The area was first settled by Moravians in 1753 and established as a colonial town called Salem. Moravian entrepreneurs quickly developed Salem into a self-sufficient community, which included a brickyard, flour mill, bakery, slaughterhouse, iron works, and more. In 1849, town leaders sold the area north of Salem to Forsyth County leaders, who later named it Winston. After years of growth and business development in both towns, the two combined to become Winston-Salem.
Today, Winston-Salem is a thriving and diverse community known for its prosperous businesses and commitment to education, research, technology, and art. Whether you're in town for a professional seminar or to view an exhibit at a local museum, it's important that you find the best hotel for your needs.
When to Visit Winston-Salem, NC
The best time to visit Winston-Salem is between March and May, when average temperatures hover around 70 degrees making it perfect for visiting outdoor sites like Bethabara Park and nearby wine vineyards. For sports enthusiasts, the spring is also a great time to catch a Nascar Whelen All-American race or minor league baseball game. Although you may have to deal with crowds, you'll still benefit from affordable hotel prices thanks to shoulder season deals.
Between June and August, tourists swarm Winston-Salem for its many great attractions and festivals, like Heavy Rebel Weekender and the National Black Theatre Festival. Temperatures will be high — reaching the upper 80s many days — and hotel rates will be expensive, so book your room in advance and pack plenty of sunscreen. If you don't mind crowds, the summer is the perfect time to experience Winston-Salem at its busiest and liveliest.
Plan a fall trip between September and November to take advantage of pleasant 70 and 80 degree temperatures. Between Winston-Salem's beautiful recreational parks and ample college sports schedule, there will be plenty to do. Plus, by this time the crowds have thinned out, and hotel prices have dropped to more affordable levels, making your visit ideal.
Between December and February, temperatures fall below 50 degrees. You will need to invest in a coat if you don't already have one, but it'll be worth it. After all, you'll be saving a good amount of money on hotel rates and airfare, which will be at their cheapest. Although these months are considered off-season, you can still enjoy many of Winston-Salem's most popular indoor attractions, like Reynolda House Museum of American Art, The Tavern in Old Salem, and any of its 450 dining establishments — many of which are historic.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Winston Salem, NC:
Winston Salem by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Winston Salem, NC. You can use these charts to evaluate the best time to book a room in Winston Salem for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Winston-Salem, NC
4 Star Average Prices: $199.72
Luxury lovers will find a variety of impressive hotels in Winston-Salem. The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel is a boutique accommodation that blends Southern style and modern flair in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. Each of its 174 guest rooms and 36 suites are elegant and trendy, featuring refrigerators, LCD TVs, Frette linens, yoga mats, private bathrooms with designer toiletries, and umbrellas for rainy days.
In the hotel, you can enjoy beautiful city views, a fitness center, concierge services, loaner bicycles, child equipment rentals, and wine hour parties in the evening. If you travel with your pet, the hotel even provides pet-bed loaners, food and water bowls, mats, and pet waste bags.
For a larger luxury hotel that's also downtown, Winston-Salem Marriott is a great option. It's located in the Twin City Quarter, minutes away from Benton Convention Center, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, and Old Salem. Within one of its 315 amenity-rich guestrooms you'll have access to complimentary wired and wireless internet, plush bedding, 37-inch flat-screen TVs with cable programming, work desks, coffee makers, and private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and hair dryers.
The hotel itself features a number of recreational and premium amenities, including an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, concierge lounge, restaurant, and a gift shop with newsstand.
Affordable Hotel Options in Winston-Salem, NC
3 Star Average Prices: $118.67
There are many affordable hotel options in Winston-Salem if you know where to look. Quality Inn & Suites Winston-Salem is a budget-friendly choice that's conveniently located near Hanes Mall, BB&T Field, and the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art. It offers 146 tastefully decorated rooms with refrigerators and microwaves for convenient eating and flat-screen TVs with cable programming for entertainment. Rooms also include complimentary wireless internet access, work desks, and private bathrooms with hair dryers and toiletries.
The hotel provides guests with an outdoor pool, exercise room, and free hot breakfast. Its Legends Sports Bar and Grill is the perfect place to relax with a delicious meal and refreshing drink.
Winston-Salem Hotel and Spa is a charming boutique hotel within walking distance from Wake Forest University, the Dixie Classic Fairgrounds, and highly rated dining. This four-story property provides guests with comfortable rooms that feature complimentary wireless internet access, cable TV programming, refrigerators, microwaves, and private bathrooms with hair dryers and toiletries.
After a busy day in the city, pamper yourself in the hotel's full service day spa or lounge outside by the pool. Additional hotel amenities include concierge services, complimentary breakfast, and an American cuisine restaurant. The hotel also welcomes guests with pets.
