To perhaps understand and appreciate the Winston-Salem story, it might be easier to liken it to a classic American novel, with each page rich in history and with chapters full of intrigue and excitement, not to mention its colorful cast of characters. From the first chapter — written even a decade before the signing of the Declaration of Independence — to the ones being written today, Winston-Salem is still a page-turner.
Here in Winston-Salem we invite you to tour our historic attractions, world-class museums and charming heirloom gardens. Unwind at destination-defining festivals and special events, then savor the flavors of Winston-Salem’s award-winning Yadkin Valley wine region, home to nearly 40 wineries, more than any other region in North Carolina. Add a whole host of restaurants that serve up some of the South’s most appetizing dishes and discover why Winston-Salem is “Your Southern Wake-Up Call.”
Winston-Salem dates back to 1753, when the first Moravians in North Carolina settled on 100,000 acres known as the Wachovia Tract. In 1766, the Moravians established Salem, which means “peace”, a congregational town and trading center founded to house professional Moravian craftsmen. Today Old Salem Museums & Gardens is one of the most authentic and comprehensive history attractions in America. Visitors enjoy exploring the more than 100 preserved and restored homes and buildings. At the doorsteps along the cobblestone sidewalks, friendly costumed interpreters greet you with a smile and a story.
Winston-Salem is also home to an impressive collection of historic homes that once belonged to some of the twentieth century’s greatest industrialists. Reynolda House Museum of American Art, former home to tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds and wife Katharine, celebrates its 50th anniversary as a museum and 100th anniversary of the home in 2017. Listed as one of “The Great Houses of the South,” Reynolda House is one of the nation’s premiere American art museums. Neighboring Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) colors outside the lines bringing non-traditional art forms for the visitor to experience. This historic home-turned-museum was once the residence of James G. Hanes, former president of Hanes Hosiery Inc. Other large corporations making lasting impressions include Hanesbrands Inc., Krispy Kreme and Texas Pete Hot Sauce; all founded and headquartered in Winston-Salem.
We invite you to wine down and wake-up with Winston-Salem as we are honored to host the 2016 Travel South Showcase. Be our guest for Travel South Showcase March 6-9, 2016.
