Northeast Winston-Salem - Winston-Salem, NC Area Guide

Much of the neighborhood surrounding Smith Reynolds Airport sprung up out of necessity, as housing airport employees. The airport dates back to 1927, when Charles Lindbergh's scheduled stop in Winston-Salem required such a facility. Over time, the airport grew, becoming a hub for commercial flights in the area. The airport became less active as a commercial facility, and today only operates private flights. However, the neighborhood retains a strong focus on aviation.

Those interested in flight and transportation can visit the Carolina Air and Auto Center at the airport. The area around the airport does not support an arts scene, though local art lovers find plenty of museums, galleries and workshops just a little further south in the downtown area. Popular events include the Dank-Fest automotive show and the famous Winston-Salem Air Show.

The area around the airport doesn't cater to businesses, and residents find themselves hard-pressed for dining or entertainment options within the boundaries of their neighborhood. However, just a quick trip across the highways that make up the border of the neighborhood around Smith Reynolds Airport reveals plenty of great options for diners. The majority of dining spots tend to be fast food joints or casual eateries though some upscale spots divulge themselves with a bit of searching. The nightlife remains on the quiet side, with combination bar and restaurant establishments serving customers late into the evening.

For some local freshly fried chicken visit Mountain Fried Chicken on Arkon Drive. This local favorite has been serving up cheap, non-greasy fried chicken since 1991. If you don't feel like one of the delectable fried chicken meals then try some of the famous Winston Wings.

If you want soul food done right, visit Dr Chops Soul Food Cafe. This establishment makes savory Southern classics such as wings, catfish, pork chops, and fried okra. For a change, try the chicken and waffles with a side of fried green tomatoes. Just don't try to stop by after church as this local favorite closes on Sundays.

With no bars in the neighborhood, locals relax with food and drinks at Foothills Brewing, a short drive away along West 4th Street. A huge range of microbrews await, with the extra-hoppy IPAs remaining a particular favorite. Great food and good atmosphere ensure repeat visits, and the live bands draw in loads of regular patrons.

For live music, residents head a little ways south to spots such as Ziggy's for everything from roots to rock n' roll. Toward the center of Winston-Salem lies Finnegan's Wake, an Irish bar with plenty of brews for even the pickiest of drinkers.

Those who live in the airport get around primarily by car. The immediate area around the airport does not have any bus stops though a bus stop exists within walking distance. People in need of a cab can call for a taxi from an area company, or find taxis around the airport. Uber also serves Winston-Salem area as a cab alternative.

The neighborhood does not provide public parking, apart from parking around the airport for residents using its services. Drivers have easy access to John Gold Memorial Expressway and New Walkertown Road, which make accessing the rest of the Winston-Salem area a breeze. Walk the area around the airport with caution. Likewise, cyclists can easily get around but should be wary of roads that lack bike lanes.

Residents enjoy free access to Piedmont Park within the area around the airport as well as Blum Park nearby. Patrons enjoy access to athletic facilities such as a softball diamond and basketball court as well as great picnic areas for enjoying the beautiful weather. Safe and age-appropriate playgrounds make the area's parks especially kid-friendly. However, those looking to take the entire family on an outing should remember that dogs must remain on their leashes. A lack of trails in the area makes for fewer exercise opportunities apart from time on the athletic facilities. Locals organize events such as softball games at the parks throughout the year.

The area around Smith Reynolds Airport tends to be at the same or slightly lower cost of living than the Winston-Salem area, which in turn has a lower cost of living than the rest of North Carolina and the country as a whole. Travelers on the bus system pay only $1 per trip with free transfers. For a one-bedroom apartment, renters in the region typically pay an average cost of $475 per month. Meanwhile, a beer at a local bar tends to run residents about $3.50. Gas prices in the area tend to be on par with the national average.

The area around the airport does not have a major shopping center and instead has a mix of convenience stores and auto-supply stores. Visit the Family Dollar on Old Rural Hall Road for any quick necessities or head to Carquest Auto Parts on Akron Drive for some motor oil or your detailing supplies. Stop by Liberty Street Grocery, located in a local Valero Station on Old Rural Hall Road, for all of your quick grocery needs while you fill up on gas.

For quality meat at a great price visit Ogburn Station Meat Market on North Glenn Avenue. Locals travel from all over Winston-Salem to this inconspicuous meat market and deli. Don't know what to get? Ask their knowledgeable staff for their recommendation and you won't be disappointed.

For a major shopping center head just a little ways to the west to Reynolda Village Shops & Restaurants which features plenty of great merchandise including high-end, designer items. This area also houses numerous boutiques and specialty shops for those seeking unique items, accessories, clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts.

At Uncorked Masterpiece, shoppers can find plenty of incredible items from local artists in ceramics and on canvas. The shop also caters to budding artists seeking to create their own masterpieces with ceramic painting parties, perfect for everything from bridal showers to children's birthday parties.

Various grocery stores including Shop Rite and Food Lion serve those in the neighborhood surrounding the airport. Though no farmers' market serves the immediate area around the airport, nearby Old Salem Cobblestone Farmers Market provides locals with many opportunities to purchase produce and other handcrafted items.