Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your vacation. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, a thrilling mountain adventure, or a charming city escape, North Carolina offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget.
Best Places to Stay in NC
From luxurious resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, North Carolina boasts an abundance of accommodations that cater to all types of travelers. This overview will explore some of the best places to stay in the state, highlighting their unique features and attractions.
Coastal Charms
The Outer Banks, with its iconic lighthouses and pristine beaches, is a popular destination for families and couples alike.
Mountain Majesty
The Blue Ridge Mountains offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and charming towns.
City Sophistication
Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville provide a blend of urban amenities and cultural attractions.
Best Places to Stay in North Carolina
North Carolina, with its stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities, offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventurous escape, the Tar Heel State has a perfect place for you to call home away from home.
Mountain Escapes
For those who crave breathtaking scenery and crisp mountain air, North Carolina’s western region is a haven. Nestled amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, these charming towns and resorts provide a tranquil retreat.
Asheville
Asheville, known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers a plethora of lodging options. From historic inns to modern boutique hotels, you’ll find accommodations to match your style.
* Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville:** This luxurious hotel boasts stunning mountain views, a rooftop bar, and an art gallery showcasing local talent.
* The Omni Grove Park Inn:** A historic landmark with elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.
* Aloft Asheville Downtown:** A stylish and modern hotel in the heart of the city, perfect for those seeking a trendy and convenient stay.
Banner Elk & Boone
These charming towns, located in the High Country, offer a more rustic and laid-back atmosphere. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Bacalar)
* Chetola Resort:** A sprawling resort with cabins, cottages, and a championship golf course, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
* Westglow Resort & Spa:** A luxurious spa resort offering a tranquil escape with gourmet dining, rejuvenating treatments, and stunning mountain views.
Brevard
Known for its access to Pisgah National Forest and the renowned DuPont State Recreational Forest, Brevard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
* The Esmeralda Inn:** A cozy and charming bed and breakfast with a focus on local cuisine and personalized service.
* Pisgah Inn:**** A historic lodge located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails.
Coastal Retreats
North Carolina’s coastline boasts miles of pristine beaches, charming towns, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Outer Banks**
The Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure.
* The Sanderling Resort:**** A luxurious oceanfront resort with stunning views, a spa, and a variety of activities, including golf and watersports.
* The Inn at Corolla Light:**** A charming inn with a focus on hospitality and Southern charm, offering breathtaking ocean views and easy access to the beach.
* Wright Brothers National Memorial:**** A historic site commemorating the Wright brothers’ first successful flight, offering a glimpse into aviation history.
Wilmington**
Wilmington, a historic port city, offers a blend of Southern charm, cultural attractions, and coastal beauty.
* The Hotel Ballast:**** A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, offering modern amenities and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
* The Graystone Inn:**** A historic inn with a focus on Southern hospitality, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
* **Airlie Gardens:** A beautiful botanical garden with stunning floral displays, walking trails, and a serene atmosphere.
Crystal Coast**
The Crystal Coast, known for its clear waters and abundance of marine life, offers a tranquil escape. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Syracuse Ny)
* **The Sanderling Resort:**** A luxurious oceanfront resort with stunning views, a spa, and a variety of activities, including golf and watersports.
* **The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores:**** A charming inn with a focus on hospitality and Southern charm, offering breathtaking ocean views and easy access to the beach.
* **North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores:**** A world-class aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of the region.
City Stays
North Carolina’s vibrant cities offer a mix of urban excitement, cultural attractions, and culinary delights.
Raleigh**
The state capital, Raleigh, is a thriving hub of innovation, education, and culture.
* **The Umstead Hotel and Spa:** A luxurious resort offering world-class amenities, including a spa, fine dining, and a championship golf course.
* **The Raleigh Hotel:** A stylish and modern hotel in the heart of downtown, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
* **North Carolina Museum of Art:** A world-renowned museum showcasing a diverse collection of art from around the globe.
Charlotte**
Charlotte, a major financial center, boasts a vibrant arts scene, a thriving culinary scene, and a plethora of outdoor activities.
* **The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte:** A luxurious hotel offering stunning city views, a spa, and fine dining.
* **The Ballantyne Hotel:** A sprawling resort with a focus on hospitality and Southern charm, offering a variety of amenities, including a spa, golf course, and multiple restaurants.
* **NASCAR Hall of Fame:** A must-visit for racing enthusiasts, showcasing the history and legends of NASCAR.
Durham****
Durham, a rapidly growing city known for its vibrant arts scene and innovative spirit, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and Southern charm.
* **The Durham Hotel:** A stylish and modern hotel in the heart of downtown, offering a rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
* **21c Museum Hotel Durham:** A unique hotel that combines art, culture, and hospitality, featuring rotating art exhibitions and a restaurant serving innovative cuisine.
* **Duke University:** A world-renowned university with a beautiful campus and a vibrant cultural scene. (See Also: Istanbul Best Places To Stay)
Recap
North Carolina offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. From the breathtaking mountain scenery of Asheville to the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks, the Tar Heel State has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventurous escape, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular tourist destinations in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers a diverse range of attractions, including the vibrant city of Asheville known for its arts scene and Blue Ridge Mountain views, the Outer Banks with its beautiful beaches and historic lighthouses, and the charming town of Beaufort on the Crystal Coast. Other popular destinations include the Biltmore Estate, Chimney Rock State Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
What type of accommodation is best for families in North Carolina?
For families, vacation rentals like houses or condos often provide more space and amenities than hotels. Many offer kitchens, laundry facilities, and private outdoor areas. Theme parks like Carowinds or water parks often have on-site hotels with family-friendly features.
What is the best time of year to visit North Carolina?
The best time to visit North Carolina depends on your interests. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer (June-August) is ideal for beach vacations, while winter (December-February) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains.
What is the average cost of accommodation in North Carolina?
Accommodation costs in North Carolina vary depending on location, time of year, and type of lodging. Budget-friendly options like hostels or campgrounds can cost as little as $20-$50 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $80-$150 per night, while luxury resorts can exceed $200 per night.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations in North Carolina?
Yes, many hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in North Carolina welcome pets. It’s always best to call ahead and confirm pet policies, as well as any associated fees or restrictions.