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.
Lance Eaker, and his wife, Boo, serve barbecue enthusiasts food that is undeniably delicious. During my visit, I sampled a taste of their slow-smoked meats and side dishes. I’m a fan of Korean spice, so I appreciated the marinated and smoked gochujang pork ribs with a side of kimchi. For traditionalists, Eaker’s dry rub ribs, pulled pork, and country-style sausage links satisfy.
PRO TIP: Build in time to sneak away and watch the master at work outdoors at the smokers while the kitchen prepares your meal. Don’t leave without devouring dessert. Boozy Banana Pudding, Pecan Pie Bar, and Lemon Cookies are heavenly.
PRO TIP: Cabernet Grill is known for its list of Texas-produced wines. Ask about three-glass flights consisting of four-ounce pours. Not a drinker? The bar serves four un-inebriated cocktails.
At private cooking classes of eight people or more, you can choose the menu and pace or select from existing menus. Although I didn’t take the class, the chef’s cooking demonstrated mastery.
PRO TIP: D
Meusebach negotiated with the already present Comanche Native American tribesmen. German settlers were allowed to farm the land, and the Comanche were welcomed in town.
The town’s German heritage is evident wherever you go. Authentic food and drink is served at restaurants and breweries. 
PRO TIP: Look up upon entry. The murals, created by Lee and Matt Casbeer, are a pictorial history of the town’s German heritage.
During a self-guided tour, I walked in and out of homestead buildings, each showcasing artifacts and preserved architecture. Motion sensors detected my entry into the log cabin and Sunday House prompting an audio narration that provided context.
The Pioneer Museum and surrounding grounds take at least an hour to tour. The museum was voted a top destination for children because of its living-history experiences and Little Pioneers programs. Reactors interpret history in period clothing on the first Saturday of the each month.
I suspect you’ll appreciate the enormity of the the museum and its high-tech displays. The Children on the Homefront: Growing Up With War may leave you speechless.
Outside, a sidewalk winds visitors through the Plaza of Presidents, Memorial Courtyard, and Japanese Garden of Peace. There, the sound of falling water and koi splashing creates a peaceful setting.
PRO TIP: Learn about Fredericksburg native Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who led the United States naval force over Japan. His statue is visible from Main Street.
To access the property, guests drive past their vineyard and take a short, winding road to the bed and breakfast, located beneath a canopy of oak trees. To my delight, each guest is assigned a beautiful bedroom suite complete with a walk-in shower and jacuzzi tub.
Each of the eight suites comes with a California King-sized bed featuring a remote massage setting in direct view of an electric fireplace and a flatscreen television. The owner considered the guests’ experience when adding plush towels, full-sized toiletries, a Keurig coffee maker, a valuable’s safe, and an umbrella for rainy weather days.
I enjoyed sitting outdoors, admiring the view from a private porch swing when I wasn’t playing with the property’s cute dog, Zoey. In the morning, I walked a short distance to the community building for a home-cooked breakfast.
A first-time visitor to Fredericksburg, I could easily see myself returning to the place Architectural Digest named “the prettiest town.”
PRO TIP: If traveling with a pet, ask the hotel staff to direct you to the pet walking area. Prepare to pay a pet deposit.
After lunch, we shopped the retail store downstairs, loading up on Sweet Corn Salsa and Maple Dip jars as well as a six-pack of Doc Otto’s Hard Cider. Customers will find it hard to resist sweet and salty bagged snacks, and the frozen pie case is irresistible. (The orchard dates back to the 1940s!)
Outdoors, the 
I appreciate the hard work and dedication that new owners Denny and Emily Stucky and their employees have put into maintaining and improving The Community Orchard, a favorite destination for locals and visitors searching for an immersive farm experience.
PRO TIP: Check for 
Anne, the winemaker, introduced us to wines we never knew we liked but most certainly loved at the Tasting Bar. Our tasting experience included a short list of dry wines, starting with Ghost Pig (Apple Cider and Rosé Wine) and ending with Marquette 2021 Limited Release (Red). She explained how she uses only Iowa grapes to produce each handcrafted wine.
After tasting six different wines, we enthusiastically raved about dry white Petite Amie 2022 (Best of Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair) and Marquette 2021 (Fruit-forward dry red). We were gleeful when she offered us a bottle of Marquette 2022 to bring back to Kansas.
After the tasting session, Anne gave us a tour of the winery’s newly expanded production facility and further explained the process of making wine from concept to harvest.
Are you interested in a tasting experience? You can walk in during tasting room hours or make an appointment. I recommend reserving a tasting if traveling with a small group. Light snacks and non-boozy drinks are available to purchase, and they welcome DoorDash food deliveries.
Created in 2015, concrete tee pads and easily recognizable holes make the course simple to navigate without using the UDisc app. If you want to play the entire course, plan for 1.5-2 hours and be prepared to walk a course mostly without shade.
Each 18-hole course provides manicured course play using rentable golf carts for golfers of all skill levels. While we didn’t have time to play a round of golf, I could easily see myself returning to Fort Dodge and carving out time to do so. Having played high school golf, the courses looked well-maintained and worth playing.
We sipped on a flight of four beers ranging from a crisp lager to a red ale. The brewery can produce 15 beers using 5 fermenters.
The size of the brewery is intentionally smaller than most, creating a setting where the community can sit down over a beer and get to know one another. The back patio features a meat smoker and grill available to patrons who want to cook dinner for themselves or friends while they sip on sids.
Check out the brewery’s 
The restaurant’s setting is unique, located inside the 
We enjoyed savory Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) and Mandu (dumplings) as appetizers.
A delightful evening in Fort Dodge isn’t complete without visiting The 
The Freedom Rock pictured above is dedicated to veterans suffering from the after-effects of service, like PTSD and mental illness. The front side of the mural rock honors two local aviators and medal recipients who both graduated from Fort Dodge High School
The state’s largest mural, it depicts Fort Dodge residents who contributed to the community. Do you see the man holding the ornate bowl? The town’s pottery industry is represented by this scene.
While admiring another downtown mural, I accidentally discovered The Starry Night (Central Ave. and South 9th St.) painted by Iowa Central Community College students.
No matter where you are in town, you’re bound to see a mural in the distance, whether it’s under a bridge like the one pictured below or in town visible to passersby.
Click 
If pizza isn’t your go-to at lunchtime, the brewery also serves specialty and build-you-own sandwiches with chips. Seven macaroni and cheese bowls appear on the menu.
If you go, flights of four 5-ounce beer samples are $12. Not a beer drinker? Opt to view the cocktails, wine, and Moscow mules menu instead.
PRO TIP: Dining with four people? Ask about the Big A$$ Mule, a 192-ounce Moscow Mule served in a monstrous mug.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time in our itinerary to sit down and create a piece, but I did chat with the owner and several women who were busy creating new glass projects.
They told me how they meet there once a week to chat about their lives and bond while creating art. Soon, they grabbed their phones to show me photos of past projects completed for friends and family. What started as something fun to do became a love affair producing fused glass.
You don’t need an appointment to work at the studio, but if you’re traveling with several people, you should call to reserve seating.
PRO TIP: If you want to take a structured class to create a holiday project. check the 
Beyond the home showroom, women’s apparel racks displayed the latest fashions in the season’s popular colors. Tunics, pants, shorts, and accessories make shopping at The Apple Attic worthwhile.
Located on the 
With an ever-changing display of works from their 1,200 permanent collection, you will see something new each time you visit. The museum hosts a visiting artist every three months.
PRO TIP: Admire the black and white photography on the walls highlighting the day Senator John F. Kennedy visited Fort Dodge before speaking at an airport rally in 1960. You’ll appreciate learning the story Olde Dog and a Massachusetts town that inspired the restaurant’s name 
Decidedly stuffed from my dinner meal, I choose a small dish of classic vanilla soft serve with rainbow sprinkles. Couples approached the walk-up window, ready to order, as I watched car after car enter the drive-thru.
A popular stop for locals near downtown, Snack Shack reminds me of a hangout you’d see in a 1950s movie. The community loves to gather at the colorful tables outside to gab about local happenings between bites of ice cream.
Known for their scratch-made scones, Andy Mae Coffee and Desserts has a loyal following that often tracks down their food truck when it shows up at community events.
I encourage you to walk inside the original Harcourt City Jail, where town drunks, thieves, and outlaws were once taken. Tour the Border Plains School, one of the oldest school buildings in Webster County, to imagine life as a student from 1857-1959.
Tour the inside of the Carlson-Richey Log Home from 1855 to smell the musty wood planks and admire the handiwork of the log home’s builder.
We appreciated the historic details inside a blacksmith shop, drugstore, carriage repair shop, and wood shop. I recommend spending about an hour exploring all the buildings on a cool weather day.
Other nearby buildings house actual artifacts curated from the area that documents one of Iowa’s most valuable resources, gypsum. Early settlers mined the mineral in and around Fort Dodge. Now, the chalky material is used to make wallboard, and Fort Dodge contributes nearly 75% of the state’s gypsum production.
Other displays house Native American arrowheads, beadwork, and clothing. Nearby, military uniforms and weaponry tell the story of those who fortified Fort Dodge.
When visiting Blanden Art Museum, you will be in the 
My sense of wanderlust is strong, and I typically have a fun travel experience wherever I travel. Yet something about Fort Dodge, my first Iowa travel experience, stays with me. It’s a feeling of contentment and longing to return.
Opened in its original location in 2015, the cafe won Best Atmosphere for two years running by Restaurant Guru. You’ll love the casual, comfy ambiance of the café, which reminded me of The Perk in the TV show Friends. Trending music plays in the background as patrons sit at tables sipping coffee and bent over laptops. Paired-up friends chat about the day’s happenings.
It is nearly impossible to order at the register without spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me she had just pulled warm blueberry muffins from the oven so it was a no-brainer. It was the perfect pairing with my chai latté.
KC Wine Co. is not just a tasting room next to a vineyard. It’s a winery destination located on five acres with a multitude of things for visitors to enjoy.
Inside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. You’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards just beyond its doors. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night, providing a picture-worthy moment.
Plan your visit to the winery around one of their popular 
The red barn is also open to visitors. Walk inside to order a wine slushy, a pint of Free State Brewing Company craft beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Look for a seasonal display with a bench to take a photo with friends or family.
The building is a welcoming and beautifully designed space. The owners, who are brothers-in-law, did an incredible job creating both an indoor and outdoor patio space with you can sit back and be yourself, plus dogs are allowed on the patio.
The brewery quickly expanded from one barrel to five barrels since its opening last spring. Although they don’t off traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale. Each one tasted true to my character and exceeded my expectations. My favorite was Snap Chaps Western IPA, and lucky for me, I took a crowler home to enjoy later.
The food menu included a short list of flatbreads. When they told me that the brisket on the Meats Pizza was made by an American Royal award-winning barbecuer, 
My suite was a 456 sq. ft. living room separated from the bedroom by a privacy door. I appreciated its amenities, including free WiFi and a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator. Each room had a 42-inch HDTV, and the king-size bed was as comfy and plush.
The five-generations, family-owned vineyard and winery produce more than 20 wines, hard ciders, and wine slushies. During my taproom visit, I discussed the winery’s history with the owner while savoring the “Thankful for Wine” $10 flight (5, 2oz pours), a wide-ranging selection of dry to sweet wines.
Their best-selling wine, Hoftoberfest, tastes semi-sweet with pineapple notes that finish crisp. I prefer full-body, dry reds, so, I was a fan of Zin XXI, which had blackberry and plum notes.
Outside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.
I was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game.
PRO TIP: The brewery is closed Mondays, so you’ll want to plan your visit when the brewery and the food truck are open. View the hours 
Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominated the menu, and the place smelled like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu.
A quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their bagged coffee beans, so I kept it simple and ordered a tall drip coffee. Irresistible pastries stared back at me from the glass case. A warm strawberry homemade Pop-Tart and a slice of quiche tasted delightful while I watched it rain outside from a window seat. Nearby, a cabinet with jewelry, branded merchandise, and retail candles sat on display.
The owner of Junque Drawer also owns Holiday House across the street (101 W. Cedar), which is one-stop shopping for all things festive. Thematic rooms are designed by style and color creating Christmas decor and ornaments. Wait until you see the bathroom shower filled with pillows!
PRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down, ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re searching for a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
PRO TIP: Don’t be surprised if they say you can pay for your order after dining in. Bring cash, or you must spend $5 for a credit card purchase.
The menu includes drool-inducing sandwiches like The Z-Man Sandwich, made with slow-smoked beef brisket topped with provolone cheese and onion rings. People rave about it for a good reason. It’s filling, so consider ordering the regular sandwich instead of the jumbo portion.
The food Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is putting out is pure kitchen magic. Do you want to try a variety of smoked meats? Order a Combo Sandwich or a Two Meat Dinner. Save room for dessert – ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal. 
PRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out 
Non-wine drinkers will appreciate the Bourbon, scotch, whiskey, and tequila flights or complete bar offerings. The flatbread pizzas are a popular order.
When the owners are not busy making wine or socializing with customers, they also make preserves, jams, and jellies available for sale in the tasting room.
The veteran-owned and operated winery’s tasting room is centrally located downtown across from Hay Market Square. They are open for wine tastings and retail shopping. I chose a seat at the tasting room counter and ordered the Tasting of the Month, a flight of five selections.
A flight lets you discover a wine you will appreciate the most – take home a bottle for your personal collection. They also sell jarred jellies and gifts for all of the wine lovers in your life.
Established in 2014, the tasting room is open Wednesday through Sunday year-round for wine tasting flights, slushies (non-alcoholic available), hard ciders, and beers. After selecting four one-ounce pours for my dry wine flight, we exited to the partially sun-drenched patio. I preferred to sip Petite Pearl, a medium-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Aronia.
The tasting room also serves flatbread naan and artisan pizza prepared fresh to order with farm-to-table ingredients.
Located on 10 acres, the tasting room is open Thursday-Sunday from 12 pm-5 pm or by appointment. Marc and Pame Rowe have operated the vineyard since 2005 and depend on volunteers to help them harvest grapes from over 3,000 vines.
I recommend bringing someone with you to the tasting room, and each purchases a different flight so you can sample all of the wines. When in doubt, choose the dry to semi-sweet flight. Bottles range from $17-$18, and fruit wine bottles are $16. View the current list of wines available 
An indoor tasting room also serves about a dozen wine drinkers at a time. Bottles of wine are available for purchase. I recommend arriving when they open on the weekend to avoid waiting to be served, or you can book a tasting 
There is always a fun event planned at the winery. Check 
The building has been several businesses over the years but has always remained a memorable landmark on the edge of downtown Shawnee.
Reservations are highly recommended; however, I stopped by the castle for a wine flight during the late afternoon between meal times and was served swiftly in the bar area. I chose Reds of the World, a flight that included three pours from Portugal, Washington, and Spain ($16). Premium wine flights are $26. I loved them all.
The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the award-winning wines. They carry two dozen wine varieties grown a short drive west of town.
A popular venue for hosting weddings, receptions, and private parties, the barn below is available for rental. A nearby patio attached to the tasting room provides outdoor seating.
Visit the tasting room to enjoy the winery’s long list of varieties, order a wine flight or ask about the Wine of the Week. I would highly recommend asking for a guided tour to fully appreciate the winery. Visitors can schedule an informative tour by appointment.
Can’t make it to a winery? Tune into the KNSS 98.7FM radio show, 
It may have been a sweltering 99-degree summer day in Kansas, but it certainly conjured up thoughts of winter. I thought, “Why does this town love Christmas so much?”
Since 1950, the town has lived up to its nickname when local businessmen displayed a 35′ Christmas tree covered in 3,000 lights in the center of town. The tree and display are lit the Saturday after Thanksgiving and stay illuminated until New Year’s Day.
Some of the decorations stay up the entire year along Main Street and inside its businesses. How many trees will you spot around town?
I was craving a hearty and comforting meal. I ordered the Breakfast Plate of eggs, potatoes, and toast along with a freshly brewed coffee. I could hear the cook, who I assumed was the owner, whistling while she prepared meals in the kitchen.
It’s meticulously restored, spacious, thoughtfully decorated, and clean. It has all of the comforts of home. Five beds and three bathrooms provide roomy accommodations for a family visiting the area.
The museum’s textiles date from the early 1800s-1970s. Many of the museum’s items were donated by families in the area. Can you imagine walking the streets of WaKeeney and seeing women wearing dresses like the ones below as they headed off to church or a formal occasion?
A newer addition to the Trego County Historical Museum includes a large mural depicting the life of an earlier time. Governor John P. St. John signed a proclamation to organize the county on June 21, 1879. What do you notice about the mural below that tells the story of the county?
One exhibit that the museum is continuously working hard to build is the Trego County Honor Roll that features names of residents who have served in the military. I felt a sense of patriotism as I read about the soldiers who wore the uniforms on display. The collection dates back to World War I. The artifacts in the case situated left of the honor roll wall are phenomenal.
Several tiny towns in Trego County eventually combined into one school district. The one-room schoolhouse pictured below is available for visitors to enjoy with access provided by museum employees. It was used from 1910 to the early 1960s.
PRO TIP: Start your self-guided tour by learning more about the town and its founders. WaKeeney was named after Albert Warren and James Keeney who dreamed of a city with 80′ wide brick streets. They got their wish.
PRO TIP: Stop by The Studio 128 (128 N. Main) to ask for an address directory to help you locate all of the trees on the tour. Like me, you may simply stumble upon them as you walk around the main square of WaKeeney. I spotted the tree below in front of my lodging accommodations at 1909 Cottage House.
I’m told that the town’s youngest residents love the Green River, a super sweet drink. One of about forty authentic soda fountains still in operation in the state, Gibson’s includes seating for nine patrons. Thirsty? Flag down any employee who is ready to happily whip up a nostalgic drink for you.
A popular venue for hosting weddings, receptions, and private parties, the barn below is available for rental. A nearby patio attached to the tasting room provides outdoor seating. The winery and event spaces stay consistently busy, but they always welcome wine lovers who show up to the tasting room.
The WaKeeney Water Park sits adjacent to a manicured city park – one of four in town. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a covered picnic inside a pavilion or play a game of disc golf, WaKeeney’s city parks have something for everyone to enjoy at their pace.
My time in WaKeeney seemed to fly by preventing me from visiting several more places that I look forward to experiencing on my next visit to town. I would love to tour 
It truly is a quintessential American town. I will always have fond memories of my stay in WaKeeney.
