Winston-Salem is a city of opportunity. It is a city of history, but a city where history is to be made. The list of things to do goes on and on, so here is a little bit of experience from my life and my memories living downtown.
I moved to Winston as a sophomore in high school. My mom and I moved from a house in Kernersville, so the Winston-Salem city life was new and foreign to me. We moved into a downtown loft that was converted from an old tobacco factory. I didn’t know at the time that my experience in Winston for the next few years would shape the way I think, act and make decisions for the rest of my life. I probably did have too much freedom. I wouldn’t have admitted it at the time, but looking back on it I don’t think I would let my kid roam the streets and just go to bars and restaurants with random people they just met. This was, however, my experience. I quickly made friends at the loft with doctors, attorneys, engineers, etc. I would play pool with them in the common areas and then tag along when they would make their habitual Wednesday night outings. Of course I couldn’t drink with them, but imagining I could was pretty cool. It gave me a slice of experience into the life of an adult and I no longer felt like an average high school student. The truth is, I was living. I often times felt smarter too because I would end up being the voice of reason in the group of drinkers I was amongst. I would say something that completely coincided with common sense, but for some reason to them at the time they thought I was a genius. At the time I did too, but looking back at it I was just a sober participant in the conversation of drunken minds.
Does my experience in Winston signify what the Winston city life is as a whole? Well, it depends on how you look at it. My observations would lead me to argue that everyone in Winston-Salem lives a life of imagination. It’s because the city thrives on the countless things there are to do. Here are my favorite five things and my recommendations to those who have not had the Winston Salem experience.
1.Old Salem
You can’t come to Winston and not go through the historical 1700s Moravian community of Old Salem.
2. BB&T Ballpark - Home of the Winston-Salem Dash
Enjoy a nice game of minor league baseball with a nice beer and hot dog!
3. Foothills Brewery
The best brewery in Winston-Salem (in my opinion) – if you’re 21, come to enjoy great beer with friends. Like IPAs? Enjoy the Jade or Hoppyum. Not a fan? Stay with the safe choice and enjoy Carolina blonde.
4. Hanes Mall
Hanes Mall is a must see in Winston-Salem. So many stores to shop in! Divided in half by a jcpenney, it is twice the size of an average shopping mall. Wear comfortable shoes because it will take a while to get through!
5. Fourth Street – Downtown Winston
You cannot experience Winston-Salem without walking down the most exciting street in the city. With so many bars and restaurants to choose from, this is the place to be!
Winston-Salem is a city to get to know!
