Piedmont Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, and eat in Piedmont, North Carolina, and learn about the region's culture, history, and natural attractions.


Introduction to Piedmont

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Piedmont offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning natural scenery, and cultural attractions. The region encompasses nine counties, including Alamance, Forsyth, Guilford, and Randolph, and is home to cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and High Point. From hiking and biking trails to museums and historical sites, Piedmont has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Piedmont

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors to Piedmont can immerse themselves in the region’s rich history by exploring its many museums and historical sites. Notable attractions include:

  • The International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro
  • Old Salem Museums & Gardens in Winston-Salem
  • Alamance Battleground in Burlington
  • Greensboro History Museum
  • High Point Museum

Natural Attractions of Piedmont: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Piedmont boasts a wealth of natural beauty, with parks, lakes, and hills providing the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Some top natural attractions to check out are:

  • Pilot Mountain State Park in Pinnacle
  • Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury
  • Greensboro Science Center and Aquarium
  • Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in Greensboro
  • Tanglewood Park in Clemmons

Hiking/Biking Routes of Piedmont

With plenty of trails and paths to explore, Piedmont is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise. Noteworthy routes include:

  • The Piedmont Legacy Trails in Winston-Salem
  • Bicentennial Greenway in Greensboro
  • Uwharrie National Forest trails in Troy
  • Salem Lake Trail in Winston-Salem
  • Emerald Pointe Greenway in High Point

Best Things to Do in Piedmont: Activities and Tours

Whether you are looking for excitement, relaxation, or culture, Piedmont has plenty of options for you. Some of the top activities and tours to consider include:

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides in Greensboro
  • Wine Tasting Tours in Yadkin Valley
  • River Tubing and Kayaking on the Yadkin River
  • Segway Tours in Winston-Salem
  • Antique Shopping in High Point

Week-Long Itinerary for Piedmont

For visitors looking to spend a week exploring Piedmont, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Greensboro, visit the local Farmers Market, and explore the Greensboro Science Center in the afternoon. Day 2: Tour the historic sites and museums at Old Salem in Winston-Salem. Day 3: Explore the natural beauty of Pilot Mountain State Park and take a hot air balloon ride over the Yadkin River. Day 4: Visit the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro and take a vineyard tour in Yadkin Valley. Day 5: Discover the art and design of furniture at the High Point Museum and shop for antiques in High Point. Day 6: Take a hike in Hanging Rock State Park and taste the local beer at Foothills Brewing in Winston-Salem. Day 7: Departure from Greensboro.

Food and Drink Scene of Piedmont

Must-Try Dishes

Piedmont is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, with dishes like barbecue, chicken and dumplings, and fried okra being popular choices. Other must-try dishes include:

  • Lexington-style barbecue in Lexington
  • Moravian sugar cake in Winston-Salem
  • Banana pudding in High Point
  • Chicken pie in Asheboro
  • Cheerwine, a cherry-flavored soft drink

Local Beverages

The Piedmont region is also home to many local breweries and wineries. Visitors can enjoy a variety of craft beers and wines, like:

  • Foothills Brewing in Winston-Salem
  • Natty Greene’s Brewing Company in Greensboro
  • RagApple Lassie Vineyards in Boonville
  • Childress Vineyards in Lexington
  • Divine Llama Vineyards in East Bend

Where to Stay in Piedmont: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Piedmont boasts a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some popular choices include:

  • Grandover Resort & Conference Center in Greensboro
  • Kimpton Cardinal Hotel in Winston-Salem
  • The Proximity Hotel in Greensboro
  • Graylyn International Conference Center in Winston-Salem
  • Courtyard by Marriott in High Point

What to Buy in Piedmont: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Piedmont can bring home unique souvenirs and goods that highlight the region’s culture and history. Some popular items to consider include:

  • Handcrafted furniture and pottery from High Point
  • Moravian cookies from Winston-Salem
  • Original artworks and crafts from local artists
  • Local wine and craft beer
  • Traditional Southern spices and seasonings

Local Culture and Customs of Piedmont

Piedmont is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who take pride in their Southern roots and traditions. Visitors should expect a warm reception and be respectful of local customs, including:

  • Saying “yes ma’am” and “no sir” as a sign of respect
  • Observing Southern hospitality and showing kindness towards others
  • Dressing appropriately for the occasion, which may include more formal attire in some settings
  • Being mindful of local religious customs, such as attending church on Sundays

Best Time to Visit Piedmont

The best time to visit Piedmont depends largely on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall are generally recommended, as they offer comfortable temperatures and picturesque scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Piedmont

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and delicacies
  • Do explore the region’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions
  • Do be friendly and courteous to locals
  • Do take part in local events and festivals

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful or dismissive of Southern culture
  • Don’t litter or damage natural or historical sites
  • Don’t neglect to try local wines and craft beers
  • Don’t go off-trail during hikes or engage in dangerous outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Piedmont

Piedmont is generally a safe region, but travelers should still exercise caution when visiting. Some basic safety tips to keep in mind include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
  • Keep valuables out of sight and in a secure location
  • Use common sense when engaging in outdoor activities
  • Follow local traffic laws

Health in Piedmont

Piedmont has a solid healthcare system, with a range of medical facilities and practitioners available throughout the region. Visitors should be aware of any specific health concerns before traveling and take the necessary precautions, such as vaccinations or medication.

Getting to Piedmont: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Piedmont

The closest major airports to Piedmont are Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro and Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte.

Bus Stations Near Piedmont

Greyhound and other bus services have terminals in piedmont towns and cities and regional bus services run through the region.

Other Options

Additionally, visitors can also travel to Piedmont by train, with Amtrak serving the nearby cities of Burlington and High Point.

How to Get Around in Piedmont

The best way to explore Piedmont is by car, as public transportation options can be limited. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available in some areas. Biking and walking can also be great ways to explore the region’s cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from Piedmont: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Piedmont is ideally located for travelers looking to explore other parts of North Carolina and beyond. Some nearby destinations to consider visiting include:

  • The Blue Ridge Mountains and Asheville
  • The Outer Banks and Atlantic Beach
  • Charlotte and the Triangle region
  • Charleston, South Carolina

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Piedmont has something for everyone. With its scenic beauty, excellent food and drink scene, and welcoming locals, Piedmont is a must-visit destination in North Carolina.



    Charlotte Metro
    Piedmont Triad
    Research Triangle
    Sandhills