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.
Trio Tap House, Hays
If your goal is to eat a lighter meal prepared with fresh ingredients, a garden salad is waiting for you at one of these Kansas restaurants. Menus change based on seasonal vegetables and the chef’s creativity, so ask each eatery for the latest salad options.
I had the pleasure of staying overnight in Clay Center to make the most of my visit. With a population hovering at about 4,000 people, the tight-knit community rolls out the red carpet for visitors. I arrived in town just after sunrise and parked not far from the limestone courthouse in the town square.
I ordered The OG Acaí Bowl, a blend of acaí (berries of a South American palm tree) and banana topped with fresh fruit, locally sourced honey, coconut shreds, and granola.
Happy Hippie Studios is more than a place where wellness-driven people come for a tasty bite. A certified yoga instructor, Hammel encourages visitors and locals to join a yoga class or enjoy on-site massage therapy, sauna treatments, and esthetician services.
Hammel’s drive and determination are more impressive than the studios. An award-winning business owner under 30, she grew Happy Hippie from a one-blender farmers’ market stand to a flourishing business. In fact, she served 150 smoothies on opening day. No wonder her slogan is “Smoothies Make People Happy.”
The town’s espresso bar and artisan restaurant are centrally located near retail shops and local businesses. I talked with the owner, Mike Peerson, about his business while he made cold brew. Multi-tasking is a skill Java Junkies employees have to master since the coffee shop is seemingly always busy.
The smell of coffee permeates the air. I enjoyed the Latté of the Week selection while relaxing inside the cafe during my visit. The menu also features early-morning selections, including scones and pecan rolls, muffins, and breakfast burritos. You’ll also find heartier options like grilled PB&J or cheese sandwiches, as well as turkey wraps.
I returned on Day 2 of my stay in Clay Center for a hot coffee. The line reached from the counter almost to the door while employees hurriedly served patrons. They were busy for a good reason. The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity was about to start, and race fans wanted to fuel up before watching it.
The 299-seat theatre is a gem in the heart of the town. It’s where many locals have come for years, noting memorable moments. Director Reneé Langvardt and her employees work hard to provide an unforgettable experience.
When the lights are up, visitors can see the theatre’s stunning architecture, including ornate plaster made of horsehair. The modern seating provides a comfortable movie screening experience.
Newly restored bathrooms are adorned with framed images of Hollywood stars of the past. The original tile floor and entryway harken back to an earlier time.
The concession stand is fully stocked with movie popcorn, cotton candy, and candy selections you crave. Ask about combo deals. Adults can enjoy beer and wine.
As I drove up to The Schoolhouse Inn, I noted the bell in the tower and the oversized windows and doors. Inside, the interior was decorated in neutral tones. The restored hardwood floors creaked as I toured the accommodations. The open living room easily accommodated several guests. Original chalkboards carved with the initials of rambunctious students flanked two sides of the room.
Two bedrooms with plush queen-sized beds, end tables, and armoires welcomed me. Which one would I choose? The rooms were equally inviting. The full bathroom with a modern shower included the amenities of home, plus a basket of toiletries.
Although The Schoolhouse Inn did not have a kitchen, I had access to a small refrigerator and freezer, a Keurig coffeemaker, and a microwave. The refrigerator was filled with bottled water and soda products. Complimentary drinks and snacks made the stay unexpectedly comfortable.
Because The Schoolhouse Inn sits on the owner’s private property, I found it to be a peaceful and quiet setting.
I had the opportunity to meet various animals during a guided tour led by facility employees. I watched black bears dine on snacks. A lemur ate raisins from my hand. And beautiful birds like those pictured above chatted excitedly as we observed them.
Ginger has operated the business for 36 years, providing locals and visitors with a place to shop for gifts for themselves or others.
I challenge you to try leaving the store without buying something. I couldn’t do it. Home cooks will appreciate the specialty foods corner that includes fill-a-bottle olive oils.
Known for its wedding registry services, the store caters to those who need to pick up a gift for the bride and groom. Rumor has it that they’re on almost every local wedding registry.
The Uptown Girls host Thursday Coffee Talk sessions on Facebook live showcasing the newest inventory. Events like All That Glitters Christmas Showcase always draw big crowds, so signing up in advance for one of the sessions is key.
The 
PRO TIP: If you accompany a country club member, you can golf the course or enjoy a meal in the dining room as their guest.
After a fire destroyed their old facility, the owners drew design plans for the current building on butcher paper. The converted Dollar General Store is the town’s meat locker keeping locals’ refrigerators stocked with Kansas beer and pork products. It’s also a one-stop shop for grab-and-go shopping. They carry a large selection of beer and road-ready snacks.
PRO TIP: Pack a large, iced-down cooler for your trip to Clay Center and fill it with frozen meat. Oh, and don’t miss the back shelves stocked with private-label pickled vegetables and salsa.
Piotique Celebration takes place on the last Saturday of September every year. A tradition since 1936, hundreds of people turn out to watch parades, shop for food and craft vendors, play games, watch Cruise Night, and listen to live music.
The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity drew hundreds of spectators. Sponsored participants donning inflatable costumes sprinted down a city block to earn their way into the final heat. The winner earned $1,000 to donate to a charity of choice. It’s an event that is not to be missed.
Milford Lake is a 30-minute drive southeast of Clay Center. It’s an exceptional location for birdwatching, hiking, water sports, and overnight lodging in cabins or via campgrounds.
I’m not going to lie. I felt a little tug on my heartstrings as I pulled out of town, leaving my new friends behind. The town’s people are welcoming, and with so much to do and see in Clay Center, it made it hard to leave.
Go for the murals. Drop into town to dine at the restaurants. Plan a trip around the town’s many events and festivals. No matter the time of year, Clay Center is a wonderful place to explore.
Outdoor enthusiasts love it for its recreational options. It sits on the edge of the Flint Hills and near waterways in Cowley County. Shoppers appreciate the downtown corridors for the town’s long list of boutiques and retail stores. I discovered noteworthy dining while spending the day in Winfield as well.
Winfield is home to the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival where people far and wide have arrived at the Flat-Picking Championships to hear the best musicians play every September. The market’s scene was set.
During the opening day of the market, I purchased a baked lemon loaf and walked away with a jar of preserves. Other vendors sold seasonal produce, leather goods, jewelry, soaps, and gifts.
From the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) is for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.
When in Winfield, promise yourself you’ll stop at College Hill Coffee. You can order from a window on the porch (seating available!) or dine inside. They serve breakfast all day and 
I learned from Rick about the numerous plant varieties and the growing habits of lavender as we walked the property. The farm has 28 varieties and he plans to add 15 more in due time. His family is dedicated to providing lavender to as many people who want it.
They grow lavender from seedlings inside a greenhouse and eventually move it outside to be planted in rows. What started as something to do in Rick’s retirement has blossomed into a farm where the public can come out and experience it for themselves.
I was excited to borrow a pair of scissors and sip stems. Afterward, I took my bundle to a farm employee at a cart who added a rubber band to it and directed me to the retail shop to pay $5 for the lavender. The process is easy and one you’ll appreciate.
The 
Shady tree-covered areas and tall grass surround fairways. The meticulous maintenance of the course makes it a beautiful setting. Each hole has two tee boxes made with turf pads. The basket placement ranges. Some baskets sit under trees near a water’s edge, others are hidden in cleared areas around trees, while others are located more in the open. For example, Hole 8’s basket is elevated atop a mound of sand and large tires.
During my tour, I learned that golfers could arrive during course hours and pay cash using the honors system inside a converted train railcar or pay online. Inside the rail car retail shop, you can also purchase new discs. The course was technical and challenging, especially as a new disc golfer. Be prepared to look for baskets that have been moved and don’t always match what 
She added a magnet to the bottom of the glass, set it on a base, and added pressure. Suddenly, the pint glass began to fill with beer from the bottom up. It was quite a sight.
Back at the bar, I enjoyed the Smokey Turkey Club with onion rings with a side of sauce for dipping. It was made from top-quality ingredients and tasted delicious. In fact, everything on the menu looked crave-worthy.
Sporting events played on TVs as patrons filled the dining room. The bartender told me how the family, who has owned the restaurant for several years, sandblasted and reused industrial items to decorate the space. The entire restaurant almost felt partially like a museum, from the rustic chandeliers to the hostess stand.
The store is a gem for shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces who don’t want to pay big-city prices.
The staff at 
I also appreciated the outdoor gardens with walkable paths that lead underneath arched to whimsical spaces and greenhouses. If you’re shopping for herbs, native plants, and hardscaping options, or just need to talk shop about lawn care, Gottlob is where you go.
PRO TIP: Follow the F
People drive from out of town to visit the brewery open Thursday-Saturday. The shaded patio and indoor seating areas were filled with craft beer drinkers. Inside, you can select from 6-8 beers on tap.
The brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks were available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.
The prices were affordable, and the staff consistently visited the table to check on me. Other menu options ranged from baked pasta like lasagna and manicotti to stromboli sandwiches and meatball subs. In search of lighter fare? Order a Greek or caesar salad.
My trip to Winfield was long overdue. When I told friends I was traveling to the area, everyone had good things to say about the Cowley County town. It turns out they were right. Winfield is wonderful.
On my next visit to Winfield and the surrounding area, I plan to stop at 
Have you visited Winfield or attended the Walnut Valley Festival? Leave your comments below to provide your travel suggestions for the area.
