Winston-Salem NC

Winston-Salem, NC – Known as the "Twin City" for its dual heritage in industry and the arts, Winston-Salem blends rich history with a vibrant modern scene. From old tobacco warehouses turned into art hubs, to peaceful parks and a growing foodie culture, this North Carolina gem offers Southern charm with a creative twist. With its warm community feel and lively downtown, it’s a place where tradition and innovation live side by side.

• Population: ~250,000
• Weather: Mild four-season climate (30-89°F); warm summers, cool winters, beautiful spring and fall.
• Places To Visit: Old Salem Museums & Gardens, Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Downtown Arts District, Kaleideum North, Historic Bethabara Park.
• Top Activities: Exploring local wineries, walking or biking the Salem Lake Trail, browsing farmer’s markets, enjoying live music downtown, attending the RiverRun International Film Festival.
• Famous Food: Carolina-style barbecue, Moravian sugar cake, Krispy Kreme doughnuts (born here!), fried chicken from local diners, and creative bites at chef-owned bistros.

Winston-Salem, located in North Carolina's Piedmont Triad region, is known for its strong presence in healthcare, manufacturing, education, and finance. Once a center for tobacco and textiles, the city has transformed into a hub for innovation, biotechnology, and research. Here are some of the top careers in Winston-Salem today.

Top 5 Jobs in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, NC, is a vibrant city with unique spots where students can kick back, have fun, and take a break from their busy schedules. With its blend of history, arts, and culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Old Salem Museums & Gardens – Step back in time in this historic district. You can stroll through the beautiful gardens, explore century-old buildings, and get a taste of history. It's a peaceful place to unwind and learn something new.

Reynolda Village – Just a short distance from Wake Forest University, this charming village offers quaint shops, lovely walking paths, and great spots to grab a coffee or a bite to eat. It's perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends.

Downtown Winston-Salem – Packed with art galleries, cafes, and the city's coolest boutiques, downtown is a great place to chill. Enjoy the local cuisine, see a live band, or just wander and take in the street art.

Bailey Park – This modern urban park is a great escape for students. With green spaces, events, food trucks, and free Wi-Fi, it's an ideal spot to relax with some friends or get some outdoor work done.

Hanes Mall – If retail therapy is your way to relax, Hanes Mall has you covered. It's one of the largest malls in North Carolina, offering loads of shops, eateries, and a chance to just have some fun wandering around.

The Loop Pizza Grill – After a long day, head over to The Loop for a casual meal. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade milkshakes are beloved by students, making it a popular hangout spot.

Salem Lake – For those who love a bit of nature, Salem Lake is the place to go. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, or just relax by the water. It's great for a weekend outing to clear your mind.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is home to several well-regarded colleges and universities. The city offers a blend of public and private institutions known for their academic excellence, healthcare programs, and contributions to research and innovation.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) – A historically Black public university that is part of the University of North Carolina system. WSSU is known for its top-ranked nursing program, strong business school, and commitment to community service and leadership development.

Forsyth Technical Community College – One of the state’s leading community colleges, Forsyth Tech offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce development in areas such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.

University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) – A unique public conservatory offering rigorous training in the performing, visual, and moving image arts. UNCSA is renowned nationally for its programs in dance, drama, music, filmmaking, and design & production.

Piedmont International University (now merged into Carolina University) – Although now part of a private institution, it started with a strong public theological foundation. It remains a respected name in theological education in the Winston-Salem area.

Davidson-Davie Community College (Winston-Salem satellite programs) – While the main campus is in Davidson County, the college offers academic and workforce development programs in the Winston-Salem area, providing affordable education and technical training.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Winston-Salem

Wake Forest University – A nationally recognized private research university known for its strong programs in law, business, medicine, and liberal arts. Wake Forest is consistently ranked among the top national universities and emphasizes small class sizes and close faculty-student interaction.

Carolina University – Formerly Piedmont International University, Carolina University is a private Christian university offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs with strengths in ministry, business, and leadership studies.

Salem College – Founded in 1772, Salem College is one of the oldest women’s colleges in the United States. It offers a personalized educational experience focused on leadership, the arts, and the sciences, with recent emphasis on health leadership and wellness.

Hanesbrands Education and Learning Center (affiliated with private corporations and institutions) – While not a traditional college, this corporate-sponsored education center partners with local universities and professional programs to offer continuing education, certifications, and leadership training.

Brookstone College (closed but formerly active in Winston-Salem) – Previously a private college offering fast-track career programs in business, healthcare, and IT, Brookstone played a role in workforce training in the city for many years.

Winston-Salem, NC offers a range of excellent high schools, both public and private, where students can develop strong academic foundations and prepare for success. Known for its commitment to education, the city provides a variety of options to suit each student's learning style and future goals.

Top Public High Schools in Winston-Salem

• Mount Tabor High School – This school is well-known for its strong academic performance, award-winning marching band, and athletics programs. It offers numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a supportive learning environment.
• Reynolds High School (RJ Reynolds High School) – Located near downtown, this historic school provides a comprehensive academic program along with thriving arts and music departments. Its campus and faculty foster both creativity and academic focus.
• Early College of Forsyth – Operated in partnership with Forsyth Technical Community College, students can take college-level classes while earning their high school diploma. It’s a top choice for students focused on higher education pathways.
• West Forsyth High School – Renowned for its strong academic performance and extracurricular offerings. Students benefit from excellent college preparation, sports teams, and fine arts options.
• Atkins Academic & Technology High School – A magnet school with a focus on STEM education. Atkins provides students with opportunities in technology, engineering, and health sciences, supported by rigorous academics and real-world experiences.

Top Private High Schools in Winston-Salem

• Forsyth Country Day School – A college-preparatory private school known for its personalized learning, challenging curriculum, and vibrant arts programs. It fosters creativity, leadership, and academic excellence.
• Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School – Although located in nearby Kernersville, many Winston-Salem families choose this highly regarded Catholic school. It combines faith-based values with strong academics and a supportive community.
• Calvary Day School – This Christ-centered private school offers a rigorous academic program, including honors and AP courses, as well as spiritual growth opportunities and athletic excellence.
• Salem Academy – One of the oldest educational institutions for girls in the United States. This all-girls boarding and day school builds confidence, leadership, and academic strength through small class sizes and rich traditions.
• Wake Forest Baptist Health High School (West Campus) – North Carolina Leadership Academy – Though recently established, this school emphasizes leadership, character development, and academic achievement, preparing students for college and beyond.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, may not host any major league professional sports teams, but it has a strong presence in minor league and professional development sports. The city passionately supports local teams, with deep roots in baseball and growing interest in other sports.

⚾ Baseball – Winston-Salem Dash (High-A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox)

• Winston-Salem Dash – The Dash are a High-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and play at the beautiful Truist Stadium located in downtown Winston-Salem. The team has been a key part of the city’s sports culture, developing future major league stars and offering affordable, family-friendly entertainment for fans of all ages.

🏀 Basketball – Carolina Disco Turkeys (Independent Exhibition Team)

• Carolina Disco Turkeys – Originally launched as an independent summer baseball team, the Disco Turkeys also participate in basketball-themed events and have become a fun fixture in regional sports entertainment. While not part of a traditional basketball league, the team brings energy and local pride to each event they host or enter.

⚽ Soccer – Carolina Core FC (Upcoming USL League One Team)

• Carolina Core FC – Though based in the wider Triad region, this new soccer club is set to debut in USL League One in 2024 and plans to draw fans across Winston-Salem and neighboring cities. The team is poised to bring professional soccer excitement to the area, with plans for a state-of-the-art stadium and competitive rosters.

🏁 Racing – Bowman Gray Stadium Racing (NASCAR’s Oldest Weekly Track)

• Bowman Gray Stadium – Known as “The Madhouse,” Bowman Gray is the oldest operating NASCAR-sanctioned weekly track in the U.S. The stadium combines football and racing, hosting modified and stock car races that draw thousands every weekend. It’s an iconic part of Winston-Salem’s sports scene, rich in tradition and excitement.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a city rich in history, arts, and Southern charm. Known for its tobacco and textiles past, this city today blends tradition and innovation with style. Here are 10 fun facts about Winston-Salem that make it a unique place to visit or call home:

1. City of Arts and Innovation – Winston-Salem was one of the first cities in the U.S. to be officially branded as a “City of Arts and Innovation.”
2. Birthplace of Krispy Kreme – The original Krispy Kreme doughnut shop opened here in 1937, and the recipe came from New Orleans!
3. Home to Old Salem – This city boasts Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where visitors can step back in time and see how Moravian settlers lived in the 18th century.
4. Big Tobacco Roots – Winston-Salem was once the world’s largest producer of cigarettes, home to R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and the Camel brand.
5. Twin City Nickname – Winston and Salem were originally two separate towns until they merged in 1913, giving it the nickname “Twin City.”
6. Black Mountain College Ties – Many early influences from the famous avant-garde Black Mountain College can be traced to Winston-Salem’s art scene and community leaders.
7. Home of Wake Forest University – This prestigious university moved to Winston-Salem in 1956 from Wake County and is central to the city’s innovation and research growth today.
8. A Movie Star – Winston-Salem has been the backdrop for several films, including The Longest Ride and Leatherheads starring George Clooney.
9. Tanglewood Festival of Lights – The nearby Tanglewood Park hosts one of the biggest holiday light shows in the Southeast, drawing visitors from across the country.
10. They Love Their Cheerwine – This cherry-flavored soda, a Southern favorite, is everywhere in Winston-Salem—even in restaurant recipes!