Winston-Salem has always had a way of feeling both deeply historic and wonderfully fresh—especially during the holiday season. Warm lights glow in storefront windows, Moravian stars hang across town, bakeries smell like cinnamon and sugar, and historic homes open their doors for traditions that date back centuries. If you are looking for a festive North Carolina getaway that mixes great food, beautiful design, cozy seasonal moments, and plenty of charm, look no further than a holiday weekend in Winston-Salem.
Whether you are planning a December weekend escape, a pre-holiday girls’ trip, or simply want to soak in the magic of the season, here is how to enjoy a holiday getaway in Winston-Salem in 2025.
This article was originally written in November 2018 and has since been updated and recirculated for December 2025.
A Holiday Weekend Guide to Winston-Salem, NC (2025)
Where to Stay: The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
Set inside the historic R.J. Reynolds building—yes, the Art Deco skyscraper that inspired the Empire State Building—The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel is a dreamy home base for a holiday weekend. Grand details meet modern comfort: warm wood paneling, sophisticated décor, soaring ceilings, and a lobby that feels like you could linger with a cocktail for hours. The subtle touches of North Carolina themed decor makes it so incredibly unique.
Room Details
Rooms are cozy yet luxurious, service is thoughtful, and the hotel’s playful lower-level recreation space (complete with bowling alley and slide) makes it feel welcoming rather than overly formal, which is perfect for a festive trip. Plus, the central downtown location makes it easy to explore.
Morning Coffee
One of my favorite touches are the warm beverages in the morning. They featured an apple cider and coffee bar each morning.
Daily Happy Hour
There is also a happy hour in the lobby for guests that features local beer and a selection of wines.
The Kimpton Cardinal is at 51 4th St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
A Taste of Winston-Salem’s Food Scene
Winston-Salem’s dining scene has evolved into one of North Carolina’s most exciting culinary communities, and the holidays are the perfect time to enjoy it.
Dinner at The Katharine
Located inside The Kimpton Cardinal, The Katharine Brasserie & Bar delivers a French brasserie experience with Southern warmth. Think buttery escargot, perfectly crisp fries, beautiful seafood dishes, seasonal cocktails, and a lively, elegant vibe that feels celebratory without being fussy. It is exactly the kind of place that makes the first night of your holiday getaway feel special.
Charcuterie
Deviled Eggs with Caviar
Truite Meuniere
The Katharine is located in The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel at 51 4th St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Breakfast at Bobby Boy Bakeshop
If there is one Winston-Salem bakery you must visit, it is Bobby Boy Bakeshop. Equal parts European-style pastry shop and neighborhood favorite, it is the sort of place where everything in the case looks like art. Croissants, morning buns, quiches, creative seasonal pastries, excellent breads—the kind of breakfast that makes you slow down and savor. Expect a line and know it is absolutely worth it.
Bobby Boy Bakeshop is at 1100 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104.
Lunch at Theodore’s Restaurant
For a cozy afternoon meal, Theodore’s Bar & Market delivers comforting, seasonal flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. It is a great spot to relax between exploring historic sites and holiday experiences, with dishes that feel thoughtful and elevated while still warm and comforting.
Theodore’s Bar & Market is at 114 Reynolda Vlg Wy Ste. D, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.
Dinner at betty on burke
Evenings call for something special, and betty on burke brings modern energy, creative plates, and a chic ambiance perfect for a festive night out. Whether you are catching up with friends or settling in for a date-night style dinner, it feels like a celebration.
Old School Smash Burger
That lemon mustard is truly delightful!
betty on burke is at 1016 Burke St Ste D, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Do Not Leave Without Breakfast at Krankies
A Winston-Salem classic, Krankies is the kind of coffee shop that becomes part of your tradition once you have been. Strong coffee, great biscuits, and a community feel make it the perfect way to wrap up your holiday weekend. Order the gingerbread latte and the Dirty South, a fried chicken biscuit with Texas Pete, pimento cheese, and bacon.
Krankies is at 211 3rd St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
What Makes Winston-Salem the Perfect Holiday Getaway
Old Salem & Moravian Holiday Traditions
No place captures the spirit of Christmas in Winston-Salem quite like Old Salem Museums & Gardens. Walking through cobblestone streets surrounded by restored 18th and 19th century buildings feels like stepping into another era—and during the holidays, it becomes even more magical.
The highlight of the season is the Candlelight experience, where guests are invited into immersive Moravian holiday traditions. You will learn the stories behind Moravian baking, music, candlelight services, and seasonal celebrations, all while enjoying hands-on elements that make the experience incredibly special. From homemade chocolate to love feast buns to the glow of candlelight, it feels meaningful, beautiful, and deeply rooted in culture and history.
It is festive in the most genuine, heartfelt way—not commercial, not overdone—just tradition, warmth, and connection.
Old Salem is at 900 Old Salem Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Have a Drink at Lot 63 Coffee and Taproom
Grab a drink at Lot 63 after the candlelight tour in Old Salem. This spot serves up coffee, local beers, wine, and Moravian baked goods from Wilkerson’s.
Lot 63 is at 614 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Reynolda Village and Reynolda House Museum of Art
A holiday visit to Winston-Salem simply is not complete without strolling through Reynolda Village and exploring the Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Once part of the historic Reynolds estate, Reynolda is now a stunning blend of gardens, shops, walking paths, cafes, and art.
There is so much to see and explore around Reynolda Village. Some of my favorite places to visit while there:
- Half Past Three: A fun shopping experience in the prettiest pink shop.
- Monkee’s of the Village: The second oldest Monkee’s featuring a huge collection of women’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, and home decor.
- Norman Stockton: A third generation men’s shop in Winston-Salem. Bonus: They have a big screen and on Saturdays, they offer beer and games in on the background while you shop.
- Sfeer+Co: Gorgeous home decor and local artists’ work.
- The Bookhouse: A delightful locally owned bookstore serving up coffees, teas, beers, and wines.
Grab a Doughnut (or Two) from Dough-Joe’s
The doughnuts at Dough-Joe’s are some of the best I have ever had! I tried a cranberry orange and an Earl Grey, while David had a chocolate glaze and a strawberry glaze.
Dough-Joe’s is at 114 Reynolda Vlg Wy C, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.
Reynolda House itself is breathtaking—especially during the holidays. Decorated for the season, the grand spaces feel cozy and nostalgic, and the museum’s collection offers a beautiful cultural layer to your weekend. After exploring the house, wander Reynolda Village, browse local boutiques, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Reynolda House is at 2250 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 and Reynolda Village is at 2201 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.
Spectacular Holiday Blooms at Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden
The Spectacular Holiday Blooms return to the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in 2025, transforming the grounds into a glowing winter wonderland with more than 10,000 illuminated “flowers.” Stroll through radiant tulip beds, wander beneath shimmering trees along the Event Lawn, and discover creative light installations throughout the garden. Made possible through over 5,000 volunteer hours recycling and hand-assembling each bloom, this dazzling display beautifully complements the garden’s famous spring tulip season and offers a magical, one-of-a-kind holiday experience just outside Winston-Salem.
Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden is at 215 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284.
Step Into Holiday Magic at Körner’s Folly
Located just outside Winston-Salem in nearby Kernersville, Körner’s Folly is unlike anywhere else you’ll visit this season. This architecturally whimsical 22-room Victorian home transforms beautifully for the holidays with themed rooms, stunning décor, and details around every corner. Every stairway, alcove, ceiling, and window tells a story, and seeing it dressed for Christmas feels nothing short of enchanting.
It is so festive, creative, and totally unique—perfect for design lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates holiday magic.
Körner’s Folly is at 413 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284.
Kaleideum
Kaleideum is Winston-Salem’s vibrant, interactive museum that blends science, art, and hands-on learning into a playful, immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Opened in 2024 in a striking five-story downtown building, Kaleideum evolved from the merger of the Children’s Museum and SciWorks and now features multiple floors of engaging exhibits, a Digital Dome, creative maker spaces, sensory-friendly areas, and a rooftop adventure space that sparks curiosity and imagination. It is an excellent stop for families with children—and also offers special programs like “Kaleideum After Dark” for adults—making it one of the most dynamic cultural attractions in the region.
Kaleideum is at 120 W 3rd St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Final Thoughts
What makes Winston-Salem such a special holiday destination is the blend of past and present. You will sip incredible coffee and dine at nationally acclaimed restaurants, then step into centuries-old traditions. You will stay in a luxury Art Deco hotel, then wander candlelit historic streets. You will shop, explore, taste, learn, and slow down—all in one weekend.
If you are looking for a North Carolina holiday escape that feels meaningful, beautiful, and full of delightful surprises, put Winston-Salem at the top of your holiday travel list.
Here is a Google Map featuring all of the stop that we took on our recent holiday weekend in Winston-Salem to help you plan your trip.
Thank you to Visit Winston-Salem for coordinating our trip and to Jodi at Reynolda Village for partnering with me and showing us around.
Winston-Salem is my very favorite place! I’ve been so many times, but have yet to try Spring House, and still haven’t ever done the house tour at Reynolda or the Old Salem official tour! So glad you enjoyed your trip! I can’t wait to go back!