Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in North Carolina (Currently Open)
North Carolina is a state of majestic landscapes, deep traditions and unforgettable places to stay. From sweeping mountain vistas in the Blue Ridge to tranquil coastal retreats, the Tar Heel State offers a wide range of luxury escapes and heritage-rich getaways. Whether you’re a curious traveler, seeking a family-friendly retreat, or simply longing for a weekend escape, embracing the best hotels in North Carolina sets the tone for an exceptional experience. Below are fifteen standout places that combine history, charm and comfort—currently open and ready for guests.
1. The Inn on Biltmore Estate – Asheville’s Mountain Castle Escape
Set within the sprawling Biltmore Estate in Asheville, The Inn on Biltmore Estate embodies the luxury of the Gilded Age in a mountain-setting. Built as part of the estate experience, the Inn offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge, refined accommodations and an atmosphere of privilege. designworkshop.com+2Biltmore+2
What makes it iconic:
Access to 8,000 acres of estate grounds, gardens and history. Biltmore+1
Refined dining, especially at the Dining Room, library lounge and estate winery experiences. Kelly Prince Writes
Elegant rooms including suites with mountain views. Biltmore
Perfect for couples, heritage-seekers and anyone wanting to stay at the heart of North Carolina’s finest.
2. Omni Grove Park Inn – Historic Luxury with Mountain Panorama
In Asheville’s western slope, the Omni Grove Park Inn is a grand resort dating back to 1913, built in the Arts & Crafts style with distinctive granite architecture. Wikipedia+1
Why it stands out:
Hand-crafted stonework, a centennial legacy, and guest list that once included U.S. presidents.
A full wellness spa, golf course and panoramic mountain views.
Ideal for multi-generation trips and couples seeking a luxurious historic retreat.
3. Old Edwards Inn & Spa – Highlands’ Mountain Retreat with European Flair
Located in the mountain town of Highlands, Old Edwards Inn & Spa offers a European-style luxury escape in the Blue Ridge. Old Edwards Inn & Spa+1
Signature features:
Historic building with modern amenities, surrounded by quaint shops and galleries.
A 25,000-square-foot spa, meticulous service and gourmet dining.
Ideal for romantic stays, spa lovers and those exploring mountain plateaus.
4. Pinehurst Resort – Timeless Golf & Southern Hospitality
In Pinehurst lies Pinehurst Resort, a historic resort founded in 1895 that merges heritage with recreation. Historic Hotels Worldwide
Highlights:
Classic-style accommodations, scenic grounds and one of America’s iconic golf courses.
Family-friendly with activities beyond golf: spa, tennis, trails.
A must for anyone seeking a southern resort experience with style.
5. Carolina Inn – Chapel Hill Institutional Elegance
At the heart of Chapel Hill, The Carolina Inn (est. 1923) combines collegiate charm with historic refinement. Wikipedia
Why consider it:
A campus-adjacent gem with classic architecture, stately rooms and convenient location.
Great for families, university visitors, or those seeking a distinguished stay in central North Carolina.
6. Dunhill Hotel – Charlotte’s Historic Boutique Getaway
In downtown Charlotte, the The Dunhill Hotel offers boutique luxury in a revitalized 1929 building. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s special:
Historic architecture, thoughtfully modernized rooms, and urban access.
Ideal for business travelers, weekend city getaways, and lovers of historic hotels with edge.
7. Brookstown Inn – Winston-Salem’s Mill Conversion Hideaway
In Winston-Salem, Brookstown Inn revives what was once a cotton mill complex into an intimate historic inn. NC Tripping
Key features:
Historic building elements like exposed beams and brick, mixed with modern comforts.
Located near Old Salem and historic districts—great for culture-rich stays.
Perfect for travellers who seek uniqueness and regional character.
8. Haywood Park Hotel – Boutique Elegance in Asheville
Also in Asheville, the Haywood Park Hotel occupies a downtown historic building and offers upscale boutique accommodations. Romantic Asheville+1
What to expect:
Sophisticated décor, oversized suites and a central downtown location.
Excellent choice for a city-luxury stay with access to Asheville’s dining and arts scene.
9. The Graylyn Estate – Winston-Salem’s Grand Country Manor Experience
The Graylyn Estate offers something different: an opulent country‐house stay in a restored 85-room manor built in 1932. Historic Hotels Worldwide
Highlights:
Lavish décor, estate grounds, and vantage of historic luxury.
Suitable for destination weddings, upscale retreats, or indulgent weekend escapes.
10. The Cardinal Hotel – Rendering Historic into Chic in Winston-Salem
In downtown Winston-Salem, The Cardinal Hotel brings style to a transformed historic building. NC Tripping
What you get:
Boutique modern design merged with original building character.
Great for hip city stays, food-and-culture fans and design-conscious travelers.
11. Island Guest House – Manteo / Outer Banks Coastal Getaway
For a coastal escape, Island Guest House on Roanoke Island provides serene charm near the Outer Banks. North Carolina Traveler
Essential features:
Boutique coastal inn with relaxed luxury and proximity to beaches and maritime adventure.
Ideal for couples, small families or anyone seeking seaside calm.
12. Sanderling Resort – Duck / Outer Banks Oceanfront Relaxation
On the Outer Banks, the Sanderling Resort is a luxury full-service beachfront resort offering ocean views, spa services and private beach access. Southern Living
Why you’ll love it:
Beachfront comfort, resort amenities and upscale service in a coastal setting.
Suitable for families, multigenerational groups and beach-lovers.
13. High Hampton Inn – Highlands/Cashiers Plateau Escape
While slightly off the beaten path, High Hampton Inn offers luxury nestled in mountain serenity on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Condé Nast Traveler
What makes it stand out:
Elegant historic lodge feel, surrounded by nature, hiking, lakes and refined relaxation.
Excellent for unplugged getaways, couples retreating from city life, or romantic stays.
14. The Durham Hotel – Edgy Downtown Stay in Durham
In Durham, The Durham Hotel offers boutique character, local art and a vibrant downtown location. NC Tripping
What to know:
Modern, design-forward accommodation with an authentic urban flavor.
Ideal for culture fans, city explorers and couples wanting to dig into Durham’s food and arts scene.
15. The Waverly Inn – Historic Charm in Hendersonville
Rounding out the list, The Waverly Inn is a lesser-known gem: a historic inn in Hendersonville offering stay-in-town convenience with mountain-town charm. Wikipedia
Why it’s worthy:
Historic architecture, cozy lodging, and location near Hendersonville’s shops and trails.
Good value, regional character and appealing to travelers seeking authenticity.
How to Choose Your Perfect Getaway in North Carolina
With so many exceptional options, here’s a simple guide to match your mood and travel style:
Mountain luxury & spa retreat? Go with Old Edwards Inn or High Hampton Inn.
Historic resort with sweeping views? Choose The Inn on Biltmore Estate or Omni Grove Park Inn.
City stays with design flair? Consider Dunhill Hotel (Charlotte), The Durham (Durham) or The Cardinal (Winston-Salem).
Coastal escape? Sanderling Resort (Outer Banks) or Island Guest House (Manteo) will deliver sand, sea and serenity.
Golf and resort tradition? Pinehurst Resort is your go-to.
Historic inn with strong local character? Brookstown Inn, Carolina Inn or The Waverly Inn are excellent.
Why These Hotels Are Search-Friendly, Shareable and Evergreen
These properties span geographic regions—mountains, coast, cities—so they appeal to a wide audience.
They combine heritage and luxury, enabling phrases like “best historic hotel in North Carolina”, “luxury resort in NC mountains” or “iconic coastal hotel North Carolina” which perform well in search.
Many have strong narratives—eyecatching history, architecture, famous guests—making them ideal for social shares.
They remain open, continuously operated, and relevant rather than temporary offerings.
Conclusion: Your North Carolina Stay-cation Starts Here
Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain retreat, city-luxury stay or beachside unwind, these top 15 iconic hotels and getaways in North Carolina cover the spectrum. Each destination brings its own heritage, signature experience and sense of place. From the Gilded-Age grandeur of The Inn on Biltmore Estate to the coastal calm of Sanderling Resort, you’re not just booking a room—you’re embracing a story.
Ready to experience North Carolina in style? Choose your region, pick your pace, and book that stay. Your next journey to the Tar Heel State could be your most memorable yet.