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Old houses have stories. These historic hotels? They whisper, creak, and occasionally shout them from the guest room closet.
From speakeasy secrets to presidential stays, Winston-Salem’s most iconic inns are anything but cookie-cutter—and absolutely worth a night’s stay (or a deep scroll).
Brookstown Inn: Ghosts, Grit, & Really Good Biscuits
- 200 Brookstown Ave.
- (336) 725-1120
- Website
Built in 1837 as the Salem Manufacturing Company, the Brookstown Inn originally served as a cotton mill and was one of the first factories in the South to utilize electric lighting. Its original structure remains largely intact, including exposed pine beams and brickwork that now lend the inn its signature industrial-chic charm.
After its life as a mill, it was carefully renovated to preserve its character while welcoming modern-day guests. The inn now features 70 guest rooms, including 28 suites, each one unique in layout and design. High ceilings, period furnishings, and original factory flooring transport visitors to a bygone era.
Some rooms overlook a peaceful courtyard, while others offer a view of the city skyline. It’s a space that feels storied, comfortable, and unmistakably Southern.
Brookstown is also known for its breakfast, particularly the house-made biscuits, which have earned a local reputation. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Southern breakfast each morning, often paired with fresh fruit, grits, or eggs made to order. In the evenings, a wine and cheese social adds a welcoming touch.
If you enjoy walking, the location is ideal. Situated right beside Old Salem and the Innovation Quarter, Brookstown is just minutes from Bailey Park, the Arts District, and popular dining spots. The Winston-Salem Visitors Center is located on-site for those who wish to explore further.
And then there are the ghosts. Staff and guests have shared tales of unexplained footsteps and flickering lights—but don’t worry, the spirits are supposedly quite polite.
Quick Take: Brookstown Inn
- Most Haunted Area: 4th floor
- Best Breakfast Bite: House-made biscuits
- Vibe: Industrial-chic meets vintage intrigue
Graylyn Estate: Ever Slept In A French Chateau With A Secret Tunnel?
- 1900 Reynolda Road
- (336) 758-2425
- Website
Graylyn Estate began as the opulent country retreat of Bowman and Nathalie Gray, prominent members of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco family. Built in the late 1920s in the Norman Revival style, the 85-room manor was inspired by the chateaux of Europe, complete with turrets, stone archways, and hand-carved detailing throughout. It was one of the most advanced homes of its time, even featuring an early version of central air.
Guests staying at Graylyn step into a world of curated luxury. Rooms are uniquely decorated with international antiques and museum-quality art. Some suites have hidden nooks, Juliet balconies, or oversized soaking tubs.
The staff goes above and beyond, and yes, your bath may be drawn for you by a butler if you ask nicely.
The estate has hosted some of the world’s most influential guests, including U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and George H. W. Bush. World leaders, CEOs, and artists have all passed through its grand halls.
The surrounding property includes lush gardens, a stone bridge, and winding paths perfect for a quiet stroll. There’s even a rumored underground tunnel, though its actual purpose remains part of the mystery.
Just across the street are the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Reynolda Gardens, and Reynolda Village with boutiques and cafes.
Whether you’re here for leisure or a high-end conference, Graylyn delivers on elegance.
Quick Take: Graylyn Estate
- Most Famous Guests: Four U.S. Presidents
- Best Nearby Attraction: Reynolda House & Gardens
- Vibe: Fairytale luxury with serious history
Summit Street Inns: Victorian Charm, Modern Perks
- 420 & 434 Summit St
- (336) 777-1887
- Website
The Summit Street Inns are a pair of restored Queen Anne homes—named the Ludlow and Sheppard Houses—located in the heart of the West End Historic District. These homes, initially built in the late 19th century, were restored between 2020 and 2023 with careful attention to historic detail.
From ornate woodwork to period-appropriate fixtures, the restoration was a labor of love that blends the old with the new. Each of the 10 guest rooms is uniquely designed, combining antique charm with top-tier modern amenities.
Luxurious bathrooms, cozy fireplaces, and plush linens make for a pampering experience. Many rooms include clawfoot tubs and large windows that overlook the tranquil neighborhood.
It’s like staying in a perfectly preserved time capsule—but with stronger Wi-Fi and much better water pressure.
Guests can unwind in a sunny garden, sip cocktails in the parlor, or shoot a game of pool in the billiards room. Though breakfast is served off-site at Founders Restaurant (just a mile away), the in-home dining service offers a range of chef-prepared options. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who value privacy and calm.
Located in one of Winston-Salem’s most walkable neighborhoods, Summit Street Inns put you steps away from Mozelle’s, Joyner’s Bar, and Hanes Park. Whether you’re exploring local boutiques or simply relaxing on the wraparound porch, it’s easy to lose track of time in the best way.
Quick Take: Summit Street Inns
- Most Romantic Room: The Sheppard Garden Suite
- Best Shared Space: Billiards Room & Parlor
- Vibe: Quiet elegance with Victorian soul
The Shaffner Inn: Banking Heiress Turned B&B Legend
- 150 Marshall St SW
- (336) 777-0052
- Website
Built in 1907, the Shaffner Inn was once the grand private residence of Henry Fries Shaffner, a founding vice president of Wachovia Bank and a key figure in Winston-Salem’s economic development. The Tudor Revival mansion was designed with distinctive architectural features, including steep-pitched roofs, ornate dormers, and detailed woodwork that speaks to the wealth and taste of its original owners.
The inn’s interior is rich with original craftsmanship. Guests are greeted by a sweeping staircase, Tiger Oak paneling, hand-carved fireplaces, and leaded-glass windows. Period-appropriate antiques and artwork fill each of the eight guest rooms, creating a sense of time travel with the comfort of plush bedding and private baths.
The on-site, full-service restaurant offers elevated takes on Southern favorites, making the inn a go-to destination for brunches, dinner dates, and private events. The wraparound porch and cozy common areas are perfect spots to sip coffee or wine while soaking in the ambiance.
Shaffner also hosts weddings and small corporate retreats, often chosen for its one-of-a-kind setting.
The location bridges downtown and the West End, placing guests within walking distance of Mozelle’s, Old Fourth Street Filling Station, and the Stevens Center. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a touch of luxury with deep historic roots.
Quick Take: The Shaffner Inn
- Best Room For History Lovers: The Shaffner Suite
- Can’t-Miss Feature: Vaulted ceilings and original fireplaces
- Vibe: Grand and refined with a story to tell
The Zevely Inn: The Last Moravian Standing On Main Street
- 803 South Main St
- (336) 748-9299
- Website
Built in 1844, The Zevely Inn is a Federal-style brick house nestled in the heart of Old Salem—one of the most authentically preserved historic districts in the United States. It holds the unique distinction of being the only historic lodging in this storied neighborhood and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Inside, guests will find a cozy, peaceful environment that honors Moravian simplicity and craftsmanship. Wood floors creak charmingly beneath your feet, and each guest room is furnished with period-appropriate decor while still offering modern comforts like private baths and Wi-Fi. Some rooms overlook Main Street, while others face a quiet garden courtyard.
In the mornings, guests gather in the common room for coffee or to chat with the friendly innkeepers about the history of the area. The inn frequently attracts history buffs, visiting professors, and wedding guests looking for a quiet and meaningful place to stay. The parlor and front porch are favorite spots for reading, people-watching, or relaxing with a warm drink.
Being in Old Salem means stepping outside your door and into another century. The Zevely is just steps from museums, gardens, and bakeries offering traditional Moravian treats.
Don’t miss Winkler Bakery or the Salem Tavern for lunch. It’s also a short drive or leisurely walk to downtown Winston-Salem.
Quick Take: The Zevely Inn
- Oldest Room: Room 101, original to 1844
- Best View: Overlooking Main Street’s historic charm
- Vibe: Quiet, authentic, and steeped in Moravian history
So … Which One Should You Book First?
Here’s the breakdown:
- For a ghost story and great biscuits: Brookstown Inn
- For mansion vibes and luxe touches: Graylyn Estate
- For cozy charm and porch hangs: Summit Street Inns
- For wood-paneled wow factor: Shaffner Inn
- For walkable history and Moravian magic: Zevely Inn
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which of these historic hotels is right for your stay, or just curious about what makes these places so legendary? We’ve got answers to the most commonly asked questions from curious travelers, from haunted rumors to kid-friendly rooms.
Don’t see your question? Ask us in the comments!
Are These Hotels Haunted?
If you’re hoping for a little paranormal spice with your stay, Brookstown Inn is your best bet.
Guests and staff alike have shared eerie stories—unexplained footsteps, creaky floorboards, and ghost sightings in the halls. The fourth floor, in particular, gets the most buzz from ghost enthusiasts.
Graylyn Estate also carries an air of mystery. While there are fewer ghost tales attached to it, the moody architecture, grand staircases, and quiet halls at night can definitely make your imagination run wild.
Whether you believe or not, there’s something undeniably atmospheric about these historic walls.
Which Hotel Is Closest To Downtown Winston-Salem?
Brookstown Inn is the closest to downtown attractions like the Arts District, Innovation Quarter, and Bailey Park. It’s a quick walk to shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a solid base for visitors who want to stay in the heart of the action.
The Shaffner Inn and Summit Street Inns are just a little farther west in the historic West End neighborhood. Still walkable to downtown, they offer a slightly quieter, more residential vibe—ideal for travelers who want charm without the bustle.
Can You Stay In Old Salem?
Yes, you absolutely can. The Zevely Inn is the only historic inn located within the boundaries of Old Salem. That means guests wake up to cobblestone paths, 18th-century architecture, and costumed interpreters bringing Moravian history to life just outside the door.
It’s a rare opportunity to stay somewhere that feels both like a museum and a sanctuary. And while the inn honors its 19th-century roots, it also offers modern comforts like Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning.
Are Any Of These Kid-Friendly?
Brookstown Inn is one of the most family-friendly historic hotel options on this list. The rooms are spacious, and the breakfast is hearty and satisfying for all ages. The location also makes it easy to explore downtown attractions with kids in tow.
While Graylyn and the West End inns welcome children, their antique furnishings and formal ambiance might be better suited for older kids or well-behaved young travelers. If you’re traveling with toddlers or very young children, Brookstown or Zevely might be the more practical choice.
Have You Stayed in One of Our Historic Hotels?
If you’re looking for a more modern stay, take a look at this list of hotels that covers accommodations throughout the city.
Stay in any of Winston-Salem’s historic hotels? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
