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Old Salem Museums & Gardens Administrative Offices
600 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States
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Mi
Review №1

Wonderful Living Museum to explore. Would rate five stars if the Tavern Restaurant on the property had not closed down, and if each section was actually open anytime you go. Usually when I go, certain exhibits are always closed. Other than that, this is always a very enriching experience. Staff is friendly and helpful. Also, the gift shops and bakery help make the experience that more enjoyable.

To
Review №2

A very nice place to spend a day

Da
Review №3

A step back into our history. Recently spent a few hours wondering down Main Street into shops and in the Visitors Center on a mild January weekday afternoon. Entrance into some of the historic buildings require paying a fee and getting the proper tickets. The shops are of course free including the bakery which was fun and informative. You can also purchase fresh baked goods and snacks there. From what I saw and read, they are currently doing some infrastructure work on the roadways on historic Main Street and the other streets off of Main (New water mains, utilities etc.), but this should stop you from visiting. I believe the project when completed this year will include wider sidewalks, new lighting and tree plantings. All in all a fun informative visit.

ma
Review №4

A nice area to visit when it is open. Due to Covid everything in Old Salem has been closed since March :(

El
Review №5

Step back into the past! The “living museum” portions of Old Salem are all well done. You need a ticket to get inside the buildings, or you can just stroll the street and admire everything from the outside. For the full experience, though, I suggest getting a ticket. You can spend a few hours or almost a whole day exploring Old Salem. Most homes and buildings are from the late 1700s and the early 1800s. They’ve been restored wonderfully. There are also many homes that are privately owned and occupied. So it’s not just a museum, but it’s a thriving community. There’s a festive, vibrant farmer’s market on the weekend called Cobblestone Market. It’s worth checking out for local products.

Ki
Review №6

Museum is closed due to covid but the buildings and gardens are still lovely to walk thru. The paths and creeks are fun to explore too.

sa
Review №7

The Old Salem Museums was very good experience. It was a cold day with snow, but We had a great time. Check the weather because there is a lot of working outside.I advise you to come early because there is a lot to see, you may come back next day if you get the All in one 27$.visit Auditorium, the Doctor House, Single Brothers House, potter’s Workshop, The Silversmith Workshop & John Vogler House, the Gift Shop off course don’t forget the Bakery with a yummy cookies and sugar bread.The bathrooms was clean.The staff was friendly, helpful, and nice.

Fr
Review №8

An amazing journey to the past! Beautiful houses, gardens, old trees, really nice people. A must to celebrate American history.

Da
Review №9

Great place to take the family on a trip through historic America. Good to visit the town, tavern, church, Salem College, and several housing complexes turned museum even one of a famous historical doctor. Very family fun trip.

Ju
Review №10

Candle Tea (by Home Moravian Church, nominal fee of $10) - a Winston-Salem tradition! Typical and wonderful chilly weather waiting in line for some hymns in the Saal, candle making demo, coffee and sugar cake, model of Salem in the putz and lastly the story of Nativity. Takes about 1.5 hrs plus line of 1-2 hrs depending on the day. Enjoyed every minute with my Mom!

Al
Review №11

Super enjoyable and educational experience. All the staff were incredibly friendly and informative about both historical and relevant knowledge pertaining to the Old Salem area(s). Staff seemed genuinely excited about being there and engaging in conversation which enhanced the realism and experience overall.

Sa
Review №12

Travel back in time to see the reenactment of this historic 1766 Moravian town! Take a close look at how they farmed, harvested, stored, coocked, learned the trades of black smith, tailoring, carpentry, masonry, making long rifles for single brothers...

Br
Review №13

Everything was closed due to construction work on the streets. If you want to see the out side of the buildings you can walk around and look.

No
Review №14

What a pleasure, we had so much fun in Old Salem dont miss the amazing bakery or tavern. Walking though the old girls school was so beautiful. Take a walk through colonial times and amazing graveyard.

Ma
Review №15

A wonderfully done experience if real life and tremendously authentic food.

Al
Review №16

The staff at the visitor center were very friendly and super helpful. They had great suggestions for our visit. Jennifer went above and beyond. She is a treasure! Also period interepreter sister Deborah in the bakery was an angel!! She truly made my weekend special. Ill never forget her warmth and her gentle spirit. She IS Old Salem for me.

Ma
Review №17

I really enjoy going here. Its such a nice break to slow down and experience the simpler times in life. A very nostalgic trip down memory lane. The people are so knowledgeable about their crafts and that time period. I went at Christmas time so I experienced a Moravian Holiday. So nice! I highly recommend it.

An
Review №18

There are 3 things, no 4 things to pay attention to when planning a visit to Old Salem! 1.) Visitors Center (becoming a member is well worth the cost if you go more than once and gives the society a tiny boost to maintaining the historical environment) 2.) MESDA is the museum at the end of the bridge on the Old Salem side, it kinda looks like just administration bldg. but dont let it fool you! Furniture, paintings, and pottery dating as far back as the 1770s, maybe further! When viewing the pottery, imagine the fingerprints that are probably in the clay of the potter that lived almost 300 years ago- before the US existed! 3.) It is a walk to view all the bldgs open with interpreters, but that is why tickets are TWO DAYS! Mosey through the town, sit when you can, EXPLORE the gardens, the barn at the tavern. 4) Hidden Town Project! This is a project that is to raise awareness of the impact free and enslaved African-Americans had on developing the foundations and early economy of Winston and Salem. Their role is significant and its past the time to share their story. The log church at the end of Church St. has exhibits and an interpreter that will walk you through some of it. There are also displays and exhibits along the tour throughout Old Salem to remind you of the huge, but up until now hidden culture at the heart of our citys success.

Da
Review №19

Great history lesson right in the middle of a modern city. 2 period restaurants inside the old town. Cobblestone streets and actors inside some of the old buildings showing how things were done. Interesting life those Moravianss lived back in the day.

Ni
Review №20

Old Salem is a very neat place for a day trip. The history of the area alone is worth the trip. The only reason it didnt get 5 stars was because the museum cost is....rather high. We ended up just walking around town and checking out candle tea. Either way, cool sights, nice folks, and well worth the time investment.

Br
Review №21

I went here with my sons 4 th grade class. We had a amazing time. It was very informative

SI
Review №22

Very great history town, Old Salem, lots of shops and plenty of living history, its like stepping back in time.

Me
Review №23

Great area. Only wish shops had been open (closed due to Covid). But it was nice to walk around and see everything, very historic. Hope to go back when life gets back to normal to see more. Its similar to Williamsburg, VA.

Na
Review №24

I didnt go in the museum but walked in town.The old buildings are well maintained. The tavern restaurant is quaint and has a good menu. The Flour Box Tea room also has nice menu and old charm, with outdoor patio with occasional live music.A big problem with walking around Old Salem is that the old brick sidewalks are extremely uneven due to tree root upheaval. Be sure to wear flat soled shoes! If you have balance problems, you may want to use hiking poles, canes, or walkers.The sidewalks ought to be levelled and reset.The area is a great place to get a sense of the history of the area.The strollway that is a little to the west goes north into downtown Winston-Salem and also connects to the South with other trails that go to Salem Lake and other places.

To
Review №25

Very cool place to visit and learn some history of the town and the region. Plenty of buildings to visit and lots to see. I love the period dress of the staff and the fun things they do like bake using the original style stoves or craft wood with original tools. Place is real fun to walk through late on a foggy night.

Je
Review №26

School trip with my niece, gunsmith shop guy was very rude, otherwise was good trip. Pottery building, yound lady was nicest & gave most knowledge about her skill & history of pottery!

An
Review №27

Loved this place and buildings..it is beautiful...

Ju
Review №28

Fresh meats, flowers, vegetables, breads, coffees. I can get heathy and fresh stuff here.

Sh
Review №29

History comes to life. Amazing people working here to keep the past alive.

Ce
Review №30

Is closed but is a nice place

cH
Review №31

So. Much. Charm. Well maintained with lots of public access to the different exhibits and historical structures. A working restaurant too!

Pa
Review №32

It was a great visit. Love the ole tavern. Everyone is so nice and took an interest in involving everyone including our wee little ones in the tour.

Sh
Review №33

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!

da
Review №34

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.

To
Review №35

Ive visited Old Salem numerous times over the years. I was pleased on my latest visit that new buildings and exhibits were open. There is a large parking area at the Visitors Center. Tickets are $27 for a two day pass. The staff provides you with a map and circles all the stops so you will not miss a thing. You can go in any order youd like. There is a lot of walking so make sure you have comfortable shoes on. There are also restroom stops along the way that are marked on your map as they are not obvious.In the buildings you can see various trades performed and learn about the Moravian history. I enjoyed the Doctors House; Boys School as I had not seen those before but it was great to see the other buildings again and get questions answered by the staff.

Ki
Review №36

Neat place. We visited this past December and other than the few school field trips, there werent many other people so we got to walk around freely, see some very neat artisan demonstrations, and talk to some of the volunteers. My favorite part was probably the bakery, their sugar cake was amazing!

Li
Review №37

Old Salem is a wonderful place to visit. Please visit the bake shop, they have a lady named Melody who is amazing, fun and she is very entertaining. I will definitely return

Pe
Review №38

Yeees!!!!! Very beautiful placea very beautiful place with a lot of history, exquisite and very beautiful to walk with the family and enjoy an afternoon walking through the streets and enjoying every space and every corner

An
Review №39

Pretty cool place to visit!

Da
Review №40

It is of no surprise that I go to leave this place a nice rating and they are rated in the upper four star range! Old Salem Museums and the whole area is absolutely amazing. You really get a feel like you are stepping in a portal into another time! Very cool place to go and see!

ki
Review №41

Loved this place! Our fifth graders had a wonderful time!

Sa
Review №42

Very interesting! Fun to explore the living history by walking and visiting the old buildings which include a bakery, wood working and more.

Ch
Review №43

I was torn about the $18 vs $28 ticket. Get the full access! I went two days to see every bit of it! Amazing experience! The people in the shops who show how things were historically done provide an outstanding experience! I got to handle a rifle, turn the lathe, hand quilt, make pills... The museum had exquisite furnishings, pottery, and musical instruments. I’ve been to the Louvre, Smithsonians, etc, and this was one of my best and most enjoyable experiences.

Es
Review №44

Great place to explore North Carolinas history. Dont miss going to the bakery .

Li
Review №45

This is one of my favorite places to just walk around at, especially in the Autumn months. Just a lovely place.

0
Review №46

Wonderful living museum. During warm weather vendors sells wares and food. At Christmas the Candle Tea is awesome. Live Moravian bands play both weekends. Plus the Winkler bakery is always a must anytime were there!

Aa
Review №47

We enjoyed walking through old Salem. Lots to see and do.

He
Review №48

There is a large parking area at the Visitors Center. Tickets are $27 for a two day pass. The staff provides you with a map and circles all the stops so you will not miss a thing. You can go in any order youd like. There is a lot of walking so make sure you have comfortable shoes on. There are also restroom stops along the way that are marked on your map as they are not obvious.

Sa
Review №49

This historical Moravian town maintains its tradition and self sufficiency. The rich history of the town adds to the nostalgia. If you visit you have to get sugar cake at Winklers bakery, a beeswax candle from the Brothers Home or the gift shop, and lunch from Salem Kitchen.

龙绪
Review №50

Fall is coming,its really beautiful

Cy
Review №51

Favorite location in Winston-Salem to walk around and feel what it might have been like to live in the 1700s. Shops, restaurants, bakery among the facilities available. Fun for adults and children.

Ke
Review №52

Well restored Moravian community, with many well versed costumed interpreters. I especially liked the one man play at the African church. The one disappointing thing was that the brass band didnt show. Àn unexpected plus was the cafe with outdoor seating that enabled us to have lunch with our pet.

Am
Review №53

Pleasant walk, nice shops, delicious selections at the bakery. Much interesting history!

Ev
Review №54

Definitely worth the visit. Be prepared to walk a lot, and spend whole morning there!

Ci
Review №55

Took a trip back in time. Enjoyed seeing the buildings, gardens, and special tours.

AG
Review №56

Very nice place to visit if youre looking to get out of home for a bit.

Ba
Review №57

History in all its unvarnished truths! Carriage rides for couples and groups. Shops with a little bit of everything and museums with working reenactors/actual craftsmen. Make sure to stop at the Whistler Bakery for some Sugar Cookies and sugar cake, Stay for the tastings and history. Hear the history of each museum and the Moravians who worked and lived there. The Salem College that is still women only in housing and men doing continuing education as visitors. All things Moravian including slaves and freed slaves churches, craftsmen and museums. A cemetery where all the stones are exactly the same because in death, every one is the same.... dead. Women buried in one area, men in another and children in yet another. Private residences and homes on tour. Take the Candlelight Tea tour and make sure to see the PUTZ. Worth the trip, every penny!

Bi
Review №58

Not worth the ticket price. They should just charge everyone a more reasonable rate for what is offered.

Ch
Review №59

I called about their concealed carry restrictions, I may respectfully disagree, but my issue is how JOAN said Its good, its good, you better not bring no gun up here. Definitely a disappointment on how JOAN let her personal feelings speak for the establishment she is representing while at work. Politics do not belong at the work place.Its sad because Old Salem is a beautiful place, so much history to learn, so many fun activities, and shops too.

Ad
Review №60

Not happy at all about the Tavern Restaurant closing

Ma
Review №61

Loved learning the history of the Moravians and seeing the buildings. Took the tours in all buildings where the guides were very knowledgeable and gave lots of information. In order to go o. To the buildings you do need to purchase the pass. This was worth it otherwise you dont learn the history you just see the outside of each building. Downside lots of school children were there so it was very noisy.

Lu
Review №62

Nice living museum. Very interesting exhibits, particularly the doctors house, the black church and cemetery, and the single mens house.

Pa
Review №63

My family and friends came here for the Moravian candle tea in early December. We loved it. We even had three 10 year old boys and they were entertained the whole time. We sang hymns while a 200 year old organ played, drank great coffee with sugar cake, learned about old time life, candle making n such. Being here makes you wish you had lived in the 18th century.

Li
Review №64

A step back in history. Very talented locals telling the story of years gone by.

An
Review №65

Like walking back through time. Charming old homes and buildings. If you purchase a ticket you can enter many of the shops and houses and hear more about the town, people and history from very knowledgeable docents who are all dressed in period costume. Super interesting to learn about the Moravians who settled here

Da
Review №66

Fun place. Reminded me of the house I grew up in. Some of the dosuns get a little sleepy by the end of the day. Go early.

Ne
Review №67

Beautiful piece of history right in downtown Winston-Salem. Nice little gift shops and on a cool day you can spend an entire day comfortably there. I just felt very sorry for the old horses having to pull the big carriages around. They looked old and very overworked.

N.
Review №68

There is a lot of history to be seen. Stop in at Winklers Bakery for some baked goods and coffee or tea. Nice gift shop upstairs. There are two other gift shops down the street from the bakery. Cobblestone and brick sidewalks can be a little challenging for those that have difficulty walking. There is a horse and buggy ride and u can buy tickets for touring some of the buildings. Great place.

lu
Review №69

As long as you dont mind walking as parking is tough most people of all ages will enjoy this area. The Welcome Center, Museum and all shops and eateries are wonderful. Step back in time and be prepared to spend a good part of your day here. Its a must see in my book!

J
Review №70

Love this place! Beautiful at Christmas! Great for history lovers and families.

Zn
Review №71

Love the beauty and history of Old Salem. Sad the Tavern closed. Wish theyd complete the road repairs!!!

De
Review №72

Very interesting place to visit. The shops have unique items for sale, many are made by local artists. We usually make a quick stop there on our way home from the beach. I could spend the whole day touring the shops and demonstrations.

Ja
Review №73

Old Salem is very unique and eccentric town. You can learn a lot of about North Carolina and the interesting history of early education and the start of tobacco in the area.

Ma
Review №74

Great history.

Ka
Review №75

This ticket price is hefty, but it goes to a beautiful preserved piece of history. My family with younger children (4, 7, 8) enjoyed the stops and shops. My kids were bored at some stops and intrigued by the school and joiners shop. We got the all in one ticket, and it wouldve been a better deal if we had taken advantage of coming for two shorter days instead of one long day. The MESDA did not entertain my children at all. It made me nervous that we were walking very close to a street with traffic considering the number of school-aged children around, but there were signs around saying that 2020 renovations would include widening sidewalks. Overall great trip, but wanted to leave honest feedback for parents of littles.

It
Review №76

I always come here to walk around, draw, destress, or buy some tasty Moravian cookies. The grounds are well kept and are beautiful. Especially the grave yard!

Ca
Review №77

Love just walking through Old Salem! The history is amazing.

98
Review №78

I visited here shortly. Very quiet, less crowded, I feel comfortable for walking.Looks like hundreds year old architecture though Im not familiar.There is also a small college.Nice old district that cant be seen in Raleigh.

Ja
Review №79

This was a very unique and interesting site to visit. We really enjoyed the various buildings and the trades that each displayed. My favorites were the gunsmithing shop where they actually build old style black powder guns using ol school tools and technic including casting of pieces and forging. We also visited the potters shop, bakery, and the weaving and quilting shops. The picture is my wife throwing a stitch onto a quilt on the quilt rack. Awesome people work and volunteer at Salem Moravian Village. Worth the time to visit.

Sa
Review №80

I love old salem but for the Halloween gathering it was not well planned out. Only a few places were giving out treats and lines were super long. Way to crowded will not attend again for Halloween.

il
Review №81

Great overview for your excursion into Old Salem. You ensure you get good directions and tickets if needed for specific attractions within the old towne. Great starting point. Would recommend it as your first stop.

Ja
Review №82

Great relaxing atmosphere and interesting things to see.

Ju
Review №83

This is a really neat place! Definitely a great place to vi6for a glimpse into history:)

Fr
Review №84

They do a very good job of giving an accurate representation of the time. We thoroughly enjoyed it. Be aware there are a lot of small school children running around on weekdays. The actors have to modify their presentation to accommodate the short attention span and noise.

To
Review №85

Friendly staff and great history. Wonderful place to visit.

Ma
Review №86

Neat and well cared for as usual.

R
Review №87

Candle tea amazing as always. 27 years in a Row!

Ki
Review №88

Wonderful historic spot. Lots of information and lots of walking so dress comfortably.

ER
Review №89

Amazing history

Ch
Review №90

Great historical experience. Staff makes learning fun. Has a great time. Perfect for families. Make.aure to visit the bakery.

Ke
Review №91

It was fun and educational. Now the bakery was great and a must see and visit if you even get close to Old Salem!

Ji
Review №92

Totally awesome place. A must for everyone. Real history being lived out.

Ch
Review №93

Fun trip and everyone is nice. Definitely will be back when we have more time.

Ka
Review №94

Too crowded w long lines and very limited candy. Totally not worth the time and effort to get there and find parking

Ma
Review №95

Its a little Williamsburg! Wonderful place to visit for a day or two. Historic buildings, trades people and interpreters. Family friendly!

Ch
Review №96

Really cool historical town. Neat shops. Very photogenic area.

Ha
Review №97

Ive always loved Old Salem, and even though Ive been several times, I can still find the new things to learn and explore. If you get the chance, try the sugar bread from the bakery. Make sure you have a friend to help you eat it, or youll eat the whole thing!

Ru
Review №98

I’ve spent a lot of time here. It’s like taking a stroll through history. It’s a beautiful place where everyone should at least visit once in their lifetime. Amazing place.

To
Review №99

Love learning about history. Great staff. Very knowledgeable and super friendly

Ju
Review №100

Excellent working exhibits depicting life as it was in 1800s. very well presented and knowledgeable staff explaining the trades.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:600 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States
  • Site:http://oldsalem.org/
  • Phone:+1 336-721-7300
Categories
  • Corporate office
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:9am–5pm
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:9am–5pm
  • Thursday:9am–5pm
  • Friday:9am–5pm
  • Saturday:12:30–5pm
  • Sunday:Closed
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