7 Best Hotels in Downtown Winston-Salem, NC (Plus B&B’s)

Are you looking for the best hotels in downtown Winston-Salem for an upcoming visit? I’ve got you covered!

Winston-Salem is a great city to visit and has a wide variety of accommodations. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you’ll find everything from upscale hotels to boutique hotels and quaint Bed & Breakfasts. 

Staying in the downtown area allows you to enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture without the hassle of driving everywhere.

It may seem overwhelming with all the options, but as a local I can help you out with the seven of the best hotels in downtown Winston-Salem (plus three bed & breakfasts).

This historic hotel was once the Salem Manufacturing Company, then became a working mill. Now it’s a charming hotel with red brick walls, spacious rooms, and good old Southern hospitality.

You’ll find original pieces of the old mill throughout every room in the hotel. Conveniently located, it’s an easy 15-minute walk to the Old Salem Museums and Gardens or 20-minutes to Bailey Power Plant.

Rooms feature exposed wood beams, pine floors, and brick walls. Enjoy luxurious towels, high-end toiletries, and a lighted make-up mirror. With only 70 rooms there is plenty of privacy.

Your room comes with a complimentary hot breakfast including buttermilk biscuits, eggs, bacon, and more. For a quiet evening, head to the nightly wine and cheese reception which includes a complimentary glass of wine. 

While there are plenty of restaurants nearby, the on-site Cotton Mill Lounge offers a full-service bar and jazz vibe. You’ll be located across the street from two of the best coffee shops in Winston – By Good Coffee and Camino Bakery!

Pets are not allowed at Brookstown Inn, but kids will love the freshly baked cookies offered with milk each night.  

This is a popular hotel for couples, especially with the free wine and cheese reception. The renovated mill atmosphere is charming and homey for a cozy stay.

2. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel

⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 51 4th St East | ✅ Book it!

The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel is housed in the historic R.J. Reynolds building which served as the template for the Empire State Building. A lovely mix of Art Deco and lavish living room, you’re sure to feel comfortable here. Think comfy leather couches and bright green chairs.

You’ll find amenities beyond the basics. The hotel provides an in-room yoga mat, and you can request a plant in your room to brighten your stay. Room service is available for a quiet evening after a long day of exploring.

Guests can enjoy free coffee and tea in the morning as well as a glass of wine in the evening. You can work out in the fitness center, or enjoy the recreation center with a bowling alley, basketball area, and ping pong table. Kids can check out one of the custom-designed Micro Kickboard scooters complete with helmet.

The Katherine is the hotel’s in-house bar and restaurant offering French dishes with a southern flair. It’s one of the best restaurants in downtown Winston-Salem so don’t miss eating here!

This is one of the top pet-friendly hotels in the area. There are no extra fees or weight limits for pets, and The Kimpton offers complimentary access to Wag! Premium during your stay. They also host an evening YAPPY hour for pets on their patio.

Families will enjoy the hotel with the rec room and other child-friendly amenities.

This unique property offers a luxury stay for the entire family.

“Such a nice hotel, loved the coffee & wine in the lobby. Great staff. I love that it’s walkable to so many downtown Winston hotspots. I will definitely come back!” – Jackie (Read more reviews)

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3. Hotel Indigo Winston-Salem Downtown

⭐️ RATING: 8.3/10 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 104 W 4th St | ✅ Book it!

Located in the historic Pepper Building in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, Hotel Indigo has everything you need. Like most Indigo hotels, the vibe is Art Deco-inspired.

Rooms include free WiFi, a coffee machine, iron, and Aveda toiletries. Large windows bring in plenty of light during the day and great views of the city.

The hotel has a fitness center and offers same-day valet dry cleaning and laundry.

The on-site Sir Winston Wine Loft and Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner offering healthy options using a farm-to-table philosophy. If you’re in a hurry, grab one of their pastries or other items from the grab-and-go market area.

Pets are welcome for an additional fee per pet.

While there isn’t a lot for children at the hotel, the location is great for families who may want to take a midday break from sightseeing, and the casual dining means no fuss with kids.

The Hotel Indigo in Winston-Salem is a clean and simple hotel for an easy stay right in the heart of downtown.

“A stylish, modern hotel. Centrally located in Winston Salem. Helpful staff. Housekeeping team particularly cheerful and generous with fresh towels etc. Good value for money. Having stayed in a few hotels in WS this is certainly top of the list and I would definitely recommend.” -Nicole (Read more reviews)

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4. Hampton Inn & Suites Winston-Salem Downtown

⭐️ RATING: 8.8/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 235 N Cherry St | ✅ Book it!

The Hampton Inn & Suites in Downtown Winston-Salem is everything you need at a reasonable price. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s an easy walk to Mast General store, Foothills Brewpub, and the Stevens Center.

My husband and I stayed here after his work Christmas Party one year and it was SO convenient.

Rooms feature plenty of space and several come with a fridge and microwave, which you can specify when you book. The hotel provides free WiFi and a complimentary hot breakfast.

Plan to take a break from exploring Winston-Salem and enjoy the sun deck and outdoor pool. If you have time, grab a workout at the fitness center, or get a little work done in their business center.

There’s no restaurant on site but you’ll find plenty of great places to eat nearby. There are also many fun breweries in Winston.

Pets are welcome with weight restrictions and there is a deposit. Families will love the good-sized rooms and outdoor pool. Only a few rooms offer bathtubs, be sure to call the hotel if you need a room with a tub.

There’s nothing better than a free breakfast making this one of the best places to stay in Winston-Salem. With a continental buffet, even the pickiest eater will find something they like. Hampton Inn just makes it easy.

“The breakfast was better than I expected and all the staff was super nice and friendly! This place was by far the best hotel we’ve ever stayed at. Next time I need a hotel to stay at, I’ll definitely book at the Hampton Inn!” -Amanda (Read more reviews)

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5. Winston-Salem Marriott

⭐️ RATING: 8.2/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 425 N Cherry St | ✅ Book it!

The Winston-Salem Marriot is located across from the Benton Convention Center. The hotel has everything the business traveler or vacationing family needs.

Rooms include WiFi, a coffee maker, mini-fridge, and toiletries. There’s plenty of counter space in the bathrooms for the whole family to spread out. Room service is available if you prefer to eat in.

The hotel has a good size fitness center, convenience store, and dry-cleaning service.

While there are plenty of restaurants nearby, onsite is Butcher & Bull, a contemporary steakhouse. Grab a drink or enjoy a full meal.

Pets are welcome with weight restrictions and there is a deposit.

Families will love the large rooms. Most rooms have showers rather than bathtubs, call the hotel directly if you prefer a tub.

The Marriot Winston-Salem has everything you need for your visit. The familiar layout and décor add a little bit of home to your trip.

“Great location. Easy walking to lots of restaurants and attractions. Good breakfast.” – Anne (Read more reviews)

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6. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Winston-Salem Downtown

⭐️ RATING: 8.3/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 125 S Main St | ✅ Book it!

Just a 5-minute walk from the Wake Forest Innovation Quarter District, and a half mile from the Winston-Salem Arts District, the Fairfield Inn & Suites is perfectly located. Clean and simple, it offers everything you need for your trip, including an outdoor fireplace.

Rooms are clean and simple with plenty of room, free Wifi, and a coffee machine. Light and bright, they’re a pleasant way to start and end your day.

The hotel features a large patio with 12-foot outdoor fireplace, on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. Included with your room is a free buffet breakfast with eggs, sausage, cereal, and more.

You can order a few appetizers, a specialty drink, or classic American fare at the Main St. Bar & Grille located in the lobby.   

Pets are not allowed.

Casual and clean with a large breakfast selection, the hotel is perfect for families.

If you’re looking for a pleasant hotel with clean rooms, the Fairfield Inn & Suites is a great option in Winston-Salem.

“The very best thing was the staff and their eagerness to make sure we had everything we needed for a great stay. Very convenient location to Old Salem and downtown Winston Salem – easily walkable.” – Cynthia (Read more reviews)

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7. Kasa Arts District Winston-Salem (Apartment)

⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | ✅ Book it!

Kasa Arts District is located near the Benton Convention Center. If you’re not familiar with Kasa, they offer short-term rentals in hotels and apartments. The location in Downtown Winston-Salem offers accommodation inside an apartment building.

The apartments have small kitchens, separate bedrooms, and a living area. WiFi is provided as well as toiletries.

While the rooms have everything you would expect in a hotel and more, the building does not have a reception desk and there is no lobby. You’ll check in using a secure keypad.

One cat or one dog is allowed per unit and there are breed restrictions. A pet fee is applied.

This is a good option for families with separate bedrooms. Several reviewers indicated the rooms are dark at night with minimal lighting. Consider bringing a night light for children.

If you’re looking for something unique and a place where each person in the family can have their own space, Kasa Arts District is the perfect solution.

“Location was perfect. Had everything my adult son and I needed. Loved having 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Living area was good for 2 people. Not the most comfy seating but comfy enough. Loved the sound machine!!!!” – Christi (Read more reviews)

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Bed & Breakfasts in Downtown Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem has several historic Bed & Breakfasts for a more unique and intimate stay. Often housed in beautifully restored Victorian homes, these inns offer an authentic Winston-Salem experience for visitors.

8. The Zevely Inn

⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 803 S Main St | ✅ Book it!

The Zevely Inn offers 12 guest rooms in a home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When you walk inside, you’re transported to the mid-19^th century.

Breakfast changes daily and may include eggs benedict, pancakes, and pastries. Coffee, tea, and ice water are available throughout the day for guests and in the evening, you’ll return to find freshly baked cookies in the lobby.

Free parking is available on-site and you can stay connected with free WiFi.

Pets are not allowed and children must be 7 or older, but this definitely caters to people old enough to appreciate the history.

Old Salem is one of the best things to do in Winston-Salem so staying in the heart of it would be a dream!

“Cheri was the perfect hostess. Great property, great location. We will be returning. Warm Moravian Sugar Cake at breakfast was the clincher!!” – Sidney (Read more reviews)

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9. Summit Street Inns

⭐️ RATING: 9.1/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 434 Summit St | ✅ Book it!

Located in the historic West End neighborhood, Summit Street Inn is comprised of two historic homes, the Ludlow, and Sheppard Houses. Restored in 2020-2023, it has 10 guest rooms, a billiards room, parlor, and dining area.

Guests have two options for breakfast, on-site, or at Founders Restaurant in their sister property a mile away.

You’ll feel welcome in the large, bright rooms. When you make your reservation, look for a room with a claw foot tub or stained-glass windows.

Free parking is available on-site as well as free Wifi.

Pets are not allowed.

Children are welcome however, cribs and extra beds are not available on the property.

“Beautiful building, lovely decor, great water pressure, glad to have a mini-fridge and a key code for the front door.” – Marta (Read more reviews)

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10. The Shaffner Inn

⭐️ RATING: 9.1/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 150 Marshall St SW | ✅ Book it!

The Shaffner Inn is a white and green Tudor Revival building built in 1908. When you enter, the first thing you’ll see is the grand staircase. Guests can enjoy the 9 fireplaces, wraparound enclosed porch, and beautiful antiques throughout the home.

There are 8 guest rooms, all large and bright, each decorated in its own unique style. Be sure to book the Wachovia room if you want to enjoy a claw foot tub. In several instances, two rooms can be joined to create a suite.

Founders Restaurant is located on-site and offers complimentary breakfast and a full bar. The restaurant opens Tuesday through Friday for Breakfast and Lunch and on weekends for Brunch.

Parking and WiFi are free, and you’ll find a robe and slippers in each room.

Pets are not allowed.

Children are welcome however, cribs and extra beds are not available on the property.

“Loved the beauty of the building, inside and out. The Piedmont suite was divine. The jacuzzi was perfection. The shrimp and grits..the BEST. Gary, our waiter, everything and more!!” – Laverne (Read more reviews)

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