtown Winston-Salem, Spring House is set in a restored, historic home with a variety of inviting rooms for dining and for socializing. The Library Bar offers top-shelf wines, craft beer and a creative spin on handcrafted cocktails in an elegant setting. Open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday. springhousenc.com • 336.293.4797
Top, left to right: Krankies; Footnote Coffee & Cocktails
Bottom Right: Chad’s Chai Tea House
MAGIC BEANS
IN WINSTON-SALEM, COFFEE HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE — FITTING FOR A CITY WHERE A 12-FOOT COFFEE POT HAS BECOME A LOCAL LANDMARK. ACROSS THE CITY, INDEPENDENT COFFEE SHOPS AND TEA HOUSES SERVE UP FRESH-ROASTED BEANS, HANDCRAFTED DRINKS AND COZY SPACES. BY MICHAEL BREEDLOVE
KRANKIES
Located near Bailey Park, this longtime downtown favorite has been fueling Winston since 2003 with small-batch coffee roasted on-site. Krankies is also known for its hearty breakfast biscuits and eclectic, communityfocused atmosphere. KrankiesCoffee.com
FOOTNOTE COFFEE & COCKTAILS
An offshoot of Foothills Brewing, Footnote sits in a colorful alley off Fourth Street beside Bookmarks bookstore. Coffee by day, cocktails by night. FoothillsBrewing.com/Footnote
DEBEEN ESPRESSO
Regularly voted Forsyth County’s best coffee shop, DeBeen offers an extensive selection of locally roasted, flavored coffee beans. It’s located across from Bailey Power Plant in the Innovation Quarter.
DeBeenEspresso.com
COFFEE PARK AIRSTREAM
Voted the nation’s No. 1 drive-thru coffee spot by USA Today readers, this Reynolda Road stop serves locally roasted coffee from a 1958 Airstream trailer. CoffeeParkWS.com
BYGOOD COFFEE
Across from Historic Brookstown Inn, ByGood serves its own brand of coffees and teas, plus cold brews, espresso drinks, matcha, and chai. ByGoodCoffee.com
THE REMEDY
Part coffee shop, part neighborhood bar, The Remedy pairs expertly crafted coffee with an easygoing vibe. Sip lattes by the fire or stop in for late-day espresso before it shifts to cocktails, beer and wine.
RemedyWS.com
LOT 63
In the heart of Old Salem, Lot 63 serves coffee and Moravian pastries inside an 1867 building. Open late, it’s ideal for a morning latte or an evening espresso in a cozy, historic setting. Lot63WS.com
MAGIC BEANS
Winston-Salem’s own air-roasted coffee can be found around town — from Hotel Indigo and the Fairgrounds Farmers Market to Bobby Boy Bakeshop. MagicBeansCoffeeRoasting.com
SAYSO COFFEE
On your way to Old Salem, stop in for a hot cup of Black & White Coffee served in a minimalist, industrial space. SaysoCoffeeWS.com
CHAD’S CHAI TEA HOUSE
Located in the Downtown Arts District, this all-tea café serves handcrafted blends, teainfused wines and specialty drinks. No espresso machine here — just incredibly friendly staff and a creative, calming space dedicated entirely to tea. ChadsChai.com
Winston-Salem’s giant roadside Coffee Pot, built in 1858, could hold 740 gallons — enough for nearly 12,000 cups of coffee! Did You Know?
Scan the QR code to discover more local coffee and tea spots.
KRANKIES FOOTNOTE COFFEE & COCKTAILS
CHAD’S CHAI TEA HOUSE
n Clockwise from top right: Incendiary Brewing Company; Foothills Brewing; Wise Man Brewing; Small Batch Beer Co.; Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Company
FIDDLIN’ FISH BREWING COMPANY
FOOTHILLS BREWING
WISE MAN BREWING
SMALL BATCH BEER CO.
“What we have is this great walking culture where people can start at one brewery, walk to five or six, and do a complete brewery loop.”
Located in western Winston-Salem at the corner of Meadowlark & Country Club roads, this cozy taproom is known for their saisons and farmhouse-style ales.
BrouwerijDubois.com
Gypsy Road Brewing
This Kernersville brewery offers indoor and outdoor seating, plus live music, food trucks and pop-up events.
GypsyRoadBrewing.com
Other Side of the Moon
In Clemmons, this brewery is tucked inside the cozy Full Moon Oyster Bar. A nauticalinspired taproom serves easy-drinking ales. FullMoonOysterBar.com
Craft Draft Crawl
FIDDLIN’ FISH BREWING COMPANY
Fiddlin’ Fish is a rollicking tap room that draws families, professionals and sports fans to an industrial space that harkens to its roots as an early 1900s tobacco warehouse. The brewery is a local favorite, having won Visit Winston-Salem’s inaugural Craft Draft Showdown in 2025.
A popular food truck, Tuning Fork Provisions, is on hand most days with tacos and burgers. FiddlinFish.com
FOOTHILLS BREWING
Foothills Brewing blazed the trail as the first craft brewery in the city, offering a taste for bold, flavorful brews. Located on Fourth Street, the downtown restaurant-pub serves well-known favorites Jade IPA, Torch Pilsner and Sexual Chocolate, a limited-release imperial stout. FoothillsBrewing.com
INCENDIARY BREWING COMPANY
Innovation Quarter’s only brewery, Incendiary is located in one of the city’s coolest locations, the old coal-fired Bailey Power Plant that powered R.J. Reynolds Tobacco factories. Many folks grab a brew at Incendiary, a wood-fired pizza at neighboring Cugino Forno and a seat at a picnic table on the 2,000-square-foot patio. IncendiaryBrewing.com
WISE MAN BREWING
An award-winning anchor in downtown’s Industry Hill neighborhood, Wise Man opened in 2017 in a 1929 warehouse and quickly became a draw for families, young professionals and dog owners. Gather indoors or out to play games, hear live music and grab nibbles from one of their rotating food trucks. WisemanBrewing.com
JOYMONGERS BARREL HALL
Sitting across from Hanes Park, Joymongers is something of an outpost on a downtown Craft Draft Crawl. It’s worth the extra steps to enjoy a barrel-aged beer in the Historic West End. Plus, their flying Mighty Mouse is worth the photo op. Joymongers.com
SMALL BATCH BEER CO.
A dimly lit, cozy bar conveniently located across from Benton Convention Center at the corner of Fifth and Cherry, Small Batch skews more toward the younger crowd and doubles as a soccer bar, where fans of England’s Liverpool football club gather to watch matches. Food menu favorites include Brussels sprouts and an array of burgers.
SmallBatchWS.com
LESSER-KNOWN BEER CO.
A half-mile south of downtown in the West Salem neighborhood, this small, lager-focused brewery was inspired by age-old German and Czech Republic brewing methods. Specializing in long lagering times and fresh tank pours, their malt hails from a family farm in Moravia.
LesserKnownBeer.com
RADAR BREWING COMPANY
In the Industry Hill neighborhood, Radar Brewing Company helps round out the city’s beer loop. You’ll find a contemporary, less industrial feel than some of the bigger taprooms in the city. A large window in the taproom lets customers view their open-air beer fermenter.
RadarBrewingCompany.com
WINSTON-SALEM’S BEER SCENE IS HOPPY AND HOPPING, WITH NINE UNIQUE CRAFT BREWERIES SELLING THEIR OWN BREWS — NEARLY ALL WITHIN AN EASY MILE-AND-A-HALF WALK. | BY LISA O’DONNELL
EAST OF TEXAS
DINING ALFRESCO
MANY OF WINSTON-SALEM’S TOP RESTAURANTS OFFER OUTDOOR DINING SPACES WITH PLENTY OF ATMOSPHERE. GRAB A SEAT OUTSIDE, SOAK IN THE VIBE OF THE CITY AND CELEBRATE OUR SEASONABLY GOOD WEATHER, NO MATTER THE SEASON. | BY LAURA LEE
Scan here for a look at more of the city's top alfresco spots.
BERNARDIN’S
For an upscale experience, head to this award-winning spot inside downtown’s oldest building, the 1815 Zevely House. Bernardin’s temperature-controlled courtyard, with lush greenery and twinkling lights, adds a touch of magic to standout dishes like filet mignon and maple leaf duck. BernardinsFineDining.com
VILLAGE TAVERN (REYNOLDA)
The original Village Tavern in Reynolda Village has been a local favorite for 40 years. While many come for the topnotch food and service, most come for its breezy patio, tucked among mature trees and illuminated by string lights, creating a space that’s lively and serene. VillageTavern.com
MOZELLE’S
With charming sidewalk seating, this bistro in downtown’s West End serves comfort food with an elegant touch. You can’t go wrong with the fried chicken with peach chutney, Southern spring rolls or Mozelle’s legendary tomato pie. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available. Mozelles.com
ROOSTER’S (A NOBLE GRILL)
Tucked on Knollwood Street across from Thruway Center, Rooster’s shaded patio is especially lively during weekend brunch. The farm-to-table menu aims to please with fresh salads, wood-fired pizzas, shrimp and grits, and dry-aged ribeyes. RoostersKitchen.com
EAST OF TEXAS
This lively spot serves up Texas-style barbecue in a laid-back, cantina-style setting. Garage doors open to a sprawling patio with string lights, games, live music, and plenty of room for kids and pups. Smoked meats and margaritas make for perfect patio days. East-of-Texas-Wsnc.com
SPRING HOUSE RESTAURANT
Settle in on the garden patio of this restored historic mansion that was once part of downtown’s “Millionaire’s Row” of homes. Set the tone with a seasonal cocktail, like the refreshing Spring House Bramble. Then tuck into a signature Southern dish prepared by Chef Timothy Grandinetti. SpringHouseNC.com
Louie and Honey's Kitchen is a mother-and-daughter baking company based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. They use seasonally inspired heirloom recipes to create decadent desserts. They specialize in Amish Cinnamon Rolls made from a heritage recipe. Think hand-rolled treats made in small batches and covered in a boiled brown sugar frosting. They feature cakes and pies that will remind you of grandmother's table, and they make everything from scratch using organic North Carolina milled flour.
Recently, they have added a kitchen expansion, and in May of 2025 they expanded into a lower level market space. The new Market and Gift shop offers additional seating and contains organic bulk foods and preserved goods from their hometown in Ohio's Amish country. There is also a curated selection of gifts, kitchenware, pottery, candles and clothing. Their full espresso bar, featuring coffee, matcha and tea, also offers popular seasonal selections. louieandhoneyskitchen.com 336.422.7500 louieandhoneyskitchen
LOUIE AND HONEY’S KITCHEN
Gateway TO THE YADKIN VALLEY
WITH MORE THAN 45 WINERIES WITHIN AN EASY DRIVE, WINSTON-SALEM IS YOUR PERFECT STARTING POINT FOR EXPLORING NORTH CAROLINA’S WINE COUNTRY. | BY LAURA LEE
Just minutes from Winston-Salem, the Yadkin Valley Wine Region offers an unexpected escape — right in our own backyard. As the largest and most celebrated American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the Carolinas, its fertile soil, rolling hills and temperate climate yield award-winning wines recognized on the international stage. Paired with sweeping mountain views, welcoming tasting rooms and easygoing Southern hospitality, experiences feel worlds away yet comfortably close to home. Whether you’re planning your own route or joining a guided tour, here are a few favorites to start.
Want to sip your way through the Yadkin Valley without worrying about driving? Several tour and transportation services offer pickup and drop-off in Winston-Salem, making it easy to relax and enjoy a stress-free day in wine country. Scan the QR code to learn more.
JOLO WINERY & VINEYARDS
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Pilot Mountain, JOLO is a standout on the national wine scene. Its rosé “Pink” was recently named Best in Show at the American Fine Wine Competition, and TripAdvisor ranks JOLO among the top wineries in the U.S. outside of California. Enjoy a tasting flight or savor a meal at End Posts, the on-site bistro honored as one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants.
JoloVineyards.com
SHELTON VINEYARDS
Located in the heart of Yadkin Valley wine country, Shelton Vineyards offers a peaceful, picture-perfect escape. Set on 406 rolling acres, the estate features walking trails, picnic spots by the lake and sweeping vineyard views. The award-winning wines are best paired with a meal at Harvest Grill, Shelton’s on-site eatery open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
SheltonVineyards.com
DIVINE LLAMA VINEYARDS
Sip wine and meet a llama? Yes, please. This laid-back vineyard, less than 30 minutes from downtown, shares its scenic 91-acre property with the Southeast’s largest llama farm. Grab a glass, stroll the grounds or sign up for a guided llama trek through rolling hills and creek-side trails. Food trucks often visit, and families are welcome.
DivineLlamaVineyards.com
CHILDRESS VINEYARDS
Founded by NASCAR legend Richard Childress, this expansive vineyard sits 20 minutes south of Winston-Salem, blending racing prestige with vineyard elegance. Sip award-winning wines while taking in vineyard views from The Bistro, ranked one of OpenTable’s most scenic restaurants in America.
ChildressVineyards.com
Just 30 minutes west of Winston-Salem, Swan Creek is a subsection of the Yadkin Valley Wine Region, ideal for visiting multiple wineries in a single outing. With 11 wineries clustered within a 10-mile radius, it’s one of the most convenient ways to explore the area’s awardwinning wines. Among the must-visit spots are Raffaldini Vineyards and neighboring Piccione Vineyards, both bringing a taste of Italy to North Carolina. Raffaldini’s Tuscan-style estate has earned it the nickname “Chianti in the Carolinas,” while Piccione’s newly expanded tasting room offers sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views.
Other Swan Creek standouts include Dynamis Estate Wines, offering upscale, reservation-only tastings, light bites and Sunday Supper pairings; Shadow Springs Vineyard, serving both dry and fruitforward sweet wines in a relaxed setting; and Dobbins Creek Vineyards, a womanowned winery with welcoming vibes, creative cocktails and panoramic mountain views. VisitWinstonSalem.com/ swan-creek
Wine & Ride
Swan Creek Wine Trail
n Clockwise from left: Childress Vineyards; Divine Llama Vineyards; JOLO Winery & Vineyards
JOLO WINERY & VINEYARDS
DIVINE LLAMA VINEYARDS
RAFFALDINI VINEYARDS
CHILDRESS VINEYARDS
JOLO WINERY AND VINEYARDS
“1 of the TOP 7 Wineries in the Country” (outside of California) — Trip Advisor. Voted TOP 100 Romantic Restaurants & TOP 100 Brunch Restaurants by OpenTable. Nestled in the foothills, under the majestic Pilot Mountain, JOLO Winery and Vineyards sets a new standard in fine wine and hospitality. JOLO invites you to indulge in an exquisite tasting journey, and immerse yourself in the rustic elegance of End Posts’ Restaurant, where each visit promises exceptional pairings and service.
Savor a glass on our veranda amongst the vines, boasting one of the state’s finest sunset views. Amidst vines planted 24 years ago, Rayson Winery & Vineyards is a crown jewel of the Yadkin Valley. Our commitment to crafting wines reflective of our terroir, Rayson embodies tradition, passion and innovation, offering unparalleled experiences in food, wine and hospitality. Join us to dine at our worldclass restaurant, Bistro Europa, or for lite bites and our guided tastings.
CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF FINE CRAFT
In 1963 and 1964, a small group of craft artists and collectors established Piedmont Craftsmen, a nonprofit arts organization that quickly became one of the nation’s premier craft guilds. Today, we showcase nearly 400 artisans throughout the US, working across the spectrum of craft techniques in clay, fibers, metals, wood, glass, printmaking, jewelry, photography and mixed-media. We champion the work of our exhibiting artists through our gallery and annual craft fair
Discover unique, handmade gifts and wearables at Piedmont Craftsmen’s Gallery, located in the heart of the Downtown Arts District at the corner of 6th and Trade Streets. Here you’ll find beautifully crafted objects, from sumptuous jewelry and wearables, turned wooden bowls, colorfully glazed pottery, brilliant blown glass, forged metal sculptures and artfully designed etchings. Let us help you build your crafts collection and hold the creative spirit in your hands.
Piedmont Craftsmen’s Fair is one of the most eagerly anticipated arts events in this region, visited by thousands. Held at the Benton Convention Center each November, the weekend before Thanksgiving, the Fair is an exposition and marketplace for artistry, artist demonstrations and some of the finest works of craft you will see in one place.
Find the work of our artists anytime, anywhere at piedmontcraftmen.org 336.725.1516 piedmontcraftsmen
WINSTON-SALEM
Wine & Dine
WHETHER YOU’RE CRAVING A PLATE OF WORLD-FAMOUS NORTH CAROLINA BARBECUE OR A GLASS OF LOCAL YADKIN VALLEY WINE, YOU’LL FIND IT ALL IN WINSTON-SALEM.
DOWNTOWN
THE BARCELONA BURGER & BEER GARDEN
American/Southern 450 N. Patterson Ave., Winston-Salem, NC 27101 (336) 306-9270
BERNARDIN’S RESTAURANT AT THE ZEVELY HOUSE
American/Southern 901 West Fourth Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 (336) 721-0270
VILLAGE JUICE & KITCHEN Vegetarian/Vegan 205-0 South Stratford Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (336) 986-9402
IRIE PLATES RESTAURANT & BAR Other/International 1539 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (336) 929-0554
STORIED STAY Find Your
HISTORIC BROOKSTOWN INN
Built as a mill in 1837, the Historic Brookstown Inn is now part of Wyndham’s Trademark Collection. Each of the 71 rooms is unique, with bonus features like exposed beams and beautiful brickwork, sweeping ceilings and cozy sitting areas. After a day exploring nearby Old Salem, relax in the courtyard, or mingle with other guests at the wine and cheese reception.
BrookstownInn.com
GRAYLYN ESTATE
From the moment you walk through the French doorway at Graylyn Estate, you’re treated like royalty. Named in the top 10 Best Boutique Hotels in America by USA Today, Graylyn Estate offers excellent service with loads of luxuries — from endless ice cream and freshly baked butterscotch cookies to bicycles for exploring the 55-acre property. Graylyn.com
THE HUNTLEY HOUSE
Tucked into Robert Hall, the five eclectic rooms of the Huntley House mirror the cool vibe of the surrounding Industry Hill neighborhood. After serving as a doctor’s office, café and sign shop, the Huntley House reopened as a stunning Airbnb in 2022. Walk to breweries, performance venues, art galleries and maker spaces.
RobertHallWSnc.com/Huntley-House
KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL
Stay in the iconic R.J. Reynolds Building, the 1929 skyscraper that inspired the Empire State Building. After a $60 million renovation, downtown’s iconic building now houses the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, known for its posh interiors and kid-friendly amenities. The appeal continues at The Katharine, its stylish on-site fine-dining restaurant. TheCardinalHotel.com
WINSTON-SALEM HISTORIC INNS
Three historic homes in downtown now operate collectively as Winston-Salem Historic Inns. The collection includes the Summit Street Inns: two side-byside properties, Ludlow House and Sheppard House, located in the West End. Together, they offer 10 guest rooms, each uniquely themed, where modern flair complements original fireplaces, stained-glass windows and a shared garden patio. A mile away, the 1907 Shaffner Inn, a Queen Anne Tudor-style home, offers eight distinctive guest rooms and event space for meetings and intimate gatherings.
HistoricInnsWS.com
HOTEL INDIGO
In the heart of downtown, Hotel Indigo brings boutique charm to the historic Pepper Building, an Art Deco gem built in the Roaring ’20s. Local art graces the walls, and plush bedding and spa showers await in each of the 75 rooms. The pet-friendly property also features Sir Walter Restaurant and Wine Loft. IHG.com
ZEVELY INN B&B
As the only lodging option in historic Old Salem, this cozy B&B immerses guests in Winston-Salem’s Moravian roots. Built in 1844, it features 12 uniquely appointed rooms — from cozy queens to spacious kings with fireplaces — and serves a tasty breakfast each morning. Complimentary coffee, tea and fresh-baked cookies add to the charm.
ZevelyInn.com
WEST SALEM ART HOTEL
Originally West Salem’s corner grocery store, the Art Hotel boasts all the architectural charm of a historic 1931 building. Each interior room is a handcrafted work of art, like the whimsical Rose Room, modeled after a Parisian art salon; the VHS Suite, with more than 400 classics to choose from (watch under a canopy of paper lanterns); and the Folk Art Suite, featuring a Geno Franco Norwegian folk mural — colorful illustrations for storybook dreams.
WSArtHotel.com
GRAYLYN ESTATE
n Clockwise from top left: Kimpton Cardinal Hotel; Summit Street Inns; West Salem Art Hotel; Zevely Inn B&B; Historic Brookstown Inn; Hotel Indigo Opposite: Graylyn Estate
KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL
HOTEL INDIGO
HISTORIC BROOKSTOWN INN
ZEVELY INN B&B
WEST SALEM ART HOTEL
SUMMIT STREET INNS: LUDLOW HOUSE (RIGHT) AND SHEPPARD HOUSE
This luxurious boutique hotel is a centerpiece of WinstonSalem history. The handsome art deco structure, built in 1929 and the architectural muse for the Empire State Building, served as the headquarters for the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. After an extensive restoration and major renovation completed in 2016, the Kimpton Cardinal opened its doors to guests in April of that year.
The hotel features 174 rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly decorated and smartly appointed with
high-end amenities, and a fitness center. One of the hotel’s most popular draws is its on-site restaurant. The Katharine Brasserie & Bar, named after the wife of R.J. Reynolds, serves up French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting where an extensive menu and wine list await.
The award-winning Kimpton Cardinal hotel promises a luxurious and unique experience – and its downtown location offers easy access to many of the city’s attractions.
KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL
WARM WELCOME, EXCELLENT SELECTION
Since 1946, Winston-Salem residents and visitors have relied on City Beverage for their fine wine and craft beer needs. Their classic Burke Street location harkens back to founding owner Harry Davis’ era in its history and styling, showcasing the atmosphere they’ve now cultivated over three generations. Visitors find an impressive selection and recommendations for any occasion, whether they're shopping for an everyday evening at home or a special bottle for a major life occasion with loved ones. Feel free to take advantage of their delivery service. Local amateur brewmasters also frequent City Beverage for their homebrewing supplies and are open to special orders. If you are trying to source a favorite wine or beer, they’d love to check their distributor network for you. Not in a hurry? Stay to enjoy the eight craft beers they have on tap, or relax with wine by the glass. Great sips start with expertise and end with enjoyment, and you’ll find that City Beverage, a mainstay, is only getting better with time. citybeverage.com • 336.722.2774 • 336.725.1481 citybeverage citybeverageco
HISTORIC REYNOLDA: COME FOR THE ESCAPE, STAY FOR THE STORIES
Only a few minutes from downtown, the Reynolda Historic District beckons with natural beauty, historic architecture and so much more. You’ll find Historic Reynolda offers everything you could need, from accommodations to dining, shopping to walking trails, gardens to world-class art. Begin your stay by selecting a room at The Graylyn Estate, the boutique hotel that was built in 1932 as the home of Bowman and Nathalie Gray. The second-largest historic home in NC now offers 85 guest rooms, available both with modern luxury and
with options for staying in antique rooms. It’s no wonder they’ve been named USA Today’s #2 Best Boutique Hotel. Experience Southern hospitality at its best, enjoying a Mrs. Gray Butterscotch cookie in the afternoon and unlimited complimentary ice cream available to guests 24/7. Butlers offer transportation to nearby attractions, and parking and Wi-Fi are also included in your stay. Ride through Graylyn’s 55 scenic acres on complimentary bicycles that provide easy access to the rest of the district.
Just across the street from Graylyn, you’ll find Reynolda, the historic country estate of Katharine and R.J. Reynolds. Reynolda offers visitors a renowned collection of American art on view in the 1917 historic home, lush formal gardens and wooded nature trails, and carefully conserved farm buildings now filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and unique event spaces.
The farmbuildings of Reynolda Village once included a dairy barn, cattle shed, blacksmith shop and more; these historic buildings have been transformed into a village full of delightful dining and shopping experiences. Stroll through the picturesque village and explore chic boutiques, pampering and self-care options, home furnishings and décor shops, an independent bookstore and much more. Treat yourself at one of the five awardwinning dining options, featuring a variety of choices from dumplings to doughnuts, crepes to cocktails, and burgers to boba tea. With more than 20 unique shops, and a blend of history and modern-day amenities, Reynolda Village is a must-see destination for visitors.
After exploring the many shops and restaurants, visit
the Reynolda Welcome Center to learn more about the estate’s history before stepping into the fully restored Brown Family Conservatory. Built in 1913, its striking curved glass architecture and exotic plants on display provide a breathtaking gateway to four formal acres of Reynolda Gardens, just on the other side.
Adjacent to the formal gardens sits the iconic 34,000 square foot bungalow home — now lined with a renowned collection of American art, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Reopening in March 2026 with the feature exhibition, Layered Looking: Making Sense of Art, the Museum invites guests for a multi-sensory approach to its permanent collection, with prominent works by Frederic Church, Stuart Davis, Minnie Evans, Georgia O’Keeffe, Nam June Paik and more.
Undergoing an extensive HVAC restoration, the Historic House portion of the Museum fully reopens in fall 2026 with Art & Democracy on view.
Combine your love of arts and culture with the Reynolda Experience package, which includes accommodations at Graylyn Estate, along with a private tour, plus tickets to Reynolda House Museum and complimentary transportation to enjoy the Gardens and Village. If you’re here to rejuvenate, the spa package offers a gift certificate to European Touch Day Spa in Reynolda Village in addition to your Graylyn accommodations. And if you’re looking for the perfect spot for a corporate retreat or an elegant wedding, expert teams at the two neighboring event venues, Graylyn and The Barn at Reynolda Village, will help you realize your vision.
Historic Reynolda isn’t just one experience: it’s a choose your own adventure. Take your time, there’s a lot to discover.
Sites for fully self contained RVs only. There are 20 campsites available.
RV campground is available for use throughout the year with exception of mid-September through mid-October due to the annual Carolina Classic Fair. Reservations are not required. Water, sewer and electric hookups are available.
Best in Class
EXPLORING WINSTON-SALEM’S COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES — AND HOW TO EXPERIENCE BOTH.
BY MICHAEL BREEDLOVE
Recently named one of the top college towns in the South by Southern Living, Winston-Salem is home to more than 30,000 students across six colleges and universities. Each campus offers its own blend of history, personality and can’t-miss experiences, giving visitors a deeper look at the culture and spirit that have helped shape the city.
Wake Forest University
Enrollment: 9,350
Mascot: Demon Deacons
Fun Fact: WFU was recently named to MSN’s list of “Top 10 Most Beautiful Campuses in the U.S.”
Originally founded nearly two centuries ago, Wake Forest relocated from North Carolina’s Triangle region to Winston-Salem in the 1950s. Today, it stands as one of the most prestigious and picturesque universities in the country, known for its Georgian architecture, tree-lined lawns and liberal arts focus. In addition to 49 undergraduate majors, WFU also boasts top-ranked graduate programs in business, law, medicine and divinity. All students are encouraged to embody the school’s long-held motto, ‘Pro Humanitate’ (for humanity).
See & Do: Stroll through Hearn Plaza (“The Quad”), home to the campus bookstore, team store and multiple landmarks (including iconic Wait Chapel). And don’t miss the Lam Museum of Anthropology, a small but fascinating cultural museum that’s free and open to the public.
WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY
Colleges & Universities
Winston-Salem State University
Enrollment: 5,200
Mascot: Rams
Fun Fact: In 1967, WSSU’s basketball team — led by Earl “The Pearl” Monroe — became the first HBCU to win an NCAA title.
One of the nation’s top-ranked HBCUs, Winston-Salem State spans 117 rolling acres just east of downtown. The university is known for its strong programs in healthcare, education and STEM — particularly nursing — and was named the best “bang for your buck” among Southeastern HBCUs by Money magazine. It also boasts a storied athletics tradition as a longtime member of the CIAA. The campus is home to two iconic venues: Bowman Gray Stadium for football and the C.E. Gaines Center for basketball.
See & Do: Walk past the Clock Tower, WSSU’s central landmark, which is etched with quotes from civil rights leaders — including Maya Angelou. Then stop by the campus library to view the striking 30-foot murals by famed artist John Biggers that hang inside the library’s atrium.
UNC School of the Arts
Enrollment: 1,150
Mascot: Fighting Pickles
Fun Fact: UNCSA’s School of Filmmaking and School of Drama are both ranked among the top five in the nation, per Hollywood Reporter Founded in 1963 as the nation’s first public arts conservatory, University of North Carolina School of the Arts trains students in five disciplines: dance, drama, filmmaking, music, and design and production. Its intimate, 80-acre campus hosts public performances, exhibitions and screenings year-round. What truly sets UNCSA apart is
its faculty: working artists who mentor the next generation of creatives. Alumni frequently appear on major stages and screens — including stars like Anthony Mackie, Jada Pinkett Smith, Danny McBride, Margaret Qualley and Mary-Louise Parker among countless others.
See & Do: Before your visit, check the UNCSA calendar for student performances ranging from symphony concerts to live theatre and more. While on campus, stroll through Studio Village — a Hollywood-style backlot for student films — and catch a free screening at ACE Theatre.
Salem College
Enrollment: 500
Mascot: Spirits
Fun Fact: Salem College is the oldest women’s college in the U.S., founded in 1772.
Located within Old Salem, Salem College is a private women’s college known for its rich history and forward-thinking academics. The 57-acre campus blends historic charm with modern amenities, from stately Main Hall (built in 1856) to its cutting-edge Student Center. Salem offers more than 35 undergraduate majors, along with graduate programs in education, counseling and music. Its liberal arts mission emphasizes health, service, leadership and social justice — values woven into both curriculum and campus life.
See & Do: Visit the Single Sisters’ House Museum for a compelling look at early women’s education and Moravian history free of charge. Then stroll the terraced grounds and explore the May Dell, a natural amphitheater with a brook-fed stream.
Other Campuses in Town
CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
Formerly known as Piedmont International University, Carolina University is a private Christian college with programs rooted in spiritual development and a global worldview. The school, whose mascot is the Bruins, fields multiple athletic teams — including basketball, baseball, soccer and esports. Currently located in West Salem, just southwest of downtown, the university is exploring a move to a larger campus — potentially the former Hanesbrands headquarters in northern Winston-Salem — after nearly doubling enrollment in recent years to more than 1,100 students.
FORSYTH TECH
Founded in 1960, Forsyth Technical Community College is one of North Carolina’s largest two-year institutions. It offers associate degrees, technical diplomas and continuing education to more than 35,000 students each year. In 2025, Forsyth Tech launched its first intercollegiate athletics program, joining the NJCAA with teams in men’s basketball and women’s volleyball under the nickname “Trailblazers.” Their mascot is a gray fox named Blaze.
n Left to right: Winston-Salem State University; Salem College; University of North Carolina School of the Arts
WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY
SALEM COLLEGE
UNC SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Getting Here
TRAINS AND OPEN ROADS — GETTING TO
IS EASY, AND GETTING AROUND IS TOO.
Annual temperatures typically vary from 32 to 87 degrees. The warm season lasts around four months, from mid-May to mid-September. The chilly season lasts roughly three months, from late November to late February.
BY CAR OR RV
Winston-Salem is centrally located in North Carolina in an area known as the Piedmont Triad, between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. About five hours from both Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, the city offers easy access to several major interstates, including Interstates 40, 85, 77 and 74.
BY PLANE
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), just 30 minutes from downtown, offers more than 300 weekly flights, including 16 nonstop routes to cities such as New York, Chicago, Dallas and Orlando. Major carriers include Delta, American and United. For daily private air service, newly renovated Smith Reynolds Airport is minutes from downtown.
BY TRAIN
Getting here by rail is easy. Take Amtrak to nearby High Point (20 miles from Winston-Salem), then hop on a PART shuttle bus that connects the station to Winston-Salem. Service runs Monday through Saturday, with multiple local stops including downtown.
RIDESHARES & SCOOTERS
Uber and Lyft are widely available in Winston-Salem, along with several local taxi services. For quick, flexible travel, Lime e-scooters can be rented using the Lime app. Just locate a scooter, scan the QR code to unlock and ride. Scooters cost 45 cents per minute, operate 24/7 and must be parked responsibly off streets.
CREATIVE CORRIDORS
Several downtown bridges and overpasses feature striking architectural and artistic design, thanks to the nonprofit Creative Corridors Coalition. These enhancements reflect Winston-Salem’s “City of Arts & Innovation” identity. Most are found along a mile-long stretch of Salem Parkway, which earned the 2021 Grand Prize in America’s Transportation Awards.
VISITOR CENTER
Adjacent to the Historic Brookstown Inn in downtown, the Winston-Salem Visitor Center is at 200 Brookstown Avenue and open year-round. Monday to Saturday. Call 866-728-4200 or email Info@VisitWinstonSalem.com for help planning your visit.
HAMPTON
HAWTHORNE
HISTORIC
KIMPTON
EVENTS CENTRAL
Since 1989, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum has been Winston-Salem’s destination for concerts, sports, comedy, family shows and more. Such legends as Elton John, Billy Joel and Garth Brooks have played at Lawrence Joel. And it's here where you can find the excitement of Wake Forest men’s and women’s basketball playing in the great Atlantic Coast Conference. Built by the City of Winston-Salem and today owned by Wake Forest University, the Coliseum is now under the management of ASM Global, the world’s largest producer of live events. The schedule changes frequently, so be sure to check back often. For tickets and show details, visit ljvm.com.
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EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS. LEGENDARY SPACES.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.
From field to floor, our iconic venues set the stage for unforgettable experiences—large or small.
Hold your next event in the same spaces where legends play. From private parties and corporate events to concert suites and game-day experiences, LJVM Coliseum, Allegacy Stadium, and Couch Ballpark offer one-of-a-kind spaces designed to impress every guest.
