Old Salem Museums & Gardens

600 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

Address:	600 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
Phone:	+1 336-721-7300
Site:	oldsalem.org
Rating:	4.6
Working:	Closed 9:30AM–4:30PM 9:30AM–4:30PM 9:30AM–4:30PM 9:30AM–4:30PM 9:30AM–4:30PM 1:15–4:30PM

Location

Photos 1

Reviews 20

A Private User

Old Salem is a wonderfully fun and educational attraction that has so much to offer. It is fun to tour the buildings, which to me are better than Williamsburg because you can actually walk throughout most of them, while Williamsburg only opens a small portion. I only wished that all the buildings were open at the same time. On my last visit, it seemed that only half were open one weekend and the other half the next. I guess that is a budget thing, but I would prefer all buildings were open, even if it meant being open less days. I went there the first time during Christmas when I was in the 5th grade (many, many years ago) and have loved it ever since. It is particularly wonderful during the Christmas season. I love the Candle Tea, the Putz, the coffee and the wonderful sweet rolls. The Easter Sun Rise service is both moving and memorable. It is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the Risen Christ. I also love Salem Tavern. It is a wonderful restaurant any time of the year. The bakery is also great year-round. The shops are also wonderful – I’ve purchased several framed prints as well as knick knacks. I worry that the economy has not been good for business. I imagine it takes a lot to keep up the brick sidewalks and the buildings. I hope they will always be able to maintain and keep this wonderful place open. I’m not sure kids today are into places such as Old Salem, but it beats video games any day.

Katia Mottert

Im not normally a history dork, but man I was impressed. A little pricey but really, really worth it. Without the ticket you can walk around but not enter any of the buildings which is completely the point. The employees are not volunteers (though some are) and they do not sit on their phone until someone comes in the room. They are actively communicating and keeping busy. We walked into one kitchen and she was actually reading the original recipe with ingredients were sitting by the fire. Then another man played the piano for us and you could tell it wasnt the same song over and over for people; he actually shuffled through his papers to choose the one he liked most. Its also amazing to know that if a window or decorative item breaks they take it over to another building to use the original technique to fix, and also a demonstration. I dont say this very often, but I really cant wait to come back!

Tyler Milliner

This history is still there but this are has become a tourist marketing trap. The only two shops that are authentic anymore are the hat shop and the bakery. Everything else is loaded up with overpriced mass produced trinkets made in China. The history is nice but all too often the hustle and bustle of rampant teens end up ruining the tranquil enjoyment. Dont bother going here.

Justin Newsome

If you have children, go there and plan on taking tours so they can learn about the way the world used to be. For couples, go for a nice walk. That is where I am. Much more pleasant than I thought. There are several shops in the surrounding area. Buildings are old, so dont plan on staying in the B&B unless you can be very quiet. Good chance there will be noise.

Cameron Alverson

A well-preserved historic piece of town. Part of it is public space for anybody to stroll through. Part of it is open only to ticketed guests, who can see reenactments and educational pieces. It reminded me of a theme park in the way that it captured an atmosphere so perfectly that it almost felt surreal. Its clean and inviting and just a fun place to be.

Shanade Beharry

This was absolutely gorgeous. I loved that the people who worked here dressed up like the Moravians of yesteryear. They were extremely knowledgeable about their areas where they were located. The fact that they still make guns and bake goodies the traditional way just blows my damn mind! I highly suggest a visit here if youre in Winston-Salem!

Praveen Sriram

Went here is November 2007 and June 2016 and each time had an awesome time and took pictures. Had to travel from Cary but well worth the drive and a good restful way to spend the afternoon. They give a AAA discount if I remember correctly. Staff are very friendly and hospitable. I will definitely visit here in future with my parents.

keyboard surfer

This park has been maintained very well. Old Salem Park & Museum host events regularly during warmer months. Guests are free to walk through the park/village, as well. If youre in the area and enjoy history, check this place out. There is a similar park (although smaller, less developed, but just as quaint) called Bethabra Park.

April Stowe

Where is the Old Salem that I visited as a child??? Not here!!! Nothing to do and only one place to eat! It was Mutts on The Meadow day and thank God for the town pump... The nostalgia is gone and I was so excited for my children to be able to experience my childhood memories and instead we were excited to leave! So Sad!

Jordan Burleson

A must see for visitors and locals of Winston Salem. Great spot to learn the local history and see historic houses, churches, bakeries and more. Stop at Winkler bakery for breads and treats. Take a tour and take photos. The museum is new and updated and has gifts. The bridge crossing the road is majestic!

Chris Boelkes

Quite an amazing place. Easily spend a whole day or two exploring all there is to see and learn here. The stories of the Moravian Christians was something I never learned in any history class. Also, dont miss lunch or dinner at the Tavern...the food is truly outstanding

Laura Maddrey

A great stop for a traveler and anyone on vacation, small or large groups. Its pet friendly (other than a few spots) which made for a great walk and tour around the grounds. Theres only one bathroom we found, which was a bit out of the way, the only detractor.

John Wise

Step back into the past at Old Salem. Most servers are in costume and the town has been well restored. Fun activity for a family. If you enjoy history this is a must stop. Not similar from Savanah, GA or Charleston, SC on a smaller more concentrated scale.

dan erickson

This is such a fantastic place to experience. You can walk around Old Salem multiple times and see new things each time. The buildings, gardens and costumes are so beautiful and authentic.

Jonathan Shoaf

Love the shops and the buildings have been preserved/restored very well. Great place to walk around and relax. Highly recommend buying any of the wide variety of freshly baked breads.

Wen-Wen Lin

Plenty to eat and shop and wander through without a ticket. I need to come back and see the graveyards and take a picture of the Reynolds house! Perfect for a half day or longer!

A Private User

Definitely worth the trip. Lots of old houses and shops to walk through. Interesting history of the Moravians. Dont miss the cemeteries. Great value for the money.

Randy Anthony

In the shadows of the skyscrapers of uptown Winston Salem sits Old Salem..... If you can go on Saturdays, they have a farmers market thats open until about noon or so.

Maria Purcell

Authentic original with century buildings. Old Salem offers a delicious bakery, gift shops featuring wares from local artisans and beautiful tree lined streets.

Laura Casino

Love this place. The entire family had so much fun! Take walking shoes and plan to eat at the delicious tavern! Takes a full day to experience everything!!!