Wake Forest Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wake Forest with this comprehensive travel guide, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Wake Forest

Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Wake Forest is a charming town that is often considered a gateway to the Research Triangle area. The town is known for its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse cultural attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in Wake Forest.

List of Places to Visit in Wake Forest

If you’re planning a trip to Wake Forest, there are plenty of must-see attractions that should be on your list. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wake Forest Historical Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the town’s past, with exhibits that showcase the local history from the 1700s to the present day.
  • Ailey and Sarah Jones House: A beautifully preserved mid-19th-century home, this house is a great place to learn about the town’s history and architecture.
  • Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary: This religious institution has an impressive campus with plenty of green spaces and architectural marvels like the Binkley Chapel.

Natural Attractions of Wake Forest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • E. Carroll Joyner Park: A great place to spend a relaxing day outdoors, this park has everything from picnic areas to hiking trails to playgrounds for kids.
  • Falls Lake State Recreation Area: With over 300 campsites and plenty of spots for boating and fishing, the Falls Lake State Recreation Area is the perfect place for a family vacation.
  • The Factory: This former factory turned entertainment complex has an indoor trampoline park, an ice rink, a ropes course, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wake Forest

Wake Forest is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in North Carolina. Here are some of the top routes to check out:

  • Flaherty Park: With over two miles of trails that wind through a picturesque hardwood forest, Flaherty Park is a great place for a leisurely hike.
  • Wake Forest Reservoir: This scenic lake offers a great opportunity for a leisurely bike ride or hike, with over 20 miles of trails to explore.
  • Harris Lake County Park: With stunning views of the rolling hills and lake vistas, Harris Lake County Park offers a challenging, yet rewarding, hike for seasoned hikers.

Best Things to Do in Wake Forest: Activities and Tours

Wake Forest offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the must-try experiences:

  • Heritage Walking Tours: These guided tours take you on a journey through Wake Forest’s history, architecture, and culture, with highlights like the town’s oldest homes and churches.
  • Shopping in Downtown Wake Forest: With its quaint charm and unique shops, Downtown Wake Forest is the perfect place to explore on foot or by trolley.
  • Wine Tasting at Chatham Hill Winery: This local winery offers a great opportunity to sample some of the region’s best wines while taking in the scenic views of the vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wake Forest

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Wake Forest, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Wake Forest Historical Museum and Ailey-Sarah Jones House
2 Explore the outdoor beauty of Falls Lake State Recreation Area
3 Take a guided Heritage Walking Tour of Downtown Wake Forest
4 Hike the scenic Harris Lake County Park trails
5 Enjoy a day of shopping and wine tasting
6 Visit The Factory and enjoy an evening of family-friendly entertainment
7 Relax and unwind at E. Carroll Joyner Park or Wake Forest Reservoir

Food and Drink Scene of Wake Forest

Wake Forest has a growing food and drink scene, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese Steak Sandwich at Over the Falls Deli: This classic Philadelphia-style sandwich is a local favorite, made with a tender, flavorful beef and plenty of melted cheese.
  • Catfish Platter at Backfins Crabhouse: For seafood lovers, this crispy, hand-battered catfish is a must-try dish, served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
  • Brisket Plate at The Smoke Stack: This savory, tender brisket is smoked low and slow for maximum flavor, and is served with classic southern sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.

Local Beverages

  • Wake Forest Coffee Company: This local coffee shop offers some of the best artisanal coffee in the state, made with locally roasted coffee beans.
  • White Street Brewing Company: This award-winning brewery has a great selection of local craft beers to choose from, with everything from IPAs to stouts.
  • Brothers Vilgalys Spirits: For a unique drink experience, check out Brothers Vilgalys Spirits, a local distillery that specializes in traditional Lithuanian flavor infusions.

Where to Stay in Wake Forest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wake Forest has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • The Cotton Company Inn: Located in a historic cotton mill, this charming inn offers modern amenities and antique furnishings.
  • Hyatt House Raleigh North: Conveniently located near downtown Wake Forest, this stylish hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center and outdoor pool.
  • Sleep Inn Wake Forest: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and modern amenities, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Wake Forest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Wake Forest, here are some local products to look out for:

  • Wake Forest T-shirts and Clothing: You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops in Wake Forest that sell T-shirts and clothing with the town’s logo and iconic landmarks.
  • Handmade Crafts and Artwork: Wake Forest has a thriving arts community, with plenty of local artists and craftsmen creating unique pieces that make great souvenirs.
  • Wake Forest Coffee Beans: Wake Forest Coffee Company sells bags of locally roasted coffee beans, which make a great gift for coffee lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Wake Forest

Wake Forest is known for its friendly locals and historic charm. Here are some local customs to be aware of:

  • Southern Hospitality: People in Wake Forest are generally warm and welcoming, and strangers are often greeted with a smile and a friendly “hello”.
  • Religious Heritage: Wake Forest has a strong religious heritage, and this is reflected in the town’s many churches and religious institutions.
  • Pride in Local History: Wake Forest has a rich history, and residents are proud of their town’s past. Expect to see plenty of heritage sites and cultural attractions throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit Wake Forest

Wake Forest is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wake Forest

If you’re visiting Wake Forest for the first time, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the town’s many natural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Do explore the local food and drink scene, and try some of the region’s best barbecue and craft beer.
  • Do visit the town’s many cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful of the town’s religious heritage or local customs.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment in and around Wake Forest.
  • Don’t speed or drive recklessly on the town’s roads and highways.

Safety and Health

Wake Forest is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, but it’s important to take certain precautions:

Safety in Wake Forest

  • Be vigilant when out at night, as crime can occur in any town.
  • Follow the posted speed limits and traffic laws when driving.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings when hiking or biking on trails.

Health in Wake Forest

  • Use bug spray and wear long sleeves and pants to prevent tick bites and tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Use sunblock when spending time outdoors to prevent sunburn and minimize the risk of skin cancer.

Getting to Wake Forest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wake Forest is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here are some of the main ways to get there:

Airports Near Wake Forest

  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Located about 22 miles from Wake Forest, this major airport has flights from all over the country and world.

Bus Stations Near Wake Forest

  • Wake Forest Rideshare Hub: This local rideshare hub offers connections to other parts of the Research Triangle area.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport and in downtown Wake Forest.
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are all available in Wake Forest.

How to Get Around in Wake Forest

There are plenty of transportation options available in Wake Forest, including:

  • Car Rental: Rental cars are available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport and in downtown Wake Forest.
  • Local Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Wake Forest and the surrounding area.
  • Uber and Lyft: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Wake Forest.

Where to Go Next from Wake Forest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of North Carolina after your trip to Wake Forest, there are plenty of nearby destinations worth checking out, including:

  • Raleigh: Just a short drive from Wake Forest, Raleigh is the state capital and a bustling city with plenty of cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Durham: Home to Duke University and plenty of museums and galleries, Durham is a great destination for history buffs and art lovers.
  • Chapel Hill: Known for its charming downtown area and famous University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is a great place to explore on foot and take in the local vibe.

Conclusion

With its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse range of cultural attractions, Wake Forest is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the Research Triangle area of North Carolina. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing, Wake Forest has plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to make the most of your visit to this charming southern town.

The birthplace of Wake Forest University, now the Historical Museum The birthplace of Wake Forest University, now the Historical Museum