I’ve Lived in Winston-Salem My Whole Life, and These Are the Most Underrated Destinations in the Area

A Winston-Salem local shares some hidden gem activities in the Piedmont Triad and surrounding areas. 

1. Hanging Rock State Park and Dan River Tubing: Located just north of the Piedmont Triad, Hanging Rock State Park is a hidden gem with beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and rock formations. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. While you’re there, go tubing down the Dan River in Danbury, North Carolina! The Dan River Company provides tube rentals, shuttle services, and various tubing trips ranging from 1.5 to 6 miles in length. Their tubing trips take you through beautiful stretches of the river, offering opportunities to relax and enjoy the natural scenery.
2. High Point City Lake Park: This expansive park in Jamestown provides many recreational activities, including a miniature train ride, carousel rides, mini golf, scenic lake tours on a pontoon boat, splash pad, lazy river, swimming pool, water slides, hiking trails, fishing ponds, kayaking, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The pool was once the largest in the southeast United States and opened in 1935. This park is an excellent spot for families or anyone looking to enjoy outdoor fun. 
3. Kersey Valley Attractions: Kersey Valley offers a variety of attractions that are sure to appeal to adventure seekers. There’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities, from zip lines and high ropes courses to laser tag and escape rooms.
4. Gibsonville Antiques & Collectibles Mall: Situated in Gibsonville, this sprawling antique mall is a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique collectibles. With over 30,000 square feet of space and dozens of vendors, it’s a paradise for antique enthusiasts and bargain hunters.
5. Divine Llama Vineyards: Divine Llama Vineyards is a charming vineyard and winery located in East Bend, North Carolina, in the Yadkin Valley wine region. One of the unique features of Divine Llama Vineyards is its resident llamas. Visitors to the vineyard can meet and interact with these gentle animals during guided llama treks around the property. 
6. Pilot Mountain State Park and Jolo Vineyards: Before you visit Jolo in Pilot Mountain, visit Pilot Mountain State Park, which centers around the iconic geologic knob, a beacon or navigational landmark. After that, head to JOLO Winery and Vineyard. It has been rated 1 of the top 7 wineries outside of California by TripAdvisor, one of OpenTable’s 100 Best Brunch Spots in America, and within the top 10% of TripAdvisor’s attractions worldwide. Make a reservation for dining or wine tasting. 
7. Tweetsie Railroad: Tweetsie is a family-oriented Wild West theme park and the second oldest theme park in the South. The main attraction is a 3-mile ride on a train pulled by a historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive. While on the ride, keep your eye out for bandits! That’s right; this ride has live entertainment featuring the Wild West Marshal and his posse fending off outlaws.
8. North Carolina Zoo: The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is home to 1,700 animals of more than 250 species, primarily from Africa and North America. It is one of two state-supported zoos in the United States. The zoo is open daily except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. 
9. Körner’s Folly: Located in Kernersville, Körner’s Folly is a one-of-a-kind 19th-century historic house museum. Built by artist and designer Jule Gilmer Körner, the house is a whimsical blend of architectural styles and features 22 rooms across seven levels. It’s a fascinating place for anyone interested in art, design, or history.
10. Lexington Barbecue: Celebrating 60 years, Lexington Barbecue has gained national fame for its delicious western-style barbecue. Among other national recognitions, Southern Living magazine has named Lexington Barbecue the best barbecue joint in North Carolina. The locals know it as the “Honeymonk” or “The Monk.”