Old Salem After Dark: Gingerbread, Ghost Tours & Moravian Soul

If you’re looking for a place that mixes history, art, and great food, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a perfect choice. You can explore charming old towns like Old Salem, enjoy local BBQ, and visit top-notch museums all in one spot. Whether you love outdoor adventures or relaxing strolls through historic neighborhoods, this city has something for everyone.

Winston-Salem began as a Moravian settlement and has grown into a lively hub with unique shops, breweries, and parks. You can enjoy the vibrant arts scene, try tasty Southern dishes, or simply relax in the friendly atmosphere. This guide highlights the best things to do so you can make the most of your visit.

Explore Historic Old Salem

When you visit Old Salem, you step back into an 18th-century Moravian settlement. Walk through preserved streets, visit museums, and enjoy hands-on experiences. The area gives you a close look at early American life and culture in Winston-Salem.

Stroll the Streets and Landmarks

As you explore Old Salem, you’ll find almost 100 historic buildings that show the Moravian community’s way of life. Landmarks like the Salem Tavern, where George Washington once stayed, stand out along the streets.

Many buildings offer tours or demonstrations. Watch artisans practice traditional trades, such as weaving or pottery. The old churches, including the Moravian Church, show the area’s strong religious heritage.

The layout of the town remains much like it was in the 1700s. Explore gardens and shops that keep the historic spirit alive for a clear view of life over 250 years ago.

Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts

The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) is part of Old Salem Museums & Gardens. It highlights furniture, textiles, and art made in the South during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

At MESDA, you see well-preserved pieces that tell stories about life and craftsmanship in early America. The museum has beautiful galleries and detailed exhibits. Staff often explain how items were made and used.

This museum is perfect if you enjoy history and art. It’s also a chance to learn about southern culture through objects created by local craftspeople. MESDA is included with tickets to Old Salem Museums & Gardens.

Winkler Bakery Experience

The Winkler Bakery is a special stop in Old Salem. This bakery is known for baking traditional Moravian treats, like sweet, spiced cookies called Moravian sugar cake.

When you visit, watch bakers work with original recipes that go back centuries. The aroma of fresh baked goods fills the air, making the experience even better. You can also purchase baked goods to take home.

Winkler Bakery offers a genuine taste of Moravian heritage and is a favorite spot for visitors looking to enjoy local flavor. It also includes a gift shop with books and crafts related to Old Salem.

Discover Reynolda House, Village, and Gardens

Explore a historic estate that offers art, shopping, dining, and beautiful gardens all in one place. Each part gives a unique look at the area’s culture and history, set on a large, peaceful property near Wake Forest University.

Reynolda House Museum of American Art

At Reynolda House Museum of American Art, you’ll find a fine collection of American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum was once the home of R.J. Reynolds, founder of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, and his wife, Katharine Smith Reynolds. Tour the grand house to see how the family lived and enjoy artworks from the colonial period through the 20th century.

Shop and Dine in Reynolda Village

Reynolda Village is a charming area filled with unique shops and restaurants. Take a break from exploring and enjoy local food, coffee, or sweets. The shops offer gifts and handmade crafts, making it easy to find something special.

The village’s historic buildings add to the relaxed atmosphere. You can spend a few hours wandering the paths, grabbing a meal, and picking up souvenirs.

Reynolda Gardens Exploration

Reynolda Gardens covers 10 acres of flowers, trees, and walking paths. The gardens are open year-round during daylight hours, and there is no admission fee. You’ll find beautifully maintained landscapes that show off a mix of traditional garden styles and native plants.

Walking through the gardens is a peaceful way to connect with nature. If you enjoy outdoor beauty and calm spaces, spending time here is a great choice during your visit.

Enjoy Outdoor Recreation and Parks

If you love nature and outdoor fun, Winston-Salem has plenty for you to explore. From historic sites to lakeside activities and large parks with many amenities, there’s something for everyone.

Historic Bethabara Park

At Historic Bethabara Park, you step into a piece of Winston-Salem’s past. This park is home to the first Moravian settlement in North Carolina, founded in 1753. Walk the well-marked trails and see original buildings, gardens, and a visitor center with exhibits.

Paved and natural trails are easy to follow, perfect for a peaceful hike or family outing. Community events or guided tours sometimes bring history to life. It’s a quiet place to learn and enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Salem Lake Trail and Activities

Salem Lake offers a peaceful spot for outdoor activities. The lake’s 7.5-mile trail winds around the water, ideal for walking, running, or biking. The surface is mostly crushed stone, making it comfortable and accessible.

Go fishing or rent a kayak to explore the calm waters. Picnic areas nearby give you a place to relax and enjoy a meal outside. Salem Lake is a great spot for both casual visitors and those who love water sports.

Tanglewood Park Adventures

Tanglewood Park is a large, 1,100-acre public park with plenty of activities. Play golf on its two championship courses or visit the horse stables for trail rides. During summer, the public pool is open for cooling off.

Depending on the season, enjoy pedal boating, tennis, or fishing on stocked lakes. Campgrounds and a cozy bed and breakfast add to the fun if you want to stay overnight. The park’s roomy grounds make it easy to find a quiet spot or enjoy active recreation.

Hiking Pilot Mountain

Pilot Mountain is a must-see for hiking lovers near Winston-Salem. This state park features a unique, tall rock formation called “the knob” that creates a striking view. Choose from several trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

The Moore’s Wall Trail is popular for views that stretch for miles. Wildlife is common here, so keep your eyes open for birds and small mammals. Picnic areas and places to rest are along the trails.

Experience Arts, Culture, and Museums

Winston-Salem offers unique spots where you can enjoy modern creativity and hands-on learning. You’ll find places that showcase contemporary art and interactive science exhibits perfect for visitors of all ages.

Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art

The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, or SECCA, is a must-see if you like modern art. It features rotating exhibits from both regional and international artists. Expect to see new and thought-provoking pieces that challenge traditional views.

SECCA is free to enter, making it an easy stop for anyone exploring the city’s art scene. The gallery spaces are clean and well-designed, giving you plenty of room to take in sculptures, paintings, and multimedia works.

Look out for special events, artist talks, and workshops. These can make your visit more engaging and give you a chance to learn directly from artists.

Kaleideum Interactive Museum

Kaleideum is a hands-on museum made for kids but enjoyable for adults too. It combines science, arts, and discovery in fun, interactive exhibits. Explore everything from space to nature with experiments and creative activities.

The museum has two locations: one focused on science and the other on children’s experiences. Both places encourage learning through play, which makes it perfect if you’re visiting with family.

Check the schedule for special programs or events, especially if you want to join workshops or seasonal activities. It’s an excellent way to keep kids curious and entertained while you enjoy the day.

Family-Friendly Fun in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem offers many ways for families to spend time together. From hands-on museums to outdoor parks, you can find activities for all ages and interests. You’ll also get a chance to explore some well-known local colleges nearby, adding a bit of culture to your visit.

Things To Do With Kids

If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll find plenty to keep them busy. Places like Kaleideum provide interactive exhibits where kids can learn and play. The NC Zoo, a little outside the city, is great for seeing animals like giraffes and lions in a large natural setting. Historic Bethabara Park lets kids walk cobblestone streets and watch tradespeople work, bringing history to life.

For outdoor fun, Gateway Nature Preserve and Pilot Mountain State Park offer safe trails for easy hikes. You might also enjoy a game at Truist Stadium, where the Winston-Salem Dash play baseball in a family-friendly atmosphere. Splash pads, art bars, and tubing spots nearby round out your options for a full day with kids.

Colleges and Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University is one of the city’s top schools and a beautiful place to visit. Walk its tree-lined paths and see impressive buildings like Wait Chapel. The campus often hosts events open to the public, so you can enjoy lectures, performances, or art displays.

Besides Wake Forest, Winston-Salem has other colleges that add to the city’s atmosphere. These campuses often offer museums, coffee shops, and parks you can explore. If your family enjoys learning about college life or wants a quiet spot to relax, these areas provide a nice break from typical tourist spots.

Local Flavor: Breweries, Food, and Nightlife

Winston-Salem offers a lively scene where you can enjoy unique beers and tasty local foods. Many breweries also host fun events, making it easy to spend an evening with friends while trying new flavors. You’ll find spots where craft beer meets delicious meals and plenty of options to explore the city’s food culture.

Craft Breweries Highlights

If you love craft beer, Winston-Salem has some great breweries to check out. Foothills Brewing is one of the biggest names here. With three locations, including a tasting room and a brewpub, you can enjoy a wide range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. They often have events like game nights and live music.

Radar Brewing Company is in the Industry Hill area and is known for experimental and classic beers. They have weekly trivia nights and special workshops, so it’s a fun spot to visit more than once.

At Incendiary Brewing Company, you can try many rotating drafts, like stouts and lagers. The brewery has a large patio and sometimes features food trucks. You can also order pizza from the nearby Cugino Forno and enjoy it with your beer.

Food Tours and Local Bites

Winston-Salem’s food scene offers more than just great beer. You can try local dishes and explore the city’s flavors through food tours or visits to popular spots. Many breweries have food trucks or menus with burgers, wings, and sandwiches.

At Foothills Brewpub, you’ll find tacos, pasta, salads, and the famous “Above and Beyond Burger,” a tasty plant-based option.

Small Batch Beer Co. downtown serves craft brews with unique burgers and sides. You can also build your own burger with chicken or veggie patties.

Sports and Special Events

Winston-Salem has exciting sports action and lively community festivals all year. You can enjoy high-energy games at Truist Stadium and join fun events that celebrate local culture and seasons.

Catch a Game at Truist Stadium

If you’re a sports fan, visit Truist Stadium. The Winston-Salem Dash play baseball games here. Watching a game is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening with family and friends.

The stadium offers great seating and food stands with classic ballpark snacks. You can get there easily and enjoy a friendly atmosphere that makes fans feel at home. Check the schedule before you go for game times and special events like fireworks nights or theme games.

Seasonal Festivals and Community Events

Winston-Salem hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. You can join celebrations like the Historic Bethabara Apple Festival in the fall or the Pride Festival in June. These events feature food vendors, live music, and activities for all ages.

Look out for the Piedmont Earth Day Fair in April and the Triad Cultural Arts Juneteenth Festival in June. You can learn about the community and enjoy arts and culture in a lively setting. Many festivals offer free admission or special deals during their run.