Getting Around Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is a city in North Carolina's Piedmont Triad region, and getting around it is easiest if you plan for a car-oriented place with a workable local bus system and a few clearly defined entry points. There is no rail service into the city itself, so most visitors arrive by road or by air and then rely on buses, taxis, or their own vehicle to move between neighborhoods and attractions.
Arriving by Air
The main commercial gateway for the area is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), which sits between Winston-Salem and Greensboro. It is roughly a 20-minute drive east of downtown Winston-Salem, making it the practical choice for most travelers flying in.
For private and charter flights, Smith Reynolds Airport (INT) is located just a few miles northeast of Winston-Salem and handles general aviation rather than scheduled airline service.
Because the commercial airport is outside the city, plan your onward transfer in advance. The most straightforward options are a rental car, a taxi, or a ride-hailing pickup arranged through your app of choice.
Rail and Transit Networks
There is no rail service to Winston-Salem, and the city has no metro or tram network. Travelers who prefer trains can use Amtrak, which offers several daily services to nearby Greensboro; from there you would continue to Winston-Salem by road.
Buses and Public Transport
Local bus service within the city is provided by the Winston-Salem Transit Authority. Fares are simple and inexpensive: a standard ride costs $1, with a reduced $0.50 fare for elderly and disabled riders. Children who are shorter than the farebox and accompanied by an adult ride free, and transfers between routes are free.
For travel into Winston-Salem from elsewhere in the region, PART (Piedmont Authority for Regional Transit) operates buses connecting the city with other parts of the Piedmont Triad. Greyhound also serves the city for longer-distance journeys.
Both Greyhound and PART buses stop at the Campbell Transportation Center at 100 W 5th St, at the corner of 5th, Trade, and Liberty streets. This center also serves as the hub for local buses, so it is the natural place to make connections between regional and city routes.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available in Winston-Salem; Willard's Cab Co can be reached at +1 336-725-2227. Ride-hailing apps are a convenient alternative, particularly for trips to and from the airport or for evenings when bus service is not practical.
Getting Around by Car
Winston-Salem is easily accessible by car, and driving is the most flexible way to reach the city's spread-out attractions. Major routes into and around the area include Interstate 40, U.S. 421/Salem Parkway, Interstate 77, Interstate 85, and U.S. Highway 52 (Future Interstate 73/74).
Walkability
Walking works best for exploring specific districts rather than the city as a whole. Historic areas such as Old Salem, with its restored Moravian buildings and gardens, are well suited to a stroll, but the wider city is spread out and better navigated by car or bus between neighborhoods.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Fly into Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) for scheduled service; use Smith Reynolds Airport (INT) only for charters and general aviation.
- Arrange your airport transfer ahead of time, since the commercial airport is a drive away from downtown.
- Use the Winston-Salem Transit Authority for cheap local trips; have small bills ready for the $1 fare and ask for free transfers when connecting.
- Start regional bus journeys from the Campbell Transportation Center, the hub for both local and intercity buses.
- Rely on a car, taxi, or ride-hailing for cross-town trips and for reaching attractions outside the walkable historic districts.