Winston-Salem, NC may have historically been known for its association with the tobacco industry and the major cigarette brand, R.J. Reynolds, but these days it is popular for so much more. Not only is it a popular place to live as the fifth most populated city in the state of North Carolina, but it’s also a favorite spot for tourists who are passing through the Tarheel State. Originally founded in 1753, the city has now grown to be a mecca for business, technology, healthcare, education and cultural arts. In fact, there are so many things to see and do here, you may have trouble deciding what to do first!
Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Set in a restored historic house from 1900’s, the Reynolda House Museum is home to a premiere collection of American Art that consists of approximately 300 works ranging in dates from 1755 to present day. In addition to the decorative arts, furnishings, costumes and toys located in the historic house, visitors will find additional temporary exhibitions and programs in the 31,619 square foot Mary and Charlie Babcock Wing, which was added in 2005. The museum also offers a variety of behind-the-scenes tours, including tours of the original farm buildings in surrounding Reynolda Village.
Kaleideum North
If you have little ones that love math and science or you loved them as a child, you’ll want to make a family visit to Kaleideum North, an interactive play and discovery museum that seeks to spark children’s imaginations through STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), literacy and arts education. Visitors have the chance to experience the natural and physical sciences as they roam the seven indoor halls, the outdoor barnyard and Environmental Park habitats, the traveling exhibits hall and the 50-foot planetarium.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
Old Salem Museums & Gardens provides an authentic look into early Southern life with its collection of historical attractions including the Historic Town of Salem, the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) and the Gardens at Old Salem. Some of the interactive experiences you can have while visiting Old Salem include learning about early Moravian horticulture practices, visiting a doctor’s apothecary shop, hearing the 1798 Tannenberg pipe organ and sample baked goods made in the dome bake oven at the C. Winkler Bakery. There are also several restaurants and unique gift shops, all within walking distance of one another, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to stay all day!
Historic West End
If you’re looking for a way to spend a relaxing afternoon in Winston-Salem, check out the historic West End district, where you can roam through a variety of antique, consignment and furniture stores, have a meal at one of the uniquely-themed local restaurants, or enjoy a carriage ride and learn about the historic buildings that range in date from 1890 to 1930.
Winston Cup Museum
Sports lovers and NASCAR fans will definitely not want to miss the Winston Cup Museum that celebrates 33 years of Winston Cup Series stock car racing with over 20 authentic race cars on display, including ones driven by the legendary Dale Earnhardt, Sr. There’s also plenty of memorabilia including trophies, uniforms, helmets and winners’ checks, as well as racing simulators, never-before-seen photographs, special exhibits and an interactive NASCAR trivia game. Since they also feature rotating exhibits of personal car collections, you’ll always have something new to see every time you visit!
Daniel Boone Gem Mining
Kids and adults alike will love trying their hand at mining at Daniel Boone Gem Mining. They’ll provide everything you need to go digging for treasure including ore-enriched gem buckets that are made from mine rough from all over the world and enriched with minerals from local NC mines. Although each visit is unique, you can expect to find a variety of rocks, gemstones and minerals, including quartz, citrine, amethyst, calcite, rubies, emeralds, crystals, arrow heads, sharks teeth and more. But even if you don’t find any treasures to take home, there are plenty of rings, necklaces and gems to take home from the on-site gift shop.
Bethabara Park
If you want to get outside and experience the natural beauty of Winston-Salem while also learning a little bit about its history, make sure to visit historic Bethabara Park, the site of the earliest Moravian settlement in the Piedmont area. Founded in 1753, the park is now a beautiful 183-acre wildlife preserve that is home to over 120 different species of birds. You can take in the beauty of these birds, as well as foxes, deer, mink and otters, from the several miles of nature trails that wind throughout the property. Also located on-site are several active archaeological sites, a reconstructed colonial village, a fort from the French and Indian War, a community and medicinal garden, and the oldest standing church with an attached residence in all of North America.
