The Historic Brookstown Inn leads with a 9.5 location score and exposed-brick charm in a converted 1837 mill. For downtown consistency, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown posts a 9.3 staff score and walking-distance dining. Summit Street Inns scores a perfect 9.9 location for a quiet, garden-side stay.
Winston-Salem’s downtown is walkable, its motorways are fast, and these suites split the difference. Here’s the breakdown.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 7500+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best downtown walkability: #4 Historic Brookstown Inn→ Rates
- Top guest score: #15 Summit Street Inns→ Rates
#16 The Shaffner Inn→ Rates - Pet-friendly with suites: #7 Embassy Suites→ Rates
#20 Fairfield Inn & Suites Hanes→ Rates - Best value near Hanes Mall: #3 Comfort Suites Hanes Mall→ Rates
- Highest cleanliness scores: #4 Historic Brookstown Inn→ Rates
#15 Summit Street Inns→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. La Quinta by Wyndham Winston-Salem | (1400+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center | (1050+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Comfort Suites Hanes Mall | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 4. The Historic Brookstown Inn | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Sleep Inn Hanes Mall | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Embassy Suites Winston-Salem | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Holiday Inn Express Medical Ctr | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Holiday Inn Express by IHG | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Hampton Inn Winston-Salem Hanes Mall | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Courtyard Winston-Salem Downtown | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Hampton Inn & Suites University Area | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Courtyard Winston-Salem Hanes Mall | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Spark by Hilton University | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Summit Street Inns | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Shaffner Inn | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. DoubleTree by Hilton University | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. SpringHill Suites Hanes Mall | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Fairfield Inn & Suites Hanes | (100+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top-Rated Hotel Suites in Winston-Salem, NC
1. La Quinta by Wyndham Winston-Salem
The Vibe
This 3-star La Quinta sits off I-40, a quick 15-minute drive from Wake Forest University. The daily breakfast and outdoor pool keep it practical for families or road-trippers passing through Winston-Salem. With a 7.9 Wi-Fi score, you’ll stay connected without fuss.
What You Actually Get
Standard guest rooms include a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a TV. The fitness center helps burn off the free breakfast. Pets are allowed up to 2 per room (75lbs or less) with a nonrefundable $25 nightly fee. A $50 security deposit is required at check-in. Note: there are no jacuzzi tubs in the rooms. The property accepts card and ID upon check-in.
Choose this if: You’re driving through and need easy I-40 access with a pet-friendly policy and free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta by Wyndham Winston-Salem →
2. Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center
The Vibe
Right in the heart of downtown, this conference center doubles as a solid overnight stay. Guests consistently praise the clean, nicely decorated rooms and the value. The 8.9 staff and location scores are tied for best in this price tier.
What You Actually Get
The inn has an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant that delivers to your room, and free on-site parking. The optional breakfast runs about $10. Pet-friendly on request with a $50 nightly fee. No smoking in rooms (a $250 fine applies). The property requires a $25–$50 hold on your card at check-in. Rooms come with pool views available.
Choose this if: You need downtown access with event space, or you just want a solid 8.4-rated property near restaurants.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center →
3. Comfort Suites Hanes Mall
The Vibe
This 4-star Comfort Suites punches above its price point. Every room has a sofa bed, and the layout is spacious. Guests call out the “great value” and “wonderful breakfast” in reviews. The 9.0 staff score is the top mark at this property.
What You Actually Get
All rooms include a sofa bed and a standard bathtub. The hotel serves a wonderful complimentary breakfast and has an outdoor pool and fitness center. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.6 and the free parking is on-site. Pets are not allowed. The property is located off I-40, a 10-minute drive from Winston-Salem city center.
Choose this if: You want a spacious suite near Hanes Mall with a free breakfast and a staff team that guests rave about.
4. The Historic Brookstown Inn, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
The Vibe
Housed in an 1837 mill, this converted inn delivers exposed brick, a nightly wine-and-cheese reception, and a 9.1 overall score. Guests call it “excellent for retreats.” The location near Old Salem scores a 9.5 — the highest in this list.
What You Actually Get
The rooms with two double beds or one queen bed have real exposed brick walls. The daily hot breakfast is served Monday–Friday from 7–9 AM, weekends from 8–10 AM. Free parking and free Wi-Fi (9.3/10) are included. No pets allowed. No age restriction for check-in. This inn is a Trademark Collection by Wyndham property, meaning boutique character with brand consistency.
Choose this if: You want character, history, and a 9.1-rated experience within walking distance of Old Salem and downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Historic Brookstown Inn, Trademark Collection by Wyndham →
5. Sleep Inn Hanes Mall
The Vibe
This 4-star Sleep Inn is a straightforward, no-fuss option. Every room has a refrigerator, and you can walk to Hanes Mall. The complimentary American breakfast is included. It’s a solid backup for budget-friendly travelers.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are clean and comfortable, reports say. The hotel is completely non-smoking and has no pool. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.6, and free private on-site parking is available. Pets are allowed for a fee. The lobby was undergoing renovation as of the last guest reports — expect some dust and noise during daytime hours.
Choose this if: You need cheap, clean, and quiet near Hanes Mall with a fridge for snacks.
6. Hampton Inn & Suites Winston-Salem Downtown
The Vibe
This downtown Hampton Inn scores consistently across the board. The 9.3 staff and 9.3 cleanliness scores are tied for the property’s top marks. Guests praise the walking-distance restaurants and the location near the conference center. It feels less like a chain and more like a well-run downtown stop.
What You Actually Get
Most rooms feature showers only, no bathtubs. The outdoor pool is seasonal. Private parking is available at the hotel for a fee. The good breakfast is included. You must be 21 to check-in. No pets allowed. The fitness center is open and operational. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.7. The location by the convention center makes it a frequent choice for business travelers.
Choose this if: You’re attending an event at the convention center and want a clean, friendly downtown base.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Winston-Salem Downtown →
7. Embassy Suites Winston-Salem
The Vibe
This 4-star Embassy Suites is the place for families who need separation. The two-bedroom suites have closing doors between the bedrooms and a pull-out couch in the common area. Guests love the “delicious” made-to-order breakfast and the evening happy hour.
What You Actually Get
The two-bedroom/two-bathroom suites are the highlight — separate bedrooms with closing doors and a common area with pull-out sofa. The indoor pool and restaurant are available. Pets are allowed for a fee. Parking is at a nearby garage for $25 per night (not owned by the hotel). The property has balcony options in some suites. Note: renovation work on public hallways occurred through mid-2024.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a group or family and need real bedroom separation with a shared lounge.
8. Holiday Inn Express Winston-Salem Medical Ctr Area
The Vibe
This Holiday Inn Express is the go-to for hospital visits. Its 9.5 Wi-Fi score is the joint-highest in this list. The 9.1 location score reflects its proximity to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Guests report friendly staff who handle large check-in groups with grace.
What You Actually Get
The property offers a fitness center and good breakfast. No pets allowed. No hot cinnamon rolls on the current breakfast menu (limited options). Wake Forest medical appointment discounts are available — call ahead. Check-in is 3:00 PM. No age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You have a medical appointment at Wake Forest and need fast Wi-Fi and a caring front desk.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Winston-Salem Medical Ctr Area →
9. Holiday Inn Express Winston-Salem by IHG
The Vibe
This is the IHG branch on Peters Creek. It earns a 9.0 staff score and 9.0 comfort and cleanliness scores. Guests rave about the “fresh pancake maker” and well-labeled breakfast options, including turkey sausage for non-pork eaters. The two swimming pools are a bonus.
What You Actually Get
The property has two swimming pools (exact type not specified in recent data) and a fitness center. The wonderful breakfast is included. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.5. No pets allowed. Early check-in is possible only if rooms are available post-11 AM checkout. The location is off Peters Creek Parkway, convenient to I-40.
Choose this if: You want a 9.0-rated staff experience with a pool and a hot breakfast that exceeds IHG’s usual standards.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Winston-Salem by IHG →
10. Hampton Inn Winston-Salem Hanes Mall
The Vibe
This Hanes Mall Hampton Inn is known for its exceptional breakfast (guests call it “signature hot Hampton breakfast”) and a rare Executive King Suite with an in-room hot tub. The 9.5 Wi-Fi score is tied for the list’s joint-highest. Expect a clean, comfortable, and repeat-stay quality.
What You Actually Get
The Executive King Suite has a hot tub — book that specific room type. The outdoor pool is open at 50% capacity. Breakfast is served cafeteria-style (no buffet). Discounts for local hospital/medical procedures are available — contact the hotel directly. Pets are allowed for a fee. Free on-site parking is included. Check-out isn’t until 12:00 PM, a rare late checkout.
Choose this if: You want a Hanes Mall hotel with a hot tub suite, strong breakfast, and a 9.5 Wi-Fi score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Winston-Salem Hanes Mall →
11. Courtyard Winston-Salem Downtown
The Vibe
This Courtyard brings the style with a rooftop bar and indoor pool (open by appointment 9 AM–9 PM). The 9.5 Wi-Fi score matches the best in town. Guests highlight the “great shower” in king rooms (walk-in, not tub) and the comfortable, clean rooms.
What You Actually Get
King rooms have walk-in showers. The indoor pool requires booking a time slot. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner, plus a cocktail hour. Elevator access is available. Parking is on-site. No pets. No age restriction. The express check-in/check-out speeds up the process.
Choose this if: You want downtown energy with a rooftop bar, an indoor pool, and a 9.5 Wi-Fi score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard Winston-Salem Downtown →
12. Hampton Inn & Suites Winston-Salem/University Area
The Vibe
This University Area Hampton Inn suits Wake Forest visitors and coliseum event-goers. The 9.3 staff score is the property’s highest. Guests report “great breakfast” and “professional, nice” staff. The indoor pool is open 8 AM–10 PM.
What You Actually Get
All rooms are non-smoking. The indoor pool is open. Pets are allowed (2 max per room) with a $45 fee per pet. Free parking is available at the hotel. The very good breakfast is included. No Wi-Fi score was recorded in recent data. The property is 5.1 miles from BB&T Field and 5.2 miles from LJVM Coliseum.
Choose this if: You’re attending an event at LJVM Coliseum or visiting Wake Forest with a pet.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Winston-Salem/University Area →
13. Courtyard Winston-Salem Hanes Mall
The Vibe
This Hanes Mall Courtyard is a solid 8.2-rated option with a seasonal outdoor pool (closed in off-season, reopening Memorial Day). Guests praise the “great location to everything.” The Bistro serves breakfast and dinner. Some rooms have balconies — first come, first served.
What You Actually Get
Balcony rooms are available but not guaranteed. The outdoor pool is seasonal (closed winter). The Bistro serves breakfast and dinner. Free parking is on-site. No pets allowed. A $250 hold for incidentals is charged at check-in. Children 12 and above are charged as adults. The property has a shared lounge and terrace.
Choose this if: You want a Courtyard near Hanes Mall with the option of a balcony room and on-site dining.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard Winston-Salem Hanes Mall →
14. Spark by Hilton Winston-Salem University
The Vibe
This Spark by Hilton is a recent favorite for its “amazing” customer service and “always clean” facility. The 9.0 staff score backs it up. Check-in is limited to 8:00 PM — plan accordingly. The 8.8 Wi-Fi score is strong for this category.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are clean and updated with good breakfast offerings. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.8. Free private parking is included. No pool. A $100 deposit is required at check-in. Pets are allowed for a fee (though some reports suggest a no-pet policy — confirm at booking). The check-in window closes at 8 PM, so late arrivals will need to coordinate.
Choose this if: You need a clean, affordable room near the university with free parking and a helpful front desk.
Check Tonight’s Price for Spark by Hilton Winston-Salem University →
15. Summit Street Inns
The Vibe
Summit Street Inns is the highest-rated property in this list with a 9.5 overall score. The 9.9 location score is the best you’ll find in Winston-Salem. Guests describe “beautiful individually designed rooms,” “spacious bathrooms,” and “incredible porch and patio seating.” Wine welcome and delicious breakfast are standard.
What You Actually Get
Each room is individually designed. Free private parking is available at the hotel. The exceptional breakfast is included. The property has a garden and shared lounge. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.7. Check-in is 4–9 PM, so plan your arrival. No pets. No age restriction. This is a quiet, residential-feel inn — not a loud downtown hotel.
Choose this if: You want the absolute best scores in Winston-Salem with a garden setting and a wine welcome.
16. The Shaffner Inn
The Vibe
The Shaffner Inn is a 4-star bed and breakfast in a historic building. Guests love the “warmth and grandeur” and “beautifully presented” breakfast with fresh fruit and good coffee. The 9.2 cleanliness score is the property’s standout. It does not accommodate children.
What You Actually Get
This B&B offers air-conditioned rooms, exceptional breakfast included, and free private parking. Room service is available. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The property speaks English. Free Wi-Fi is advertised (some older reviews mentioned no internet access — but current data confirms it’s available). Check-in is 4–10 PM. No pets.
Choose this if: You want a charming, adults-focused B&B downtown with a breakfast that guests rave about.
17. DoubleTree by Hilton Winston Salem – University, NC
The Vibe
This DoubleTree sits off Highway 52, 12 minutes from Wake Forest and 15 minutes from I-40. It’s known for comfortable beds and friendly staff. The 8.7 location score makes it a practical highway stop. The ballroom is available for events.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have a king-size bed and a sleeper sofa in a separate open area (no closing door). The outdoor pool is seasonal. Free parking is available at the hotel. The very good breakfast costs $12. No pets allowed. The lobby underwent renovations. The hotel has a ballroom and meeting space — contact sales department directly for bookings.
Choose this if: You need a highway-accessible hotel with event space and comfortable DoubleTree beds.
Check Tonight’s Price for DoubleTree by Hilton Winston Salem – University, NC →
18. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Winston-Salem Hanes Mall
The Vibe
This SpringHill Suites is a strong 8.6-rated option with a 9.2 location score near Hanes Mall. Guests call it “beautiful, clean, great value” and note the “nice areas for pets.” The staff scores 9.0 and cleanliness scores 9.1 — both excellent marks.
What You Actually Get
The property is pet-friendly with fees. Free on-site parking is included. Good breakfast is included. Children 12 and above are charged as adults. Free parking. The suites are spacious — the brand is known for separate living and sleeping areas. No pool listed. The fitness center is available.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a pet and need a clean, spacious suite near Hanes Mall with free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Winston-Salem Hanes Mall →
19. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel by IHG
The Vibe
The Kimpton Cardinal is a downtown boutique hotel in the historic R.J. Reynolds building. Guests love the “fantastic restaurant and bar” and the “welcoming and helpful” front desk staff. The 9.1 comfort score is the hotel’s top mark. It is pet-friendly with no extra charges.
What You Actually Get
The recreation area is open daily 6 AM–Midnight for guests. No jacuzzis available. Pets are allowed in the living room, rec room, and community room. The on-site restaurant serves exceptional breakfast ($22) and dinner. Private parking is available at the hotel. The property is located in the historic R.J. Reynolds building, 4 floors of boutique character. Groups of 10+ rooms are considered a group booking and may be canceled.
Choose this if: You want a downtown boutique hotel with historic character, a fantastic bar, and no pet fees.
20. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Winston Salem/Hanes
The Vibe
This Fairfield Inn is a hidden surprise. Free bikes, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a 9.2 staff score make it a standout near Hanes Mall. Guests praise the “good breakfast” and the attentive server (Chris is mentioned by name). The 9.1 location score is among the highest near the mall.
What You Actually Get
The property offers free bikes to explore the area. The seasonal outdoor pool is open in warmer months. The free hot breakfast is a highlight. Pets are allowed with a $75 pet cleaning fee. Free parking is available at the hotel. The hotel is 100% non-smoking. Children 12 and above are charged as adults. The shared lounge adds a social element.
Choose this if: You want a Fairfield that goes the extra mile with free bikes, a pool, and a staff that remembers your name.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Winston Salem/Hanes →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#4 The Historic Brookstown Inn
9.1 overall, 9.5 location, exposed-brick character, free breakfast, and wine-and-cheese reception — unbeatable value for the history.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Historic Brookstown Inn, Trademark Collection by Wyndham →
💰 Best Value
#3 Comfort Suites Hanes Mall
8.2 rating with a 9.0 staff score,spacious suites, free breakfast, and sofa beds — quality per dollar is unmatched near the mall.
🐕 Best Pet-Friendly
#19 Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
Free pet policy in a historic downtown boutique with a fantastic bar and 9.1 comfort score — no pet fees in Winston-Salem’s most stylish hotel.
How We Ranked These Winston-Salem Hotels
We evaluated 20 Winston-Salem properties based on verified guest feedback, score breakdowns, location data, and amenity accuracy. Only hotels with 100+ reviews and 7.5+ overall scores made the cut, ensuring a reliable baseline of real traveler experiences.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.5+ overall and 100+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, staff, and location — the categories that drive repeat hotel bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns and property Q&A
- Location signals: Proximity to downtown, Hanes Mall, Wake Forest University, and medical centers
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these hotel suites in Winston-Salem?
Yes, several properties accept pets. La Quinta by Wyndham (#1) allows up to 2 pets (75lbs or less) with a $25 nightly fee. Embassy Suites (#7) and Hampton Inn & Suites University Area (#12) allow pets for a fee. The Kimpton Cardinal (#19) has a standout free pet policy — no extra charges. SpringHill Suites Hanes Mall (#18) charges a $75 pet cleaning fee. Always confirm pet fees directly with the property before booking.
Which Winston-Salem hotel suites offer free cancellation?
Most hotels in this list offer free cancellation, but terms vary by room type and date. Properties like the Historic Brookstown Inn (#4), Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown (#6), and the Kimpton Cardinal (#19) typically offer flexible cancellation policies on standard rates. However, non-refundable rates are also common. Always check the cancellation policy for your specific dates and room type before confirming your booking.
What’s the best time to visit Winston-Salem?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal for Winston-Salem. Temperatures hover in the 60s–70s Fahrenheit, and outdoor pools at hotels like the Fairfield Inn (#20) and Courtyard Hanes Mall (#13) are open seasonally. Winter sees lower rates but some outdoor pools close. Summer is hotter and more humid, though indoor pools at the Courtyard Downtown (#11) and Embassy Suites (#7) offer year-round swimming.
How do I get to Winston-Salem from the airport?
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is about 30 minutes east of Winston-Salem. Most downtown hotels — like the Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown (#6) and the Kimpton Cardinal (#19) — are a 25-minute drive. The airport is served by major carriers. Rideshare and rental cars are the most convenient options. There is no direct public transit from the airport to downtown Winston-Salem.
What’s the most walkable area in Winston-Salem for hotel suites?
Downtown Winston-Salem and the Old Salem area are the most walkable districts. The Historic Brookstown Inn (#4) sits with a 9.5 location score right near Old Salem and walkable to restaurants. The Kimpton Cardinal (#19) and Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown (#6) are both on Cherry and 4th Streets, within walking distance to bars, cafes, and the convention center. The Hanes Mall area is less walkable and better suited for drivers.
Which hotel suites in Winston-Salem have two separate bedrooms?
The Embassy Suites Winston-Salem (#7) is the best option for two-bedroom suites with closing doors. They offer two-bedroom/two-bathroom suites where the bedrooms are separated from the common area by actual doors — not just a partition. The pull-out couch in the living area adds extra sleeping space. No other property in this list explicitly confirms separate-bedroom suites in their data.