When it comes to tourist destinations, Charlotte might not get as much love as other cities in the USA. But in recent years, the largest city in North Carolina has rapidly emerged as a surprisingly cool travel destination. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, there is always something new and exciting to see and do in this dynamic city. 

Charlotte is also home to the picture-perfect historic neighborhood of Dilworth where you’ll find historic bungalows, cute boutiques, and trendy cafes. And if you’re looking to have fun in the sun, you can partake in water activities on nearby Lake Norman or go hiking or fishing at Little Sugar Creek Greenway. Those looking to explore the city’s quirky side will definitely want to pay a visit to the art galleries, vintage shops, and microbreweries in the NoDa Arts District. 

There’s no doubt that Charlotte is brimming with stylish boutique hotels, charming inns, and luxurious modern hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Charlotte to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Charlotte, North Carolina

Where to Stay in Charlotte

Most of the best hotels in Charlotte are located in the bustling Uptown. If this is your first time in the city or you’re traveling here on business, this is the most convenient place to base yourself. 

As the city’s central business district, you’ll be surrounded by modern high-rise hotels, sports arenas, and the Charlotte Convention Center. Plus, this part of town is home to some of the most popular attractions, restaurants, and nightlife venues in the city. 

If you want to be close to downtown but a bit removed from the action, you might consider staying in a historic inn in the picturesque Dilworth neighborhood or staying in the shopper’s mecca of SouthEnd. For those looking to be in the coolest part of town, you’ll love NoDa. Just a few miles from the heart of town, you’ll find all sorts of funky hotels, cool art galleries, and trendy cafes in this neighborhood.

But no matter where you stay in Charlotte, rest assured you’ll find plenty of great hotels to choose from!

The 12 Best Hotels in Charlotte, NC

1. The Ivey’s

If you want to stay in the “it” spot in Charlotte, look no further than The Ivey’s. It’s privately owned by the owners of the famous Marlin in Miami. Plus LeBron James booked the entire place for an All-Star game and celebrity designer Nick Alain is responsible for the interior decor. These are just a few reasons why The Ivey’s is hands down the best boutique hotel in Charlotte!

You’ll love all of The Ivey’s cool amenities. The Library Lounge offers a lovely breakfast, all-day snacks, and complimentary evening cheese, charcuterie, wine, and champagne. You can also sip craft cocktails in the stunning Sophia’s Lounge or wine and dine at one of Charlotte’s best restaurants, 5Church.

The 47 impossibly stylish rooms boast reclaimed 400-year-old French oak floors, custom designer lighting fixtures, and carefully curated furnishings. You love the thoughtful extras including the Dean & DeLuca snacks, Nespresso coffee machines, and Mistral bath products. If you see something you like, you can even purchase some of the room’s stylish decor in the lobby!

You may never want to leave this incredible boutique hotel, but you’ll be a stone’s throw from some of Uptown’s best restaurants, museums, and nightlife venues.

2. The Duke Mansion

If huge hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Duke Mansion is an incredible option. Located in a 1915 home, this dreamy bed and breakfast has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property is set on 4.5 acres of impeccably landscaped land in the lush Myers Park, just 10 minutes from the heart of town.

Each of the 20 rooms is completely unique but they all boast classic furniture, plush beds with designer linens, and historic decor. Depending on which room you pick, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing amenities from standalone soaking tubs to antique writing desks. The Dowd Suite and King Porch Room feature a shared sleeping porch where you can enjoy an evening glass of wine with garden views. 

Be sure to fill up on the lavish (and free!) buffet breakfast, which features delicious items like biscuits and gravy, fluffy quiches, and yogurt and fruit. If you want a leisurely breakfast in bed, the friendly staff will even deliver breakfast to your room. You can even opt for the Luxury Package, which includes a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, a $50 voucher to a local restaurant, and more!

3. Kimpton Tryon Park

Whether you’re in town on business or pleasure, Kimpton Tryon Park is the perfect pick. Not only can you walk to the Convention Center, but you’re just four blocks from Bank of America Stadium if you want to catch a Panther’s game. Plus, the hotel’s free bikes and house car service makes getting around a breeze!

You’ll love unwinding in the contemporary rooms after a long day spent exploring Charlotte. Have a chilled-out movie night with the pillowtop bed and large flat-screen, luxuriate in the Carrera Marble bathroom with Atelier Bloem bath products, and take in the city views from the floor-to-ceiling picture windows. 

Head up to the hip rooftop bar for sunset drinks. Merchant & Trade is perched on the 19th floor and offers a long list of excellent cocktails and shareable plates. You can also mingle with fellow guests at the evening social hour over complimentary local craft beers and cocktail-infused sweet tea!

Kimpton is also home to one of the most popular eateries in Uptown. Angeline’s has emerged as a local favorite (so you know it’s good!) and serves up creative Italian fare from wood-fired pizzas to homemade pastas. 

4. The Dunhill Hotel

The Dunhill is housed in a beautiful 1929 Classical Revival-style building and stands proud as one of Charlotte’s most iconic landmarks. This boutique hotel is even a member of the Historic Hotels of America!

In line with the hotel’s history, each of the modern rooms is outfitted with fun 1920s accents. You’ll love the comfy beds, beautiful writing desks, and marble ensuites with Beekman toiletries. The iPod docking stations, Keurig coffeemakers, and turndown service with the hotel’s signature chocolates are nice added touches.

Expect all sorts of thoughtful freebies including freshly baked cookies every afternoon, a tea and coffee bar until 8 pm, and a wine social on Wednesdays. Be sure to fill up on the complimentary hot breakfast before hitting the town. 

You’ll definitely want to enjoy at least one meal at the onsite restaurant, The Asbury. This stylish eatery serves up Southern dishes with a creative twist. Think brisket and egg breakfast sandwiches, buttermilk biscuits with goat cheese icing, and bourbon-braised pork with stone-ground grits and beer-braised collards.

The Dunhill is located right in the middle of the action. NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Mint Museum, and Bank of American Stadium are all just blocks away.

5. Omni Charlotte Hotel

The Omni is the perfect choice if you’re looking to be right in the heart of Uptown. All of the restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues of the Epicentre complex are directly across the street. Plus, you can access some of Charlotte’s main attractions via a covered skywalk so the location can’t be beat!

The highlight of this hotel is definitely the rooftop pool and sundeck. Soak up the sun on the loungers, order up poolside cocktails and graze on light bites at Coin Bar, or watch the big game on the 22-foot LED TVs. The rooftop also offers sweeping views of the city.

When it comes to neighborhood restaurants, you’ll be spoiled for choice. But if you feel like dining at the hotel, Trade Restaurant serves up American comfort food with a modern twist. You can indulge in everything from beer-braised short ribs to beef barbacoa quesadillas.

The recently renovated rooms have everything you need to relax after a long day of work or play. You’ll love wrapping yourself up in the ultra-soft robe, getting comfy on the plush bed, and keeping up with your favorite shows with the 49-inch flat-screen. The iHome clock radios and Keurig coffee machines are much appreciated for those early morning wake-up calls. 

6. The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte

If you want to go all out on your trip to Charlotte, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton. This luxurious hotel has so many amazing amenities you’ll never want to leave! 

You’ll love getting pampered at the rooftop spa, which features a long menu of unique treatments. Be sure to pay a visit to the pink Himalayan salt room or indulge in an organic honey treatment. The honey and other organic ingredients used at the spa are all sourced from the rooftop garden and beehive!

You can sip cocktails and small-batch spirits at the 19th-century speakeasy, head over to the elegant K Lounge for pre-dinner drinks, or go wine and cheese tasting at the onsite tasting room and boutique. If you want to splurge on a fancy meal, BLT Steak serves some of the finest cuts of beef in town.

All rooms boast contemporary furnishings, artwork from local artists, floor-to-ceiling windows, and luxurious baths with soaking tubs. But if you want to go big, definitely book the incredible 2,900-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite. This luxurious suite boasts a large living room, a full kitchen, a butler’s entrance, and your very own Peloton bike.

7. Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark

Renaissance is an excellent option if you want to base yourself in the upscale SouthPark neighborhood. Located a short drive from the action in Uptown, SouthPark offers a more relaxed, suburban feel. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s best shopping centers and restaurants.

Polished rooms feature beautiful hardwood floors, mid-century-style decor, workstations with ergonomic chairs, and 55-inch smart TVs with Netflix and HBO. Upgraded rooms and suites boast awesome amenities from furnished balconies to stylish living rooms and fully equipped kitchens. 

When you’re not out and about exploring Charlotte you can do laps in the indoor pool, get your Peloton on in the fully outfitted fitness center, or hunker down with a good book in the tranquil atrium. 

In the mornings, get your Starbucks fix and a breakfast sandwich at R Cafe. If you’ve just arrived in town and don’t feel like hunting for a restaurant in the evening, R Bar mixes up excellent cocktails and Flagstones has a tempting selection of classic Southern and American dishes.

8. Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte

The Argentinian-influenced rooms at the Grand Bohemian Hotel are the epitome of style. You’ll love the whimsical furniture, funky hanging lamps, and boldly colored accents. Plus, all rooms feature thoughtful extras like plush pillowtop mattresses, coffee makers with Starbucks coffee, and flat screens with multiple streaming services. 

The hip rooftop bar is reason enough to book a night at this gem of a hotel. Búho Bar is modeled after the sophisticated bars found around South America. Expect elegant decor, creative cocktails, and lively music that plays until the wee hours. 

For lunch, head out to the lush Bohemian Garden where you can enjoy a leisurely meal under the sun. And dinner at Mico is a must! The hotel restaurant serves up globally inspired seasonal dishes from baked Carolina oysters with creamed spinach and harrisa to grilled cauliflower steaks with Chimichurri. 

You can also get pampered at the penthouse spa, keep up with your workout regime at the fitness center, and get some work done in one of the art-filled lounge areas. The Grand Bohemian is set right in the heart of Uptown, so some of Charlotte’s best attractions are just steps away!

9. The Ballantyne 

If you want to live in the lap of luxury, The Ballantyne Hotel is one of the best hotels in Charlotte. Not only will you have access to a wide range of incredible amenities, but this luxury hotel was recently renovated so everything is new and modern.

One of the biggest draws of The Ballantyne is its championship golf course. But even if golfing isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy. You’ll love swimming in the four indoor and outdoor pools, stargazing in the outdoor hot tub, and getting massages at the spa.

When it comes to dining options, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Gallery specializes in New American cuisine with a Southern flair and boasts one of the largest whiskey collections in North Carolina. You can also sip cocktails with a view at The Ryal. Or if you feel like having a lazy night in, you can order room service 24 hours a day. 

The updated rooms boast contemporary furniture and artwork, comfy beds with Frette linens, and marble baths with Molton Brown bath products. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the suites are well worth the splurge and offer balconies with golf course views, spacious living areas, and fully outfitted kitchens.

10. The Morehead Inn

The Morehead Inn is housed in a 1917 Colonial revival-style mansion and is nestled right in the heart of the historic Dilworth neighborhood. While it might feel like you’re in your own world, all of the attractions of Uptown are just two miles away. 

Step inside this impeccably decorated inn and you’ll immediately see why it’s lauded as one of the best boutique hotels in Charlotte. Every room of the house looks like it was ripped straight from a magazine. Not to mention, you’ll find hidden treasures in every nook and cranny!

Because of the historic nature of the building, every room is completely unique. The charming rooms are chock full of ornate antiques, period furniture, and modern amenities. Depending on which room you choose, you’ll enjoy unique features from sunrooms to private courtyards and balconies with porch swings. 

Be sure to enjoy the complimentary gourmet Southern breakfast before you head into town for the day. If you feel like exploring picture-perfect Dilworth, you can hop on one of the inn’s free bikes and cruise around! Otherwise, downtown is a short drive away.

11. The Westin Charlotte

Housed in a glass skyscraper right next to the Charlotte Convention Center and Bank of America Stadium, The Westin is an excellent option whether you’re in town on business or for fun.

You’ll love crashing out in the sleek rooms each evening. Each newly renovated room boasts ultra-comfy beds, oversized sofas, and designated workstations with ergonomic chairs. The Starbucks coffee, Sleep Well Lavender Balm, and ensuite with a rain shower and Westin White Tea Heavenly amenities are thoughtful touches. 

You can sweat it out on a Peloton bike in the state-of-the-art fitness center, splash around in the heated indoor pool, or work on your tan on the sundeck. 

The hotel does offer a buffet breakfast for $25 or you can opt to dine at one of the area’s many popular brunch spots. The onsite SoCo Cafe serves Starbucks coffee, pastries, and grab-and-go sandwiches if you’re in a rush in the morning. 

For dinner, JP Charlotte dishes out seasonally inspired brick-fired steaks, burgers, and flatbreads. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, SoCo Bar has an impressive menu of artisanal cocktails and light bites. It’s the perfect place to unwind at the end of a long day.

12. Charlotte Marriott City Center 

As the name implies, it doesn’t get any more centrally located than the Charlotte Marriott City Center. The NASCAR Hall of Fame, Bank of America Stadium, and Discovery Place are all just a stone’s throw away. Plus, some of Charlotte’s best restaurants are just steps from the hotel, including 5Church, Fahrenheit Charlotte, and Haymaker. 

If you feel like having a leisurely movie night, you can order room service any time of day or night and pick out a Netflix movie with the smart TV. You’ll love the floor-to-ceiling windows with city views, sleek hardwood floors, and luxurious baths. 

Upgraded M Club Lounge rooms give you access to the exclusive lounge as well as daily complimentary breakfasts, all-day snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, and sitting areas where you can mingle or get some work done. 

You’ll definitely want to sample some of the creative dishes at the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, Stoke. Not only do they source ingredients from local farms and vendors, but they cook many of their dishes in the 600-degree wood-fired oven. Expect delectable concoctions like gourmet burgers with glazed bacon and gruyere and creamy grits with North Carolina shrimp and lump crab.

That’s it – 12 of the best Charlotte hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Charlotte? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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