Planning a weekend getaway in Winston-Salem, NC? Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Winston-Salem is rich in history and growing by the minute thanks to recent revitalization downtown.
From the street art above your head to wine with llamas, Winston-Salem is full of fun surprises. Here is your guide to the Camel City including where to stay, where to eat, things to do, places to shop, and more.
Where to Stay
Cozy Airbnb Cottage
If you’re looking for a quiet, cozy stay near downtown, look no further than this Airbnb cottage! We stayed here for Valentine’s Day weekend and it was one of the most charming and unique Airbnbs we have ever seen.
The cottage is located in the backyard of a house but still feels private. Situated just outside of downtown, this is within walking distance if you’re comfortable with slightly longer walks. Otherwise, it’s a short Uber ride to downtown (like, really short). There is plenty of free street parking so no worries about finding a spot for your car all weekend.
The Airbnb host, Jennifer, was incredibly thoughtful and even surprised us with a bottle of wine and a stack of records on our doorstep when we returned after a long first day of exploring. Those little touches go a long way!
Book it here.
Things to Do
Old Salem
Old Salem is one of the most visited historic areas of the city dating back to the days of the Moravian settlement here in 1783. Walking through the buildings and gardens reminded me of Colonial Williamsburg. Museum staff are dressed in traditional clothing and offer live demonstrations of what life was like back then. If you’re a history buff, Old Salem is definitely worth a visit!
? 900 Old Salem Road
Reynolda Gardens
Reynolda Gardens is a beautiful, flowery oasis in Winston-Salem with plenty of history. Located on the estate of tobacco-industry giant R.J. Reynolds, the gardens include 125 acres gardens with picturesque fountains, pergolas, trees, flowers, vegetables, and a greenhouse. It’s open daily and free to explore.
? 100 Reynolda Village
Downtown Arts District
Something I did not expect was for Winston-Salem to be so chock-full of funky street art! One of the areas I loved the most when visiting was the Arts District on Trade Street. Everywhere you turn there’s a mural or installation to take in. Make sure you bring a camera!
? Trade Street NW
Where to Eat
Krankies
If you do nothing else on your weekend getaway in Winston-Salem, you MUST visit Krankies. One of the more well-known coffee shops in the city, Krankies has an eclectic atmosphere and plenty of cozy indoor and outdoor seating. That’s all well and good, but the kicker is their fried chicken biscuit. Absolutely to die for. Don’t leave Winston-Salem with out trying it!
? 211 E 3rd Street
Quanto Basta
It doesn’t get much better than Italian food and wine. Quanto Basta was the perfect romantic dinner spot within walking distance of our cozy cottage Airbnb. Grab a glass of wine at the bar while you wait for your table and then enjoy pre-dinner bread and any of the pastas on the menu. Can’t go wrong with buttery carbs, am I right?
? 680 W 4th Street
Earl’s
Earl’s doubles as both a nightlife spot and a brunch destination. It’s rare that one place can do both things well, but I can say from experience that Earl’s can do both! Come after dinner for the late-night live country music, and come back 12 hours later for a brunch you won’t forget. Order the EFC – Earl’s Fried Chicken sandwich (pictured here).
? 121 W 9th Street
Watering Holes
Wise Man Brewing
Thirsty? Wise Man Brewing is your typical craft brewery with a variety of beers and indoor and outdoor seating. Located in a 90-year-old building, this brewery was packed to the brim on a Saturday afternoon. A fun spot for an adult refreshment.
? 826 Angelo Bros Avenue
Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Company
Once you’re done enjoying the street art on Trade Street, Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing is just a short walk away. In addition to craft beer, you can enjoy a snack from their full-time onsite food truck, The Slanted Shed. Highly recommend the fried Brussels sprouts.
? 772 Trade Street NW
Incendiary Brewing Company
Incendiary Brewing wins the prize for coolest setting in town. Enjoy your beer with a beautiful industrial view of old-meets-new. Plus, they have pizza!
? 486 N Patterson Avenue
Divine Llama Vineyards
Just 20 minutes outside of the city, Divine Llama Vineyards is both a winery and llama farm. The wines are named after the llamas and once you finish your tasting, you can walk the property with your wine glass and meet the furry residents!
? 4126 Divine Llama Lane
Honorable Mentions
Design Archives Vintage & Handmade Emporium
Eclectic vintage and antique clothing & gift shop
? 636 W 4th Street
Bookmarks
Independent bookstore connected to a coffee shop
? 634 W 4th Street
URBN Grl
Modern gift and accessory shop
? 908 Burke Street
Canteen Still Life
Coffee and wine bar
? 411 W 4th Street
There you have it, a guide to a fun-filled weekend getaway in Winston-Salem! Enjoy the street art, fried chicken, and history of this beautiful city. For more weekend getaways in North Carolina, check out this post. Happy exploring!
I love this! I am from Winston-Salem, but no longer live in the area. Downtown is growing and there are places on here I can’t wait to try!