This year, replace your holiday hustle with something unexpected, courtesy of Winston-Salem. Rather than battle the traffic for a trip to the mall, stroll our cheerful downtown for an interesting mix of shops, galleries, cafés and coffee shops. You’ll find locally crafted ornaments, seasonal gifts, unusual and even an inspiring conversation piece or two. Best of all, when you’ve had your fill of holiday cheer, you’re only steps away from a warm Southern supper by fireplace, a hand-crafted cocktail, or even a charming spot to call it a night.

For a fresh take on seasonal shopping, give these locally focused Winston-Salem, North Carolina favorites a try (in alphabetical order):

Design Archives (http://www.shopdesignarchives.com/)
Downtown Arts District (http://dadaws.net/)
Fourth & Trade (http://fourthandtrade.com/)
Mast General Store (http://www.mastgeneralstore.com/winston-salem)
Museum Shop at Reynolda House Museum of American Art (http://www.reynoldahouse.org/visit/store)
The Olio Glassblowing Studio (http://www.theolio.org/)
The Shops at Reynolda Village (http://www.reynoldavillage.com/)
Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery (https://piedmontcraftsmen.org/)