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We can’t help it. There’s so much to do and see—whether you’re into the arts, history, live music, good eats (or all of the above). A few of our faves, just an hour-and-a-half from Raleigh.
ARTivity on the Green: A former parking lot turned green space? It doesn’t happen often, but the transformation was finished this past spring. This modern art mecca is near the downtown arts district and Wake Forest University (at Liberty Street). Enormous red smokestacks beckon. Other steel sculptures and installations are a nod to the city’s history. 630 N. Liberty Street.
Reynolda House: It’s not the Biltmore, but touring the home of tobacco magnate RJ Reynolds is still awe-inspiring in its excessiveness. RJ’s wife Katharine, some 30 years younger than her husband, designed the “60-room bungalow” (bungalow?!!) with the help of several prominent architects. Harry Truman and Edith Vanderbilt took meals in the dining room as did Raleigh’s own Josephus Daniels.
The 1917 architecture with its staircases and catwalks is amazing. We’re so house-smitten, we almost forgot: the Reynolda features a wide collection of American art as well, including Georgia O’Keefe and Mary Cassatt. Reynoldahouse.org, 2250 Reynolda Road.
If you’ve done the traditional village tour, consider the Christmas by Candlelight tours running through Dec. 19. It’s a little pricey ($25 for adults; $20 for kids 6-16), but you get that warm and fuzzy holiday experience with all the trimmings (music, games, food and a little nostalgia).
Winston-Salem Pit Stop
3800 Kimwell Drive
Open Wednesday – Sunday
Visit the 28-tap Tasting Room brewery and sample the core beers along with seasonals and one-offs.
If they brew it, it will be on tap there.
Indoor and outdoor seating with snacks and TVs. Yes, dog friendly.
Or…
FootHills Brewpub
638 West Fourth Street
11 a.m. – 2 a.m. daily
foothillsbrewing.com
From Bacon Wrapped Trout to Fried Jalapenos, there’s plenty here to warrant ordering a nice pint with which to wash it all down.
Downtown Art District (DADA)
5th, Trade and
Liberty Streets
Most open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. -5 p.m.
dadaws.org
The historic buildings from the once thriving tobacco market now house art galleries, shops and restaurants.
732 Trade
Street NW
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
blackmountainchocolate.com
Take a self-guided tour any time or sign up online for a special behind-the-scenes tour (very limited dates – sign up early).
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