If you’re looking for free things to do in Winston Salem, then look no further! From Historic Bethania, NC, to Bailey Park, plenty of fun and enjoyable activities won’t cost a dime! Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s rich history, taking a stroll along one of the many nature trails, or shopping around at the variety of antique stores and malls – Winston Salem has it all! So come on over and make some memories with us in this vibrant city!
Historic Bethania, NC
Hidden away in the small settlement of Bethania, North Carolina lies a gem of history that stretches back to the late eighteenth century. Here, you will find Historic Bethania, a living museum and National Historic District that showcases the area’s long-standing Moravian heritage.
From the quaint cemetery to the Gideon Wright House, visitors can explore various sites that provide an interesting look at life in early America. Located on Main Street, guests can walk through several buildings once used by residents, including a church, schoolhouse and even a blacksmith shop.
The Historic Bethania Visitor Center provides an informative look at this unique area and offers tours throughout the year. Guests can also take part in special activities such as candle dipping workshops or even attend one of their popular festivals Sheep Shearing Day.
Not only is Historic Bethania great for visitors who love learning about history, but it provides plenty for modern-day adventurers as well. The grounds are perfect for walking and biking, with trails leading through lush woodlands and around tranquil ponds. Plus, there are plenty of benches where visitors can stop and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by nature.
If you want to experience some truly unique culture and history, visit Historic Bethania! You will be fine exploring this remarkable place for a few hours or an entire day!
Salem Lake
Salem Lake is a great place to spend an afternoon in Winston-Salem. Located just outside of town, it offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking around its 7-mile circumference. You can also take advantage of its picnic areas and playgrounds for a family gathering or just a day out with friends. With its wooded trails and lush vegetation, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature while getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. And if you’re looking for more adventure, there are plenty of nearby attractions like Old Salem Museums & Gardens or Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Whether you want to relax by the lake or explore the surrounding area, Salem Lake has something for everyone!
Muddy Creek Greenway
Muddy Creek Greenway is a great spot to explore in Winston-Salem, NC. Spanning over 3 miles of trails, this greenway offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy some outdoor activities. Visitors can wander along the creek banks with its picturesque scenery and observe local wildlife such as turtles and birds.
The Muddy Creek Greenway features several scenic overlooks with benches, perfect for picnics or simply relaxing while watching the sun rise or set. Two bridges provide access to different sections of the greenway, a fishing pier, and a picnic area. Additionally, there is a playground for kids located near the trailhead.
The Muddy Creek Greenway is popular among cyclists, runners and hikers alike. Whether you’re looking for a stroll or an intense workout, there are plenty of trails to choose from. There are also several points along the route where you can stop and take in the beauty of nature.
Overall, if you’re looking for a great spot to spend some time outdoors in Winston-Salem – Muddy Creek Greenway is worth checking out!
Lost in Time Antique Mall
Lost in Time Antique Mall is a unique shopping experience located in downtown Winston-Salem. Visitors can explore more than 10,000 items of antique and vintage furniture, jewelry, pottery, books, and other collectibles here. The store has been open since 2002 and is run by three generations of the same family.
One of the highlights at Lost in Time Antique Mall is the wide variety of furniture that they have to offer. From Victorian to modern styles, shoppers will find something that suits their needs. New pieces are constantly being added to the collection, so there’s always something new to discover. Shoppers can also find an extensive selection of jewelry, including estate pieces and costume and vintage jewelry from around the world.
In addition to furniture and jewelry, Lost in Time Antique Mall also carries a large selection of pottery from various local makers, including Bauer Pottery from California and Roseville from Ohio. There’s also a wide selection of books ranging from old classics to rare first editions. Other unique items include vintage postcards, tin boxes, dolls and toys, glassware, advertising signs, lamps and clocks.
Lost in Time Antique Mall is the perfect place for anyone looking for one-of-a-kind items that tell a story about the past. With its friendly staff and constantly changing inventory, it will become your favorite shopping destination when visiting Winston-Salem!
Carolina’s Vineyards and Hops
Carolina’s Vineyards and Hops is a unique attraction in Winston-Salem, offering visitors a chance to explore the best of North Carolina wine and beer. Located just north of downtown Winston-Salem, this vineyard and hop farm offers an opportunity to experience the beauty of North Carolina’s rolling hills and valleys. Guests can take tours of the vineyard to taste some of the region’s finest wines and beers.
For those looking to learn more about winemaking, Carolina’s Vineyards offers winemaking classes and educational events throughout the year. During these events, guests learn all aspects of winemaking, including grape harvesting, fermentation techniques, wine aging, bottling, label design and other important topics related to wine production.
The vineyard also boasts a full-service tasting room serving pours from their wines and beers on tap. It also offers a selection of local gourmet foods for guests to enjoy with their drinks. There is also an outdoor patio area where guests can enjoy their beverages while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about winemaking or are simply looking for an enjoyable afternoon out with friends or family, Carolina’s Vineyards and Hops is definitely worth a visit!
Hanes Mall
Hanes Mall is great for those looking for an enjoyable day of shopping and entertainment. Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this mall offers a selection of over 100 popular stores and restaurants that cater to every type of shopper. From well-known retailers such as Macy’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods to specialty stores like Lids and Torrid, Hanes Mall has it all. There are also several eateries in the mall, including a food court with classic favorites such as Chick-fil-A, Subway, Panda Express and many more.
For visitors looking for something different than just shopping, Hanes Mall also hosts many events throughout the year. Some of these include movie screenings at the mall’s onsite theater and family-friendly activities such as live music performances and dance classes. Additionally, the mall offers “The Magical Night Before Christmas” event during December, providing families with holiday cheer while shopping for gifts.
Hanes Mall is open seven days a week from 10 am to 9 pm, Monday through Saturday and 12 pm to 6 pm on Sundays. Parking is available in the covered parking deck (which includes handicap-accessible spots) and at the surrounding lot directly outside the mall entrance. With so much to offer, Hanes Mall is a great destination spot when visiting Winston-Salem!
West End Historic District
The West End Historic District of Winston-Salem is full of history and culture. Here you can find a variety of different shops, restaurants, and attractions that will take you back in time. From the ornate Victorian-style architecture to the quaint antique stores and rustic diners, this district offers visitors a unique experience as they explore the past.
The district is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings, such as the 1892 Broyhill Building and the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA). Visitors can also explore some of Winston Salem’s most popular attractions, including Ronnie’s Country Store and Bailey Park. The park is great for enjoying picnics or walking along its many trails while taking in views of historic landmarks like Reynolda Gardens.
For those looking to learn more about the area’s history, there are plenty of museums in the West End Historic District. These include Bethabara Park, Home Moravian Church and Salem God’s Acre Cemetery. Each museum offers something unique for visitors to explore and learn about Winston-Salem’s rich past.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day outdoors or explore some of Winston-Salem’s hidden gems, the West End Historic District has something for everyone. From shopping centers to outdoor activities and historic sites, this district has been a staple in Winston-Salem since its founding in 1825.
Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA)
The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) is a vibrant and engaging art museum in the heart of Winston-Salem. SECCA offers an exciting array of exhibitions exploring historical and contemporary art forms. From abstract paintings to interactive installations, there is something for everyone at SECCA.
Visitors can enjoy several rotating special exhibitions throughout the year. The museum also boasts a permanent collection of important works from artists such as Jacob Lawrence, Elizabeth Catlett, Romare Bearden, and Faith Ringgold. SECCA’s education department provides educational programming for both children and adults including docent tours, lectures, workshops, and more.
Admission to the museum is free, but donations are welcome and help support valuable programming for the community. On select evenings during the week, visitors can take advantage of extended hours until 8 pm. SECCA holds occasional outdoor events like movie screenings or live music performances on its terrace overlooking downtown Winston Salem.
For those looking to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene without breaking the bank, visiting SECCA is a must-do experience. With something new to discover around every corner, it’s no wonder why this gem has been delighting visitors for years!
Ronnie’s Country Store
Ronnie’s Country Store is an enchanting and unique spot in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Step inside the store, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time! Ronnie, the owner, has been running this family-owned store since 1961, and it has remained an important part of Winston-Salem’s culture.
You can find all sorts of interesting items at Ronnie’s Country Store. From antiques to locally made furniture to homemade jams and jellies – there’s something for everyone! Ronnie takes great pride in stocking his shelves with quality products that customers won’t find anywhere else. You’ll find various vintage items such as crock pots, dishes, old tools, cookware, toys, books and more.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or just browsing through antique stores, visiting Ronnie’s Country Store should be added to your list of things to do while in Winston-Salem! Please stop by and explore the fascinating collection of trinkets carefully chosen by Ronnie himself. Who knows what treasures await?
Bailey Park
Bailey Park is a unique and vibrant park located in Winston-Salem, NC. The park provides the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature. It features a large grassy area that is great for activities such as frisbee, football, soccer, and other sports. There are also walking paths throughout the park that offer stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.
The main attraction at Bailey Park is its beautiful lake. You can take a peaceful paddle boat ride or sit back and relax on the dock. You can also explore the nearby wetlands by kayak or canoe. A network of trails will provide plenty of opportunities to explore the area further.
The park also offers plenty of shaded areas ideal for picnicking with family and friends. Several playgrounds are scattered around the park, giving kids plenty of space to let off some energy. There’s a disc golf course and outdoor fitness equipment for adults looking for something more active.
Bailey Park is open year-round, but during summer months, visitors can enjoy live music events in its arena or attend one of the many festivals occurring here. No matter what time of year it is, this wonderful green space provides something fun and exciting for everyone!
Quarry Park
Quarry Park is a great place to spend a day exploring the outdoors and experiencing the beauty of Winston-Salem. Located on Quarry Road, this park offers free access to over 40 acres of land – perfect for an afternoon picnic or leisurely stroll. This park is filled with breathtaking views of natural rock formations, pine trees, and lush greenery surrounding the grounds. The park also features several hiking trails and fishing spots for those looking to take advantage of the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy various activities such as geocaching, disc golf, and horseshoes. In addition, there are plenty of benches and tables throughout the park, so you can relax after a long day of exploring. Whether looking for peace and quiet or wanting to get in touch with nature, Quarry Park has something for everyone.
Reynolda Gardens
Reynolda Gardens is a beautiful outdoor oasis in Winston Salem, NC, offering visitors a chance to explore nature and relax in the sun. From the formal gardens with their vibrant flowers and lush grasses to the winding pathways that lead through woodlands and meadows, the Gardens provide an atmosphere of serenity and peace.
The Gardens are home to aquatic plants, trees, shrubs and herbs planted for beauty and function. Visitors can explore the wetlands where native wildlife thrives and enjoy birdwatching from designated areas. With its wide selection of benches, trails and bridges, Reynolda Gardens is perfect for a stroll or an afternoon picnic.
Reynolda Gardens provides plenty of educational opportunities for those who want to learn more about their surroundings. Interpretive signage provides information on plant species while guided tours offer insights into the natural history of Winston Salem. Special events such as lecture series, workshops and gardening classes are also held throughout the year.
Whether looking for a peaceful escape or an educational experience, Reynolda Gardens offers something for everyone. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air while exploring all that Winston-Salem offers!
Home Moravian Church
The Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina is an important part of the city’s history. Built-in 1796 as the first Moravian church in the area, it remains a reminder of the city’s religious and cultural heritage. Today, visitors to the church can take tours and learn about its unique architecture and spiritual significance.
The Home Moravian Church is situated on a hilltop site near Salem Square. It was built with local materials such as red clay for bricks and hand-hewn logs for framing. The original building has been restored to its 18th-century style, with only a few modern additions. Inside the church, you can see original features such as wood paneling, a wooden organ loft, beveled glass windows and finely carved pews.
In addition to being a functioning church, the Home Moravian Church also serves as an educational center dedicated to preserving and promoting the beliefs of the Moravian faith. Visitors can learn about the history of this religious tradition through lectures, guided tours and special events like hymn sings and choir rehearsals. The church even houses an archive where visitors can view artifacts related to its history.
For those looking for some spiritual enlightenment or just seeking to explore Winston-Salem’s past, visiting Home Moravian Church is sure to provide an enriching experience. It is located just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem making it easily accessible from anywhere in town!
Bethabara Park
Bethabara Park is a historic site in Winston Salem, North Carolina, offering a wealth of history and outdoor activities. It was established in 1753 as the first Moravian settlement in the area and is home to an intact colonial village featuring several preserved buildings from the original settlement.
The park offers visitors the chance to explore nature trails and gardens, visit a reconstructed fort from the Revolutionary War period, or participate in educational programs. There’s also a museum onsite that tells the story of Bethabara Park and its inhabitants throughout history. There are also bike rentals and fishing at nearby Salem Lake for those looking for something more active.
Bethabara Park also hosts special events, such as concerts and festivals throughout the year, which are great for family fun. Additionally, there are programs offered for youth during the summer months. The park provides an excellent opportunity to learn about local history while enjoying some fresh air and exercise!
Salem God’s Acre Cemetery
Salem God’s Acre Cemetery is one of the oldest graveyards in Winston-Salem, NC. It was originally established in 1772 by Moravians, who established the town and its surroundings. The cemetery is the final resting place for many prominent figures, such as General Francis Nash, a major commander during the Revolutionary War, and Governor Alexander Martin.
The cemetery is home to many unique features that make it an interesting place to visit. One of its most distinctive features is the “Gottesacker” mounds on the cemetery’s edge. These were built to protect from winter winds for those buried there. Salem God’s Acre Cemetery also has a chapel built in 1826 to commemorate those who have passed away, as well as a bell tower with a bell cast in 1802 that was used to call people to worship services.
Visitors can also explore several historical monuments throughout the graveyard, such as a monument commemorating those who fought in World War I and II and another honoring Confederate soldier from Forsyth County. There are also several ornate gravestones dating back centuries that have been beautifully preserved over time.
So if you’re looking for an interesting way to spend some time in Winston-Salem, NC, check out Salem God’s Acre Cemetery! Whether you’re interested in exploring its historic monuments or want to pay respects to those who’ve passed away before us, it promises a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all visitors!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Winston-Salem offers plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy without spending a dime! From historic sites like Bethania, NC and Salem God’s Acre Cemetery to outdoor adventures like Muddy Creek Greenway or Salem Lake or even shopping at Lost in Time Antique Mall or Carolina’s Vineyards and Hops, Winston-Salem has something for everyone. Take the time to explore the West End Historic District, Ronnie’s Country Store, Bailey Park, Quarry Park, Reynolda Gardens and Home Moravian Church. Remember to check out Hanes Mall or the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) if art is your thing. Regardless of your interests and budget, there is something fun to do in Winston-Salem!
