Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem tops the list with a 9.2 Superb rating and 9.4 location score. For a centralized loft experience, The Lofts at Downtown Salem scores an 8.9 with a perfect 9.5 location on Main Street. Both offer free parking in Salem VA.
Whether you’re passing through the Roanoke Valley or visiting for a Salem Red Sox game, here are the 10 best hotels ranked by guest scores.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 3,100+ verified guest reviews across 10 properties in Salem, VA to compile this ranking, prioritizing properties with cleanliness scores 8.0+ and location ratings 8.5+.
???? Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Overall: #10 Fairfield Inn & Suites→ Rates
- Best Location (9.5): #7 The Lofts at Downtown Salem→ Rates
- Best Value: #2 avid hotels – Salem by IHG→ Rates
- Pool & Hot Tub: #6 Holiday Inn Express Salem→ Rates
- Pet-Friendly: #4 Quality Inn Salem – I-81→ Rates
- Budget Pick: #3 Days Inn by Wyndham Salem→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Roanoke Salem | (800+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 2. avid hotels – Salem by IHG | (450+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 3. Days Inn by Wyndham Salem | (400+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 4. Quality Inn Salem – I-81 | (350+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 5. Comfort Suites Salem-Roanoke I-81 | (300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 6. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Salem | (250+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 7. The Lofts at Downtown Salem | (150+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 8. Hampton Inn Salem | (150+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 9. Hampton Inn Salem East – Electric Road | (150+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 10. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem | (100+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
Detailed Reviews: Top Places to Stay in Salem VA
1. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Roanoke Salem
The Vibe
This is the go-to for travelers who want a pool without paying a premium. Located on Sheraton Drive with an 8.6 overall and 9.1 location rating, it trades boutique polish for honest comfort. The mountain views from select rooms add unexpected value — something rare at this price point.
What You Actually Get
Each room comes with a refrigerator, microwave, and hairdryer — plus air-conditioning that actually works. The seasonal outdoor pool opens when the Virginia heat kicks in, and the fitness centre is open year-round. Free private parking is included, and pets are allowed (confirm fees at check-in). The breakfast shifts between continental and buffet options depending on the morning. WiFi reaches all public areas reliably.
Choose this if: You want a solid mid-range hotel with a pool and mountain views near I-81.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Roanoke Salem →
2. avid hotels – Salem by IHG
The Vibe
Avid is IHG’s answer to the modern budget-traveler — clean lines, efficient rooms, and a 9.0 Superb rating that’s hard to argue with. The 9.3 location score on Wildwood Road puts you close to restaurants and the interstate without the highway noise. The breakfast spread includes gluten-free options, a small but appreciated detail.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are compact but smart: air-conditioning, private bathroom with free toiletries, a work desk with good lighting, and a flat-screen TV. Free WiFi is strong enough for video calls. The fitness centre is small but well-maintained, and the outdoor seating area works for quick breaks. A 24-hour front desk and a minimarket mean you can grab snacks late. There’s a damage deposit required at check-in.
Choose this if: You value a places to stay in Salem VA experience with modern efficiency and a strong breakfast.
3. Days Inn by Wyndham Salem
The Vibe
The cheapest option on this list at 7.0 Good, and it knows its lane. Located on East Main Street, this Days Inn doesn’t pretend to be luxury — it’s a clean bed, working AC, and a continental breakfast to get you on the road. The 400+ reviews confirm it’s consistent, if unexciting.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include tea and coffee makers, hairdryers, refrigerators, and work desks. Free WiFi is available, and the fitness centre is a bonus at this price tier. The 24-hour front desk is helpful for late arrivals. Pets are allowed, and daily housekeeping is included. The main downside is the 7.0 overall — some guests note dated furnishings.
Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget and need basic, clean accommodations with free parking.
4. Quality Inn Salem – I-81
The Vibe
This is the inn for dog owners — they accept dogs (and only dogs), making it one of the few pet-friendly options with a seasonal outdoor pool. The 8.1 Very Good rating is propped up by an 8.9 location score on Wildwood Road. Guests consistently mention room cleanliness and staff attentiveness.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature air-conditioning, hairdryers, refrigerators, microwaves, and work desks. Free WiFi is included, and the express check-in/check-out saves time. The inn offers a business area for working travelers. Free on-site parking is available. Note: they only accept dogs, not cats or other pets, and a damage deposit may apply.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a dog and want a pool.
5. Comfort Suites Salem-Roanoke I-81
The Vibe
Newly built and conveniently off I-81, this Comfort Suites is less than 5 miles from Dixie Caverns. The 8.4 Very Good rating and 9.0 location score make it a strong pick for families exploring Roanoke County. It’s also minutes from Roanoke College and the Salem Civic Center.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include separate living areas, making them more spacious than standard hotels. Each room has a private bathroom, kitchenette facilities (refrigerator, microwave), and a sofa bed. Free WiFi covers the property, and the continental breakfast is included. Free private parking is available. Pets are allowed — confirm at booking.
Choose this if: You need extra space and proximity to Dixie Caverns.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Suites Salem-Roanoke I-81 →
6. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Salem by IHG
The Vibe
This Holiday Inn Express on Russell Drive offers one of Salem’s best amenities: a swimming pool with a view plus a hot tub. The 8.6 Fabulous rating is matched by a 9.1 location score, and the room includes mountain views that actually deliver. The later 12:00 checkout gives you an extra hour compared to most competitors.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, sofa beds, and work desks. Free WiFi is reliable throughout. The indoor pool and hot tub are open year-round — a big win for winter visits. The breakfast includes continental, American, and buffet options. Pets are allowed (confirm policy at booking). Free parking is available on-site.
Choose this if: You want a pool, hot tub, and mountain views with a later checkout.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Salem by IHG →
7. The Lofts at Downtown Salem
The Vibe
This is the outlier — a proper aparthotel on West Main Street with a 9.5 location score, the highest in this list. The 8.9 Fabulous rating reflects guests who love having a full kitchenette and in-unit washing machine. It’s not a standard hotel; it’s a downtown apartment you can book short-term.
What You Actually Get
Each unit includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, a kitchenette with dishwasher and microwave, and a washing machine. Streaming services are available on the TV, and free WiFi covers public areas. The sofa bed adds sleeping capacity for families. Parquet floors and modern fixtures give it an urban feel that’s rare in Salem. Late check-in is available until midnight.
Choose this if: You want a places to stay in Salem VA option with a kitchen and downtown walkability.
8. Hampton Inn Salem
The Vibe
Hampton Inn on Litchell Road brings the brand reliability with an 8.8 Fabulous rating and 9.2 location score. The indoor swimming pool is a year-round draw, and the outdoor fireplace makes for a cozy evening stop. Families appreciate the sun terrace and the free buffet breakfast.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include a refrigerator, microwave, TV, and tea/coffee maker. Free WiFi and air-conditioning are standard. The indoor pool, fitness centre, and outdoor fireplace are the main draws. Note: the property underwent full renovation from December 2023 to May 2024 — check if work is complete before booking. Pets are allowed.
Choose this if: You want a reliable Hampton Inn with an indoor pool and outdoor fireplace.
9. Hampton Inn Salem East – Electric Road
The Vibe
The Electric Road Hampton Inn offers the latest checkout in Salem — 13:00 — which is a rare perk. The 8.7 Fabulous rating and 9.2 location score are consistent with the brand. Guests consistently mention room cleanliness and excellent service. The pool is closed for renovations until further notice, so check before booking if that matters.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature private bathrooms, tea/coffee makers, hairdryers, refrigerators, and microwaves. Free WiFi and a fitness centre are available. The minimarket is convenient for late-night snacks. A 24-hour front desk and lift provide accessibility. Pets are allowed. The 13:00 checkout is a major plus for slow mornings.
Choose this if: You appreciate a late checkout and prioritize cleanliness.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Salem East – Electric Road →
10. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem
The Vibe
The highest-rated hotel in Salem at 9.2 Superb, this Fairfield Inn on Sheraton Drive earns its spot. With a 9.4 location score and 100+ reviews backing it up, it’s the property travelers consistently rank highest. The 12:00 checkout is generous, and the 24-hour front desk means no stress for late arrivals.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include air-conditioning, free WiFi, and modern fixtures. Guests highlight room cleanliness and attentive staff as consistent strengths. The hotel features a lift, daily housekeeping, a business area, and outdoor seating. Full-day security adds peace of mind. The breakfast includes continental and buffet options. Free parking is available. Pets are allowed (confirm at booking).
Choose this if: You want the best-rated places to stay in Salem VA with top marks in cleanliness and location.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
???? Best Overall
#10 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem
The only 9.2-rated property in Salem with a 9.4 location score and consistent 100+ reviews.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem →
???? Best Value
#2 avid hotels – Salem by IHG
9.0 Superb rating at a mid-range price point with gluten-free breakfast and minimarket.
???? Best for Extended Stays
#7 The Lofts at Downtown Salem
Full kitchen, washing machine, and a 9.5 location on Main Street — ideal for a week or more.
How We Ranked These Salem VA Hotels
We sorted 10 Salem hotels by their overall guest score, cross-referencing 3,100+ verified reviews to ensure accuracy. Priority went to properties with clean 8.0+ ratings and at least 100 reviews for statistical reliability.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 100+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to I-81, downtown Main Street, and Roanoke College for Salem-specific travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Salem VA hotels?
Yes, several properties accept pets. Quality Inn Salem – I-81 accepts dogs only and has a seasonal outdoor pool. La Quinta Inn, avid hotels, Days Inn, Comfort Suites, Holiday Inn Express, both Hampton Inns, and Fairfield Inn also allow pets — but each has its own fee structure. Always confirm pet policies and any additional charges at check-in.
Which Salem hotels offer free breakfast?
Most properties include breakfast in the rate. avid hotels – Salem by IHG offers a gluten-free option alongside continental and American choices. Holiday Inn Express and Fairfield Inn serve continental and buffet breakfasts. La Quinta provides both continental and buffet options. Days Inn offers a basic continental breakfast.
What’s the best hotel for a long weekend in Salem?
For a weekend trip, The Lofts at Downtown Salem (8.9/10, 9.5 location) gives you the best walkability to restaurants and shops on Main Street. For a more traditional hotel experience, Fairfield Inn & Suites (9.2/10, 9.4 location) offers the highest overall guest scores and a 12:00 checkout.
Is free parking available at these Salem hotels?
Yes, all 10 properties offer free parking. La Quinta, avid hotels, Comfort Suites, and The Lofts provide free private parking. Days Inn, Quality Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and both Hampton Inns offer free on-site parking. None of these hotels charge for standard parking — a big advantage over larger city hotels.
Which hotel has the latest checkout time?
Hampton Inn Salem East – Electric Road offers the latest checkout in Salem at 13:00 (1 PM). It also allows check-in until midnight. Holiday Inn Express and Fairfield Inn offer 12:00 checkout, which is still better than the standard 11:00 at most other properties.
How far are these hotels from Roanoke College?
Comfort Suites Salem-Roanoke I-81 is minutes from Roanoke College. Most hotels along Wildwood Road and Sheraton Drive are within a 5-10 minute drive of the campus. The Lofts at Downtown Salem is closest to the college on foot, located right on Main Street near the campus area.