Things To Do
in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is a vibrant city located in North Carolina, known for its rich history in tobacco and textile industries. Today, it is a diverse city with a strong emphasis on arts, culture, and education. The city is home to several universities and colleges, as well as numerous museums and art galleries.
Winston-Salem's charming downtown area offers a mix of historic architecture, modern amenities, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in Hanes Park, enjoying the scenic views and the tranquility of nature. Bring along a breakfast picnic to savor by the water.
Head to the nearby Reynolda House for a guided tour of this historic estate and its beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to check out the art collection inside the gallery.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant in the Old Salem district, experiencing authentic Moravian cuisine. Stroll through the beautifully lit streets for a picturesque end to your day.
Visit the Womble Carlyle Gallery to admire the talents of local artists. Enjoy a morning coffee at a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
Explore the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, where you can engage with modern art exhibits. Participate in any workshops that may be occurring that day.
Attend a performance at the Stevens Center of the UNCSA for an enriching cultural experience. Enjoy a late-night snack at one of the local food trucks nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to other cities in North Carolina.
- Rich cultural and historical significance with various museums and landmarks.
- Growing job opportunities, especially in healthcare and education sectors.
- Pleasant climate with four distinct seasons.
- Home to Wake Forest University, providing educational and cultural resources.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car often necessary.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates compared to the national average.
- Fewer entertainment options than larger metropolitan areas.
- Hot and humid summers may not be appealing to everyone.
- Limited diversity in certain neighborhoods.
Best Activities in Winston-Salem
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Piedmont region from the summit of Pilot Mountain.
Ride along the picturesque Muddy Creek Greenway, a paved trail surrounded by nature and perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
Paddle through the calm waters of Salem Lake and take in the serene natural surroundings while engaging in a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Winston-Salem with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Winston-Salem
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its distinctive knob and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Offers picturesque historic buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for photography.
A popular urban park with scenic views and a vibrant atmosphere, great for capturing cityscape shots.
Food in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local dish consisting of rich chicken stew encased in a flaky, buttery crust. It can be found at Old Salem Museums & Gardens and various local diners and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Winston-Salem is renowned for its succulent, slow-cooked pulled pork, often served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Look for this classic dish at Honky Tonk Smokehouse and other barbecue joints in the area.
These native Southern grapes are used in a variety of dishes, from jams and jellies to desserts. Visit local farmers' markets, such as Cobblestone Farmers Market, to sample these sweet and flavorful grapes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Winston-Salem better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This market offers a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats from local vendors. It's a fantastic place to savor diverse street food options while supporting the community.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Winston-Salem, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public places.
Using polite language and mannerisms, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you,' is highly valued in the local culture of Winston-Salem.
Winston-Salem is a diverse community, so respecting and being open to different beliefs, traditions, and customs is important for fostering positive interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Winston-Salem
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping culture in Winston-Salem is similar to the rest of the United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Additionally, tipping is also expected for other services such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff.
In Winston-Salem, credit and debit cards are widely accepted for payment at most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming increasingly popular. Cash is also accepted, but many places prefer card transactions for convenience and security.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Winston-Salem, with blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and various outdoor activities to enjoy.
Summer in Winston-Salem brings warm weather and a bustling calendar of events, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and outdoor dining.
Fall foliage in Winston-Salem is stunning, with vibrant colors and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for leaf-peeping and outdoor adventures.
Winter in Winston-Salem is milder compared to more northern areas, and while some outdoor activities may be limited, there are still events, holiday markets, and cozy indoor activities to enjoy.
Winston-Salem at Night
Hiking in Winston-Salem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular destination with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Features a distinctive peak and offers several hiking trails with scenic overlooks and diverse plant life.
A beautiful trail that circles the lake, providing a flat and easy walk for all skill levels amidst serene scenery.
Offers several trails perfect for hiking and longer walks, providing a more natural setting close to the city.
A stunning garden area with walking paths that connects to trails around the estate, ideal for a leisurely hike.
A longer hiking option that connects several parks and offers a mix of terrain and scenic views in the Sauratown Mountains.
Aiports
How to reach Winston-Salem by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles from Winston-Salem, this airport serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
About 85 miles from Winston-Salem, CLT is one of the busiest airports in the United States, offering a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 110 miles away, RDU serves the Research Triangle area and provides numerous international flight options.
Located roughly 30 miles away, this airport provides access to various international travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 48.7% of the population identifies as White, including non-Hispanic and Hispanic whites.
About 38.8% of the population identifies as Black or African American.
Around 10.6% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, which can include individuals of any race.
Roughly 2.4% of the population identifies as Asian, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
Approximately 3.4% of the population identifies as being of two or more races.
A small percentage of the population, about 0.4%, identifies as Native American.
Less than 0.1% of the population identifies as Pacific Islander.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winston-Salem has a vibrant basketball community, with various local schools and organizations promoting the sport. The city is home to Wake Forest University, which has a Division I basketball program.
Baseball is popular in Winston-Salem, featuring minor league teams like the Winston-Salem Dash, who play in the Carolina League. The city's parks and recreational leagues also promote youth baseball.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Winston-Salem, with local clubs and leagues for all ages. The city hosts youth tournaments and is home to various soccer organizations.
Winston-Salem has numerous golf courses and clubs, making golf a favored pastime. Facilities cater to all skill levels, and the area hosts various local and regional tournaments.
Running is a popular sport in Winston-Salem, with numerous events such as marathons and fun runs taking place throughout the year. The city has many parks and trails that are conducive to running.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Winston-Salem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Winston-Salem's culinary scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants, such as Crafted: The Art of the Taco, offer creative plant-based dishes alongside their regular menu items.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find numerous eateries providing gluten-free options. Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro is known for its Southern comfort food with gluten-free alternatives.