Things to Do in Winston-Salem
With its rich mix of history, culture and a diverse population, there are plenty of things to do in Winston-Salem. Whether it’s a fun day with the kids or strolling through a museum of fine art, the Twin City is never dull. Here are some notable things to do in Winston-Salem.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
Old Salem Museums & Gardens is actually several attractions rolled into one, all focusing on the town of Salem’s rich history as a settlement for Moravian Protestant immigrants. A National Landmark since 1966, the Old Salem Historic District includes taverns, tinsmiths, cobblers, gunsmiths, bakers and carpenters, all dressed up in period costumes and creatively interacting with guests as if they had stumbled into a scene from 1753. The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts is also part of the attraction.
Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Don’t be fooled by the name into thinking Reynolda House Museum of American Art is a tiny art display in a cramped historic home. This “house” was the home of R.J. Reynolds, founder of the eponymous tobacco company, and included 30 buildings in addition to the mammoth mansion. Reopened as an art museum in 1967, it today houses one of the finest collection of American paintings and sculpture, concentrating on the colonial period to the present. Represented artists include Georgia O’Keefe, Thomas Eakins and Grant Wood.
SciWorks
With more than 30,000 square feet of exhibit space plus a 15-acre outdoor Environmental Park, SciWorks is a science museum aimed at children that’s educational and cool, to boot. Permanent exhibits include a Foucault Pendulum, PhysicsWorks, SoundWorks, BioWorks and HealthWorks. Now approaching its 50th birthday, the facility also boasts plenty of activities and fun things to do. SciWorks often hosts nationally-touring exhibits.
Historic Bethabara Park
A small group of Moravian immigrants settled in the area during the 18th century, and much of that legacy has been preserved at Historic Bethabara Park. This city-owned park combines green tourism with historical reenactments. There are more than 126 species of birds on the park’s pristine 183 acres, plus nature trails and a beaver pond. The site features a restored 1788 church, archaeological ruins, and tours by costumed guides.
Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem
Always a fun place to bring the whole family, the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem features a number of educational exhibits, as well workshops and activities spread liberally across the calendar. From music classes for toddlers to pizza-and-reading parties, the museum is a hub of kid-friendly activity. Founded in 2004, the museum’s permanent exhibits include an enchanted forest, you-build-it area and even a Krispy Kreme doughnut factory!
Tell Us About Your Favorite Winston-Salem Attraction!
Posted on Oct 6, 2011 by Christopher Lloyd
