Winston-Salem is just over five hours away from Atlanta by car (about 320 miles). Originally, there were two separate towns --Winston and Salem. They merged in 1913, but many locals still refer to the area simply as Winston.

Once known as one of the leading producers of cigarettes in the country, Winston-Salem today has a much more diverse economy with a large focus on banking, food products and health care.

So what makes Winston-Salem good for a weekend getaway? It's what it has that Atlanta doesn't: a plethora of history intact.

"Winston and Old Salem are both wonderful places to visit," says longtime resident Jim Eames. "Old Salem has amazing architecture and a chance to see how the original Moravian settlers actually lived. It's like a living museum.

"Downtown Winston offers the charm of its original boom period, but now repurposed and full of fun and entertainment with clubs, restaurants and more. That's one of the first places I head when visitors come to town."

IF YOU GO

WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO:

Old Salem

Founded in 1766 by a group of immigrants from what is now known as the Czech Republic, Salem was the administrative, spiritual and professional center for a sect of Protestants known as the Moravians. In addition to the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts, multiples blocks criss-crossing from north to south and east to west include period and culturally authentic homes, storefronts, stables, a bakery, restaurants, a tannery and much more. Ever thought about time travel? This is the place to go.

http://www.oldsalem.org/

Reynolda House Museum of Modern Art

Built in 1917, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art was once home to two generations of the R.J. Reynolds family. Today it houses an amazing collection of American art ranging from the colonial period to the present. In addition to the house, twenty-eight of the original thirty buildings remain, as well as the formal gardens and all can be explored on foot. http://www.reynoldahouse.org/

Winston City Center District

Winston-Salem's downtown/center city district is alive and vibrant with a multitude of dining experiences, nightclub recreational activities, galleries and much more. These days, lots of folks even call the bustling historically-preserved area home. A number of older structures have been repurposed for urban living and original turn of the 20th century storefronts remain intact in abundance. If you're looking for a night out on the town, here's your destination. http://www.dwsp.org/joom/index.php

The Original RJ Reynolds Building

Built in 1929, the majestic Reynolds Building served as the model for the Empire State Building in New York City. Both Reynolds and Empire State were designed by E.H. Shreve of Canada and William Lamb of Brooklyn. Currently there is talk of turning the iconic art deco landmark into a hotel. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reynolds_Building

Gateway to the Yadkin Valley Wine Country

A 30-minute drive north of Winston-Salem, you'll encounter the Blue Ridge Mountains and a series of various wineries specializing in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah and others. Don't miss a visit to such vineyards as RagApple Lassie and Shelton, among more than 30 others. http://www.visitnc.com/journeys/multimedia/wineries-vineyards/

Korner's Folly

This is another short trip just outside of Winston-Salem (mere minutes), but definitely worth the side-step. Planning and construction began on Jule Korner's eccentric home in 1878, and it continued until his death in 1924. At that time, Korner still viewed the house as an incomplete work in progress. With three distinct floors and seven different added-on levels, the house has 22 rooms with various ceiling heights ranging from six feet to 25 feet. There are 15 fireplaces throughout (none alike) an unending number of doors (all different), hidden nooks, passageways, trap doors and stunningly detailed tile, woodwork and decorative murals. http://www.kornersfolly.org/.

WHERE TO STAY:

Graylyn Estate $$$

Located minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, Historic Graylyn Estate boasts 86 upscale and one-of-a-kind guest rooms on a 55-acre estate. The Manor House is an original 1930s residence with private dining rooms and outdoor dining; the French cottage inspired Mews has 35 guest rooms. Bernard Cottage is secluded and peaceful with just nine guest rooms. There's more, including the Gardener's Cottage and a number of Bungalows, which are just a short stroll from the estate. http://blog.graylyn.com/

Historic Brookstown Inn $$

What started out life as a textile mill in 1837 is now the Historic Brookstown Inn, with 70 guest rooms and affordable amenities. Wooden beams and exposed brick, along with early American decor only serve to enhance the historical experience of Winston-Salem. A big bonus: it's within walking distance of Old Salem. http://www.brookstowninn.com/

WHERE TO DINE:

Spring House Restaurant Kitchen & Bar $$$

A relative newcomer to the scene, Spring House opened this past April in the historic 1920 Bahnson House. Owned and operated by husband and wife team Lynn and Lynette Murphy, this hot new culinary flagship is helmed by executive chef Timothy Grandinetti. The menu at Spring House is seasonal, with a tasting menu featuring organically seasoned meat, fish and poultry. There's also a library bar menu, which serves only the finest spirits, and the "Chef's Table" experience that boasts a multitude of tastings (supervised by Grandinetti himself), which include Craig Shelton's lamb, grass-fed red poll beef, Adam Musick's pork, Poulet Rouge de Fermier du Pidmont and Yellow Wolf Farm's rabbit. http://springhousenc.com/

Lighthouse Grill $$

On August 18, this Winston-Salem landmark celebrated 58 years in business! While the times have changed, along with the decor and an increase in the number of seats and tables, one thing's for sure: the patrons keep coming back for more of the quality food the Lighthouse is known world-wide for. Don't pass up a chance to try the savory and delicious Mediterranean Chicken Wrap or the Grilled Chicken Salad. The Roast Loin of Pork is a definite must, but whatever you do, don't miss out on the Grilled Crab Cakes served with horseradish. http://www.lighthousegrill.biz/

Travel and Tourism info

http://www.visitwinstonsalem.com/