Historic Gardens

Dig into the 18th century at Historic Bethabara Park, where Winston-Salem's horticultural roots run deep. Established in 1753 by Moravian settlers, the park invites you to explore more than two centuries of gardening traditions. Stroll through Hortus Medicus, a reconstructed medicinal garden and the oldest known of its kind in the U.S., or visit the 1759 Community Garden, the nation's only well-documented colonial garden.

Beyond Bethabara's historic gardens, this 183-acre park and nature preserve offers much to discover, including archaeological ruins, a reconstructed village and fort, a visitor center with interactive exhibits, and miles of scenic trails.

*Park grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk. Guided tours are available during Visitor Center hours for walk-in visitors.

Step into the past at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where history isn’t just preserved — it’s alive. This 87-acre living history museum features more than 100 meticulously maintained buildings and lush, historically accurate gardens. Founded in 1766, Salem was a hub of Moravian craftsmanship, trade, and community life. Today, visitors can tour restored homes, watch skilled artisans, and explore gardens showcasing 18th- and 19th-century agricultural practices.

Be sure to visit the Miksch Heirloom Gardens and the Single Brothers’ Garden, filled with crops Moravians cultivated in the 17th and 18th centuries. Old Salem also features a unique Seed Saving Lab and “Seeds with Stories” program, sharing the deep connection between Salem’s plants and people.

NOTE: Strolling through Old Salem is free, but tickets are required to enter interpreted buildings and gardens. 

After a morning full of garden exploration, refresh and refuel at Reynolda Village, just ten minutes from Old Salem. Reynolda Village is comprised of charming historic buildings which once supported the 1,067 acre estate of the R.J. Reynolds family. The restored buildings now house unique stores, restaurants, services, and offices.

Experience the timeless beauty of Reynolda Gardens, part of the historic Reynolda estate. Spanning 130 acres, the gardens feature a stunning 4-acre formal garden, a restored 1913 greenhouse, and scenic trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate treks. The 1.7-mile Perimeter Trail loops past meadows, woodlands, and historic landmarks. Don’t miss Lake Katherine Bridge, a perfect photo spot overlooking a peaceful waterfall and surrounding wetlands. After exploring the gardens, take a self-guided tour of the Reynolds' former home, now the Reynolda House Museum of American Art — and an absolute must-see.

The gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free, but tickets are required to tour Reynolda House.

Begin the day with a visit to picturesque Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, just a few miles west of Winston-Salem. Hidden within this 1,100-acre park is the Tanglewood Arboretum — an often-overlooked gem. Located behind Tanglewood's 1921 Manor House, this 3.1-acre space features 26 distinct gardens linked by a brick walkway, showcasing seasonal blooms, ornamental shrubs, and native plants year-round. Highlights include the family-friendly Children's Garden and the Bog Garden, home to pitcher plants, Venus flytraps, and other rare finds. If visiting in spring, don’t miss the vibrant Wildflower Garden — a tucked-away treasure along a wooded path behind the Arboretum.

The Arboretum is open daily during Tanglewood's operating hours. Entry to the gardens is free, but the park charges a $2 vehicle fee.

Wrap up your garden tour with a visit to Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden, a serene 7.1-acre oasis located in the heart of Kernersville, a charming suburb of Winston-Salem located 10 minutes east of downtown. Explore over 15 themed gardens, including the Moravian-style Kitchen Garden and the whimsical Pattern Garden, which bursts with color year-round. Don’t miss the Rill & Reflecting Pool, home to the striking Dancing Cranes sculpture — a perfect photo op. Stop by the Welcome Center for family-friendly scavenger hunts, and browse the Garden Shop for locally made birdhouses, seasonal plants, and unique gifts.

The gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free.