ROAM / Destinations / Winston-Salem, United States

Winston-Salem
United States

Winston-Salem blends arts-district polish with a substantial Black history that is easier to feel once you get beyond the usual Moravian storyline. For Black travelers, the city can be genuinely rewarding because its historic neighborhoods, Black arts spaces and HBCU ties give it texture.

ROAM 3.3 ★ ArtHistoryCityFoodDiaspora
Best time
April–June, September–November
Currency
USD
Language
English
Mid-range / day
USD 190

Is Winston-Salem safe for Black travelers?

Winston-Salem scores 3.3/5 (Mixed) on the ROAM BLK safety index for Black travelers. Downtown, arts districts and planned heritage stops are the easiest places to explore. The city is usually comfortable for visitors, but like many mid-sized Southern cities, some blocks empty out fast after dark, so the best move is to keep your nightlife clustered and transportation simple.

Community welcome
4/5
Police climate
3/5
Discrimination risk
3/5
Black-owned presence
3/5

Why this score: HBCU cluster; Black Sankofa culture; growing arts scene

Rated by the ROAM BLK team from traveler reports, community reviews and Black-owned business density — no tourism boards, no sponsors. Last updated 2026-09-05. See all 283 destinations ranked →

Neighborhoods to Know

Downtown Arts District

Artsy & walkable

Creative core with galleries, restaurants and public art.

Old Salem

Historic & polished

Historic district central to the city’s early identity.

Depot Street Area

Historic & rooted

Historic Black neighborhood tied to African American community life.

Must-Visit Places

Delta Arts Center

Museum · $

Essential institution preserving and presenting Black art in Winston-Salem.

Historic Depot Street Tour

Historic Site · $

A strong way to understand local Black history on foot.

Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Historic Site · $$

Signature city attraction with broader historical context.

Visa

No visa required for US citizen

Frequently asked questions

Is Winston-Salem safe for Black travelers?

Winston-Salem scores 3.3 out of 5 (Mixed) on the ROAM BLK safety index for Black travelers. Downtown, arts districts and planned heritage stops are the easiest places to explore. The city is usually comfortable for visitors, but like many mid-sized Southern cities, some blocks empty out fast after dark, so the best move is to keep your nightlife clustered and transportation simple.

Which neighborhoods in Winston-Salem are good for Black travelers?

Downtown Arts District, Old Salem, Depot Street Area. Creative core with galleries, restaurants and public art.

Are there Black-owned businesses in Winston-Salem?

Black-owned presence in Winston-Salem is moderate. ROAM BLK maps Black-owned businesses in the app, added by the community.

When is the best time to visit Winston-Salem?

April–June, September–November

How much does a day in Winston-Salem cost?

Budget: USD 105 · Mid-range: USD 190 · Luxury: USD 330 per day, per ROAM BLK estimates.

Plan your Winston-Salem trip in ROAM

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