Situated in Forsyth County in the northern central part of the state, Winston-Salem is the fifth biggest city in North Carolina. This city has an estimated population of 242,000 people, with over 667,000 in the surrounding metropolitan area.

As the name suggests, Winston-Salem was formed by the conjunction of two towns. Salem was founded first, in 1753, and a northern section of the town's land was eventually sold off in the mid-1800s and made into a new town called Winston. Since the two towns were so closely connected, people began referring to the area as Winston-Salem. The city is classed as a great place to retire and ranks high for quality of life.

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.