Winston-Salem & Old Salem
Moravian history, art museums & Carolina city day
🚗 ~2 hours from Johnson City · ~110 miles · Tri-Cities via I-77 S to I-40 E toward Winston-Salem
Best season: Year-round; Christmas events in Old Salem
Getting there
Get driving directions from Johnson City ↗ · Open in Google Maps ↗
Map shows Old Salem, Winston-Salem, NC. Times vary from Kingsport and Bristol.
Old Salem is a restored Moravian settlement where interpreters bake, garden, and craft in period buildings — one of the best living museums in the Southeast.
Modern Winston-Salem adds Reynolda House (American art in a mansion), breweries, and a compact downtown.
Highlights
- Old Salem Museums & Gardens
- Reynolda House Museum of American Art
- Downtown Winston-Salem — Trade Street dining
- Wentz Memorial Church & Moravian cookies
Sample one-day itinerary
Buy combo ticket; allow 3 hours minimum.
Try traditional chicken pie or bakery items on site.
Pick art museum or brewery district before I-40 west.
Know before you go
- Old Salem involves walking between buildings — wear comfortable shoes.
- Less elevation than mountain trips — hotter in summer.
- Distinct from Roanoke — choose one per day trip, not both.
Links & resources
More day trips
25–35 min 📖 Jonesborough, TN
25–35 min 🌊 Erwin & the Nolichucky Gorge
30–45 min 🛥️ South Holston Lake
30–45 min
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