Take a stroll back in time with a visit to Old Salem in Winston-Salem, NC. Located an hour and a half north of Charlotte, Old Salem offers a variety of activities which are sure to thrill visitors of every age.
Salem was settled in the mid-1700s by members of the Moravian Church looking to expand their religious communities. In 1950, an organization was formed to protect the area from development and to restore various historic buildings to their original state.
Today, Old Salem thrives as a living history center with interpreters from blacksmiths and carpenters to bakers and cobblers showcasing their skills for visitors. For those searching for the perfect souvenir, the town boasts a variety of shops, such as the popular Winkler Bakery.
For those desiring to turn a visit into a weekend getaway, the Augustus T. Zevely Inn offers an even deeper look into life in Salem in the 18th and 19th centuries. Listed on the National Historic Register, the inn truly captures the spirit and character of the Moravian community.
Opened in 1965, the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) provides visitors with a look at southern craftsmanship dating from the 1670s. The 45-minute tour offers a glimpse at a variety of art from furniture and textiles to paintings and ceramics.
There are many family-friendly events held at Old Salem throughout the year, including Christmas by Candlelight tours during the holiday season. To see what events are happening or to purchase tickets, visit www.oldsalem.org.
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