Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a city that truly comes alive in the winter. The air gets that crisp bite, the historic neighborhoods look extra cozy, and a certain magic settles in. Forget hibernating.
This is the season to explore without the crowds, discovering the warm heart of the city.
You’re in for a real treat. We’ve put together the ultimate insider’s guide to the very best spots this winter. From art that ignites your imagination to steaming mugs in hidden cafes, this list is your golden ticket.
Get ready to fall in love with Winston-Salem’s unique charm. Let’s dive into the 14 best places to visit in Winston-Salem this winter.
1. Reynolda Village: A Winter Wonderland of Charm
Picture this: historic brick buildings dusted with a morning frost, twinkling lights strung through majestic trees, and the smell of warm pastry drifting from a local bakery. That’s Reynolda Village in winter.
It’s not just a shopping district; it’s a step back in time and one of the most perfect Winston-Salem winter destinations. Stroll along the cobblestone pathways, popping into unique boutiques for holiday shopping or just window browsing.
The vibe here is pure, cozy elegance. After you’ve explored the shops, don’t miss the Reynolda Gardens. While the formal gardens are asleep, the winter greenhouse is a lush, tropical paradise.
It’s a stunning contrast to the chilly outdoors. Wrap up your visit with a hot drink from a village cafe. Watching the light fade over the historic estate feels like being in a classic movie.
2. Old Salem Museums & Gardens: A Heartwarming Historical Journey
History feels immediate and intimate at Old Salem in the winter. The crowds thin out, allowing you to truly absorb the quiet beauty of this living history museum. Costumed interpreters tend to hearthside chores in the single-room houses, making the past feel wonderfully present.
The scent of woodsmoke and baking gingerbread (made from a centuries-old recipe!) fills the crisp air, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
This is a fantastic Winston-Salem winter activity for families or anyone craving a connection to simpler times. You can see artisans at work, like the tinsmith and tailor, and learn about Moravian traditions.
Be sure to stop at the Winkler Bakery for a paper-wrapped treat, still baked in original 1800s ovens. It’s a delicious, warm piece of history you can hold in your hands.
3. Kaleideum: Ignite Curiosity Indoors
When the weather outside is less than ideal, Kaleideum is your all-in-one answer for fun. This awesome, hands-on museum merges science and children’s exhibits in a way that captivates kids and adults alike.
It’s a vibrant, interactive space where learning feels like play. From a gigantic climbing structure to weather exhibits and live animal encounters, there’s enough to fill an entire day.
The best part? Everything is indoors and welcoming. It’s a top place to visit in Winston-Salem in winter for families looking to burn off energy while engaging their brains.
The museum fosters that “what if?” spirit, making it a joyful escape from gray skies. You’ll leave not just entertained, but inspired.
4. Winston-Salem’s Downtown Arts District: A Burst of Creative Warmth
Who says art can’t warm you up? The Downtown Arts District, centered on Trade and Liberty Streets, is a furnace of creativity. Winter is the perfect time to gallery hop.
Start at the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, a hub for local visual and performing arts. Then, just wander. You’ll find incredible galleries housed in renovated industrial buildings, each with its own personality.
On the first Friday of every month, the district throws a “First Friday” gallery crawl. It’s a hopping, social scene where you can meet artists and find that perfect, one-of-a-kind piece.
Even on a quiet afternoon, the vibrant murals splashed across building walls bring color to the winter landscape. It’s a cool, literally and figuratively, Winston-Salem spot to see in winter.
5. Historic Bethabara Park: Peaceful Winter Trails
For a dose of serene, natural beauty, head to Historic Bethabara Park. As the original 1753 Moravian settlement site, its history runs deep. In winter, the reconstructed colonial village is quietly striking.
But the real star is the 183-acre parkland with over two miles of trails. Bundle up and walk along the wetlands boardwalk or through the frost-tipped forests.
It’s incredibly peaceful. You might spot winter birds and wildlife against the stark, beautiful backdrop. The juxtaposition of ancient archaeological sites with wild nature is powerful.
If you need a refreshing winter break in Winston-Salem away from the bustle, this is it. Remember your camera. The light through the bare trees is magical.
6. Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA): Provocative Indoor Exploration
SECCA is where art gets a jolt of adrenaline. Housed in a stunning 1929 mansion with a modern addition, this museum is dedicated to cutting-edge contemporary works.
It’s a place for conversation and challenge, making it an ideal indoor activity in Winston-Salem for winter. The exhibitions rotate frequently, so there’s always something new and thought-provoking to see.
Spend an afternoon here letting the bold installations, paintings, and multimedia pieces spark your imagination. The surrounding sculpture garden is also worth a brisk walk.
It’s a cultural experience that feels both sophisticated and accessible. You’ll leave with your mind buzzing, which is the best kind of warmth on a cold day.
7. Salem Lake: For Crisp, Refreshing Walks
Don’t write off a lakeside visit just because it’s cold. Salem Lake’ seven-mile trail is a year-round favorite for a reason.
In winter, the lake often wears a delicate mist in the morning, and the views across the water are unobstructed and breathtaking. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and even mountain biking if the ground is firm.
The crisp air is invigorating. You’ll see dedicated anglers, friendly dogs on walks, and folks just enjoying the quiet solitude.
It’s a fantastic Winston-Salem location for a winter walk that makes you feel active and connected to nature. Just dress in layers and wear good shoes. The reward is a rosy-cheeked, healthy glow you can’t get from a gym.
8. The Bookmarks Nonprofit Bookstore & Festival Hub: A Reader’s Cozy Haven
Imagine the perfect winter afternoon: curled up with a great book. Now, imagine finding that book in a community-focused bookstore that feels like a friend’s cozy living room.
Bookmarks is a nonprofit literary center with a thoughtfully curated selection of titles for all ages. It’s a haven for bibliophiles and one of the coziest spots in Winston-Salem for winter.
They host author events and book clubs regularly, offering a wonderful way to connect with others. The staff’s recommendations are spot-on.
Whether you’re searching for a gripping novel or a beautiful cookbook, you’ll find it here. Supporting them means supporting literacy programs. That’s a feel-good purchase that warms you from the inside out.
9. Tanglewood Park: Holiday Lights & Year-Round Beauty
Tanglewood Park’s Festival of Lights is a legendary regional tradition. Driving through the spectacular light displays is a must-do seasonal joy. But the park’s winter appeal doesn’t disappear when the lights do.
Its vast acreage offers serene beauty all season. You can ride horses at the stable, play a round of golf if the weather permits, or simply explore the majestic gardens in their quiet winter state.
The Manor House is stunning against a winter sky. It’s a multifaceted destination in Winston-Salem for winter that blends festive excitement with peaceful natural retreat.
Check their calendar for events like the lights display, but know that a regular park visit is always worthwhile.
10. Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Annex: For Unique Market Finds
This is where you go to discover something truly special. The Annex at the Fairgrounds hosts a rotating lineup of eclectic markets and shows throughout the winter.
Think antique fairs, craft shows, gem and mineral exhibitions, and vintage markets. It’s a treasure hunter’s paradise and a fantastic thing to do in Winston-Salem in winter when you want a lively, indoor adventure.
You never know what you’ll find—a mid-century modern lamp, a piece of local pottery, or a stunning piece of jewelry. The energy is fun and friendly, with vendors who love to share the stories behind their wares.
It’s shopping turned into an experience, and you’re almost guaranteed to leave with a unique find and a smile.
11. The Coffee Parka Scene: Warm-Up Like a Local
Winston-Salem takes its coffee seriously, and winter is the prime time to explore its cafe culture. Skip the national chains and dive into the local spots.
Imagine settling into a comfy armchair with a perfectly crafted latte at a place like Krankies in the Innovation Quarter. Or, discover a minimalist espresso bar where the barista knows every customer’s name.
These cafes are community hubs. They’re where friends meet, students study, and freelancers post up for the day. Trying different local coffee shops is a deliciously warm winter activity in Winston-Salem, NC.
Each has its own vibe, from industrial chic to Bohemian cozy. Your mission? Find your favorite corner in your favorite shop.
12. Wake Forest University Campus: A Stroll Through Academic Grandeur
University campuses have a unique peace in winter when students are between semesters. The Wake Forest campus is exceptionally beautiful, with its collegiate Gothic architecture and sprawling grounds.
Take a leisurely walk along the tree-lined pathways. The wait is worth it. You’ll feel the buzz of intellectual energy even in the quiet.
Don’t miss the Charlotte and Philip Hanes Art Gallery, which offers free admission and thought-provoking exhibitions. The Z. Smith Reynolds Library is a stunning piece of architecture.
It’s a free, open-to-the-public, and wonderfully contemplative place to explore in Winston-Salem during winter. It might just make you wish you were back in school.
13. Pilot Mountain Day Trip: A View You Can’t Miss
Okay, this one is a short 30-minute drive from the city, but it’s an absolute must for your Winston-Salem winter itinerary. Pilot Mountain State Park is an iconic landmark.
Driving to the pinnacle parking lot gives you access to short, manageable trails with jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the Piedmont. On a clear winter day, you can see for miles.
The bare trees offer unobstructed vistas, and the mountain’s distinct knob is simply spectacular. The air is fresh and clean. It’s a moderate activity that rewards you with a huge payoff.
Just be sure to check the park’s website for any weather-related closures before you go. This view is a memory-maker.
14. Small Batch Beer Co. & Local Eateries: A Feast for the Senses
Winter is for hearty, satisfying food. Winston-Salem’s food scene delivers in a big way. Focus on downtown and the West End for a concentration of amazing options.
You’ll find everything from upscale Southern bistros to cozy gastropubs and incredible international cuisine like Thai and Lebanese. The focus here is on fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors.
Many restaurants source from nearby farms, so the menus feel seasonal and special. It’s the perfect capstone to a day of exploration.
Sharing a fantastic meal in a warm, buzzing restaurant is the essence of winter comfort. You’ll leave planning your next culinary visit to Winston-Salem this winter.
Conclusion
Winston-Salem in winter isn’t just a place to pass the time. It’s a season of discovery. You’ve got the quiet magic of history, the warm buzz of art and coffee, and the invigorating chill of natural beauty. This list is your starting point for creating a winter getaway you’ll talk about for years.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a few spots that call to you, pack your favorite cozy sweater, and hit the road. Your unforgettable Winston-Salem winter adventure is ready and waiting. Start planning your trip today.