Day trips – and sips – at Swan Creek wineries | Winston-Salem Monthly

Thirty minutes west of Winston-Salem, Yadkin Valley’s wine country opens wide to the largest number of wineries and vineyards in North Carolina.

Nestled in that busy (80 wineries) agri-tourism corridor off I-77 and U.S. 421 is the smaller federally-designated Swan Creek American Viticultural Area (AVA), recognized for its unique microclimate, soils, topography and favorable grape-growing conditions.

Three Swan Creek area wineries – each less than a 5-minute drive of the other – offer visitors one of the most dizzyingly diverse introductions to award-winning fare: European varietal wines, French-American hybrid wines, Port-style wines, fortified brandy wines, fruit-based wines and high-octane distilled products crafted from grapes and honey.

For wine enthusiasts – or even the casually curious – the coming months are an excellent time to experience vineyard metamorphosis – from bud break to swelling grape clusters.

Here’s a closer look at three wineries:

DAVIDSON

This first small town takes visitors south and is a little over an hour from Winston-Salem. It sits on the eastern side of Lake Norman.

Davidson College is a huge part of this town and provides a beautiful backdrop. As it sits right beside the downtown area, it is certainly worth a stroll through the campus.

If you love Famous Toastery in downtown Winston-Salem, then you need to visit the one in Davidson. It is the original location of the franchise! They tend to be busy, though, so if you can’t get in and still have a hankering for a good breakfast, The Egg at Davidson is equally delicious.

In addition to the great restaurants and bars in downtown Davidson, there are also plenty of shops to visit. Plus, there is a great theater scene thanks to the Armour Street Theatre and Davidson Community Players.

Finally, as it is a lake-side town the lake views shouldn’t be missed! Two great spots to check out the lake are Roosevelt Wilson Park and Lake Davidson Nature Preserve. Both are just west of downtown Davidson.

2 - Visit Lake Norman.jpg — Whimsical book art is on display outside the Davidson Public Library.
Visit Lake Norman

Established: 1837
Best known as: A biking and walking-friendly community. In fact, the town has won awards for being both bike and walk friendly.
Well-known former resident: William Grier (born 1995), Quarterback for Dallas Cowboys
Learn more: townofdavidson.org/

HILLSBOROUGH

Nestled just east of Durham, Hillsborough is an about an hour away from Winston-Salem, a straight shot across I-40 East.

Even for those who are not major outdoor enthusiasts, the Riverwalk is a must. This path is great for a romantic stroll or family walk to one of the parks at either ends of the walkway. Best of all, there is free parking in a deck. This deck is situated right in the middle of the Riverwalk allowing visitors to take either path easily.

While small, the downtown area is vibrant and full of things to do. Radius Pizza is an absolute must. It offers distinct pizzas and a great drink menu.

At one end of the downtown area is the Orange County Historical Museum, which offers a great mix of history and cultural exhibits. Another historic stop in Hillsborough is the Burwell School Historic Site.

One noteworthy item is that many shops are closed on Sundays, so if you can swing a Saturday visit there will be more places to drop in at downtown.

Hillsborough's quaint downtown offers shopping and dining.
SP Murray

Established: 1754
Best known for: Prior to the Europeans arrival, Hillsborough’s Eno River was a major site for trading among The Great Indian Trading Path.
Well-known resident: Michael Malone, who won a daytime Emmy for his writing on ABC’s “One Life to Live”
Learn more: visithillsboroughnc.com

MORGANTON

At an hour and a half away from Winston-Salem, this small town is the farthest away on our list. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting. It’s well worth the drive.

The downtown area is a nice strip that spans several blocks. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, and even a brewing company (Catawba Brewing Company). If you are looking for a lighter meal with a nice atmosphere, Grind Café is a must.

For history lovers, on the outskirts of the downtown sits The History Museum of Burke County. This two-story museum is filled with historical exhibits spanning the town’s history. The staff, very knowledgeable about the exhibits and town history, conducts guided tours at the museum.

Last, but certainly not least, is the Catawba River Greenway, a paved walking trail that spans 3.8 miles along the Catawba River. In the center sits Catawba Meadows Park, fully equipped with ball fields, a playground, disc golf, rock climbing tower and zipline park.

Established: 1784
Best known for: Its incredible views from almost any point in town, as it is situated off Catawba River near Table Rock.
A well-known resident: Samuel James Ervin Jr. (1896-1985), U.S. senator (1954-1974)
Learn more: discoverburkecounty.com/