9 Must-Try Tours In Winston Salem

Winston Salem is a city that offers much more than its charming streets and historic sites. Thanks to its mix of rich history, haunted lore, and lively neighborhoods, there’s a tour for nearly every type of traveler. Whether you’re into spine-tingling ghost stories, uncovering criminal mysteries, or exploring the city’s industrial past, Winston Salem’s tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences. We particularly enjoy the Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour, which lets you wander through candlelit streets and hear tales that blend history with a dash of the supernatural—all appropriate for all ages.

What makes Winston Salem stand out as a tour destination is its deep historical roots and lively community storytelling. The city’s blending of old and new is reflected in the various tours listed below, ranging from walking explorations to interactive scavenger hunts and even true crime stories. No matter your interest, there’s a way to see Winston Salem that’s both fun and educational.

1. Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour

At number 1, this ghost tour is a perfect choice for those interested in a blend of history and spooky stories. Priced at $26 per person, it lasts about 90 minutes and takes you through the West End Historic District by candlelight. This tour is well-loved, with a perfect 5.0-star rating from over 100 reviews. What sets it apart is its balance—it’s not too scary, making it suitable for families or anyone curious about Winston Salem’s haunted past.

You’ll learn about the city’s early settlement, Revolutionary War ties, and ghostly legends. The guide, Topher, is praised for his engaging storytelling and deep knowledge, making the history come alive with eerie tales and colorful anecdotes. The walk covers more than 300 years of Winston Salem’s history in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Reviewers repeatedly mention how much they enjoyed the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling talent, making this a memorable evening for history lovers and ghost enthusiasts alike.

Bottom line: A well-rounded, atmospheric tour that balances spooky tales with fascinating history, suitable for all ages and perfect if you want a gentle scare with plenty of local color.

2. Winston-Salem True Crime Tour

For those who are intrigued by the darker side of Winston Salem, the True Crime Tour is a standout. Priced at just $19, it takes about an hour and explores some of the city’s most notorious and mysterious crimes. The tour covers stories from a serial prison escape artist, a cult leader, and an entire family’s murder, giving a fascinating look at Winston Salem’s criminal past.

The tour moves between various sites linked to these dark tales, offering a chilling yet engaging experience. The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s ability to keep participants captivated. It’s ideal for travelers interested in true crime stories or those wanting to see the city’s more sinister history.

Bottom line: A compact, compelling walk through Winston Salem’s criminal stories, perfect for crime buffs or travelers who enjoy a bit of suspense.

3. Winston-Salem Historic Guided Walking Tour

This historic walking tour offers a deep dive into Winston Salem’s industrial development. For $19, it lasts around an hour and takes in key sites like the Nissen Factory, RJ Reynolds Factory, and the Liberty Street Historic District. It’s a good choice for those interested in North Carolina’s manufacturing heritage and how Winston Salem became a powerhouse in tobacco and industry.

The tour’s focus on the city’s economic growth and historic architecture makes it informative without being overwhelming. Reviewers mention they learned a lot about the industries that shaped Winston Salem’s identity, and the guide’s straightforward storytelling makes it accessible for all visitors.

Bottom line: Ideal for history and industry aficionados who want a quick but thorough overview of Winston Salem’s rise as an economic hub.

4. Old Salem’s Ghost Self Guided Walking Tour

For those who want flexibility, the Self-Guided Ghost Tour of Old Salem is a budget-friendly, outdoor experience costing just $7.75. You can go any time, at your own pace, exploring the historic Moravian settlement’s haunted sites with an app that includes an EMF reader for ghost-hunting fun.

You’ll visit sites like the Salem Tavern Museum and the Single Brothers house, hearing tales of restless spirits and local legends. Since the tour is outside and self-paced, it’s perfect for independent explorers or families. The included app makes it accessible and interactive, with stories and historical insights that keep the experience engaging.

Reviewers note the eerie but family-friendly atmosphere, and many appreciate the flexibility of touring whenever it suits them. This is a great way to experience Old Salem’s haunted side without a scheduled tour.

Bottom line: Best suited for independent travelers and budget-conscious visitors wanting a spooky adventure on their own schedule.

5. Wacky Winston-Salem Scavenger Hunt

For those who want a fun, interactive way to see the city, the Wacky Winston-Salem Scavenger Hunt offers a playful twist on sightseeing. At $29 per person, it lasts about two hours and combines clues, challenges, and social interaction, with a remote host guiding you via your phone.

This experience is perfect for groups who enjoy problem-solving and discovering quirky local spots. It’s a mix of tour, challenge, and social experiment, making it ideal for families or friends looking for a relaxed but engaging outing. Reviewers appreciate the unique activity and say it’s a great way to learn about Winston Salem in a light-hearted way.

Bottom line: Great for those craving a relaxed, humorous, and interactive city exploration—especially in groups.

6. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Winston Salem by Holly Jolly Hunt

This holiday-themed scavenger hunt is perfect if you’re visiting during the festive season. For $20 per group, it lasts about an hour and encourages participants to find holiday-related items around Winston Salem, take photos, and complete fun challenges. The app-based format makes it easy to join anytime, anywhere.

Ideal for families or groups celebrating the season, this activity combines sightseeing with holiday cheer. Since it’s designed for up to 10 people, it’s perfect for small gatherings or families looking to add some festive fun to their visit.

Bottom line: A cheerful, flexible holiday activity that keeps the spirit of the season alive while exploring Winston Salem.

7. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Winston Salem by Operation City Quest

If you’re looking for a quick, energetic way to explore Winston Salem, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt is a solid pick. At only $10 per person, it lasts about two hours and uses an app to guide you from Corpening Plaza to landmarks like Winston Square Park.

This scavenger hunt is especially suited for those who enjoy on-the-move activities and want to challenge themselves to find objects and complete silly challenges. It also offers a live remote guide for tips and hints. Reviewers mention how much fun they had racing around and snapping photos.

Bottom line: A budget-friendly, fast-paced option perfect for active travelers and groups seeking a spirited sightseeing challenge.

8. Winston Salem African American History Tour

The African American History Tour explores the cultural and social contributions of Winston Salem’s Black community. For $19 and about an hour, you’ll visit sites like the Goler Memorial AME Zion Church, the Goler Homes, and the Depot Street neighborhood—areas that highlight resilience and achievements amid segregation.

This tour offers a focused, respectful look at a vital part of Winston Salem’s story. It’s suitable for history enthusiasts interested in civil rights, community development, and local stories of perseverance. Because it’s relatively short, it’s a manageable way to gain insight into the city’s diverse heritage.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in social history and African American contributions, with a meaningful, community-centered approach.

9. Zombie Scavengers Game – Winston-Salem, NC

Last on our list is the Zombie Scavengers Game, a playful, survival-themed activity designed to simulate life after a zombie apocalypse. For $20 per group, this one-hour game challenges your team to find survival items around the city using your phone.

Perfect for groups who love team challenges and a bit of silliness, this game offers a fun way to explore Winston Salem’s streets while completing quirky challenges. It’s less about history and more about ingenuity and laughter, making it appealing for casual players and families alike.

Bottom line: A lighthearted, engaging game for those looking to add some humor and teamwork to their Winston Salem visit.

How to Choose: Picking the Right Tour in Winston Salem

When deciding which tour to try, consider your interests and schedule. If haunted stories and local legends fascinate you, the Carolina History & Haunts Ghost Tour is a top choice. For a deeper understanding of Winston Salem’s industrial past, the Historic Guided Walking Tour offers a concise overview.

Budget travelers or those seeking a flexible experience may prefer the Old Salem Ghost Tour or the Winston Salem African American History Tour. Active explorers can enjoy the Fun City Scavenger Hunt or the Zombie Scavengers Game, both offering a fast-paced way to see the sights.

For festive visits, the Holiday Scavenger Hunt adds seasonal cheer. Think about your preferred activity style—whether guided storytelling, self-paced exploration, or interactive challenges—and pick what fits your travel vibe.

Winston Salem offers a surprisingly diverse set of experiences, from spine-chilling ghost walks to lively scavenger hunts. Whether you’re a history lover, thrill-seeker, or curious about local culture, your perfect tour is just a booking away. To make the most of your trip, consider booking early, especially during peak seasons, and enjoy discovering this vibrant city’s many stories.