5 Reasons Residents Love Living in Winston-Salem, NC

Find out what locals love about life in Winston-Salem.

By Rebecca Treon on January 4, 2024

Eric Waters

Greater Winston-Salem has a rich history dating to the 1750s, but it has thoroughly modern appeal. 

Locals love the access to quality education (the region is home to several universities) and career opportunities as well as the area’s exciting sports scene and relative affordability. These are far from the community’s only assets, though. Greater Winston-Salem boasts a thriving culinary scene, miles of urban trails, and festivals that appeal to people of all ages, not to mention four distinct seasons and superb walkability. Ahead, discover five reasons residents love living in Winston-Salem, NC.

1. Local Flavor in Winston-Salem, NC

Greater Winston-Salem’s dining scene is flourishing. The region is home to numerous independent restaurants that highlight its diversity and make residents and visitors alike repeat customers. The Bagel Station Bakery and Deli has been serving New York-style bagels since 1990; Yamas Mediterranean Street Food is a fast and casual “build your own dish” spot; Zito! Pizzeria + Grill serves pizza and Greek classics; East of Texas serves up Tex-Mex barbecue; Meridian Restaurant is an upscale Mediterranean eatery; Fratellis Italian Steakhouse offers steak, seafood and Italian favorites; Jeffrey Adams on Fourth offers farm-to-fork American cuisine; and Sweet Potatoes serves Southern-inspired fare . 

2. Outdoor Access in Winston-Salem, NC

It’s easy to get outside in Greater Winston-Salem. The area boasts more than 25 miles of greenways and trails, where residents can go walking, running and biking. Each trail offers something unique, whether that’s exploring Old Salem and the historic district, escaping to Salem Lake Trail, which is just minutes from the city center, or exploring the historic estates at Graylyn and Reynolda. 

3. Fun Festivals in Winston-Salem, NC

There’s always something fun for locals to do on the calendar, no matter your interests or age. In the spring, the RiverRun International Film Festival offers independent films from around the globe. In June, the city welcomes the Pride festival along with Juneteenth, and in July, the National Black Theatre Festival (a must-attend event) transforms the city into a mega-performing arts center with over 130 performances in a number of venues. In August, sporty types love watching the Winston-Salem Open men’s professional tennis tournament and Gears and Guitars – a mashup of pro cycling and live music. In September, the Carolina Classic Fair offers old-timey fun, while the Bookmarks Festival celebrates authors. 

4. Four Seasons in Winston-Salem, NC

Greater Winston-Salem offers the best of all four seasons. Residents can experience a change in weather, but the climate is mild and avoids frigid cold and dry heat. Each season offers something different: Smell the roses at Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in the spring, cool off at a splash pad in the summer, watch the leaves change at Old Salem in the fall and see the Festival of Lights at Tanglewood in winter. 

5. Walkability in Winston-Salem, NC

Forget having to rely on a vehicle to get from point A to point B, not to mention the hassle of fighting traffic or finding parking. When downtown, residents can walk to restaurants, shops and entertainment. The gridlike pattern of streets in neighborhoods throughout the city makes it easy to navigate and enjoy the region.