Day Trip Idea: All Things Winston-Salem

By Guest Blogger Suzy Fielders

Being from Winston-Salem and living here most of my life it probably would not come as a shock I absolutely love it here! I’m so excited to share some of mine and my daughter’s favorite spots in Winston. Whether coming for a day trip, looking for new places to hang out here, or visiting family for the weekend that live here, there are so many fun things to do.

One thing about Winston-Salem is it’s pretty spread out and there are truly different areas throughout the city. To help other moms out there plan their day trips, I’ve broken this out into some of those areas and grouped together all the fun things my daughter and I love doing at each. Most of these sections of town could make for a day trip in itself.

Downtown

There are so many family friendly things to do right in downtown Winston-Salem.

For those looking for history and fun, Old Salem is a great choice. The museum and gardens provide beauty and education all in one. It’s also a very magical place during Christmas. We love going to the Candle Tea there.

For those with younger kids, Kaleideum is an interactive museum with exhibits like a Krispy Kreme Doughnut Factory or a two-story Beanstalk Climber right in the lobby. It’s the perfect place for toddlers, preschoolers, and younger elementary age kids.

While many adults check out a/perture cinema, they actually also offer many family-friendly films throughout the year as well. The first time I took my daughter there was to see American Tail and she absolutely loved being able to watch a movie in downtown.

In the spirit of innovation, Winston-Salem recently re-built the downtown library and it has so much to offer. It’s a great place to not just spend time, but get the kids excited about reading!

Do your kids love the outdoors? Don’t worry there are two great spaces to enjoy nature right in downtown. Artivity on the Green offers art and nature all in one awesome location. Bailey Park is also another fun park right in the city. Both also provide picturesque backgrounds for grabbing pictures of the kids.

Every good day trip or excursion includes food and downtown Winston-Salem has so many delicious choices. From Thai to Italian, there are many different cuisine options. A couple of our family’s favorites are Jeffrey Adams, Mellow Mushroom, and Camel City BBQ.

Reynolda Road

Another great area in Winston-Salem is on Reynolda Road between Reynolda Village and Graylyn.

Reynolda Village and Gardens has so many don’t miss things to do. The gardens and pathways are perfect nature spots. We love the waterfall! There are so many places to enjoy a family picnic too. Forgot to pack the picnic basket? Don’t worry there are some amazing restaurants in Reynolda Village. Penny Path Café & Crepe Shop has amazing crepes and Village Tavern has a top notch menu.

Just down the road, and actually connected by paths through Reynolda Gardens, is Reynolda House. If your child loves art like my daughter, this is a great museum to take them too. She loved seeing all the professional paintings, and wondering if someday maybe her art would be on a wall in a museum. Even if they don’t love art, there is so much Winston-Salem history here to expose them to.

Graylyn is a great place to go if you want to do a special day out. Their grounds are beautiful to walk through, and eating brunch or lunch here is delicious!

Hanes Mall Boulevard

Adventure Landing is a really fun place for kids. It’s rarely crowded, meaning no horrible lines to wait in. My daughter and her friends love playing putt-putt here. Their arcade also has many fun games.

Whether on a shopping mission, or just wanting to stroll and window shop, there are plenty stores, food options, and other things to do at Hanes Mall. Since it’s all indoors it is a great place for rainy summer days.

AMC Theater is also off this road and a great place to catch movies. They are currently undergoing some great renovations, but keeping half the theater open all summer long!

Last but certainly not least are the many dining options for lunch or dinner off Hanes Mall Boulevard. Some of my favorites include Brixx, Jason’s Deli, Basil Leaf, and Mario’s Pizza. Seriously, if you are craving any type of food you’ll likely be able to find it off Hanes Mall Boulevard!

North Winston

Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park is a great place to take the kids and let them get all their energy out! They have so many attractions that are fun for all ages, which include trampolines, X-beam jousting, double slingshot, and my daughter’s favorite a rock climbing wall. Just like the Mall it’s all indoors and a perfect rainy day destination.

The Grand is popular among kids and adults for their stadium seating with comfortable recliners and IMAX theaters. They also have a decent sized arcade for before or after movie fun!

History meets outdoors fun at Historic Bethabara Park. One great thing about this park is they regularly host fun & free family events. If you go inside the recreation center, they will also offer guided tours. Kids will also enjoy the scavenger hunt they have!

Other Possible Winston-Salem Day Trip Ideas

Quarry Park is full of open areas and gorgeous views. It’s a great spot for a picnic or game of kickball. There is also a hiking trail at the far end of the park. After visiting Quarry Park, cool off at the nearby Reynolds Park Splash Pad.

One final Winston-Salem day trip combo is right off of Jonestown Road. Little Creek Park & Splash Pad is a fun outdoor summer option for the kids. Right down the road is also the AMF Bowling Alley.

Winston-Salem has so many fun options of things to do for your family!

To see other Day Trip ideas, CLICK HERE!

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