Winston-Salem Union Station - Image 1
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Winston-Salem Union Station

4.2
·43 reviews·Winston-Salem, United States

A beautifully restored historic icon, Winston-Salem Union Station honors Black history and serves as a venue for impactful exhibits and events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event days

Experience special exhibits and events

CrowdMedium
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Winston-Salem Union Station - Image 1

Winston-Salem Union Station

Best Time

Event days

Experience special exhibits and events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored historic icon, Winston-Salem Union Station honors Black history and serves as a venue for impactful exhibits and events.

4.2
(43 reviews)

"A spectacular piece of Winston-Salem history that has been beautifully restored."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Historic Magnolia website for current exhibits and event dates.

Immersive VR Experience

Don't miss the 'Traveling While Black' VR exhibit for a powerful historical perspective.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traveling While Black VR Experience

Traveling While Black VR Experience

The Historic Magnolia at Union Station

An immersive AR/VR exhibit exploring Black history and safe travel during segregation.

Architectural Restoration

Architectural Restoration

Entire Station

Admire the stunning restoration of this iconic building, a testament to Winston-Salem's commitment to preserving history.

Green Book History

Green Book History

Station Exhibits

Learn about the station's vital role for Black travelers and its connection to the historic Green Book.

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Planning Your Visit

A Historic Gem, Not a Transit Hub

Winston-Salem Union Station is a beautifully restored historic building, but it's not an active train station. Its primary use is for city offices, though it hosts special events and exhibits. Plan your visit around these opportunities rather than expecting to catch a train.

Immersive History Awaits

The station is a significant site for Black history, particularly its role in the Green Book era. Look for the 'Traveling While Black' AR/VR experience for a profound and educational journey into the past. Check for event schedules to maximize your visit.

Best Times

When
Event days
Why
Experience special exhibits and events
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere for reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

i came at the perfect time 😍 so quiet, so serene. #winstonsalem #thingstodo #views #nature #solotravel #CapCut
@worldwidebrooklyn
59.7K likes • 479.6K views

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Historic Magnolia website for current exhibits and event dates. Instagram

Immersive VR Experience

Don't miss the 'Traveling While Black' VR exhibit for a powerful historical perspective. Instagram

Had a great day at Louie and Honey in Winston Salem with @CarefreeKari 🫶🏼 There Cinnamon Rolls are incredible! We also got there lemon blueberry scone and focaccia bread. Everything was amazing as always and the new renovations are perfect! If your in the area it’s a must to check out! 🤍☕️ #louieandhoney #cinnamonroll #scone #coffee #bakery #best #placetovisit #winstonsalem #fyp
@olivia_ruffino
21.7K likes • 299K views
🚂 **Union Station, Winston-Salem** 🌿 A place where history and travel converge, where the past whispers through its walls, and the future rolls in on every train. Union Station is more than just a stop—it’s a symbol of the resilience and strength of Black travelers who once relied on the **Green Book** for safe passage. 🛤️ It’s a reminder of @historicmagnoliaunionstation an iconic sanctuary duri...
alexisariess
0 likes • 2.2K views

Parking is Plentiful

Ample parking is available, often used by city employees and local firefighters. Reddit

A Piece of History

Appreciate the beautifully restored architecture and original materials. Reddit

Have you heard about to immersive virtual reality black history exhibit in Winston-Salem? @thehistoricmagnolia bought this educational exhibit to the old Union Station train station located on Martin Luther King Jr Dr, walking distance from @wssu1892 This is a great activity to do with family or friends visiting Winston-Salem or for a school field trip If you’re interested in visiting the Uni...
visitwinstonsalem
788 likes • 15K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Historic Magnolia website for current exhibits and event dates. Instagram

Immersive VR Experience

Don't miss the 'Traveling While Black' VR exhibit for a powerful historical perspective. Instagram

Parking is Plentiful

Ample parking is available, often used by city employees and local firefighters. Reddit

A Piece of History

Appreciate the beautifully restored architecture and original materials. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(43 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Winston-Salem Union Station for its stunning restoration and its vital role in preserving Black history, particularly through the 'Traveling While Black' VR experience. While not an active transit hub, its historical significance and event hosting capabilities are highly valued.

"The Ciry of WS has done an incredible job restoring this icon of history! It is so nice inside; Iam not sure if the upper lobby is available for rent but again, the history here is amazing and the City saved it!"

Jane Woodruff Thompson

"Winston-Salem Union Station is a beautifully maintained building, but it’s currently not an active train station. I’ve never seen anyone going in, and it seems like the primary use is for city offices. The parking lot is large, well-laid out, and always in great condition, though it usually only has about 10 cars during the week that are from the city employees. I often see firefighters from the station across the street using the steps for workouts.

I hope that they open the museum here or better promote it if it’s already open—it would be great to see this historic building used to its full potential!"

Sarah E

"A spectacular piece of Winston-Salem history that has been beautifully restored."

Brandon Ore

What People Like

Beautifully restored building
Profound historical exhibits
Important Green Book history

What People Dislike

Not an active train station

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Winston-Salem Union Station is located on Martin Luther King Jr Drive. It's easily accessible by car and is within walking distance of Winston-Salem State University. While it's not an active train station, it's a central point for local events and exhibits. Instagram

Yes, there is a large, well-laid-out parking lot available at Winston-Salem Union Station. It's typically used by city employees, but is generally available for visitors attending events or exhibits. Reddit

No, Winston-Salem Union Station is not an active train station and does not serve Amtrak. While there's discussion about Amtrak service in the region, this specific station is for historical and event purposes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The building is primarily used for city offices, but it frequently hosts special events, exhibits, and receptions. It's best to check the schedule for The Historic Magnolia or event organizers for public access. Instagram+1

Tickets are typically required for special exhibits like the 'Traveling While Black' VR experience. It's recommended to book in advance through The Historic Magnolia's website, especially for popular events. Instagram

As it's not a transit hub, there are no standard operating hours. Access is usually tied to specific events or office hours. Check with The Historic Magnolia for exhibit times. Instagram

While some events may have admission fees, there are occasional free events or receptions hosted at the station. Keep an eye on local event listings and The Historic Magnolia's announcements. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The main draw is the 'Traveling While Black' AR/VR experience, which offers a profound look at Black history. The station also hosts various events, concerts, and receptions, showcasing its restored beauty. Instagram+3

While not a traditional museum, it serves as a venue for historical exhibits, most notably the 'Traveling While Black' experience hosted by The Historic Magnolia. Instagram+1

It's a beautifully restored historic building that played a crucial role for Black travelers during segregation, serving as a safe haven and connection point. It's a symbol of resilience and history. Instagram

The upper lobby may be available for rent for private events. Inquiries should be directed to the city or event management for the station. Reddit

This is an innovative AR/VR experience at Union Station that explores Black history and the challenges faced by Black travelers, particularly in relation to the Green Book. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The beautifully restored architecture, historic details, and the unique exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the building and the poignant stories within. TikTok

The main lobby with its architectural details, the exterior facade, and any areas related to the 'Traveling While Black' exhibit provide excellent backdrops for memorable photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Winston-Salem Union Station will find a unique educational opportunity with the 'Traveling While Black' AR/VR experience. This immersive exhibit is designed to be engaging and informative, offering a chance for children to learn about an important aspect of American history in an interactive way. Instagram+1

While the station itself isn't a playground, its historical significance and the innovative exhibits make it a worthwhile stop for families looking for enriching activities. It's a chance to spark conversations about history, civil rights, and the importance of preserving such landmarks. Consider checking for any family-friendly events hosted at the station as well. Instagram

📚 History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, Winston-Salem Union Station is a treasure trove. The restoration of the building itself is a marvel, preserving its original architectural integrity. More importantly, it serves as a powerful memorial to the Green Book era and the experiences of Black travelers. InstagramReddit

The 'Traveling While Black' VR experience is a deeply moving and educational journey that offers unparalleled insight into this critical period. It’s an opportunity to connect with the past on a visceral level and understand the challenges and resilience of African Americans. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Beacon of Black History

Winston-Salem Union Station holds profound significance as a historical site for Black travelers. During the era of segregation, it was a vital stop, often featured in the Green Book, which guided Black motorists to safe accommodations and services. The station served as a sanctuary and a point of connection for those navigating a divided America. Instagram

Today, this legacy is honored through immersive experiences like 'Traveling While Black: A Historical Exploration' by The Historic Magnolia. This AR/VR exhibit allows visitors to step back in time, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of Black travelers. It's a powerful reminder of the station's enduring importance and a must-see for anyone interested in American history. Instagram+1

Beyond the exhibits, the very walls of Union Station whisper stories of resilience and community. Its restoration is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving these crucial narratives for future generations. Reddit

Architectural Gem and Event Venue

The restoration of Winston-Salem Union Station has transformed it into a visually stunning landmark. The building showcases beautiful architectural details, with original brickwork and meticulously preserved interiors. It’s a place where history is not just remembered but also tangibly experienced through its design and ambiance. Reddit

While no longer an active train station, Union Station has found a new life as a venue for various events. From graduate school etiquette dinners to holiday concerts and VIP receptions, the station provides a unique and elegant backdrop. Its spacious lobby and historic charm make it an attractive location for gatherings that seek to blend sophistication with a sense of place. Instagram+2

Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship of the restoration, noting details like the original brick used in the flooring. The city's effort to save and revitalize this icon ensures it remains a significant part of Winston-Salem's cultural landscape. Reddit

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