Looking for a fabulous getaway with the one you love? How about a fun destination for a bachelorette party or weekend trip? Consider a quaint city nearby! There are plenty of unique things to do in Winston-Salem NC to keep you occupied.
The city of Winston-Salem is one of the most vibrant cities in the state of North Carolina. From its historical buildings, beautiful parks, and restaurants, there is such variety that you’ll never run out of things to do in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
One plus is that it’s within driving distance from Virginia, so it’s the perfect weekend escape. Plan a trip full of adventure, or build a culinary escape. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a lovely getaway with your sweetie.
If you haven’t been to Winston-Salem, you should plan a trip soon!
Where to Stay in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel is a charming boutique hotel in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is conveniently situated downtown in the historic R.J. Reynolds building, which once served as the corporate headquarters of the Reynolds Tobacco Company.
Most rooms feature a full mini-bar and free wireless Internet access. In addition, all of the rooms are pet-friendly, which is especially convenient if you enjoy traveling with a furry friend.
The lobby is filled with sleek, jewel-toned couches and chairs and features a collection of Maya Angelou books. Other features include a huge scrabble board and an extensive self-serve coffee station in the morning.
However, the basement is where the real treasure lies. The downstairs houses a rec room with a small basketball court, table tennis, shuffleboard, and bowling alley. There’s plenty of room to play games or challenge each other to a round of bowling on your romantic getaway.
Rooms at the Kimpton Cardinal feature a large flat-screen television, comfy beds, city views, and luxe bath amenities. If you’re in the market for a suite, choose from a One Bedroom King Suite or a Two-Bedroom Queen Suite.
One favorite feature about the Kimpton in downtown Winston-Salem is that it’s within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Make time to roam around the area and soak in the various sites, and take a peek at the hotel below.
Map of Winston-Salem Things to Do
6 Fun Things to Do in Winston-Salem NC
1. Explore Reynolda Village.
Reynolda Village in Winston-Salem is a vibrant community that includes a historic district, lake, and formal garden. It is a great place to visit to explore a variety of sites and activities.
The Reynolda House Museum of American Art is a treasure trove of works hailing from 1755 to the present. Works by Thomas Eakins, Frederic Church, Mary Cassatt, and Jacob Lawrence are among the many masterpieces displayed here. Traveling exhibitions also make their way through Reynolda, so keep an eye out on their calendar for what’s coming next.
When you tour the house, don’t miss the opportunity to hear the organ. The home also features various game rooms and a gorgeous indoor swimming pool downstairs. Of course, the gardens are also a highlight.
Another great reason to visit Reynolda Village is to explore the shops and restaurants. These are situated in a unique, English village-style architecture. For instance, the Pepper Building is a former upscale furniture store. Today it is home to boutiques. You can find clothing, jewelry, and beautiful tabletop items for yourself or as a souvenir of your time in Winston-Salem.
Consider booking the Barn at Reynolda Village if you’re planning a wedding or social gathering. This venue is located in the heart of the historic district and boasts a clean, white interior with elegant lighting. Having a destination wedding in Winston-Salem is also a possibility for Virginia couples.
2. Take a segway tour with Triad Eco Adventures.
Triad Eco Adventures is a fun and quirky tour company that offers a number of entertaining tours. The company’s signature mode of transportation is a Segway. However, Triad also offers a number of other tours, such as on e-bikes and paddleboard excursions.
One of the coolest features of the company is its ability to cater to large and small groups. For example, scheduling a group tour for a bachelorette party or wedding is easy, and the same goes for other special occasions.
The company is also known for its iconic trolley tours. You can book a trolley for your birthday, Winston-Salem wedding, or bachelorette party. It’s also a great way to see the city if you’re not a fan of riding your own bike.
Of course, the best thing about Triad ECO Adventures is the service they provide. Their knowledgeable, charming guides ensure that your day in Winston-Salem is fun and informative. You may even get to ride a Segway through Old Salem, past old buildings and multiple historic sites.
3. Experience the wonder of Körner’s Folly.
There are many amazing places to visit in Winston-Salem. But perhaps, one of the most unique is Körner’s Folly. This 6,000-square-foot home was built in 1880 and features fifteen fireplaces, carved woodwork, and cast-plaster details. As historic house museums go, it is truly a masterpiece.
Originally, it was the home of Jule Gilmer Korner, a painter, photographer, and interior decorator. The home features seven levels and 22 rooms, which were used as a place to showcase various designs. The result is an eclectic home with 15 fireplaces, carved woodwork, and intricate hand-laid tile.
Korner’s Folly is open to the public all year, and tickets can be purchased online or on-site. The museum also offers private, guided tours for those seeking a more intimate experience. Alternatively, you can do a self-guided tour of the house. Don’t miss the lovely theater room in the attic!
4. Walk through the Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden.
The Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden is located in the historic Kernersville downtown district. It’s the only public garden between Raleigh and Charlotte, and it’s very close to Körner’s Folly.
Visitors can enjoy a large spring bulb display, 15 separate gardens, and a Moravian kitchen garden. There’s also a unique plastic bottle art project, and this 7-acre garden features themed gardens and a visitor center. It also offers tours and a gift shop.
5. Peruse all that downtown Winston-Salem NC has to offer.
A lively downtown and a wide variety of dining options are what make Winston-Salem, NC, an appealing destination. The city’s downtown area is full of stately architecture and lively outdoor hangouts. You’re sure to find something you enjoy from art galleries to vintage boutiques.
For an evening out, you can take in a game at the Winston-Salem Dash, a baseball team that plays at Truist Stadium. You can also visit the Old Salem Museum and Gardens. You’ll discover living history exhibits, a nature garden, and an art museum there. P.S. Don’t forget that you can hit the highlights during a Segway tour.
Winston-Salem is also home to Broad Branch Distillery, a former tobacco warehouse that produces premium whiskeys. Visitors can sample the distillery’s offerings, which include vodkas, rums, and premium whiskeys. There are also several breweries downtown if you prefer beer.
For an eclectic experience, head to Roar, where you can sample from various eateries, play games, or play pin bowling. There is often live entertainment, so peek at their calendar to see what’s playing.
6. Make time to visit the Old Salem Museum and Gardens.
There’s no shortage of educational and family-friendly attractions among the many things to do in Winston-Salem NC. The Old Salem Museum and Gardens, located in the heart of the city, is a great place to learn about early religious Winston-Salem communities.
If you take the segway tour, you’ll most likely go through the museum’s streets, which make the trek extra exciting.
Other Things to Do in Winston-Salem NC While Hungry
Where to Eat in Winston-Salem
There are many great places to eat in Winston-Salem, NC. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fancy meal, there’s something for every taste. This quaint North Carolina town is loaded with old-fashioned Southern restaurants and unique Asian and Latin American cuisine. From barbecue to sushi, Winston-Salem is the place to go.
Krankies Coffee
Krankies Coffee features farm-to-table style menu items for breakfast and a cup of coffee. The chicken biscuit is a local favorite, and it’s no wonder. It’s brined and fried in local Texas Pete hot sauce and honey. Delish!
Six Hundred Degrees
A favorite option in the downtown area is Six Hundred Degrees, which is a family-owned and operated restaurant well known for its delicious and unique cuisine. From classic Italian dishes to Southern comfort food, 600 Degrees has something for everyone.
The menu features a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées, and desserts that are sure to satisfy any craving. The restaurant also offers catering services and hosts private events. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an enjoyable evening out, 600 Degrees is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two.
Young Cardinal Cafe
The Young Cardinal Cafe has a great selection of brunch options and mimosas. In addition to the classics, the menu also offers some unique Tex-Mex specialties. For example, the signature Fried Green Tomato and Okra Basket is not to be missed. You can even try a three-cheese mac and cheese with ham.
Reynolda Village
If you’re hungry while at Reynolda, stop by Dough-Joes for a made-to-order donut. It’s also a treat to eat lunch outside — weather permitting, of course — at Village Tavern.
On-site at the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
While you’re at the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, be sure to eat at The Katharine Brasserie & Bar. It was named for the matriarch of the Reynolds family and offers a creative selection of food items and drinks. It’s a convenient spot with quality food when you just feel like relaxing at the hotel. No matter where you choose to go in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, these are all lovely options to grab a bite to eat.
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