Timeless Hospitality: Historic Stays in Winston-Salem

In Winston-Salem, the past is always checking into the present. For travelers seeking accommodations with character, the city’s collection of historic inns and boutique hotels offers the chance to sleep where history lives. From Art Deco landmarks and grand estates to cozy bed-and-breakfasts steeped in Moravian tradition, each stay blends timeless charm with modern Southern style—inviting guests to experience history not just by day, but overnight.

Landmark Lodging Options

Iconic hotels and grand estates where Winston-Salem’s history meets modern sophistication.

Kimpton Cardinal Hotel 
Stay in the iconic R.J. Reynolds Building, the 1929 Art Deco skyscraper that inspired the Empire State Building. After a $60 million renovation, this downtown treasure now houses the 174-room Kimpton Cardinal, known for its polished interiors, kid-friendly perks, and a lively Rec Room with bowling and a spiral slide. Dining shines at The Katharine Brasserie & Bar (above), the hotel's French-inspired restaurant that's open daily. As a bonus, you’re steps from arts, dining, and nightlife options downtown. 

Historic Brookstown Inn 
Built in 1837 as a cotton mill, the Historic Brookstown Inn (Wyndham Trademark Collection) pairs industrial-chic character with Southern warmth. Each of the 71 rooms is unique, featuring exposed beams, original brickwork, lofty ceilings, and cozy seating areas. After exploring nearby Old Salem, unwind in the courtyard or mingle with fellow guests at the nightly wine-and-cheese reception. 

Graylyn Estate 
From the moment you step through the French doorway, Graylyn’s 55-acre Norman-Revival estate treats you like royalty. Recently ranked as the No. 2 boutique hotel in America by USA Today, Graylyn blends stately elegance with thoughtful luxuries—think complimentary ice cream, freshly baked butterscotch cookies, bicycles for exploring, and serene gardens dotted with historic outbuildings. A true grand-manor escape minutes from downtown. 

Hotel Indigo 
In the heart of downtown, Hotel Indigo brings boutique charm to the historic Pepper Building, an Art Deco gem from the Roaring ’20s. Local art graces the walls, while plush bedding and spa-style showers await in the 75 guest rooms. The pet-friendly property also features Sir Winston Restaurant & Wine Loft for a stylish night in.

Intimate Stays & B&B Charms

Smaller inns and distinctive homes for travelers seeking one-of-a-kind, highly personalized lodging.

Winston-Salem Historic Inns 
Three downtown historic homes operate collectively as Winston-Salem Historic Inns. In the West End, the Summit Street Inns—two side-by-side properties, Ludlow House Sheppard House—offer 10 uniquely themed rooms where modern flair meets original fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and a shared garden patio. About a mile away, the Historic Shaffner Inn provides eight distinctive guest rooms and intimate event space in a Queen Anne–Tudor-style home built in 1907. 

Zevely Inn B&B 
As the only lodging inside Historic Old Salem, this 1844 B&B immerses guests in Winston-Salem’s Moravian roots. Choose from 12 uniquely appointed rooms—from cozy queens to spacious kings with fireplaces—and wake to a tasty, house-made breakfast. Complimentary coffee, tea, and fresh-baked cookies add to the timeless charm. 

West Salem Art Hotel 
Once a 1931 corner grocery, this intimate art-centric stay turns every suite into a creative set piece. Drift off in the whimsical Rose Room (a Parisian-salon homage), cue up a favorite in the VHS Suite with 400+ classics under paper lanterns, or savor the Folk Art Suite’s colorful Norwegian mural—story-book dreams encouraged. 

The Huntley House 
Tucked inside Robert Hall, The Huntley House offers five eclectic rooms that mirror the creative energy of the Industry Hill neighborhood. A onetime doctor’s office, café, and sign shop, it reopened as a stunning Airbnb in 2022. From here, stroll to breweries, performance venues, art galleries, and maker spaces. 

Tanglewood Manor House (Operated by Excelsior) 
Built in 1859 and set within the grounds of Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, this Victorian B&B pairs historic elegance with modern comfort. In addition to 10 guest rooms in the Manor House, lodging extends to a guest house, cottages, and apartments—ideal for families or groups—while the park’s arboretum, trails, and golf add resort-style recreation to your stay. 

Mansion on Main (Old Salem) 
The largest private home within Old Salem, this meticulously restored 1873 landmark is now a five-bedroom Airbnb that’s perfect for families or small groups. The Mansion on Main (seen below) features two kitchens, a library, a media room, and a formal dining salon. Guests can enjoy short-term rental that blends blending the privacy of a residence with the ambience of a living museum district steps away. 

Keep Exploring Local History

Curious for more time-travel moments around town? Dive into our curated round-up of museums, landmarks, and living-history experiences on our History Buffs page to plan even more ways to connect with Winston-Salem’s past