Disclosure: Visit Winston Salem sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
If you plan to visit North Carolina, Winston-Salem should be your first choice for a fun-filled destination. As a first-time traveler to the city, I was beyond impressed with Winston-Salem during an extended weekend getaway.
The city is the ideal blend of urban attractions, a thriving art scene, and outdoor recreation. You can wake up at a luxury hotel, take a guided historic tour, and sip award-winning wine overlooking the stunning Gateway to the Yadkin Valley, all in the same day.
Founded in 1766 by Moravian settlers, the city’s industrial roots include the tobacco empire of R. J. Reynolds and a railway system that fueled Winston-Salem’s growth. Wake Forest University moved to the city in 1956.
Use this comprehensive guide to plan your Winston-Salem getaway, a memorable vacation spent amongst locals who exude “twice as nice” Southern hospitality. Although the metro area is home to about 550,000 residents, it feels like a smaller town with big city amenities.
Winston-Salem, North Carolina: Best Things to Do During a Weekend Getaway
GETTING TO WINSTON-SALEM & IN-TOWN TRANSPORTATION
If you’re flying to Winston-Salem, you’ll arrive at Piedmont Triad International Airport. You can arrive one hour before your boarding time if you check in via the airline’s mobile app, as the airport is medium-sized and the lines move quickly.
You’ll want to rent a car for pickup at the airport and drive 23 miles to Winston-Salem. Our experience with Enterprise was efficient and stress-free.
LUXURIOUS LODGING
Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
The Kimpton Cardinal, and IHG luxury hotel, is Southern sophistication with stunning Art Deco details.
Located inside the historic R.J. Reynolds building, an architectural muse for New York City’s Empire State Building, its lavish guest rooms inspired you to put on a soft robe, pour a glass of wine, and stay a while.
The interior’s metal finishes and Art Deco styling meld seamlessly with a color palette of dark hues with pops of vibrant color. Rentable bikes, an ornamental sailboat on display in the lobby, and nautical oars on the walls embrace a lifestyle of active exploration.
After dropping our luggage in our guest room, we lingered over craft cocktails and an exquisitely prepared dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, The Katharaine Brasserie & Bar.
Our sixth-floor Essential King Guest Room included a view of the R.J. Reynolds factory and luxurious in-room amenities, including seer sucker robes, high-end body products, and bottled water. The first-floor lobby’s coffee and tea station made up for the room’s lack of a coffee maker.
We appreciated how quiet and secluded our room felt despite the hotel’s full capacity. Our leisurely mornings began with complimentary coffee from soft duvet-covered bedding, before embarking on a full day of activities.
Upon return, our room was refreshed, and the temperature was cool, making it a restful space for a nap.
Our weekend getaway at the hotel felt like a continuous date night, with complimentary Happy Hour drinks and game-on competition in the Rec Room, bowling, and whizzing down the two-story spiral slide.
Between Thursday Night Jazz and a FIFA World Cup Watch Party, it felt like there was always something to experience at the hotel.
For us, Kimpton Cardinal was the ultimate luxury hotel experience and the each employee we met went above and beyond to make sure we experience da comfortable, memorable stay.
BONUS: Kimpton Cardinal welcomes dogs of any size at no additional fee. And if you don’t want to park your car at the nearby parking garage, the hotel offers valet service.
Select the dates of your trip and reserve a guest room here.
DELICIOUS DINING
Young Cardinal Cafe & Co.
A five-minute walk from the hotel, Young Cardinal Cafe & Co. is a sought-after breakfast eatery where locals line up at the door for a table on a Saturday.
We skipped the wait, opting to sit at the bar counter, where the bartender provided us with a menu for full breakfast service.
The restaurant is known for its Huevos Rancheros and Hot Honey Chicken, but we leaned into our cravings for the Eggs Benedict served with Virginia Ham and sweet tater tots, which impressed.
My vanilla-flavored waffle topped with fresh blueberries arrived warm and topped with powdered sugar.
The service was prompt and friendly, and the value for the quality of the meals won us over. Seeking an early-morning meal with a boozy coffee or mimosa? Young Cardinal Cafe & Co. fits the bill.
Krankies Coffee
Locals rave about the in-house-roasted coffee and house-made biscuit sandwiches at Krankies Coffee, and it’s worth the high praise.
Since 2003, it’s served as a community hub for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate globally sourced beans from smallholder farmers. The biscuits? Well, they’re the stars of the breakfast and lunch menu.
We beat the morning rush, ordering two biscuit sandwiches: a Bluebird and a Hangover Helper, each served with brined and fried chicken. Every savory bite left us craving more.
And the coffee? It was downright perfect. But if you crave a boozy beverage, the bar is poised to prepare an Irish Coffee or Espresso Martini to your liking.
Dough-Joe’s
An excellent option for coffee with a lighter breakfast is Dough-Joe’s located in the Reynolda Village.
Serving hot, custom donuts made to order, the quaint shop sees consistent business from Wake Forest University students and village visitors who frequent nearby shops or tour Reynolda Gardens.
You’ll feel like a kid again, selecting your cake doughnut flavor and icing. No doubt, my warm chocolate doughnut (ready within minutes of my order!) was divine, but the savory scone was scrumptious.
When you arrive, ask to see the seasonal drink menu, or trust that any coffee or tea will satisfy.
You can order doughnuts individually, by half, or by a full dozen.
PRO TIP: If seating is minimal inside, opt for an outside patio table.
Bobby Boy Bakeshop
A visit to Winston-Salem is not complete without stopping into the highly rated Bobby Boy Bakeshop for pastries.
I judge a bakeshop by its quality croissants, and let’s just say the artisanal bakeshop is nailing it. Buttery, flaky, and soft in every bite.
You can expect to find French-inspired pastries available to select from well after the morning hours. Ask about their breads and baguette sandwiches.
Muddy Creek Café & Listening Room
Muddy Creek Café & Listening Room combines two of my favorite things: food and music.
Specializing in gourmet panini-style sandwiches, soup, salads, and desserts, the restaurant in Old Salem often hosts live music throughout the day. Customers place their order at the laid-back café counter.
I sipped a Red Oak Bavarian Amber Lager from a can in between bites of a toasted reuben sandwich and potato salad. The patio was filled with senior adults chatting about their day as a musician set up his gear.
PRO TIP: Check out the upcoming music performances calendar here.
J. Pepper’s Southern Grille
Combine Cajun-style cuisine with North Carolina’s distinct ingredients, and you get J. Pepper’s Southern Grill. Located in Kernersville, about 12 miles from Winston-Salem, the restaurant features comfort classics like Crispy Crab Cakes, Bourbon-Glazed Flat Iron Steak, and Fried Catfish.
Our table ordered the Spicy Crawfish Eggrolls, which arrived freshly rolled, hot, and crispy. Although I didn’t taste a seafood flavor, I enjoyed them for the crunchy exterior and shredded vegetables inside. The Pimento Cheese served with flatbread and pepper jelly was a table favorite.
I can attest that the kitchen knows how to prepare an excellent sandwich. The Fried Green Tomato BLT, stacked and slathered with pimento cheese spread, arrived with my choice of side dish, roasted Brussel sprouts.
PRO TIP: Prefer a glass of wine with your meal? Visit on Wine Wednesday and save 50 percent on a glass of vino.
Mozelle’s French Southern Bistro
Everyone wants to eat at Mozelle’s French Southern Bistro, and securing a coveted table by the window requires a reservation. Open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner, the modern bistro offers bar seats and first-come, first-served patio tables.
Most locals recommended Mozelle’s to us and suggested ordering the restaurant’s famous Tomato Pie. The kitchen sources as many of its ingredients as possible from local farms, brewers, wineries, and creameries.
We ordered the Southern Spring Rolls served with sesame ginger dipping sauce as a pre-lunch appetizer, which I was delightfully surprised to see on the menu.
My slice of Tomato Pie, housing vegetables with cheddars and creamy succotash between hand-rolled crust, tasted similar to a creamy tomato bisque. I loved it.
The Seafood Cream Pesto Pasta lunch special was a hearty portion with small chunks of salmon and scallops, both equally delectable.
If you dine at dinnertime, expect protein-forward entrees, and of course, Tomato Pie, to pair with a wine or beer selection.
The Katharine Brasserie & Bar
I can’t recommend The Katharine Brasserie & Bar enough. After checking into our hotel room at Kimpton Cardinal, we lingered over drinks before ordering an exquisitely prepared dinner, where French-inspired cuisine pairs with Southern hospitality.
The bar is known for its creative cocktails, so I chose the Black Hawk made with Toki Suntory Japanese whiskey and three fruit juices.
Patrons interested in wine or craft beer can select from an extensive list featuring regional selections.
We ordered the escargot as a prelude to a smoked pork chop with grits and braised beef short rib served in a red wine sauce. To say the least, the well-plated meal was one of the best-tasting we’ve had during all our travels.
PRO TIP: Weekly Bar Menu Highlights: 5 pm – 10 pm – Tuesday: 50% off Snacks and Munchies; Thursday: Half-Off Oysters; and the Burger and a Pint or Glass of House Wine is $20 Monday through Friday.
East of Texas
Tex-Mex barbecue in North Carolina? Yes, and East of Texas is doing it well in West Salem, serving tacos, classic smoked meat sandwiches, and combination trays with side dishes.
It was raining upon our arrival, so we chose to share a community-size table indoors, where we quickly made friends with other travelers. The aroma of smoked meat conjured up memories of a trip to Houston years ago.
I couldn’t resist ordering the Trinity Tray, a sampling of queso, guac, and salsa with chips for a shareable appetizer over conversation.
The Lil’ Sampler Tray with a quarter-pound of brisket, chicken, and jalapeño sausage was plenty of food for both of us, as it came with buttermilk slaw and warm tortillas.
Overall, the smoked flavor was light, and the sausage was my preferred meat. I could have drunk the savory tomatillo salsa by the gallon.
PRO TIP: Follow the restaurant’s Weekly Events Calendar to plan for live music and trivia nights, as well as all-day drink specials.
Mission Pizza Napoletana
We knew we were in for a special dining experience at Mission Pizza Napoletana, recognized by 50 Top Pizza USA five years running, Food & Wine, Thrillest, and other notable food critics as one of the best in America. The owner and chef, Peyton Smith, was a James Beard Foundation Semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast in 2022.
Inside the osteria (not a pizzeria), the dining room was dimly lit by warm orange light, which reminded me of the pizza oven’s glow.
We sat at the pizza counter quietly awaiting Chef Peyton’s welcome to the Pizzakase tasting experience, which gave us a front-row view of the kitchen where he hand-stretched dough. He asked us, “What are you interested in eating tonight?” Our reply, “Chef, we’re leaving it up to you.”
He smiled.
Chef Peyton served a multi-course meal of shareable plates, starting with an arugula salad tossed with dressing and fresh peaches. Every dish thereafter impressed, including Italian white beans in a garlicky cream sauce, charred broccolini topped with shaved parmesan, and two versions of pizza prepared just as you would enjoy them in Italy.
We chatted with Chef Peyton about his college soccer-playing career and his travels. He told us he travels to Italy more than once a year, as he explained the technique for preparing double-fermented dough.
He is passionate about his craft and, thankfully for us, willing to answer our questions as he made each pizza for the at-capacity dining room.
For me, the best-tasting of the two pizzas served was the Neapolitan-style fried pizza dough that puffs up into a golden crust and is topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Within minutes of leaving the restaurant, we agreed that Chef Peyton’s pizza was the best-tasting pizza we’d ever eaten.
PRO TIP: You must place a reservation, Wednesday through Saturday. Take-out is not recommended, especially for first-time diners.
Bernardin’s Restaurant
For diners seeking an upscale restaurant off the beaten path, Bernardin’s Restaurant offers a fine-dining experience in the historic Zevely House, built by a Moravian cabinetmaker in 1815. It is the Triad’s only five-star restaurant, serving high-end seasonal menus since 1992.
Reservations are par for the course, and upon our arrival, we were ushered upstairs to dine in a quaint room with table-clothed seating and windows overlooking the patio below.
After our server informed us about the evening’s singular dinner special, we chose the Tuna Tuna, an appetizing starter of tuna served two ways over Asian Slaw. Sitting amongst two other couples in the tucked-away room, the setting felt intimate, and we quietly chatted over the backdrop of jazz music.
My Cab Filet Mignon arrived beautifully plated and cooked to my liking, served on a bed of creamy horseradish with mushrooms, spinach, goat cheese, and gnocchi.
His Angus Prime Ribeye dinner, served with a potato cake and portobello mushrooms with a savory peppercorn sauce, was more than enough food, and we also shared a side dish of pan-seared asparagus.
After a rich-tasting meal, I wanted a dessert that included fruit but appealed to my craving for a Southern-inspired dessert. The server recommended the Peach and Blueberry Cobbler, which didn’t resemble the biscuit-style classic dish, but it was served warm with vanilla ice cream, and the cake-like dessert satisfied.
After waiting quite a while for the server to bring the requested check, we paid for the meal and explored the restaurant’s patio, which featured landscaping, a bubbling fountain, and enclosed dining areas.
In retrospect, we wished our dinner reservation had been for an outdoor table where diners engaged in lively conversation over dinner at sunset.
PRO TIP: Love historic tours? The Zevely House is featured on candlelight ghost walks in the West End Historic District.
CREATIVE COCKTAILS & BEER
EasyTalk
The owners of EasyTalk, who honed their hospitality skills in New York City, opened a unique coffee shop/cocktail bar in June 2023.
During the day, patrons sip coffee in sunlit spaces, using laptops or playing board games. After dark, the EasyTalk transforms into a lounge where they “demystify the cocktail scene.”
Imagine a speakeasy setting for only a few guests in a curtained-off, dimly lit room where guests are encouraged to let a roll of the dice determine their cocktail order.
We chose a different experience.
Taking the advice of the owner/bartender, David, we played the Equal Parts Game. After interviewing us about our spirit preferences and allergies, we left the room while he prepared mystery cocktails using three spirits each.
Upon return, it was our task to sip, savor, and guess which spirits were used to create each concoction. Surprisingly, most of my guesses proved correct.
The Equal Parts Game is an entertaining way to learn about spirits you likely haven’t tasted previously. David, who had been an actor for years, was both enthusiastic and knowledgeable about his craft.
PRO TIP: Check their Facebook page for event announcements, like 8-Week Sunday Classes in mixology. Contact them via social media. They don’t have a phone number by design.
Lesser-Known Beer Company
A visit to Lesser-Known Beer Company proved to be worthwhile for us since we were seeking an outdoor patio seating to enjoy a drink before walking next door to East of Texas for dinner.
I’m a fan of German-style craft beer, which they serve on tap, and I especially appreciated that they were airing the FIFA World Cup on television outdoors.
A sprinkling of rain began to fall, but we didn’t acknowledge it while sipping small-batch craft beers in good company.
Some of the beers are poured directly from the tanks, while others are kegged and poured from draft lines. It’s this authenticity of the craft and attention to detail that make their beer top-quality, and yes, they do pour non-boozy drinks as well.
PRO TIP: Hungry? They sell snacks and host food trucks, and they post the schedule on their Instagram page.
WINERIES & VINEYARDS
Rayson Winery & Vineyards
I thought I had experienced an upscale wine-tasting session, but nothing prepared me for the wow-worthy brunch-and-wine-pairing experience at Rayson Winery & Vineyards.
Located in the Gateway to the Yadkin Valley, this region is home to 45 wineries within 45 minutes of Winston-Salem, and Rayson Winery & Vineyards sets the bar high.
The owners, JW and Kristen Ray, began their winemaking journey with JOLO Winery & Vineyards, which is also a highly recommended destination for vino enthusiasts.
At Rayson, one can experience the winery to one’s liking. Whether you’re savoring wine with brunch at Bistro Europa Restaurant amongst friends or participating in a guided wine tasting, you’ll make memories in a beautiful setting.
I can vouch for Bistro Europa’s excellent cuisine, which earned it a prestigious Diner’s Choice Award by OpenTable.
The Gorgonzola Pistachio Puff and Carb Dip easily competed for best dish with lunch portions of Brown Sugar Tarragon Salmon and Braised Lamb.
Paired with the Cabernet Franc and the Vidal Blanc, the dining experience was exceptional, topped only by the personable waitstaff.
Online wine tasting reservations are required. Rayson deserves its accolades and should be at the top of your list of vineyards to visit.
PRO TIP: Plan ahead for the ultimate gathering, the Grand Cru Experience for six guests, or attend one of their events, including Rayson Around the World, a food and wine annual gathering in September.
Childress Vineyards
You’ll think you’ve arrived at a Tuscan winery at Childress Vineyards.
Opened in 2004 by NASCAR team owner Richard Childress, it is one of the most prominent wineries in North Carolina, with 70 acres of vineyard producing 15 varietals.
The rustic Old-World style is evident in defined by rocks walls and dark wood beams. Inside, visitors discover a massive tasting facility complete with a restaurant, The Bistro, and retail store.
PRO TIP: Reserve Wine & Ride transportation so you can enjoy the tastings without worrying about the drive.
TAKE A TOUR
Reynolda Gardens
Reynolda Gardens is 135 acres of a country estate developed by Richard and Katharine Reynolds from 1912 to 1917. Part Formal Gardens, part nature trails, it’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Admission to the gardens and grounds is open free of charge.
We walked the grounds with a volunteer guide, pausing to learn about specific species of blooming flowers. Katharine, a progressive and highly educated woman, wanted to create a greenhouse and garden space that the public could enjoy at no cost.
Some of the Greater Gardens are color-themed, as Katharine wished, while other sections are dedicated to growing a variety of plants, herbs, and produce, with yields up to 2,500 pounds donated to the non-profit organization, H.O.P.E., to fight food scarcity.
Following the breathtaking pathways, we discovered original buildings that the Reynolds children used as playhouses. One can explore more than two miles of trails, many of which are paved pathways through thick woodland, which opens up to a meadow.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the property except in the Formal Gardens.
NOTE: Casual photo-taking is approved, but formal photography sessions need to be scheduled.
PRO TIP: Visit during the morning hours during cooler weather. Start the tour in the Brown Family Conservatory before embarking on the Formal Gardens. Seasonal plants are for sale inside the Melon House.
Reynolda Village
Also a part of the 1,067-acre estate, the Reynolda Village includes repurposed historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The grounds began as an experimental farm with a working dairy barn, a cattle shed, a school, a post office, and more. Eventually, the buildings were repurposed into boutique shops, restaurants, a hair salon, a day spa, and an art gallery, and the complex resembles an English village.
We visited Village Fabric Shop, a store selling supplies for quilters and hobbyists. Awarded Piedmont Environmental Alliance’s 2024 Green Business of the Year, the store owner prioritizes sustainable practices.
The Reuse Shop houses packaged fabric scraps and shelves of crafting supplies donated by artists who earn store credit.
Stopping at Half Past Three Clothing + More, we met owner Missy, who told us her business story. Amongst the racks of women’s dresses and blouses, I spotted a photo-worthy sight, a pink payphone.
After posing for a photo with it, I perused the store’s inventory featuring brands like Pistola Denim, Free People, and jewelry by Gorjana.
Missy curates clothing and accessories for women that make you feel pretty when you wear them. Feminine, comfortable, and a bit flirty.
Our last stop at Reynolda Village was Dough-Joe’s, one of several eateries at the Reynolda Villages. Go for the homemade, custom-made donuts, and don’t skimp on the coffee.
Another popular place among Wake Forest University students and locals is Theodore’s Bar & Market, which offers sandwiches, salads, soups, and, of course, cocktails.
NOTE: Other notable places on the estate grounds include the Graylyn Estate and the Reynolda Waterfall.
Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Built in 1917, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art offers visitors an opportunity to view artwork ranging from the colonial period to the present day. The museum is open seven days a week.
While you can tour it at your own pace, we chose a docent-guided tour that welcomed us to experience the exhibit, “Layered Looking: Making Sense of Art,” freely and without overinterpretation.
Our conversation about each piece was lively and engaging, and we learned about each artist during the one-hour tour.
Downtown Arts District
Winston-Salem celebrates the arts more than most cities.
Downtown Arts District is a walkable urban neighborhood of galleries, artists’ working studios, and shops. Murals and sculptures adorn buildings. Pedestrian sidewalks are painted in vibrant colors.
We met our tour guide, Toni, the owner of Visual Index, a shop selling artisans’ creations from all fifty states.
She led us through the neighborhood’s art galleries and stores, stopping to introduce us to business owners passionate about their craft, from creating artwork to making music.
Stretching along Trade and Liberty Streets between Fifth and Seventh, we encountered what seemed like an endless row of galleries and shops.
From sophisticated galleries selling paintings to Mast General Store and the peculiar, like Major Tomms Oddities & Vintage, each stop of our tour intrigued us.
The artists as well as gallery and shop owners love chatting with visitors about these unique spaces.
PRO TIP: Visit Delurk Gallery, which also houses the Art-O-Mat®‘s office. Buy a $5 token and drop it into a cigarette-turned-art-dispensing machine. The company was founded in Winston-Salem and places machines across the nation.
Körner’s Folly
We drove about 10 miles along Highway 421 to Körner’s Folly, a 1880’s landmark home known for its 22 elaborately decorated rooms, located in Kernersville.
It’s an architectural wonder. Constructed in 1878, it was crafted by interior designer Jule Gilmer Körner as a showcase of his design work, but it doubled as his family’s residence.
Starting in the foyer and meandering our way through the 16,000 square foot home, noting the hand-carved woodwork, furniture, mural ceilings, and 15 fireplaces featuring colorful tile.
Narrow doorways open to reception rooms, and the Cupid’s Park Theatre is awe-inspiring, as it is believed to be the first private little theatre in America.
Other points of interest that stopped us in our tracks were the porches with marble picnic tables and a separate home, Aunt Dealy’s Cottage, where an enslaved woman, Clara, lived with the family.
Plan your visit around one of Körner’s Folly’s events to explore the history of the Victorian Era.
ACCESSIBILITY: Open for tours year-round, the property is not wheelchair accessible, given the stairs and narrow doorways.
BONUS STOP: Drive to downtown Kernersville to explore its locally owned stores, including Musten & Crutchfield Food Market, for some of the best-tasting pimento cheese in the area. I recommend J. Pepper’s Southern Grille for lunch.
Old Salem Museum & Gardens
The history of Winston-Salem is rooted in historic districts like Old Salem Museums & Gardens, which serves as a living history museum highlighting a Moravian community established in 1766.
Our tour guide, Brother Jacob, walked us through some of the preserved 100 buildings and past historic landmarks such as the marker designating the spot where the first Fourth of July celebration took place in the state.
About 40 costumed interpreters demonstrating their craft, from making earthenware to cooking a meal over an open fire, welcomed us to learn about Moravian culture as we entered each building.
Inside the Single Brothers House, we learned how males lived separately in a dormitory-style residence.
We stood on the same wooden floors inside the Salem Tavern Museum, where President George Washington visited, and were particularly interested in the Moravians’ ability to use running water and many of their self-sufficiency daily practices.
At the Miksch House, a woman gave an oral history of the first family home in Salem. An interpreter told us the history of the sole medical doctor’s practice and how the garden’s herbs were used in tonics.
Our two-hour tour was comprehensive, covering the history of the Moravian community and its people.
Afterward, we enjoyed the air conditioning at Lot 63, where we sipped German beer from a leather couch. Patrons came and went, ordering coffee and taproom drinks to go along with baked goods like Moravian cookies and bratwurst on a pretzel bun.
You could spend all day at Old Salem Museums & Gardens. I’d love to return to explore the gardens, included with a standard ticket, and to view The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts.
PRO TIP: Check for upcoming events, particularly during the holiday season. If you’re hungry at lunchtime, order a sandwich at Muddy Creek Cafe & Listening Room.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Triad Eco Adventures
One of the best ways to see Winston-Salem and its surrounding landscape is from the seat of an eBike.
Triad Eco Adventures takes visitors on pedal-assisted guided tours of the downtown area and greenways.
Our experience began with selecting a helmet, watching a safety video with bike-use instructions, and then testing our biking skills in the parking lot.
Our guide led us through downtown streets, stopping to tell us about the town’s historic buildings and parks.
Although I wasn’t a fan of riding bikes amongst traffic up and down the urban corridor, and would have preferred the Greenways Tour, my partner loved riding the Downtown Loop.
Triad Eco Adventures offers Trolley Tours for those who prefer to let someone do the driving. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Salem Lake Marina Center & Fishing Station
If appreciating nature at a slower pace is more to your liking, visit the Salem Lake Marina Center & Fishing Station. The peaceful scenery is minutes away from downtown.
Lake lovers can rent Jon boats or kayaks, or drop a line from the marina’s Fishing Station.
A seven-mile trail provides views of the 365-acre lake. Inside the marina building, aquariums filled with fish and amphibians sit at eye level for children’s enjoyment.
The Quarry at Grant Park
Park at The Quarry at Grant Park and walk to the overlook pier for a picture-worthy backdrop, complete with blue water below and the city’s skyline in the distance.
Despite our fear of heights, we made it to the edge of the overlook and were rewarded with a spectacular view.
PRO TIP: Traveling as a couple? Bring a love lock inscribed with your names to attach to the walkway’s railings. Families will appreciate the nearby playground equipment.
Pilot Mountain State Park
Everyone in Winston-Salem told us to visit Pilot Mountain State Park.
Drive 20 miles northwest of the city along Highway 52 to reach the mountain section and visitor center. At the mountain summit, visitors are welcomed with sweeping panoramic views of the Sauratown and Blue Ridge Mountains, resembling something from a movie.
You can drive directly up to the parking, and the viewing platforms are paved.
PRO TIP: Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I’m so pleased that Winston-Salem was my first impression of what it feels like to visit North Carolina. The city over-delivered, offering so much to do and see that by the end of our visit, we were already talking about a return visit.
If you want to step into the past, lean into an artistic community, or simply sip and savor your way through award-winning fare, Winston-Salem is a go-to destination.
We perused shelves of gently used books for sale available for purchase with a one-dollar donation. At a nearby window, we watched bluebirds compete for nesting boxes as butterflies flew from flower to flower at the library’s garden. To my surprise, I also discovered a partially completed puzzle on a table, which I sat down to work on for awhile.
Additionally, the library offers endless fun for families. The children’s section includes activity bags parents can check out that teach kids about science, baking, and the outdoors.
PRO TIP: The Andover Public Library hosts events open to the public. View their 
We played the 
The map and signage make the course easy to follow, and the scenery consists of mature trees and George Lake. The play is moderately complex, with short and long shots from well-kept, wide fairways. Although the map included amateur and pro-play options, pro baskets were unavailable during our visit.
On occasion, a basket is partially hidden or elevated, making for unique shot opportunities. We were the only ones walking the course during the early morning hours on a weekday, and very few people walked the paved pathways near the course.
Walking from Hole 1 to 2 requires golfers to meander a woodland path under a tree canopy. Holes 13-18 are designed around Lake George, a home to waterfowl.
If you need to rest between holes, I recommend choosing a shaded bench seat near Hole 13 and 15.
Pro Tip: The park is home to Capitol Federal Amphitheater®, which hosts live events. Bring a lawn chair and a friend to enjoy concerts and theatrical performances when you’re not playing disc golf.
The cozy store is stocked to the brim with treasures. I recommend walking to the rear of the store to view the clearance table, where each item is priced at one dollar. The owner is also known to announce store-wide sales.
Reward yourself for scoring good deals with a slice of homemade pie, a cupcake, or a cinnamon roll. Renew Consign & Cafés outdoor patio is open year-round.
The staff member told us that most of their meat selection is processed in El Dorado. A fan of sourcing groceries close to home, I also appreciated their dry goods inventory and jarred pickled vegetables.
Whether it’s a thick-cut fresh or frozen steak or pork chops you’re after for dinner or a package of Honey BBQ Snack Sticks, Walnut Valley Meat Market’s got your covered.
Add men’s and women’s new and gently used apparel and shoes to your closet. Well-organized racks of kids’ clothing for all ages, toys, and board games are displayed.
You can feel good about purchasing items at Sunlight Thrift Boutique because proceeds from each purchase are donated to Sunlight Children’s Services, which provides resources and a temporary safe home for abused and neglected children and their families.
We bought new-to-us board game and a couple of men’s polo shirts. You’ll be shocked at the low prices of most items. New inventory is added six days a week.
I was curious about the latest trend, Forever Jewelry, a product and service the store offers during appointment-only sessions. Designed to be worn every day, a gold or silver necklace, bracelet, or anklet’s end pieces are welded together. The store also offers charms or a connector for each piece during select events.
The family-owned and operated jewelry store’s selection will please you. Whether you desire a new treasure for your jewelry box or need one repaired or restored, K. Westphal Jewelers does it all.
Made-to-order sandwiches like The Philly are prepared with sirloin (more like a ground beef patty than sliced meat), onions, Swiss cheese tomatoes, and crushed ripple potato chips. The non-traditional lunchtime meal is one of eight featured sandwiches, including their signature sandwich, The Bistro Burger. It was my favorite of the two options.
But it’s not your usual burger. Expect unique ingredients added to toasted Cuban bread. Burger meat is topped with grilled portobello mushrooms, fresh arugula, Fontina cheese, and red onion and drizzled with copious amounts of balsamic sauce. Side items are available upon request.
I was pleasantly surprised to find non-dairy sorbet and 100 percent vegan, plant-based 
Of course, CuppaYo’s topping stations include chunky bites of chocolate, cookies, and gummy candies, but for more health-conscious customers, you’ll also find fresh sliced fruit and nuts available.
A staff member weighed my frozen yogurt bowl at checkout to finalize pricing. It was less than four dollars. The experience was so much fun that I signed up for the loyalty program to earn points toward free frozen yogurt.
A newly constructed sports park, it is truly a remarkable place for families and friends to gather. Open to the public, an event lawn is available for hosting events and food truck parking. With so many options for exploration, we immediately selected one of four available pickleball courts for a game.
I had a blast learning how to play the game, and let’s just say we didn’t keep score. All the same, I appreciated the newly surfaced courts, positioned at a comfortable distance from other pickleball players.
PRO TIP: Bring your sports equipment, and don’t forget to pack sunblock. Follow Andover Parks and Recreation’s 
The rail-trail features different surfaces depending on your route of choice for walking or biking, including concrete, crushed limestone, and gravel flanked by wooded areas.
The trails are 10 feet wide, making it easy for dog walkers, joggers, and bikers to navigate together. The Andover-August rail trail is well-marked, and free parking is available at the 13th Street trailhead.
Our host ushered us to a dining table with a view of the putting green, Hole 1, and Hole 18. Seated near a stone fireplace and dark wood accents, we sipped Oak Grove wines by the glass between appetizers, bone-in wings, and ahi tuna bites.
Happy Hour specials feature $3 off wine by the glass, $3.50 well drinks, and $3 Coors Light and Bud Light draft beer on Tuesday-Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and all day on Wednesday.
We appreciated watching golfers at play and chatting about the day while waiting for a dinner selection; a Grilled Chicken Caeser wrap with a choice of side dish. Opting for the roasted Brussels sprouts, I loved them even more than the sandwich wrap as they were perfectly prepared and sitting on a bed of semi-sweet sauce.
The locally owned and operated restaurant, known for its American cuisine, serves a variety of appetizers, lunch, and dinner options for every kind of diner. I recommend dining on the patio (weather permitting) or indoors with a remarkable golf course view.
PRO TIP: Our drop-in visit on a Tuesday did not require reservations; however, groups will want to reserve a table or private room in advance. Arriving solo? Sit at the newly remodeled bar.
I’m a big fan of Andover’s 
Trendy go-to places such as 
Take a self-guided tour inside its galleries to admire throughout-provoking pieces by artists ranging from Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol. Outdoors, paved trails wind through 120 acres of Ozark forest with permanent pubic artwork tucked amongst the trees. Keep a keen eye out for architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright and Safdie; their buildings seamlessly blend into the setting.
After your tour, savor a glass of wine or plate of delectable eats with a view at 
Lounging with friends at
Remember that The Momentary is within walking distance of 
Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the glass-covered displays housing original products, and kids can submit a completed scavenger hunt for prizes. I recommend spending 15 minutes viewing an AI-powered life-sized hologram of founder Sam Walton who recounts his childhood and philosophy on business.
Located at the Bentonville Municipal Airport, Thaden Field honors the contribution of female aviator Louise Thaden, the first woman to win a National Air Race. Thaden was born in Bentonville and broke barriers for women in the industry, holding records for altitude, solo endurance, and speed.
The modern design includes outdoor play areas for kids and a retail area stocked with aviation-themed gifts. Photo-worthy backdrops on each level invite visitors to snap selfies.
Born in Arkansas in 1932, Johnny Cash is one of several legendary Arkansas musicians depicted in downtown Bentonville’s alley artwork. If traveling with kids, take them to 
Seat yourself at the bar for Happy Hour on Monday-Wednesday from 3 pm-6 pm when you see $2 on wine and draft beer. Choose from a short list of margaritas, which are only $5.
Are you visiting with a small group? Reserve the swanky, pink-covered bank vault for an unforgettable experience with reserved seating.
I enjoyed Space Goose Hazy IPA enough to purchase a six-pack of to-go cans. I regret that we had already eaten lunch; otherwise, 
I hope this list of fun things to do in Bentonville inspires a road trip. If you travel from Kansas to Northwest Arkansas along Hwy 400, I’ve also written about 
Disc golf is a popular sport for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas, and 
Have you heard of geocaching? A treasure hunt using an app to locate a hidden container lets participants enjoy a free outdoor activity at various locations in Lindsborg. To start, visit 
Located in Kiowa County, less than a two-hour drive from Wichita, Greensburg is a small town reimagined. Rebuilt with sustainability in mind, many of its homes and buildings put the “green” in Greensburg thanks to water-saving features, alternative energy, and earth-friendly design.
Just as I contemplated whether I wanted to venture into the well, a busload of gleeful schoolchildren arrived and eagerly walked to the bottom. I’m scared of enclosed spaces and heights, so I chose to stay on the ground floor. The American Water Landmark is truly a sight, and even if you don’t want to walk down into it, seeing it first-hand is worthwhile.
If you visit 
The grounds of the museum include a playground area for kids and free bikes you can borrow to tour the town. The Fleener Family Memorial on display outdoors honors those who perished in the tornado.
PRO TIP: Before visiting the museum, view its hours and admission rates 
Stop four on the tour gave me pause. All that remains of a church that once stood there and later housed Fran’s Antiques Shops is a set of stairs. Red bricks, stairs, and a small pile of rubble.
Other stops worth noting on the bike tour included Starlight Public Art Park and Main Street in the downtown corridor. The park is home to one-of-a-kind sculptures. Nearby native plants and Russian Sage decorate Main Street in concrete planters watered by rainwater captured in underground cisterns.
George, the theatre’s super-friendly manager, welcomed me just as he does all theatre guests with a “Hello! How are you today?” As we chatted about the theatre’s features (400 seats!), we could hear the sound of popcorn popping and kids begging for candy.
As I sat enjoying my popcorn on a couch flanked by framed movie posters, I watched residents greet one another in the lobby. From the refreshment counter, they shuttled kids into the theater for a showing of Jurassic World Domination.
The summer matinee was a popular choice. When not screening films, the theatre is used by the high school and area groups as a performing arts space.
Open six days a week for dine-in or drive-up orders, the restaurant is a local favorite. They show up for a hearty meal or select steaks or sausage from the refrigerated case to grill at home.
The conversation is free. But if you drop a swear word, expect to deposit money into the Swear Jar. Oh, and be mindful of where you sit. Some seating is reserved for first-responders and diehard diners. Expect the second wave of locals to arrive for a fresh pot of coffee at 2 pm.
PRO TIP: You need to leave room for dessert. Kook’s is where I rediscovered my love of pie. Regina knows how to make them better than anyone. She had me taste every pie and cake in the refrigerated case! They tasted divine.
Inside, visitors can peruse the gallery’s artwork at no charge; however, donations are gladly accepted. During my visit, I fell in love with the work of Kansas artist/farmer 
PRO TIP: Inquire about art classes and workshops designed for all ages
After my indoor gallery tour, I walked the property and the back buildings outside. The contents were left untouched since his death in 2017.
The man collected 6,000+ coffee cups. Why? No reason. His work glove still sits on the ground near the building’s entrance. Welding tools, an old fan, and racks with splattered paint block the entrance. You simply have to walk the property, see his artwork, and imagine the artist welding metal together.
Liggett’s artwork has to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Like the artist, it is unique, bold, and strikingly curious.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barn was built in 1912. It stands 50’ tall and 70’ in diameter. The structure has fourteen stalls on a perimeter. The Fromme family was homesteaders who farmed the land and owned prize-winning horses.
PRO TIP: Visitors can tour the barn for free. Go during the day, as outdoor lighting is limited.
You can expect comfortable beds, an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, a complimentary hot breakfast, and free Wi-Fi with access to a business workspace. The price per night seems reasonable given the amenities.
PRO TIP: Check-in is at 3:00 pm; check-out is at 11:00 am.
A small town’s pride is undeniable. You rarely get to see it on permanent display, so I appreciate museums that include relics from the past that pay homage to school spirit.
Be sure to visit the restored 
PRO TIP: Feeling super hungry and perhaps a little adventurous? Tell them you want to try the EF5 Challenge ($40). If you can eat 15 scoops of ice cream and 10 toppings in 30 minutes, you get your photo on the Wall of Fame.
PRO TIP: A table near the entrance houses new non-fiction books, and a good-sized library area is devoted to children’s books. Ask about upcoming events for kids, such as the weekly craft session and reading programs.
The restaurant is furnished with farm-themed decor. Guests enter under a massive metal windmill covered in lights, and framed horse prints cover the walls. Country music plays in the background. Light fixtures made of minnow buckets and tractor sets hang overhead.
PRO TIP: Check the restaurant’s 
One step inside the building, and you immediately realize its design is unlike any school building you’ve seen before.
Designed to be a Smart building, the HVAC system is state-of-the-art. Each classroom draws fresh air, which is recirculated outside.
Lockers made from recycled plastic line the hallways for the students in the upper grades. Schoolchildren sit in classrooms outfitted with top-notch technology, looking out windows at landscapes.
If you get the opportunity to tour the
If you’re continuing your travels on Highway 54, you may be interested in my travel blogs, 
