Overview
Winston-Salem is a mid-size Southern city with an outsized cultural footprint: the best-preserved 18th-century Moravian settlement in the country at Old Salem, a world-class American art collection at Reynolda House, and the largest shopping mall in North Carolina at Hanes Mall. The city rewards visitors interested in history, architecture, and regional Southern cuisine, offering a slower alternative to larger East Coast destinations.
Architecture · Day Trips · Family Travel · Festivals · History
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget hotels near Wake Forest and Highway 52 start around $79. Upscale downtown options reach $182 and above.
Food
Don't miss Moravian spice cookies—a local specialty since the 1800s. Southern cuisine is well-represented, from BBQ to refined bistro fare.
Money
Prices in this article are quoted in US dollars. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Safety
Downtown and West End districts are very safe. Eastern neighborhoods require normal precautions at night. Normal precautions should be taken.
Transport
A car is recommended for exploring Winston-Salem and the surrounding Piedmont Triad. Bus route #6 connects Hanes Mall with downtown.