It's always fun going to IKEA to shop. I moved to Winston-Salem in March and I've already been here like 4-5 times. What I like most is you know what to expect when you go an IKEA and you know you can shop around and look at the furniture without some sales guy coming around to try and sell you furniture every 10 min. I also like that there is a cheap, medium priced and expensive versions of most things, so you can decide how much you really want to spend for better quality/style. Another great aspect is that it isn't just a furniture store, they have so many house wares, lighting, bedding, carpeting... I always come here because I think of a couple things that I want but end up filling a cart or two by the time I leave. The prices are very competitive with any other store that carries the same item with similar quality.
After my long drive, I usually start by going to the food court near the registers to get an ice cream cone while I walk around upstairs at the display furniture. If you are buying furniture, I would definitely recommend coming here with another person to make things easier for you. I did come once to get furniture by myself and it wasn't all that bad. You can ask the people in the warehouse area to help you lift items into your cart. Then, when you get to the loading area you can ask the attendant there to watch your items while you pull your car up. Then I had him put everything in the car. I found the employees to be very friendly and helpful.
The dining upstairs is also super affordable. I don't think you can beat a $2 breakfast and get a free coffee/tea with your IKEA family card.