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Winston-Salem isn’t just a city. It’s a full-on experience. Whether you’re new in town, just passing through, or a longtime local looking to shake up your weekend routine, Winston-Salem is packed with personality. This city blends historic charm with modern vibes. Think cobblestone streets and craft cocktails, art galleries and indie films, ghost tours, and greenways.
Whether you’re chasing kid-approved fun, a romantic night out, or a solo adventure through art galleries and greenways, we’ve got you covered. From sipping small-batch spirits to hiking up epic mountain views, we’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Winston-Salem. Some are classic must-visits. Others? Total hidden gems. Here are 15 must-do activities showcasing the Twin City spirit, handpicked for locals and visitors alike.
Photo by Sadie Cornelius for MyWinston-Salem.com, © Cover Story Media, Inc, 2023
Did You Know? Winston-Salem Is Full of Surprises
Before diving into your Winston-Salem adventure, here are a few fun facts that might make you see the city in a new light.
- Winston-Salem used to be two towns, and that’s why it’s called the Twin City. Winston and Salem officially merged in 1913, combining Salem’s Moravian heritage with Winston’s booming tobacco industry. The result? A city with double the history and personality.
- It’s the birthplace of Krispy Kreme, where the original glazed donut was created in 1937. So yes, grabbing a hot one straight off the belt in its hometown is basically a rite of passage.
- Old Salem is one of the best-preserved Moravian settlements in the United States. With cobblestone streets and centuries-old bakeries, this living history museum feels like stepping into another century, complete with fresh bread.
- Camel City is more than just a nickname. It comes from Winston-Salem’s legacy as a tobacco hub and the famous Camel cigarette brand that was produced here. Thankfully, the modern city smells more like coffee and barbecue than anything else.
- The local art scene is stronger than you think. With SECCA, Reynolda House, and a vibrant community of over 800 working artists, Winston-Salem is quietly becoming one of North Carolina’s most creative cities.
- Even the ghosts have stories to tell. From Old Salem to downtown, haunted history tours bring the city’s spookier side to life. If you like your history with a chill down your spine, you’re in the right place.
15 Must-Do Experiences in Winston-Salem
So, where do you begin? Whether exploring Winston-Salem for the first time or rediscovering it with fresh eyes, these 15 local adventures highlight everything that makes the Twin City unforgettable. Each stop offers something special, from scenic hikes and historic streets to indie eats, ghost tours, and hidden gems.
Some are bold, some are peaceful, and all have one thing in common: they just might steal your heart.
1. a/perture cinema – Where Indie Films and Local Flavor Meet
a/perture cinema is a year-round art house cinema that has served Winston-Salem with the art of film for over a decade. With 4.5 screens and 231 seats, the theater shows films you have heard of and perhaps those you haven’t, but all are informative, educational, thought-provoking, and inspiring.
The lineup is refreshingly bold. Around 40% of the films are documentaries, over a third are directed by women, and there is a perfect blend of U.S. and international releases. Whether you catch a buzzed-about indie or discover a hidden gem, expect stories that inform, inspire, and occasionally wreck you in the best way. Visit their website for current and upcoming movies.
Local concessions, craft beer, and wine are all on the menu. And don’t miss the street-side cinema out front, where short films play on a continuous loop for anyone passing by. It’s film culture, served with a local twist.
- 311 W 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- Hours
- Movies run at various times. See website.
2. Broad Branch Distillery – Bold Spirits, Small-Batch Style
The Broad Branch Distillery produces exceptional spirits using the best, high-quality, responsibly grown ingredients. Broad Branch creates exceptional whiskey, bourbon, rum, and Nightlab (a substitute for tequila). Each batch is tempered and aged to preserve and enhance the delicate, defining aromas and flavors. Every batch is carefully tempered and aged to bring out the subtle, defining aromas and flavors that make each pour unique.
Stop by the Tasting Room to sample the full lineup and chat with the team about how these spirits come to life. You can book a tour on the first Saturday of each month at 2 pm to observe the distilling process. Or visit their Cocktail Bar for hand-crafted cocktails. They carry hand-rolled cigars, locally made from Dominican tobacco, and also offer private tastings that last from 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
If exploring craft spirits is your thing, our guide to Winston-Salem’s distilleries will point you in the right direction.
Broad Branch Distillery Website
- 756 N Trade Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-602-3834
- Distillery and Tasting Room Hours
- Mon & Tues, 10 am – 4 pm
- Wed, Thurs & Fri, 10 am – 9 pm
- Sat, 1 pm – 9 pm
- Sun, 12 pm – 6 pm
- Tours
- The first Saturday of each month at 2 pm. Tours must be booked.
3. Dash Games – Batter Up! It’s Game Time in the Twin City
The Winston-Salem Dash minor league baseball team always brings big-league spirit to the heart of the city. Catch a home game on Tuesday through Sunday at Truist Stadium, just be sure to check if it’s a week they are at home.
Winston-Salem Dash games aren’t just about baseball; they’re a full-blown experience. With 66 home games at Truist Stadium, the Dash delivers non-stop action, fireworks, theme nights, and the kind of food lineup that rivals any fairground.
Sure, you’ll get classic ballpark favorites, but it’s the extras that steal the show: French toast bacon burgers, pineapple-topped pizza, pickle corn dogs, gator bites, apple pie, and more tasty treats. Come hungry. Enjoy the Kids Club, Kids Zone, and Kids Run The Bases at every home game.
- Truist Stadium, 951 Ballpark Way, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-714-2287
- Home Game Hours
- Tues-Sat, 6:30 pm
- Sun, 2 pm
4. Downtown Winston-Salem – A Walking Tour of Murals, Makers, and Local Flavor
Downtown Winston-Salem is where creativity spills into the streets. Begin in the Arts District, where galleries, murals, and shops (don’t miss Mast General Store) combine to create a perfect blend of visual inspiration and retail therapy. Download a self-guided art tour map and discover color around every corner.
Stop in one of the many restaurants or coffee shops for a meal or snack, or sit in Bailey Park in Innovation Quarter and enjoy the weather. It’s perfect for people-watching, fresh air, or catching a pop-up event.
Whether you’re in the mood for craft beer, contemporary art, or just a good wander, downtown delivers a mix of culture and charm that’s easy to fall for.
The Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership Website
5. Fun City Scavenger Hunt – Clues, Laughs, and Local Landmarks
The Fun City Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest turns downtown Winston-Salem into your personal game board. This is an excellent activity for families or friends that allows you to compete in the game while exploring the city of Winston-Salem.
Using a mobile app, teams receive a list of quirky challenges and riddles that lead them to landmarks, oddball items, and photo-worthy moments around town. Find an item, take a photo, and get points. Your score will be displayed on the leaderboard, allowing you to see how you compare to other teams across the country.
A remote host is on standby to offer hints or cheer you on if you get stuck. Find as many items as possible and climb to the top of the leaderboard while having fun. The games usually take about two hours, and teams walk about 2 miles during the hunt.
Winston-Salem Fun City Scavenger Hunt Website
- 120 S Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- Customer Support Agent Hours
- Tues-Sun, 9 am – 5 pm
Photo by Aniya Ellison for MyWinston-Salem.com, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2023.
6. Kaleideum – The Smartest Fun in Winston-Salem
If your kids love to ask “why?” and maybe even “how?”Kaleideum is the place to be. This hands-on museum blends science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) into imaginative, interactive exhibits that make learning feel like play.
With nine themed areas, kids can explore outer space, dig into human anatomy, experiment with technology, and get up close with the natural world. Popular spots include the Digital Dome theater, the Wonder Lab, and the ever-creative Innovation Station. The Rooftop Adventure is set to open in the summer.
Memberships are available, featuring special Members Only Hours. Families can take advantage of special First Friday extended hours (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and Members Only Hours for a quieter experience. Adults can even get in on the fun: Second Saturdays from 6 to 9 p.m. are adults-only, with a playful twist. If this kind of creativity is your thing, you’ll want to check out these other Winston-Salem museum gems.
- 120 W 3rd Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-767-6730
- Hours
- Tues-Fri, 9 am – 5 pm
- Sat & Sun, 10 am – 5 pm
- Closed Mondays until summer
7. Old Salem Museum And Gardens – Discover the Moravian Roots of the Twin City
Most residents are familiar with Old Salem, but how many have actually taken the tour? It is an enjoyable and educational tour about Old Salem and the Moravian mindset and way of life. It is an activity that is well worth the time and cost, and one that both young and old can enjoy.
You will visit all open venues and experience living history and historic trade demonstrations. The tour also includes admission to the Frank L. Horton Museum Center and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), which houses one of the finest collections of its kind.
Even without the tour, Old Salem itself is a great place to visit during the year. The streets, architecture, and atmosphere take you back to a simpler time. You can explore the Visitor’s Center, Winkler Bakery for Moravian cookies and sugar cakes, and Muddy Creek, a small cafe and music hall. In the summer, you can enjoy the free concerts by Salem Band in Salem Square. There are also special events throughout the year, including Moravian Candle Tea and Lovefest.
Old Salem is open year-round, with the exception of January. It’s one of those places where young or old, first-time visitor or lifelong local, you’ll always find something new to appreciate.
The Secret Tunnel Theory Beneath Old Salem
Local whispers tell of a hidden tunnel system beneath Old Salem used by Moravians for storage, protection, or more mysterious purposes. No one’s confirmed it, but the theory persists.
Old Salem Museum Website | Salem Band Website
- 900 Old Salem Road, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-721-7350
- Hours
- Wed-Sat, 10 am – 4 pm
8. Piedmont Craftsmen – Handmade Art With Heart
Piedmont Craftsmen, a guild of craft artists and collectors, was born in 1963 through a conversation by a group of friends who love crafts. The non-profit organization and hub for handmade excellenceconducts educational workshops, mounts exhibits, and operates a gallery and shop.
The work of these fine artists includes turned wooden bowls, pottery, delicate blown glass, unique jewelry, and more. Rotating monthly exhibits keep things fresh, and whether you’re hunting for a small, meaningful gift or a statement piece, you’re bound to find something one-of-a-kind.
Stop by during regular hours or make a night of it on First Fridays, when the gallery stays open from 6 to 10 p.m. It’s more than a shop, it’s a celebration of creativity.
- 601 N Trade Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-725-1516
- Hours
- Tues-Sat, 11 am – 4 pm
- Closed Monday
9. Pilot Mountain State Park – Cliffs, Crests, and That Giant Knob in the Sky
With its iconic knob rising above the treetops, Pilot Mountain is one of North Carolina’s most recognizable natural landmarks, and it’s been guiding travelers for centuries, from Native Americans and early settlers to modern-day hikers and adventurers. The state park surrounding the mountain is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering scenic trails, sweeping views, and rugged terrain.
Pilot Mountain State Park is a beautiful area for hiking. Some of the trails include The Jomeokee Trail leads around the base of “the knob,” and The Ledge Spring Trail, which goes along the ridge crest with its lower loop goes past a perennial spring and along a long cliff that is a popular place for rock climbing. Pig Pinnacle (the knob) is closed to climbing.
Looking to explore the water? There’s access to the Shoals Fishing and Paddling Area nearby. And before you head out, stop by the Visitor Center for maps, tips, and a little extra trail inspiration.
Pilot Mountain’s Spirit Guide
Native American legends speak of the mountain being a sacred place guided by spirits. Hikers sometimes report feeling “watched” or unexpectedly peaceful at the summit.
Pilot Mountain State Park Website
- Visitor Center and Mountain Section, 1721 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC
- Shoal Fishing and Paddling Access, 4454 Shoals Road, East Bend, NC
- 336-444-5100
- Hours
- Visitor’s Center, March-November, 9 am – 5 pm; December-February, 8 am – 4 pm
- Varied hours for different sections and different months. See website
10. Reynolda House Museum Of American Art – Where American Art Meets Gilded-Era Grandeur
Reynolda House and Gardens, now on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the few surviving examples of The American Country House Movement. Originally built as the home of R.J. Reynolds’ family, Reynolda House is now one of the country’s best-preserved examples of the American Country House Movement. It’s packed with stories, style, and more than 6,000 historical objects. Inside the grand estate, you’ll find an impressive collection of American art and rotating exhibits in the Babcock Gallery that keep things fresh throughout the year.
You can also explore Reynolda Gardens with or without the tour, including the Pink and White Garden and the Formal Gardens. The gardens are free of charge and open from dawn to dusk. You can visit Reynolda Village too, a merchant area filled with shops and restaurants. Check Reynolda House’s calendar, as they have events and workshops throughout the year. You can learn more about other Winston-Salem gardens in our guide.
Reynolda House Museum And Gardens Website
- 2201 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC
- 888-663-1149
- Hours
- Tues-Sat, 9:30 am- 4:30 pm
- Sun, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Reynolda Gardens: A Personal Story of Peace and Place
Every time I walk through Reynolda Gardens, it feels like a breath of magic. I’m always drawn to the flowers first: vibrant, ever-changing, and full of life. The formal gardens feel like a living work of art, carefully designed and endlessly inspiring.
But I love the forest trails just as much. There’s a quiet calm beneath the trees that grounds me. Surrounded by birdsong and filtered sunlight, I feel more connected to nature and myself. Whether I’m there to admire the blooms or lose myself in the woods, Reynolda always brings me peace.
– Kimberly Alt, Frequent Reynolda Visitor
Photo by Kathy Solarino for MyWinston-Salem.com, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2023
11. Salem Lake – Where the Wild Feels Welcoming and the Water Waits
Salem Lake, a 365-acre lake, is a great place for outdoor activities. It offers pier fishing, boat launching, a 7-mile trail around the lake, a playground, a mister, and picnic shelters. You can rent a kayak (May 1-Sept 30) or a small boat to explore the lake or go fishing. The lake is home to white perch, largemouth bass, crappie, carp, and more, making it a favorite spot for local anglers.
There is a boat rental and fishing fee, and individuals over the age of 16 must have a fishing license. Salem Lake is one of Winston-Salem’s outstanding parks, offering a full day of fun for all ages. Fishing tournaments and other events are also held at the park.
Salem Lake also hosts fishing tournaments and seasonal events throughout the year. Whether you’re out for a morning paddle or a sunset stroll, it’s one of the city’s best all-ages destinations for fresh air and a change of pace.
- 815 Salem Lake Road Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-650-7677
- Hours
- Mon-Fri, 8 am – 6:30 pm
- Sat & Sun, 7 am – 6:30 pm
- Trail Walks and Pier fishing ends at 6 pm
12. North Carolina Museum of Art (formerly SECCA) – A Contemporary Canvas Downtown
If you like your art to be a little unexpected, bold, and thought-provoking, this is your kind of place. The North Carolina Museum of Art showcases the art of our time through rotating exhibitions, immersive experiences, education programs, and community events, all designed to challenge, inspire, and spark conversation.
You’re welcome to explore the space at your own pace or book a guided tour that invites deeper interpretations of the current exhibits. Tours are booked according to availability and require a two-week advance notice. Art activities and curriculum-based tours are available upon request.
Best of all? Admission is always free, so you can keep coming back to see what’s new, weird, beautiful, or just plain mind-bending.
- 750 Marguerite Drive, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-725-1904
- Hours
- Wed, Fri, Sat, & Sun – 11 am – 4 pm
- Thurs, 11 am – 8 pm
- Closed Mon & Tues
13. Tanglewood Park – Where Nature and Nostalgia Meet
Tanglewood is a Forsyth County Park that offers a variety of activities. This expansive public park offers something for every kind of visitor. It has two golf courses, soft golf – a family-friendly full-swing game using 4 1/2 inch foam balls, swimming, horseback riding, gardens, picnic shelters, tennis, and a dog park. There are also accommodations available for staying at Tanglewood and an RV campground.
Entry passes are available for $25 at the Welcome Center. When affixed to your windshield, it allows free entry to the park through December 31, 2024. Aquatic Center Passes are also available, and if you purchase a family pass, you will get a free entry pass.
In winter, the park transforms into a seasonal wonderland with its beloved Festival of Lights, one of the most popular holiday attractions in the state. Whether you’re visiting for a quiet afternoon or a night of glowing holiday magic, Tanglewood delivers year-round charm with room to roam.
The Festival of Lights at Tanglewood Park draws more than 250,000 visitors each year. That’s more than the population of the city itself.
- Main Park Entrance off US Route 158, Clemmons, NC
- Welcome Center, 336-703-5400 | Tanglewood Dog Park status line, 336-703-6405
- Hours
- March 1-April 30, 7 am – 7 pm
- May 1-Sept 2, 7 am – 8 pm
- Sept 3- Sept 30, 7 am – 7:30 pm
- Oct 1-Oct 31, 7 am – 7 pm
- Nov 1-Nov 8, 7am – 6 pm
- Nov 9-Dec 21, 7 am – 5 pm
Photo by Sadie Cornelius for MyWinston-Salem.com, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2023
14. Wineries near Winston-Salem – From Sipping to Strolling, Your Vineyard Adventure Awaits
Just a short drive from Winston-Salem, the Yadkin Valley is home to some of North Carolina’s most scenic and celebrated wineries. With most vineyards less than 45 minutes away, it’s easy to plan a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting, gorgeous views, and maybe even a meal or some live music.
Here are a few local favorites to get you started:
- Childress Vineyards: Known for award-winning wines, Childress offers vineyard tours and tastings, plus a full-service restaurant, The Bistro, for lunch or a leisurely wine-paired meal. Visit the Childress Website.
- Raffaldini Vineyards: Specializing in classic Italian varietals, Raffaldini hosts wine classes, dinners, food trucks, and live music. Their hillside location offers panoramic views to match the flavor of every glass. Visit the Raffaldini Website.
- JOLO Winery and Vineyards: With sweeping views of Pilot Mountain, JOLO’s mountain-lodge-style tasting room and End Posts restaurant offer a cozy, elevated experience. Try their seasonal Cuvée Experience, a curated five-wine tasting paired with four delicious courses for something extra special. Visit the JOLO Website.
The Best Yadkin Valley Wineries
- Check individual wineries for hours, location, and events
Whether sipping a crisp white in the sunshine or settling into a bold red by the fire, wine country near Winston-Salem is well worth the trip. Winston’s just the beginning. Check out these nearby towns and trails for a day trip adventure.
15. Winston-Salem Ghost Tours – Haunted Streets, Real History, and a Few Ghostly Guests
When the sun sets over the Historic West End, Winston-Salem’s past gets darker and much more interesting. Join Carolina History and Haunts for a 90-minute walking tour through candlelit streets as you explore eerie legends, superstitions, and stories of former residents who may never have fully moved on.
Tours are held year-round, rain or shine, most happening on Saturday at 7 pm. They are available for larger groups upon request at alternative dates and times. Private tours are also available.
Children are welcome, but some of the stories contain adult content. The late-night tours are better suited for adults only. Tours meet in the courtyard behind the Rosenbacher House. The Winston-Salem Ghost Tour is an outside walking activity, so wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and keep an umbrella handy in case the weather adds a little extra drama to the night.
The Shadow in the Window – Zevely House
One of the oldest standing homes in the city, the Zevely House has a long history, and so, it’s said, does one of its residents. Guests have reported seeing a dark figure staring from an upper window… even when the building was empty. Winston-Salem has no shortage of fascinating tours. Here are a few more to check out.
Winston-Salem Ghost Tours Website
- Meeting location: 848 W 5th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 833-628-6277
- Hours and Dates
- Variable: see the calendar at “Buy Tickets” on their Website
Wait! You’re Not Leaving Yet, Are You?
Want more local favorites? The adventures don’t stop at this list. Winston-Salem is the kind of city that always has something going on. Visit the Arts District, antique shops, consignment shops, museums, galleries, farmer’s market, breweries, and restaurants. You may also enjoy festivals throughout the year, like RiverRun International Film Festival, Piedmont Earth Day Fair, and Loch Norman Highland Games and Scottish Festival in Rural Hall. Whatever brings you here, there’s always something more to discover in Winston-Salem.
What do you like to do in Winston-Salem? Tell us in the comments.
