The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center

### Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant city of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center stands as a notable establishment, catering to a diverse clientele ranging from business travelers attending conferences to leisure guests exploring the city. This full-service property aims to blend modern convenience with a welcoming atmosphere, offering both comfortable guest rooms and extensive event spaces.

With 156 deluxe guest rooms and 13 spacious suites, including specialized options like a Presidential and Jetted Tub suite, The Hawthorne Inn endeavors to provide varied accommodations. It prides itself on delivering outstanding service at an affordable price, a key aspect for many travelers. The hotel is equipped with a range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

Guest experiences, as with any hotel, can vary. One reviewer shared a challenging arrival experience, noting difficulties with check-in procedures, perceived lack of welcome, and issues with accessibility despite the hotel's stated handicap-friendly features. This guest mentioned "steps throughout the interior" despite some "wheel chair ramps in certain areas," and a struggle to access their second-floor room with luggage, stating "I was not offered any assistance." They also pointed out the absence of "water bottles in the guest room," which they considered a standard amenity, and found the charges to be excessive for a two-night stay, leading to a strong recommendation against returning.

Conversely, another business traveler had a highly positive experience, particularly highlighting the exceptional staff: "This was a one night stay for business, however, the highlight was the staff and how helpful they were and thorough they were with assisting me in returning my lost bag. They sent pictures of the fedex receipt and made sure my property was taken care of. 10/10 would stay again." This contrasting feedback underscores the importance of individual interactions and the potential for a very positive experience, particularly when staff go above and beyond in problem-solving.

Overall, The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center presents itself as a versatile option in Winston-Salem, balancing its role as a conference venue with its offering of guest accommodations. Prospective visitors should consider all aspects of guest feedback to determine if the hotel aligns with their specific needs and expectations.

### Location and Accessibility

The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center enjoys a strategic and accessible location in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, making it a convenient base for exploring the city's attractions and for business engagements. The hotel is precisely located at:

420 High St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

This address places it in the heart of the business district, offering excellent connectivity to various points of interest. It is noted to be "just 25 minutes from Piedmont Triad Airport" (GSO), a major regional airport, and is also "close to Greensboro," indicating good access for those arriving from larger urban centers in the state.

For visitors interested in the rich history and culture of Winston-Salem, the hotel's location is particularly advantageous. It's only "2 blocks south" of Historic Old Salem Museums & Gardens and "2 blocks north" of the Sawtooth School for Visual Art. Other cultural institutions like the Children's Museum of Winston-Salem (Kaleideum Downtown) are also nearby, approximately "0.25 miles east." This allows guests to easily explore these significant historical and educational sites on foot or via a very short drive.

Business travelers will find the proximity to key venues highly beneficial. The hotel is close to the Benton Convention Center and often directly connected, making it ideal for conference attendees. It's also near major business centers, government buildings, and educational institutions, including Wake Forest University's Innovation Quarter. The presence of public transit nearby, with the "Winston-Salem Transit Authority just 4 minutes away," further enhances its accessibility for those preferring public transportation.

When it comes to vehicle access, the hotel offers "Free onsite self parking" and "Wheelchair-accessible parking on site," which is a considerable convenience in a city environment. While one guest noted difficulties with internal steps despite the hotel's "handicap/ disability friendly" claim, public information does state that the hotel features a "wheelchair-accessible path of travel," "wheelchair-accessible public washroom," and "wheelchair-accessible registration desk," along with "elevators." This suggests efforts to accommodate accessibility needs, though individual experiences may vary. The central and well-connected location ultimately makes The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center a practical choice for both leisure and business visitors to Winston-Salem.

### Services Offered

The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center provides a comprehensive range of services, designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. While guest experiences can vary, the hotel aims to offer a full-service stay with essential amenities. Here's a breakdown of the services typically provided:

• Guest Rooms & Suites: The hotel offers 156 deluxe guest rooms and 13 spacious suites, including options like the Presidential & Jetted Tub suite. Rooms generally include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea makers, and private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and hair dryers. Some rooms may feature microwaves and refrigerators.
• Complimentary Wireless Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and in guest rooms, supporting up to 1,200 devices, which is crucial for both business and leisure connectivity.
• 24-Hour Front Desk: A 24-hour reception ensures guests can check in or out at any time and receive assistance around the clock. Multilingual staff are available.
• Breakfast (Surcharge): A buffet breakfast is served daily (weekdays 6:00 AM–9:30 AM, weekends 6:00 AM–10:00 AM) for a fee (approximately USD 11.72 per person). While not complimentary, it offers a convenient on-site dining option.
• Seasonal Outdoor Pool: The hotel features a large, seasonal outdoor pool, typically open from May to September, providing a refreshing recreational option during warmer months.
• Fitness Center: A well-equipped fitness center is available 24 hours a day, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines.
• Meeting & Event Facilities: A significant highlight, the hotel boasts over 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including a ballroom (Sycamore Ballroom with up to 600 capacity), a fixed boardroom, and a 61-seat amphitheater. On-site catering and AV capabilities are available.
• Free Self Parking: Complimentary on-site self-parking is provided for guests, including wheelchair-accessible parking.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing dogs or cats (up to 50 lbs per pet, maximum 2 pets per room) for an extra charge (approximately USD 50.00 per pet, per night). Service animals are exempt from fees.
• Laundry Facilities: Self-serve laundry facilities (coin laundry) are available on-site for guest convenience, particularly useful for longer stays.
• Concierge Services: Staff are available to assist with tours, tickets, and local information.
• Express Check-out: For a quick departure, express check-out is available.
• Room Service: Room service can deliver meals to guests, offering a more intimate dining experience.
• Safe-deposit Box: Available at the front desk for valuables. In-room safes are also provided.
• Wedding Services: The hotel offers services for hosting wedding ceremonies and receptions.

These services demonstrate The Hawthorne Inn's commitment to providing a versatile and amenity-rich experience for its guests.

### Features / Highlights

The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center offers several distinctive features and highlights that aim to enhance the guest experience and cater to its diverse clientele. These attributes contribute to its appeal in Winston-Salem:

• Extensive Meeting & Event Space: As a "Conference Center," this is a paramount highlight. With over 10,000 square feet of versatile space, including the large Sycamore Ballroom (capacity up to 600), a dedicated boardroom, and even an amphitheater, it is a premier venue for corporate events, conferences, weddings, and social gatherings in the region. On-site catering and full A/V capabilities further solidify this feature.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: The hotel's policy of allowing pets (dogs and cats up to 50 lbs, with a fee) is a significant highlight for travelers who wish to bring their furry companions. This can be a deciding factor for many, as not all hotels offer this flexibility.
• Free On-Site Self-Parking: The provision of complimentary parking right at the hotel is a considerable advantage, especially for guests traveling by car in a downtown area where parking can often be scarce or costly. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available.
• Strategic Downtown Location: Situated in the heart of Winston-Salem's business and cultural district, guests benefit from easy access to major attractions like Historic Old Salem, Kaleideum Downtown, and numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, many within walking distance. This central position is ideal for both leisure and business.
• Seasonal Outdoor Pool & Fitness Center: These recreational amenities provide options for relaxation and maintaining fitness routines during a stay. While the pool is seasonal (May to September), it's a welcome feature during warmer months.
• Complimentary High-Speed Wi-Fi: Free internet access throughout the hotel and in guest rooms is a crucial amenity for modern travelers, ensuring connectivity for work, entertainment, and communication.
• Variety of Room Types: With 156 deluxe guest rooms and 13 spacious suites, including specialty suites, the hotel aims to offer accommodations suitable for different needs and preferences, from individual travelers to families or those seeking more space.
• Full-Service Offering: Beyond just rooms, the hotel offers a range of services like a 24-hour front desk, concierge services, room service, and on-site laundry facilities, contributing to a convenient and self-sufficient stay.
• Dedicated and Helpful Staff (as per some reviews): Despite some varied experiences, instances of highly helpful and thorough staff, particularly in resolving issues like a lost bag, highlight a commitment to guest satisfaction that can be a significant positive.

These features collectively aim to position The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center as a versatile and well-equipped choice for visitors to Winston-Salem.

### Promotions or Special Offers

The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center frequently offers a variety of promotions and special packages designed to appeal to different types of travelers, from leisure seekers to business groups. While specific offers can vary throughout the year, here are common types of promotions you might find:

• Direct Booking Incentives: The hotel often encourages guests to "Book Direct & Save," promising the lowest rates when reservations are made directly through their official website. This can sometimes unlock exclusive deals not found on third-party booking sites.
• Seasonal Packages: Keep an eye out for promotions tied to specific seasons or local events in Winston-Salem. These could include packages for romantic getaways, family fun (perhaps linked to nearby attractions like Kaleideum or Old Salem), or special holiday rates. The hotel website explicitly mentions providing "a wide array of specials and packages that our guest can take advantage of."
• Event and Group Rates: Given its extensive conference facilities, The Hawthorne Inn is well-equipped to offer competitive rates for groups, corporate events, and wedding blocks. If you are planning a large gathering, inquiring about group rates directly is highly recommended.
• "Hit the Links" Packages: As mentioned on their website, they may offer golf-related packages, appealing to those looking to enjoy North Carolina's golf courses.
• Special Occasion Packages: For guests celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones, the hotel may have packages that include amenities like chocolates, flowers, or dining credits.
• AAA/AARP Discounts: It's common for hotels of this type to offer discounts for members of AAA (American Automobile Association) and AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons). Always inquire if these are available.
• Government/Military Rates: Special rates are typically extended to government employees and military personnel.

To discover the most current and relevant promotions, the best approach is to visit the "Specials and Packages" section of The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center's official website or to contact the hotel directly by phone. Their reservations team will be able to provide details on current offers and help you find the best value for your stay.

### Contact Information

For any inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about hosting an event at The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center, you can easily reach their team using the following contact details:

Address:
420 High St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

Phone:
(336) 777-3000

Mobile Phone:
+1 336-777-3000

You can also reach them via email at reservations@hawthorneinn.com. Direct contact is often the most efficient way to discuss specific needs, check real-time availability, and secure the best rates or group bookings for your visit or event in Winston-Salem.

### Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of North Carolina, particularly those in or around Winston-Salem, The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center serves as a highly versatile and often convenient resource, extending beyond its role for out-of-town visitors. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects:

Firstly, as a major conference and event venue, it is an invaluable local asset. If you are planning a wedding, a family reunion, a corporate meeting, or a large social gathering, The Hawthorne Inn provides extensive and adaptable event spaces with on-site catering and professional staff. This makes it a go-to choice for locals organizing significant life events or business functions, providing a professional and comprehensive solution right in their own community.

Secondly, for hosting out-of-town guests, especially those coming for local celebrations, graduations, or holidays, The Hawthorne Inn offers comfortable and well-equipped accommodations. Locals can confidently recommend it to friends and family visiting Winston-Salem, knowing that their guests will have access to amenities like a seasonal pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly options. Its central downtown location also ensures that visitors can easily access local attractions and dining, making their stay more enjoyable and convenient for their local hosts.

Thirdly, the hotel's strategic location makes it highly practical for locals attending downtown events, concerts, or even business meetings. Instead of driving home after a late event, locals can opt for a comfortable overnight stay, transforming a night out into a mini-staycation. Its proximity to significant landmarks like Historic Old Salem and various restaurants means an easy commute, allowing for a more relaxed experience without the worry of parking or late-night travel.

Finally, for temporary local needs, such as during home renovations or unexpected situations requiring short-term accommodation, The Hawthorne Inn can be a viable option. Its free parking, pet-friendly policy, and range of services contribute to a comfortable temporary living arrangement. While some individual experiences may highlight areas for improvement, the overall capacity and features of the hotel offer practical solutions for various local circumstances, making it a valuable part of the Winston-Salem community's infrastructure.