Old Salem Museums & Gardens - brown and white house near green trees under blue sky during daytime
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Old Salem Museums & Gardens

4.6
·165 reviews·Greensboro, United States

Step back in time at Old Salem, a preserved Moravian settlement offering living history, charming gardens, and authentic baked goods.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
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Old Salem Museums & Gardens - brown and white house near green trees under blue sky during daytime

Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Old Salem, a preserved Moravian settlement offering living history, charming gardens, and authentic baked goods.

4.6
(165 reviews)

"Thomas's tour was the best historical tour I've ever experienced, making us feel like we stepped into the 1800s."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Free to Wander

Enjoy the historic atmosphere by walking the streets for free. Purchase tickets for building access.

🍰 Don't Miss the Bakery!

Try the famous Moravian sugar cake and other baked treats.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Moravian Buildings

Historic Moravian Buildings

Throughout Old Salem

Step back in time exploring meticulously restored Moravian homes and workshops. Experience living history firsthand.

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Old Salem Gardens

Old Salem Gardens

Various garden areas

Wander through charming gardens showcasing historical flora and peaceful landscapes. A serene escape.

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Moravian Bakeries

Moravian Bakeries

Old Salem Bakery

Indulge in delicious, traditional Moravian baked goods like sugar cake. A sweet taste of history.

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Planning Your Visit

Tickets & Free Exploration

While walking the grounds of Old Salem is free, access to specific historic buildings and interactive exhibits requires a ticket. Plan your visit to include ticketed experiences for a deeper dive into Moravian history. Instagram

Best Time for Fewer Crowds

Visiting on weekdays, especially during off-peak hours, can offer a more intimate experience. Weekends and special events may see higher visitor numbers. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
Fall and Spring
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tour of the Blandwood home in Greensboro NC home of Govenor Morehead in the mid 1800’s.
@redrosegarden3
18 likes • 340 views

🚶‍♀️ Free to Wander

Enjoy the historic atmosphere by walking the streets for free. Purchase tickets for building access. Instagram

🍰 Don't Miss the Bakery!

Try the famous Moravian sugar cake and other baked treats. Instagram

📍 OLD SALEM MUSEUMS AND GARDENS Old Salem is free to walk around, but if you are wanting to take part in some of the extra interactive exhibits then you will need a ticket 🕔 Wednesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm (excluding special events) ❗️ Open year-round except for January each year ❗️ Visit their website for a full list of open venues (Open Venues & Time page) 🅿️ Large parking area at the Visitor...
blonde.in.sneakers
28 likes • 371 views
Welcome to Old Salem Museums & Gardens in Winston-Salem, NC! Learn about the history of the town of Salem and the people here through trades and hands-on experiences. Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, October 19, the Blum House Joinery, the Doctor’s House, and Single Brothers’ House will be open for ticketed experiences. Visit oldsalem.org to find a full list of open buildings and plan your trip tod...
oldsaleminc
124 likes • 2.5K views

📸 Capture the Charm

Bring your camera for picturesque historic buildings and gardens. Instagram

🕰️ Check Opening Hours

Verify building hours and ticketed experience availability online before visiting. Instagram

A must-see in Winston-Salem, Old Salem was founded by the Moravians in 1766. You can either buy a pass to see all the museums throughout, or just walk through and enjoy the historic atmosphere for free. Lots of shops and bakeries to enjoy, spend an afternoon and enjoy this little piece of NC history! I never leave without some delicious Moravian cookies. #oldsalem #winstonsalem #historicarchitec...
robyn_the_realtor422
21 likes • 170 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Free to Wander

Enjoy the historic atmosphere by walking the streets for free. Purchase tickets for building access. Instagram

🍰 Don't Miss the Bakery!

Try the famous Moravian sugar cake and other baked treats. Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

Bring your camera for picturesque historic buildings and gardens. Instagram

🕰️ Check Opening Hours

Verify building hours and ticketed experience availability online before visiting. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(165 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the immersive historical experience at Old Salem, highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who bring the past to life. The well-preserved buildings and charming gardens are frequently mentioned as highlights, offering a peaceful and educational outing. Some visitors note that while walking the grounds is free, ticketed access is necessary for a full experience.

"I was driving through the area, on my home, with no time deadlines and needed to walk for a bit. After years of driving past the historical signs on the interstate I decided to stop.
So glad I did. Not only was I the only one on the morning tour, but I had the most delightful tour guide! She didn't mind my questions, pictures or my desire to just stroll.
Definitely a fun way to spend an hour and stretch my legs!"

Shelley Waller

"upon entering the mansion i was a little wary of how interesting it was going to be but once our tour guide, thomas started walking us through time, i knew this was going to be a tour i would always remember! our tour guide really had a way of making us feel like we stepped out of 2024 and into the 1800s. it was such a powerful experience and the mansion’s history had something interesting for everyone in my group to feel like this visit was worth every second! my favorite room was the daughter of the governor, hearing her story and seeing the art she created when she lost her husband was truly beautiful. i also was very happy to hear our tour guide include history on the slaves that lived there , as that’s not very common for other historical tours in the south to include. Was super memorable & would love to visit again when i am back in town !"

Jocelyn Bailey

"The price for a tour is pretty cheap, ($8) and the tour guide was very friendly and easy to talk to, open for any questions. I was the only person touring at the time I went, and it took roughly a little over an hour, walking room-to-room with the guide and talking about the estate and the family. I learned so much and it's amazing to see how much history is so close to home! I would definitely reccomend touring Blandwood for yourself, whether you're a history buff or just looking to pass the afternoon."

Anna Hobson

What People Like

Engaging tour guides
Historic building preservation
Beautiful gardens

What People Dislike

Ticket required for full access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Salem Museums & Gardens is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules if you're relying on buses or trains. Instagram

Yes, Old Salem is situated in the heart of Winston-Salem and is generally walkable from many downtown areas. It's a pleasant stroll through historic streets to reach the main entrance. Instagram

Yes, Old Salem typically offers parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current information on parking locations and any associated fees. Instagram

While Old Salem is in Winston-Salem, a day trip from Raleigh is feasible, though it's a significant drive. Consider combining it with other Greensboro attractions if you're traveling from that direction. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Walking the grounds of Old Salem is free. However, to enter and experience the historic buildings and interactive exhibits, you'll need to purchase a ticket. Prices can vary, so check the official Old Salem Museums & Gardens website for current admission fees. Instagram+1

Old Salem Museums & Gardens is typically open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. They are generally open year-round, with the exception of January. Always confirm hours on their official website before your visit. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Visit the Old Salem website for booking options. Instagram

Yes, the historic district of Old Salem is free to walk through. You can enjoy the atmosphere, architecture, and gardens without purchasing a ticket, though access to interior exhibits requires one. Instagram

Ticketed experiences at Old Salem include guided tours of historic homes like the Blum House Joinery, Doctor's House, and Single Brothers' House, offering in-depth historical insights. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Old Salem, you can explore historic Moravian buildings, learn about 18th and 19th-century life through living history interpreters, stroll through beautiful gardens, and enjoy traditional baked goods. Instagram+1

Photography policies can vary inside historic buildings. It's best to check with your tour guide or signage within each building. Generally, exterior photos are welcome. Instagram

Yes, Old Salem offers guided tours that provide in-depth historical context and stories about the Moravian community and the buildings. These tours are often led by knowledgeable interpreters. Instagram

Expect engaging living history interpretations from costumed interpreters who demonstrate trades, share daily life stories, and answer questions about the Moravian settlers and their community. Instagram

Old Salem can be very engaging for children, offering hands-on activities and opportunities to see historical crafts and trades. The open spaces also allow them to explore. Instagram

🍽️ 🍰 Food & Dining

The most popular spot for a taste of Old Salem is the historic bakery, offering traditional Moravian baked goods like sugar cake. For more substantial meals, you may need to explore dining options outside the historic district. Instagram

The iconic must-try item is the Moravian sugar cake. Other traditional baked goods and candies may also be available, offering a sweet connection to the area's history. Instagram

While the historic bakery is a key culinary stop, Old Salem primarily focuses on historical interpretation. Full-service restaurants are typically found outside the immediate historic core. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire historic district offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the charming architecture of the Moravian buildings to the picturesque gardens. The Heritage Bridge is also a popular spot. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historic districts and at cultural sites to protect the integrity of the site and for visitor safety. Check Old Salem's official policies regarding drones. Instagram

While exterior photography is generally encouraged, always be mindful of private residences and ongoing historical interpretations. Respect the interpreters and their work. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Salem Museums & Gardens offers a fantastic educational and engaging experience for families. Children can enjoy seeing historical trades in action, learning about daily life in the 18th and 19th centuries, and exploring the open spaces. The living history interpreters are often great at interacting with younger visitors, making history come alive. Instagram

Consider purchasing tickets for access to the buildings where kids can see historical tools, furniture, and learn about how children lived in the past. The Old Salem Gardens also provide a nice area for kids to explore and burn off some energy. Don't miss the chance to grab a sweet treat from the Moravian bakery – a guaranteed hit with the little ones! Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a great option for budget-conscious travelers because the historic district is free to explore. You can spend hours walking the charming streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the gardens without spending a dime. Instagram

If your budget allows for a small splurge, purchasing a ticket for a guided tour or access to a few key buildings offers significant historical value for the cost. The Moravian bakery also offers affordable treats that can serve as a snack or light meal, keeping overall expenses down. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Moravian Legacy

Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a remarkably preserved historic district that offers a deep dive into the life of the Moravian community who settled here in 1766. Founded as a religious and economic center, Salem was designed with a strong emphasis on communal living, craftsmanship, and education. The Old Salem Museums & Gardens organization works diligently to maintain and interpret this rich heritage, ensuring that visitors can experience the past firsthand. Instagram

Visitors can explore a variety of historic buildings, each telling a unique story of Moravian life. These include homes, workshops, and public spaces, many of which are brought to life by costumed interpreters. These interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts, share stories of daily life, and provide context for the Moravian faith and its influence on the community. The goal is to offer an immersive historical experience that goes beyond just looking at old buildings. Instagram

The Old Salem Gardens are an integral part of the experience, reflecting the Moravian appreciation for nature and their practical approach to sustenance. These gardens showcase historical plant varieties and offer a peaceful respite for visitors. Combined with the opportunity to taste authentic Moravian baked goods from the on-site bakery, the visit provides a multi-sensory connection to this unique historical settlement. Instagram

Experiencing Old Salem: Beyond the Ticket

While a ticket unlocks the full historical experience at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, the site offers a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. The historic district itself is free to wander, allowing you to soak in the charming 18th and 19th-century architecture and the general ambiance of a bygone era. This makes it an accessible destination for those who may not wish to purchase admission but still want to experience the unique setting. Instagram

For those who do opt for a ticket, the value lies in the interactive exhibits and guided tours. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the Moravian settlers' lives, their trades, and their community structure. You can step inside buildings like the Single Brothers' House or the Doctor's House and learn directly from interpreters who embody the historical period. This hands-on approach to history is a key draw for many visitors. Instagram

Don't forget to visit the Old Salem Bakery for a taste of authentic Moravian treats. The sugar cake is a particular highlight and a delicious way to connect with the culinary traditions of the past. Even if you're just strolling the grounds, the aroma from the bakery adds to the overall sensory experience of Old Salem. Instagram

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