Winston-Salem, North Carolina, might be best known for its rich tobacco history and vibrant arts scene, but it’s also a city that invites exploration through its diverse tours. We’re particularly drawn to the Winston-Salem True Crime Tour for its unique peek into the city’s darker moments, and the Downtown Winston-Salem Historic Guided Tour, which reveals the architectural and cultural heartbeat of the city. These experiences provide more than just sightseeing—they offer stories that stick with you long after the tour ends.
If you’re interested in understanding the depth of Winston-Salem’s cultural fabric, the African American History Tour is a must. It shines a light on the contributions and resilience of the Black community in the city, offering a meaningful perspective often overlooked in traditional tours. Each of these options delivers something different, whether it’s crime, history, or culture, allowing you to tailor your visit to your interests.
Quick Overview
Our list features three highly-rated tours, each priced at $19 per person, but with distinct focuses:
– A dark and fascinating look at Winston-Salem’s crime stories (Winston-Salem True Crime Tour)
– An insightful walk through downtown’s historic and architectural highlights (Downtown Winston-Salem Historic Guided Tour)
– An educational exploration of African American achievements and community sites (African American History Tour)
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the right experience for your interests.
1. Winston-Salem True Crime Tour
For around $19, you can step into the shadowy side of Winston-Salem’s past with the Winston-Salem True Crime Tour. This 1-hour walk focuses on the strangest crimes, mysterious mayhem, and dramatic events that shook the city—things you wouldn’t usually hear in a history class.
Tour guide Kelly, with her knack for storytelling, guides you through downtown Winston-Salem, visiting sites linked to these notorious events. The tour’s strength lies in its carefully curated stories of local criminal cases and strange happenings, giving you a different lens on what has shaped the city. It’s a perfect choice if you enjoy true crime stories, or if you’re simply curious about Winston-Salem’s darker tales. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 based on five reviews, emphasizing the engaging storytelling and the well-chosen sites.
What makes this tour stand out is just how well it balances entertainment with historical context. It’s not just about the crimes; it’s about understanding the environment and the people involved. The one-hour duration keeps it manageable, and at just $19, it offers excellent value for a memorable experience.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Winston-Salem’s more mysterious side, this tour offers a compelling, fun, and slightly spooky look at the city’s past.
2. Downtown Winston-Salem Historic Guided Tour
At number two on our list is the Downtown Winston-Salem Historic Guided Tour, also priced at $19. This 70-minute walk explores the center of the city’s industrial and cultural development, highlighting its unique architecture and stories.
This tour shines in revealing Winston-Salem’s role as an industrial hub and its architectural ingenuity, such as the inspiration drawn from the Empire State Building’s design. You’ll also learn about Winston-Salem’s surprising history as a moonshine center during Prohibition, which adds a layer of colorful local lore. The tour is rich in architectural details and urban stories, making it perfect for lovers of design, history, and urban development.
Reviewers praise the tour for its engaging narration and the opportunity to see the city’s historic buildings close-up. During the walk, you’ll get a sense of how Winston-Salem transformed from a tobacco town into a vibrant cultural space. The price point is attractive, especially considering the depth of stories and sights covered in just over an hour.
Bottom line: This tour offers a concise, informative introduction to downtown Winston-Salem’s architectural and cultural evolution, ideal for first-time visitors looking to understand the city’s core.
$19 per person
3. African American History Tour of Winston-Salem
For $19, the African American History Tour (details here) offers a focused 1-hour look at the Black community’s contributions and history in Winston-Salem, centered around the historic Depot Street neighborhood. It’s a significant experience for travelers interested in social history and civil rights.
This guided tour covers important sites related to African American achievements, exploring the stories of resilience, community, and progress. You’ll visit key locations that highlight the contributions of Black Winston-Salem residents, giving a face and voice to a part of the city’s story often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. The tour provides an insightful perspective on African American history and culture, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an educational experience.
The tour’s value is amplified by its focus on local achievements, offering stories of perseverance and success that resonate beyond Winston-Salem. It’s well suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse fabric, especially those interested in social justice or African American history.
Bottom line: This tour is a compelling, meaningful way to learn about Winston-Salem’s Black community and their lasting impact on the city.
$19 per person
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your interests and how you like to explore. If you’re fascinated by true crime stories and mysterious tales, the Winston-Salem True Crime Tour is your best bet. For a broad overview of Winston-Salem’s architecture and urban history, the Downtown Winston-Salem Historic Guided Tour offers a lively walk through the city’s core. If you prefer a deeper cultural and social history experience, especially related to African American contributions, then the African American History Tour provides meaningful insights.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. All tours are priced equally at $19, making them accessible options. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as these tours are popular among both locals and visitors.
In sum, Winston-Salem offers a rich variety of tours that reveal its complex past—from mysterious crimes to architectural marvels, and African American heritage. Whether you want a quick adrenaline rush, a historical walk, or an inspiring cultural journey, there’s a tour for you. For a well-rounded visit, consider doing at least two. And remember, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these engaging experiences. Happy exploring!