Weekend Getaways in North Carolina
North Carolina is a state that truly has it all, rolling mountains, charming small towns, vibrant cities, and a stretch of coastline that feels worlds away. Whether you’re after a laid-back escape, a food-and-culture fix, or an outdoor adventure, the Tar Heel State has a weekend trip ready to wow you. Here are the hotels, resorts, and inns that stood out most during my stays on my five week-long road trips, and I think you’ll love them too.
1. The Swag
Just an hour from Asheville, The Swag is an award-winning mountaintop inn perched at 5,000 feet on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What I love is how it pairs rustic authenticity with refined Southern hospitality. The design embraces a warm, cabin-inspired aesthetic with hand-hewn log beams, stone fireplaces, and panoramic windows opening to sweeping mountain views.
I think the Premium Room with a Private Porch is a good choice because it offers cozy, hand-crafted furnishings, a king bed with luxurious linens, a wood-burning fireplace, and a deep soaking tub. The private porch—outfitted with rocking chairs and mountain-inspired décor—creates an atmosphere that feels both serene and deeply personal. Thoughtful extras like locally sourced snacks, walking sticks, and plush robes make the experience feel elevated yet homey.
Around the property, I discovered curated hiking trails that begin right at the doorstep, lawn games, evening bonfires, complimentary picnics, a lending library, and chef-prepared seasonal meals served family-style in the lodge’s dining room. The inn’s intimate setting makes it feel more like staying at a private retreat than a resort.
Simply put, I think The Swag is one of the most special mountain getaways in North Carolina. Why? I especially appreciate the exclusive, adults-only environment, the all-inclusive dining, and the seamless access to both quiet seclusion and guided outdoor adventures. One tip: because there are only a handful of rooms, availability fills quickly during peak foliage and summer weekends—so book far in advance.
Things to do nearby include exploring Cataloochee Valley (famous for elk herds), driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, or venturing into Great Smoky Mountains National Park for waterfalls and wildflower hikes.
My favorite moment was enjoying sunrise coffee on the porch, wrapped in a blanket.
2. Old Edwards Inn and Spa
In the heart of Highlands, North Carolina, Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a European-style mountain retreat that blends Old World charm with modern luxury. Set amid the Blue Ridge Mountains, the property’s design evokes timeless elegance with stone terraces, wood-beamed ceilings, and lush gardens that invite you to slow down and savor the moment.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Premium King Room, which features rich hardwood floors, sumptuous linens, a marble bathroom with rainfall shower and soaking tub, and a cozy fireplace. Many rooms also include private terraces overlooking the gardens or charming downtown Highlands. Thoughtful amenities—like Nespresso machines, plush robes, and Molton Brown bath products—make it feel both luxurious and welcoming.
Around the resort, I discovered the award-winning Old Edwards Spa, multiple dining venues ranging from farm-to-table Southern cuisine to fine European-inspired fare, an outdoor heated mineral pool, fitness and wellness programs, boutique shopping, and beautifully landscaped grounds with waterfalls and terraces.
I especially appreciate the inn’s romantic atmosphere, its world-class spa experiences, and its seamless mix of relaxation and refined hospitality. One tip: book spa treatments well in advance, especially if visiting during the busy summer or leaf-peeping season.
Things to do nearby include exploring the charming boutiques and galleries of Highlands, hiking to Dry Falls or Whiteside Mountain, and enjoying scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
3. Graduate Chapel Hill
Right on Franklin Street, Graduate Chapel Hill is a boutique hotel that blends collegiate nostalgia with polished Southern charm. Just steps from the University of North Carolina campus, it’s the perfect stay for visitors who want to be immersed in the vibrant spirit of Chapel Hill. The design is playful yet refined, with vintage-inspired furnishings, bold pops of Carolina blue, and walls adorned with nods to Tar Heel traditions and history.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Graduate King Room, which features crisp, high-thread-count linens, a spacious work desk, retro-chic décor, and whimsical art touches that celebrate local culture. The rooms feel both stylish and cozy, with thoughtful amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, and Malin+Goetz bath products.
Around the hotel, I discovered a welcoming lobby café perfect for morning coffee or late-night snacks, bikes available for guests to cruise around town, and easy access to Franklin Street’s shops, restaurants, and live music venues. The atmosphere strikes a balance between youthful energy and boutique sophistication.
I think Graduate Chapel Hill is one of the best choices for a weekend in this lively college town. Why? I especially appreciate its fun, locally inspired design, convenient walkable location, and inviting communal spaces that make it easy to relax or socialize. One tip: game days and graduation weekends book up fast, so plan early if visiting during those peak times.
Things to do nearby include strolling around the UNC campus and Coker Arboretum, catching a performance at Memorial Hall, or enjoying a meal at one of Franklin Street’s iconic restaurants.
Check prices at Graduate Chapel Hill.
4. High Hampton Inn
Tucked into the Cashiers Valley, High Hampton Inn is a historic mountain resort surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Originally opened in 1922, it blends classic Southern hospitality with modern touches. The design feels timeless yet relaxed, with shingle-style architecture, wide porches lined with rocking chairs, and interiors that highlight natural wood, stone, and mountain-inspired accents.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Lakeview Room, which features crisp linens, custom furnishings, and a private balcony or porch overlooking Hampton Lake and the surrounding peaks. The rooms are charming and serene, with thoughtful amenities like locally inspired décor, spa-quality bath products, and cozy seating areas perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors.
Around the property, I discovered a private 35-acre lake with canoeing and paddleboarding, scenic hiking trails that connect to the Nantahala National Forest, a golf course redesigned by Tom Fazio, tennis courts, lawn games, and a variety of family-friendly programming. Dining is a highlight too, with seasonal menus that emphasize local ingredients and Southern flavors.
One tip: summer and fall weekends book quickly, so plan ahead if you want to secure lakeview accommodations.
Things to do nearby include exploring the shops and restaurants in Cashiers, hiking Whiteside Mountain for sweeping vistas, or chasing waterfalls at Silver Run and Whitewater Falls.
Check prices at High Hampton Inn & Country Club
5. Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill
In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just minutes from Asheville and Hendersonville, the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill offers a serene retreat that feels both elegant and welcoming. This award-winning B&B blends Southern hospitality with a polished, contemporary style. Each corner is thoughtfully curated, with light-filled rooms, inviting common spaces, and beautifully landscaped gardens designed for relaxation.
I recommend a two-night stay in the Lexington Suite, which features a king bed dressed in high-thread-count linens, a private sitting area, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, and décor inspired by refined Southern charm. The rooms are bright, airy, and restorative, with thoughtful amenities such as fresh flowers, plush robes, and homemade treats.
Around the property, I discovered peaceful walking paths through flower-filled gardens, cozy porches perfect for morning coffee, and a three-course gourmet breakfast served daily—complete with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The intimate scale of the inn makes every stay feel personalized and special.
Simply put, I think the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is one of the most charming romantic weekend getaways in North Carolina. Why? I especially appreciate the inn’s romantic ambiance, the attention to detail in every guest experience, and the way it encourages guests to slow down and savor simple pleasures. One tip: this is an adults-only property, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking quiet and rejuvenation.
Things to do nearby include exploring the Biltmore Estate, hiking in Pisgah National Forest, visiting waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls, or enjoying the shops and restaurants in Asheville and Hendersonville.
My favorite moment was savoring a leisurely breakfast on the porch, with the scent of fresh herbs in the garden and the Blue Ridge mist slowly lifting in the distance.
Check prices at Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill
6. O.Henry Hotel
In Greensboro, North Carolina, the O.Henry Hotel offers timeless Southern hospitality paired with classic, elegant design. Inspired by the city’s literary history, the hotel embraces an Arts & Crafts aesthetic, with warm wood accents, custom furnishings, and a light-filled lobby that feels welcoming and refined.
I recommend a two-night stay in a King Room with Garden View, which features plush bedding, a spacious marble bathroom with a soaking tub and separate glass shower, and oversized windows that frame the hotel’s beautifully landscaped courtyard. The rooms are comfortable yet upscale, with thoughtful amenities such as nightly turndown service, fresh flowers, and locally roasted coffee.
Around the property, I discovered a lush cloister garden perfect for morning walks, an inviting lobby for afternoon tea, a complimentary Southern-style breakfast, and easy access to the hotel’s acclaimed on-site restaurant, Green Valley Grill. The atmosphere blends graceful tradition with modern comfort, making it equally suited for romantic getaways, business stays, or cultural weekends in Greensboro.
I loved the attention to detail in both service and design, the sense of tranquility created by the gardens, and the way it celebrates local character. One tip: don’t miss afternoon tea service in the lobby—an experience that feels both indulgent and timeless.
Things to do nearby include visiting the Greensboro Science Center, exploring the Greensboro Arboretum, or enjoying performances at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts.
Check prices at O. Henry Hotel
My favorite moment was lingering over a candlelit dinner at Green Valley Grill, where the flavors of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine paired beautifully with the relaxed yet elegant setting.
7. Blackbeard’s Lodge
On Ocracoke Island, Blackbeard’s Lodge is the oldest operating hotel on the island, combining rich history with relaxed coastal charm. Dating back to the 1930s, the lodge preserves its vintage character while offering modern conveniences, creating a one-of-a-kind stay that feels both nostalgic and comfortable.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Deluxe Suite, which features a king bed, living area with kitchenette, and décor that reflects the inn’s historic roots with a touch of island flair. The rooms are spacious and welcoming, with thoughtful amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, and easy access to common spaces filled with antiques, books, and island memorabilia.
Around the property, I discovered a game room with billiards and air hockey, an outdoor pool, a library lounge, and bicycles available for exploring the village. The atmosphere feels laid-back and friendly, with a focus on creating a comfortable base for discovering Ocracoke’s natural beauty and local culture.
I especially like the blend of history and casual comfort, the family-run warmth of the inn, and its unbeatable location within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the harbor. One tip: ferry reservations to Ocracoke fill quickly during peak season, so book your transport early.
Things to do nearby include climbing the Ocracoke Lighthouse, strolling the village shops, exploring the pristine beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and learning local history at the British Cemetery.
Check prices at Blackbeard’s Lodge
My favorite moment was relaxing on the lodge’s front porch in the evening while the salty breeze drifted in from Silver Lake Harbor.
8. Historic Brookstown Inn
In downtown Winston-Salem, the Historic Brookstown Inn offers a stay that blends 19th-century charm with modern comfort. Originally a cotton mill built in 1837, the inn preserves its industrial roots with exposed brick walls, original wood beams, and tall windows, while layering in warm Southern hospitality.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Deluxe King Room, which features high ceilings, four-poster beds with plush linens, and spacious bathrooms with updated fixtures. Many rooms also include sitting areas and fireplaces, creating a setting that feels both historic and cozy. The thoughtful touches—such as locally roasted coffee, antique-inspired furnishings, and evening turndown service—add to the inn’s sense of character.
Around the property, I discovered complimentary wine and cheese receptions in the evening, fresh-baked cookies at night, a fitness center, and inviting common spaces filled with antiques and artwork that nod to the building’s history. The inn also offers a hearty Southern breakfast each morning, which feels like a true extension of its hospitality.
The inn has an authentic sense of place, where history is not just preserved but celebrated, and its welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like part of the story. One tip: if you’re visiting during holidays or downtown festivals, book early, as the inn is a popular choice for travelers who want character over chain hotels.
Things to do nearby include exploring Old Salem Museums & Gardens, visiting the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, or enjoying a performance at the Stevens Center.
My favorite moment was sipping a glass of wine in the brick-walled courtyard at sunset, surrounded by the echoes of history in this beautifully restored space.
Check prices at Historic Brookstown Inn
9. The Cottages at Cape Fear Winery
In Elizabethtown, North Carolina, The Cottages at Cape Fear Winery offer a peaceful escape surrounded by vineyards, woodlands, and ponds. The atmosphere combines rustic charm with contemporary style, creating a retreat that feels both rejuvenating and refined. Each cottage is thoughtfully designed for privacy, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a relaxing getaway.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Luxury King Cottage, which features a spacious bedroom with plush bedding, a spa-inspired bathroom with rainfall shower, and a cozy living area with modern furnishings. Many cottages also have private porches overlooking the water or woods, adding to the serene and restorative vibe. Thoughtful touches like premium bath products, in-room coffee, and locally inspired décor make the cottages feel elevated yet welcoming.
Around the property, I discovered the onsite Cape Fear Winery with tastings and tours, a farm-to-table restaurant, walking trails, and a tranquil pond with swans and ducks. The grounds also feature art installations, a boutique gift shop, and spaces for live music and events, giving the retreat a vibrant yet laid-back energy.
Simply put, I think The Cottages at Cape Fear Winery are one of the most unique and versatile stays in eastern North Carolina. Why? I especially appreciate the blend of wine-country relaxation and modern comfort, the welcoming staff, and the way the property balances quiet escapes with opportunities for fun and discovery. One tip: if you’re visiting on a weekend, check the events calendar—live music nights are a highlight.
Things to do nearby include kayaking or fishing at Jones Lake State Park, exploring downtown Elizabethtown’s shops and cafés, or taking a day trip to Wilmington for coastal charm.
My favorite moment was enjoying a glass of local wine on the cottage porch at sunset, listening to the sounds of nature while the sky glowed over the vineyard.
10. The Duke Mansion
In the historic Myers Park neighborhood of Charlotte, The Duke Mansion is a grand Southern estate turned boutique inn that exudes timeless elegance. Built in 1915 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mansion combines historic architecture with refined hospitality. White-columned porches, lush gardens, and classic interiors create an atmosphere that feels both stately and inviting.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Porch Room, which offers a king bed with luxurious linens, a spacious bathroom with marble finishes, and French doors opening to a private porch overlooking the gardens. The rooms feel romantic and serene, with thoughtful touches like plush robes, fresh flowers, and turndown service that make the experience extra special.
Around the property, I discovered 4.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, quiet verandas perfect for reading or sipping sweet tea, and elegant common spaces that retain their historic charm. A complimentary Southern breakfast is served each morning, and while the mansion doesn’t have a full restaurant, it’s only minutes away from Charlotte’s thriving dining scene. The inn is also a popular venue for weddings and special events, adding to its vibrant yet intimate energy.
I like the hotel's blend of historic grandeur and intimate hospitality, where guests feel transported to a bygone era while still enjoying modern comforts. One tip: request a room with a porch—it’s the best way to enjoy the mansion’s peaceful setting.
While there, you can visit Uptown Charlotte’s museums and restaurants, visiting Freedom Park, or strolling the tree-lined streets of the Myers Park neighborhood.
Check prices atThe Duke Mansion
11. Inn on Pamlico Sound
On Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, the Inn on Pamlico Sound offers a boutique waterfront retreat with sweeping views of the sound. The inn blends coastal charm with upscale comfort, creating an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and refined. With just a handful of thoughtfully designed rooms, it offers an intimate experience where every detail is tailored to make guests feel at home.
I recommend a two-night stay in a Deluxe Soundfront Room, which features a king bed with luxury linens, a whirlpool tub, and private balcony overlooking the water. The rooms feel serene and restorative, with thoughtful amenities such as fresh flowers, in-room coffee, and locally inspired artwork that celebrates the coastal setting.
Around the property, I discovered complimentary bikes and kayaks for exploring, a small library with books and movies, an outdoor pool, and the inn’s acclaimed restaurant, Café Pamlico, which serves gourmet coastal cuisine with unforgettable sunset views. The staff’s genuine hospitality makes the stay feel as much like visiting friends as it does a boutique hotel experience.
Simply put, I think the Inn on Pamlico Sound is one of the best-kept secrets in the Outer Banks. Why? I especially appreciate its waterfront setting, fine dining, and intimate scale, which together create a sense of true escape. One tip: book a dinner reservation at Café Pamlico well in advance—sunset tables are in high demand.
Things to do nearby include visiting Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, exploring the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, or enjoying the wide, pristine beaches of the Outer Banks.
My favorite moment was sipping wine on the balcony as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the Pamlico Sound in shades of pink and gold.
Conclusion
Choosing the right getaway isn't just about the destination, it's about how it makes you feel. Do you crave the serenity of mountain vistas, the romance of historic halls, or the rhythm of ocean waves? North Carolina invites you to explore its diverse landscapes and find the retreat that resonates with your spirit. So pack your bags, set your sights, and let the journey transform you.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
