Just south of downtown, West Salem is a neighborhood that helped shape Winston-Salem from the very beginning. Framed by Old Salem to the east and Washington Park to the south, it sits in the heart of the city yet maintains a distinct, residential vibe — close to the action, but grounded in a quieter, neighborly pace.

Founded in the 1770s, West Salem is among the city’s oldest historic districts. The area was first home to working-class Moravians who farmed the land and powered Salem’s early industry, laying the groundwork for the city that followed.

Today, West Salem feels newly energized — a walkable neighborhood where historic homes and gardens meet coffee shops, lively patios, and a strong sense of place. “We’re only two minutes from downtown, but it sometimes feels like a hidden retreat,” says resident Haydee Thompson. “It’s tranquil, lush, and full of character.”

Here’s a starting guide to what to see, do, and experience in West Salem today.

Step Back in Time at Old Salem
While Old Salem is its own neighborhood, its proximity and deep historical ties make it essential to any West Salem visit. Old Salem Museums & Gardens brings the 18th-century Moravian town of Salem to life through costumed interpreters, preserved buildings, gardens, and working trades. Stroll cobblestone streets, watch historic demonstrations, and stop by Winkler Bakery for fresh-baked favorites. The streets and shops of Old Salem are free to explore, but an admission ticket unlocks museums, gardens, and nearly a dozen interpreted buildings. For a deeper dive on everything to experience in Old Salem, explore our Old Salem 101 Guide.

Explore the City with Triad Eco Adventures
From its homebase in West Salem, adjacent to the Salem Creek Greenway, Triad Eco Adventures offers memorable ways to explore the city. Choose from guided eBike and Segway tours that uncover local history and hidden corners, or opt for a narrated trolley tour through its sister company, Triad Trolleys. For a change of pace, Triad Eco also offers stand-up paddleboard tours at nearby Salem Lake.

Walk, Roll, and Play Outdoors
West Salem connects to some of the city's most popular outdoor spaces. The Downtown Strollway runs directly through the neighborhood, offering a scenic 1.2-mile route linking downtown to Old Salem. It connects to the Salem Creek Greenway, which extends five miles and ties into a larger 27-mile loop ideal for biking. Families will also appreciate Granville Park, a neighborhood favorite with a castle-style playground, tennis and pickleball courts, rolling walking paths, picnic areas, and restrooms.

Shop Local at the Cobblestone Farmers Market
Open year-round on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon, the Cobblestone Farmers Market is a producer-only market featuring 40 to 50 local farms, bakers, and makers. Shoppers will find fresh produce, sustainably raised meats, baked goods, cheeses, herbs, and more, all held to high-quality standards. Launched inside Krankies Coffee in 2009, the market now has a permanent home in West Salem.

Snap a Photo at Iconic Landmarks
West Salem is home to two of Winston-Salem’s most recognizable photo ops. Start at the Old Salem Coffee Pot (aka, the Mickey Coffee Pot) at Brookstown Avenue and South Main Street. Built in 1858, this 12-foot roadside landmark marks the gateway to Old Salem and has become a local icon. Less than a half-mile away is Old Salem's Heritage Bridge, a 120-foot covered bridge connecting the Old Salem Visitor Center to the historic village. It’s an easy walk and a must-stop for photos.

Where to Eat & Drink

Salem Bottleworks 
Located inside a restored 1929 Coca-Cola bottling plant across from the Old Salem Visitor Center, Salem Bottleworks is an evolving food-hall-style complex anchoring the South Broad Street corridor. While more is still to come, several popular spots are already open, with communal indoor and outdoor patios designed for lingering and gathering.

• Bobby Boy Bakeshop: The anchor tenant, this is the second location of the James Beard-nominated bakery — known for its delicious pastries, breads, and all-day baked goods.
• Noodle Ju’b: A quick-serve ramen counter focused on house-made noodles and rich, slow-simmered broths.
• Grandpa Joe’s Slaberia (below): A casual spot serving focaccia pizza, playful comfort fare, and nostalgic soda floats.

East of Texas
East of Texas is not your typical barbecue joint. This open-air West Salem favorite pairs Texas-style smoked meats with a laid-back, cantina-style atmosphere. Brisket is the standout, but the Lil Sampler Platter is ideal for sharing. Expect string lights, lawn games, frequent live music, dog-friendly patios, and cocktails like the habanero grapefruit margarita.

District 924
Tucked along South Marshall Street, District 924 blends modern soul food with an elevated dining atmosphere. The menu features bold flavors and generous portions, with brunch favorites like shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles drawing devoted fans. Polished interiors and a welcoming patio make it a great option for both special occasions and relaxed daytime meals.

Easytalk Coffee & Cocktails
Owned by N.C. Bartender of the Year David Bowen and Maddie Fox, Easytalk delivers a creative, dual-concept experience. By day, it serves coffee, including Kyoto-style cold brew and specialty drinks. By night, the space splits into two moods: the fast-paced “Easy” side for inventive cocktails and the intimate “Talk” side, where bartenders craft bespoke drinks through conversation.

West Salem Public House
West Salem Public House is a true neighborhood hangout, operating as a coffee shop by day and a pub by night. Locals love its relaxed vibe, communal seating, and hidden grassy patio out back. It’s especially popular with dog owners, as pups are welcome both inside and outside.

Nearby Places to Stay

Historic Brookstown Inn 
Built in 1837 as a cotton mill, Brookstown Inn blends industrial character with Southern hospitality. Located in the Brookstown area, the fringe between West Salem and downtown, the inn features 71 rooms and a wealth of bonuses. Touches like exposed brick, original beams, and lofty ceilings connect the past to the present, and guests can unwind at the nightly wine-and-cheese reception.

West Salem Art Hotel 
Once a 1931 corner grocery, the West Salem Art Hotel is an intimate, art-forward stay that doubles as a working gallery. This bohemian Airbnb features six creatively themed “art-partments,” each designed as a unique visual experience, with rotating exhibits and local artwork available for purchase throughout the property. You can rent a room or the entire home depending on availability.

Zevely Inn Bed & Breakfast (Old Salem)
The only lodging located inside historic Old Salem, the Zevely Inn offers an immersive stay in Winston-Salem’s Moravian past. Housed in an 1844 home, the inn features 12 individually decorated rooms, several with working fireplaces. Guests enjoy a made-to-order breakfast and complimentary coffee, tea, and fresh-baked cookies.

Explore More of Winston-Salem

West Salem may be the city’s oldest neighborhood, but it’s just one of many areas full of character.  Explore the town's other standout neighborhoods—and the best places to eat in each—with our Neighborhood Restaurant Guide.

For a deeper dive, check out our Visitor Guide, packed with more neighborhood profiles, plus hidden gems, insider tips, can’t-miss experiences, and more. The 2026 edition will publish in early January, and you can pre-order a free copy now.  In the meantime, you can browse our 2025 digital edition.