One downtown, several distinct districts
The City of Winston-Salem's downtown plan recognizes an interconnected set of places, including Fourth Street, the Arts District, Industry Hill and the Innovation Quarter. Each has its own mix of historic buildings, public space, culture and daily activity. Begin with one, then follow the streets into the next.
Fourth Street: food, galleries and daily life
Fourth Street is an easy place to begin exploring central Winston-Salem, with restaurants, independent storefronts and cultural destinations. NCMA Winston-Salem Downtown opened its Fourth Street gallery in July 2026 at 400 W Fourth Street, Suite 130. Check the museum's visitor information for current exhibits and hours.
Restaurants, bars and South Liberty Street
Downtown dining extends well beyond Fourth Street. A fitting example of old buildings finding new purpose is Sage & Salt Bistro at 300 S. Liberty Street, inside the historic Winston-Salem Southbound Railway freight building.
There's a personal connection here, too: my brother Douglas Lee Saunders Jr. tends bar at Sage & Salt and has created original drinks for its menu. His independent website, Douglas Lee Saunders Jr., shares more of his cocktail work. For the restaurant's latest menu and hours, check its own website before visiting.
Trade Street and the Downtown Arts District
Near Sixth and Trade streets, galleries, working studios, public art and reimagined historic buildings give the Downtown Arts District a recognizable identity. The city's planning documents identify Trade and Liberty streets between Fifth and Seventh as part of this creative district. It's worth exploring the side streets as well as the storefronts.
Innovation Quarter and Bailey Park
In the Innovation Quarter, tobacco-era industrial buildings are being used for work, research, events and public life. Bailey Park and the Bailey Power Plant area are landmarks for exploring how a former manufacturing landscape has become a gathering place in the city center.
Beyond those familiar blocks
Industry Hill and other connected areas extend the city's downtown identity beyond the most visible commercial blocks. They make Winston-Salem's center interesting for architecture and urban history as well as dining and entertainment.
From downtown back to Old Salem
The Strollway links Fourth Street to the Old Salem Visitor Center, making a tangible connection between the historic town and present-day downtown. Explore Old Salem, or follow the story into neighborhood streets in Ardmore and Sunnyside–Central Terrace.
Questions about downtown
Where is Winston-Salem's Arts District?
The Downtown Arts District centers on Trade and Liberty streets around Sixth Street, within walking distance of other downtown destinations.
What is the Innovation Quarter?
A downtown district that reuses former industrial spaces alongside research, businesses, public areas and gathering places.
Does downtown connect to Old Salem?
Yes. The city's Strollway runs between Fourth Street and the Old Salem Visitor Center area. Check official information for current conditions.