Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Winston-Salem, NC

Numerous visitors to Winston-Salem are often unaware that this region of the United States has origins tracing back to the 1700s, marked by the establishment of the city by the Moravians, German-speaking Protestants. Furthermore, Winston-Salem is renowned for hosting Salem College, founded in 1772, which holds the distinction of being the oldest institution for women’s education in the nation. Given this rich background, it is accurate to assert that the city possesses considerable historical and cultural importance.

In addition to its notable history, Winston-Salem is celebrated for its scenic beauty, situated between the lush Blue Ridge Mountains and the pristine Atlantic Ocean. The city is home to nearly 400,000 residents and offers a diverse range of parks, museums, breweries, restaurants, and art galleries. Hence, visitors can partake in a multitude of activities in this charming sector of the United States.

Let us delve into the top attractions in Winston-Salem:

1. West End Historic District

The West End Historic District serves as an ideal destination for individuals seeking to understand the historical and cultural importance of this region. The district is replete with structures that date back to the 1800s, preserved for contemporary appreciation.

Visitors can explore over 500 structures, including the homes of several of Winston-Salem’s founders, such as the Poindexter House and the Zevely House. Spanning more than 230 acres, this section of the city invites exploration on foot, allowing one to admire the exquisite period architecture, encompassing styles such as Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Classic Revival.

2. Black Mountain Chocolate Factory

For anyone intrigued by visiting a genuine chocolate factory, the Black Mountain Chocolate Factory, located conveniently in downtown Winston-Salem, is an attractive choice.

The factory welcomes the public for self-guided tours, and guests can also participate in guided tours hosted by friendly staff who elaborate on the establishment’s origins and the chocolate-making process.

Moreover, visitors can purchase a variety of products produced by the factory on-site, a delight for those with a penchant for sweets.

3. Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art

Commonly referred to as SECCA, the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art provides an excellent opportunity to explore the burgeoning art scene in Winston-Salem.

The center features a rotating selection of works by local artists throughout the year, alongside exhibitions from national and international artists. In addition to visual art, the center hosts film nights as part of its Film @ SECCA program and collaborates periodically with the Metropolitan Opera to offer musical performances throughout the year.

4. Old Salem Museums and Gardens

Old Salem Museums and Gardens is a community-driven initiative that began restoration efforts by local volunteers back in the 1950s. This ongoing tradition has led to the preservation of various historic structures and gardens, enabling visitors to appreciate them today.

Located within the Historic District, the museums and gardens offer opportunities for guided and self-guided tours, dining experiences, and shopping as visitors learn about the cultural significance of Winston-Salem.

5. Reynolda House Museum of American Art

Those interested in American art should not overlook the Reynolda House Museum.

This institution features over a hundred art pieces in display, showcasing both permanent and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

The museum itself is architecturally striking, situated within a historic mansion that is set amidst 20 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

6. Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem

For families venturing to Winston-Salem, the Children’s Museum offers a variety of engaging exhibits tailored to young learners.

The interactive displays focus on developing crucial skills such as literacy, motor coordination, and social awareness, with activity galleries that include drawing, building, reading, and painting, along with play areas designed for children to expend energy.

7. Historic Bethabara Park

Step back in time to experience the historical ambiance of Winston-Salem as it was in earlier days. Bethabara Park was once a religious settlement for Moravians who arrived over 250 years ago, and much of its historical charm has been retained.

The park is renowned for its diverse indigenous bird population, making birdwatching a favorite activity here. In addition to observing local wildlife, guests can enjoy walking trails and flower gardens.

For those interested in learning more about the Moravian settlers and the park’s history, the visitor center and several restored buildings are open to the public.

8. The New Winston Museum

The New Winston Museum, founded in the early 2000s by local citizens, caters to those interested in understanding the historical relevance of the area.

The museum focuses on educating visitors regarding the origins of Winston-Salem and its development from a small town to the bustling city it has become.

The exhibits feature historical photographs and documents, including letters that narrate the stories of the individuals responsible for this city’s remarkable journey.

9. BB&T Field

Located at Wake Forest University, BB&T Field boasts a capacity for 30,000 spectators, marking it as a significant venue in the area.

This field serves as the home ground of the Wake Forest Deacon Demons football team, offering a vibrant atmosphere for events. The venue features a 90-foot video screen, ensuring fans do not miss any of the action.

10. The Frank L. Horton Museum Center

The Frank L. Horton Museum Center is named in honor of Frank Horton, recognized for his contributions to the study of decorative arts in Winston-Salem.

This center includes the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) and has a rich history, originally functioning as a grocery store before being converted into a museum space with both permanent and temporary exhibits.

11. Triad ECO Adventures

For those eager to explore Winston-Salem in an exciting manner, a Segway tour offered by Triad ECO Adventures is an exceptional choice.

The two-hour Segway excursion covers various parts of the city, while alternatives such as stand-up paddleboarding provide additional ways to engage with the local environment.

12. Peppercorn Theatre

Associated with the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, the Peppercorn Theatre presents local theatrical talents through a series of performances held throughout the year.

This venue fosters creativity among youth, making it a wonderful opportunity to support the arts by attending family-oriented shows that have flourished since the theater’s establishment in 2010.

13. Foothills Brewing

Established in 2015, Foothills Brewing has garnered recognition for its exceptional craft beers, all brewed, fermented, and bottled on-site.

The brewery spans over 48,000 square feet, and its beers have gained popularity across North Carolina.

For those interested in the brewing process, guided tours through the primary brewing facility offer insights into how the beers are crafted. There is also a tasting room where visitors can sample a variety of new blends.

Additionally, another location in downtown Winston-Salem serves as a pub, where patrons can enjoy the beers alongside delicious local culinary offerings.

14. Winston Cup Museum and Special Event Center

Founded in 2005, the Winston Cup Museum is a destination for Nascar enthusiasts.

The museum features an extensive collection of racing cars and memorabilia, chronicling the history of racing in the region. Beyond static exhibits, interactive displays allow visitors to experience the thrill of racing with simulation machines.

15. SciWorks

For those keen to explore the world of science, SciWorks offers an engaging science and nature center aimed at educating children about this captivating subject.

The center comprises various galleries and exhibits designed to enhance motor skills, literacy, and social interactions among young visitors. Themed areas cover topics such as physics, biology, health, and the natural world.

Additionally, an onsite planetarium provides an opportunity to embark on a journey through the cosmos while learning about the solar system.

Surrounding the center are beautiful gardens and hiking trails that invite further exploration, with picnic areas available for a pleasant meal outdoors.