Half a mile from Old Salem is a quiet but lively area of Winston-Salem. The Washington Park neighborhood has a lot to offer, so we’re helping you explore the spots that make it unique.
A brief history
Washington Park is believed to be named for President George Washington, who traveled through the area on his way to Salem in 1791. The area is more than 130 years old and was added to the National Register as a historic district in 1992.
You might still hear residents refer to the area as “Southside” — that’s what developers dubbed the area in the late 19th century. The area was one of Winston-Salem’s first residential suburbs, developed after the invention of the streetcar. Racially motivated disagreements over who could use the area’s facilities was also one of the first instances of segregation in the city in the era of Jim Crow laws.
Need to know
You’ll be traveling on Acadia Avenue and Broad Street to visit most of the businesses. Washington Park has sidewalks that make it great for getting around on foot. If you’re walking, be prepared for some elevation changes, especially through the residential areas. Free parking is also pretty easy to find.
Start your morning right
Washington Park CrossFit offers a natural energy boost. Drop-in for a sweat sesh for $20 or try a one-week free trial. The gym at 2020 Hollyrood St. hosts a free community workout for Winston-Salem residents at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of every month.
Head to Grindhouse Bevy’s if you prefer coffee to start the day. You can add plenty of extras (hello, marshmallow charms) to your classic coffee drink at this tiny spot in the parking lot of 206 Acadia Ave.
Breakfast of champions
Dive into the breakfast collard green melt or fried bologna breakfast sandwich at Acadia Foods. This market, deli, and co-op at 228 W. Acadia Ave. also serves lunch and dinner — WStoday reader John J. says the baked treats “are among the best in town.”
AM activities
It’s time to start exploring. We suggest wandering around the residential streets. In the late 1880s, Washington Park’s elevation made it desirable among the city’s wealthy residents, meaning you’ll see a mix of historic mansions and newer builds. It also means you have some of the best views of the Winston-Salem skyline.
Washington Park (1490 S. Broad St.) is nestled among the homes. The playground has dinosaurs little ones can climb, a dog park, and two walking trails. The park also connects to the 5.2-mile Salem Creek Greenway.
Neighbors in Washington Park led the charge to protect the 19 acres of what is now known as Gateway Nature Preserve. The organization now welcomes visitors to check out its walking trails and pollinator garden. It’s located next to Washington Park at 1490 S. Broad St.
Lunch
We suggest heading to Slappy’s Chicken to see why its 2023 reopening drew a line out the door. The no-frills fried chicken spot at 200 Acadia Ave. serves a simple and delicious menu until 2 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. You can fill up for dinner until 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
Afternoon delights
Washington Park Barbershop (2104 S. Broad St.) will keep you looking fresh. Men can choose to get a beard trim or a haircut from more than a dozen barbers on staff. Walk-ins write their name on a chalkboard to reserve the next available slot — or you can make an appointment.
If shopping is more your style, stop by the newly opened Mothership Studios. You’ll find everything from plants to handmade clothing at the eclectic shop at 239 Acadia Ave.
Wind down
When it’s time to give your feet a rest, you’ve got options. Monstercade calls itself the strangest bar in NC — you can find live shows and quirky performances at 204 W. Acadia Ave. It opens at 4 p.m. weekdays and 12 p.m. on weekends.
Swaim’s Grocery is a neighborhood pub with outdoor seating. You can bring your kids, your dog, and outside food. Plan to grab a craft beer or wine at 232 W. Acadia Ave.
Enjoy the jungle theme on the spacious patio or surrounded by plants inside Easy Tiger Beer Garden. The bar located at 2108 S. Broad St. serves cocktails, mocktails, beer, and wine.
Do you have another spot in Washington Park we need to visit? Lead the way.
