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Winston-Salem Skyline

Summer Activities in Winston-Salem

A Boutique Stay That Captures the Summer Season

Your Summer Stay in Winston-Salem

Summer in Winston-Salem brings an easygoing energy to downtown, where lively streets, walkable blocks, and a blend of indoor-and-outdoor culture make warm-weather exploring feel effortless. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel sits right in the center of it all, giving travelers a stylish home base whether they’re here for a fun summer vacation, family adventures, or sportsfilled weekends. Guests can wander from our doors to parks, entertainment districts, university campuses, and shaded city corners perfect for cooling off between outings.

A Summer of Soccer in Winston-Salem

This summer, soccer in Winston-Salem brings a new energy to the city as an international team trains nearby at the Wake Forest University complex. Supporters, families, and media crews arriving for extended stays can pair match excitement with fun summer activities.

German National Soccer Team Training at Wake Forest

Wake Forest University serves as the German National Team’s training headquarters. Just a 10-minute drive away, Kimpton Cardinal is ideally located for guests joining the influx of media, families, and fans.

Two soccer players with ball

Match-Day Moments

Capture the unique opportunity to experience practices in an intimate setting. Watch parties, lively patios, and shared match-day traditions create an electric atmosphere throughout the city.

Downtown Sign in Winston Salem

Outdoor Adventures: Bike Trails + Summer Fun


Guitar close-up

Summer Music + Movies

Celebrate the season with Winston-Salem’s signature summer traditions, including the beloved Summer Music Series, the vibrant Summer on Fourth concerts, evenings of live jazz in downtown’s intimate venues, and Movies on the Lawn at Bailey Park. Together, they create a soundtrack for unforgettable summer nights.

Family bike ride

Bike Trails

One of the most popular ways to experience the season is by hopping on Winston-Salem’s bike trails, which wind through greenways, scenic paths, and leafy parks suited for casual riders and serious cyclists alike. Cruiser bikes and Micro Kickboard scooters —available in two children's sizes, along with Nutcase helmets—are complimentary during your stay.

Outdoor dining at restaurant

Outdoor Dining

The Katharine is an open, light-filled space buzzing with energy and urbane comfort. Our open-air patio is ideal for enjoying a meal or sipping on seasonal cocktails. Join us at The Katharine every Thursday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM for live music.

Annual Events


Cyclist

Gear & Guitars

May 22–23, 2026

Elite cycling races combine with free outdoor concerts for a high-energy Memorial Day weekend unlike any other. Taking place in downtown Winston-Salem and surrounding streets, the event blends live music, competition, and community celebration.

DJ at turntable

1 Love Festival

June 25–27, 2026

Celebrate music, culture, and community at the 1 Love Festival, a vibrant gathering featuring international musicians, artists, and creative voices. Taking place across Winston-Salem venues including The Ramkat, the festival brings soulful performances and immersive experiences to the city.

Tennis raquet

Winston-Salem Open

August 22–29, 2026

Experience world-class tennis at the Winston-Salem Open, an ATP Tour event where top international players compete just before the US Open. Held at the Wake Forest Tennis Complex, the tournament offers an intimate, fan-friendly atmosphere close to downtown.

A Boutique Summer in the Heart of Winston-Salem


After a day in the sun, the hotel’s cool lounges, inviting dining spaces, and airy interiors offer the perfect retreat before heading back out to enjoy the city’s evening rhythm.

View Amenities

Hotel guests enjoy a drink in the living room

With easy access to local favorites like Reynolda Village and the lakeside paths of Salem Lake, summer here feels both vibrant and wonderfully relaxed.

Destination Guide

Reynolda Mile