Things to Do at Old Salem, NC

Things to Do at Old Salem, NC

Hours

There’s no shortage of things to do at Old Salem, NC. Explore historic homes, meet skilled artisans, and try your hand at traditional crafts. Don’t miss the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), featuring impressive displays of early American craftsmanship. Seasonal events such as the Moravian Candle Tea and hands-on educational workshops make each visit unique. Walking through the gardens and watching live demonstrations like pottery or blacksmithing are just a few of the timeless experiences. Old Salem is more than just a walking tour—it’s an interactive experience with historical homes, gardens, and museums. Read Our Blog on Old Salem Museum and Gardens Know Before You Go.

Highlights of Old Salem

Credit: Visit NC

Old Salem Visitor Center

Start your journey here! The Old Salem Visitor Center is where you can purchase tickets, get maps, and find helpful information about exhibits and events. You’ll also cross the scenic Heritage Bridge from the Visitor Center into the historic district. Inside, you’ll find a gift shop, Old Salem Research & Archaeology Lab, and restrooms.

Old Salem Tavern

A must-see landmark, the Old Salem Tavern is where history meets hospitality. Built in 1784, it famously hosted George Washington in 1791. While the interior is no longer a working restaurant, the building can be toured and appreciated for its architecture and history. Guided tours often include the Tavern and explain its role in the early days of Salem’s bustling town center. Tickets required.

Credit: Visit NC

Old Salem Bakery Aka. C. Winkler Bakery

Winkler Bakery is the crown jewel of baked goods in Old Salem. Watch bakers at work in a wood-fired oven and enjoy sweet treats crafted from centuries-old recipes. Established in 1799, this bakery continues to delight visitors with its traditional Moravian baked goods, including sugar cakes and gingerbread, made using centuries-old recipes.

Single Brothers’ House

Constructed in 1769, this building served as a communal residence for unmarried men of the Moravian community. It now offers insights into the communal lifestyle and trades of the era. Tickets required.

St. Philips Moravian Church

This site is a powerful part of Old Salem’s story. Recognized as the oldest surviving African American church building in North Carolina, this church reflects the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. While it is temporarily closed, it will reopen soon. Tickets required.

Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA)

Home to an extensive collection of Southern decorative arts, MESDA showcases furniture, textiles, ceramics, and more, highlighting the craftsmanship of the early South.

Galleries in the Frank L. Horton Museum Center

This includes The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA)—a must-see for those interested in early American art, furniture, and design. In addition to exhibits, the museum offers collection studies and research opportunities by appointment beyond regular hours. Tickets are required for entry.

Credit: Visit NC

Gardens and Grounds

The gardens of Old Salem are meticulously maintained to reflect the horticultural practices of the Moravian community. Visitors can explore heirloom gardens, orchards, and medicinal plantings that illustrate the agricultural heritage of the area.

Credit: Visit NC

Timothy Vogler Gun Shop

Discover how traditional gunsmiths worked in this authentic shop. Watch demonstrations and explore how firearms were crafted in the 1800s. Tickets are required for entry.

The Blum House Joinery Workshop

Visit this restored workshop to see traditional woodworking tools and techniques in action. A fascinating stop for those interested in carpentry and craftsmanship. Tickets are required for entry.

Credit: Visit NC

John Vogler House

Step into the daily life of one of Salem’s most prominent families. This historic house is filled with period furnishings and gives a personal look at 19th-century life. Tickets are required for entry.

Boys’ School

Learn about early education and student life in the Moravian community at this charming schoolhouse. Interactive and informative for children and adults alike. Tickets are required for entry.

Credit: Visit NC

Miksch House & Garden

One of the oldest homes in Old Salem, this house includes a functioning garden and hearth kitchen. It showcases food preparation and home life in the 1700s. Tickets are required for entry.

Doctor’s House

Peek into 19th-century medical practice with a visit to the home of Old Salem’s town doctor. See original instruments, patient records, and how medicine was practiced during the era. Tickets are required for entry.

Seasonal Events

Old Salem hosts a variety of seasonal events that celebrate traditional Moravian customs, including the renowned Candle Tea during the Christmas season. These events offer unique opportunities to experience the cultural and spiritual life of the community.

Old Salem Museum & Gardens FAQs

Yes, you can walk around the historic district. However, tickets are required to enter buildings and exhibits.

Walking the grounds and visiting the cafe, gift shops, or Winkler Bakery is free. Accessing museums and historic homes requires a ticket.

Absolutely! Old Salem is a vibrant living history site that continues to educate, preserve, and inspire visitors.

Fall and spring are especially beautiful with colorful foliage and garden blooms. Holiday season visits are also popular thanks to festive decorations and events.

The Heritage Bridge is the wooden bridge connecting Old Salem Visitor Center and Frank L. Horton Museum Center (MESDA) above Old Salem Rd. It is located to the south of Visitor Center.

Yes, but photographers must book a session through our website. Read more about the requirements here.

Leashed pets are welcome to walk on Old Salem Museum & Garden’s streets and sidewalks. Please pick up after your pets! We have many garbage cans masked as barrels on the sidewalks. The City of Winston-Salem can fine pet owners who do not obey the city-wide “leash law” ordinance. Only service animals are allowed inside Old Salem’s buildings where programs take place. If your pet is thirsty, stop by the Old Salem water pump on the southwest corner of Salem Square on S. Main Street. You can pump free city water there, 24/7.

Read: Things to Do at Old Salem, NC

Visit oldsalem.org for more information

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