Whether you are in North Carolina for business or pleasure, staying at a locally owned inn or bed and breakfast is the perfect way to turn your trip into one to remember. Many of these NC inns will also host special events like weddings or conferences, while others are designed for couples to get away from it all and some are more on the family-friendly side. Here are some of the best choices for a few nights relaxing in North Carolina this spring.
1. Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast
The Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast aims to provide guests with the cozy comfort expected of a bed and breakfast together with the amenities and services of a fine hotel. Guests can choose to stay in one of the two suites with en suite bathrooms and private sitting rooms or one of the three spacious guest rooms with en suite baths. Rooms have amenities such as bay windows, wireless internet, luxury Turkish towels, spa microfiber sheets, handmade goat milk lavender bath products, daily chocolates, and walk-in tile showers, claw-foot tubs, or standard tub/showers. Suites add features like two-person whirlpool tubs and a private parlor. Breakfast begins the day and special diets can be accommodated with advance notice. It typically includes a fruit dish, a main entree that is sweet or savory, and a portable third course such as sweet bread or muffins. Guests also have access to the butler’s pantry 24/7 with its hot tea, coffee, bottled water, soft drinks, sweet or salty snacks, and freshly baked goods.
224 Love Lane, Waynesville, NC, Phone: 828-456-7037
2. Andon-Reid Bed and Breakfast Inn
This building is a Waynesville historic property that was first constructed in 1902. It features extensive oak hardwood floors, veranda porches, large windows, and tall ceilings. Rooms have king or queen beds and may also feature two-person spa tubs, showers with full body jets, private entrances, 46-inch flat-screen TVs featuring DVD players, mini fridges, selected magazines and books, private enclosed porches, love seats, and/or full-sized closets. The inn also provides daily housekeeping and concierge services for items like printing maps and boarding passes, making reservations, and recommending activities. The full-service breakfast varies daily and includes a starter along with a sweet or savory entree, all of which are made from scratch with fresh ingredients and are served with tea, coffee, and juice.
92 Daisy Ave, Waynesville, NC, Phone: 828-452-3089
3. The Reynolds Mansion, Asheville
When you book your weekend getaway to the historic Reynolds Mansion, you can anticipate exchanging your busy day-to-day schedule for a relaxing interlude, surrounded by the charm and elegance of a bye-gone era. The mansion is set in pretty gardens and has two wonderful wrap-around verandahs furnished with rocking chairs for restful contemplation. Each of the amazing period guest rooms has been individually decorated and all offer the perfect ambiance for a romantic getaway. Most feature 4-poster beds or draped beds, elegant draperies and modern conveniences like Keurig or Illy Coffee stations. You can enjoy a wonderful breakfast each morning before leaving to explore.
100 Reynolds Heights, Asheville, NC 28804, 828 258 1111
4. Sobotta Manor Bed & Breakfast
Sobotta Manor is right in the heart of Yadkin Valley Wine Region, giving guests easy access to the finest wineries in the state as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway. The inn’s location means that guests can easily walk to shops and restaurants, while the building itself dates back to 1932. Inside, you will find fine linens, antiques, and rich decorations, creating an inviting ambiance. All four rooms are luxurious and have private baths along with free high-speed wireless internet as well as cable TV and phones with free local as well as long distance calls. Some feature private entrances and tubs as well. Spend some time relaxing in the gentleman’s parlor with its magazines, books, cards, and chess boards. Or sit outside on the wide porch with views of the original terraced gardens complete with the columned pergola. There are more than enough chairs for guests to watch the sunset or look at the mountains. The inn offers a concierge service as well, so you can easily plan your activities. Enjoy an indulgent daily breakfast in the light-filled dining room with unique freshly prepared dishes and fresh fruit. There are even two dogs who assist the innkeepers.
347 West Pine Street, Mount Airy, NC, Phone: 336-786-2777
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5. Sourwood Inn
The Sourwood Inn sits upon 100 acres of hilly land at 3,200 feet above sea level, offering guests some stunning views. Its location gives you easy access to downtown Asheville along with the ability to appreciate the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests can stay in one of the 12 rooms or the Sassafras Cabin. The rooms sleep two to four people and have a king or queen-sized bed or full-sized beds. Amenities include private balconies, air conditioning, ceiling fans, wood-burning fireplaces, candles, hair dryers, separate tile showers and deep tubs, and towel warmers. The Sassafras Cabin has a full kitchen, two full baths, a queen-sized bed in a bedroom loft, a full-sized sofa bed, a screened porch, and a wood-burning stove. Those looking to enhance their stay can opt for a package including visits to the Blue Ridge Parkway, falconry, fly fishing, horseback riding, and more. The day begins with breakfast that includes eggs prepared anyway you want. There are also afternoon refreshments and an optional dinner with reservations. Things to Do in Asheville
810 Elk Mountain Scenic Highway, Asheville, NC, Phone: 828-255-0690
6. Davidson Village Inn
The Davidson Village Inn is right in the heart of Lake Norman and downtown Davidson, giving guests easy access to everything there is to see and do. There are 18 rooms in the inn with five room styles to choose from. Each room has non-allergenic pillows, irons with ironing boards, hair dryers, wireless internet, Comphy Company luxurious lines, Turkish bamboo towels, Greenwich Bay bath amenities, LCD TVs with over 100 digital cable channels, and private baths. The family suites have two queen-sized beds, a kitchenette, a sitting area, and a work desk with chair. Executive suites have a single daybed, table with chairs, sitting area, kitchenette, and a 4-poster queen. King rooms feature working desk and chairs, reading chairs, and foyers with microwaves, mini fridges, and coffeemakers. Queen rooms or twin rooms have work nooks with desks and chairs and reading chairs. The daily breakfast features fair trade coffees from a local company along with locally made baked goods, yogurts, cereals, fresh fruit, cheese, juices, and eggs.
117 Depot Street, Davidson, NC, Phone: 704-892-8044
7. Gideon Ridge Inn
The Gideon Ridge Inn has ten guest rooms along with a fine dining restaurant and is very close to Downtown Blowing Rock, a historic mountain community on top of the Blue Ridge Mountains known for its outdoor recreation, views, and shopping. The rooms are designed to help guests relax with their Kingsdown mattresses, Frette bathrobes and towels, pressed 100% cotton sheeting, feathered down pillows plus duvet covers, gas fireplaces, Aveda bathing products, hair dryers, internet access, and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms are also pet friendly. Guests can sit on quiet benches in the garden surrounded by perennials or go inside and sit by the massive stone fireplace in the library. The restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn lets you eat in the European-style dining room or on the terrace, either way there are some gorgeous mountain views to be had. The menu changes daily to include local, seasonal ingredients. Guests get to enjoy a hot breakfast along with afternoon tea, an evening turn-down service, and complimentary access to the butler’s pantry with snacks, drinks, wine tools, and extra glassware.
202 Gideon Ridge Road, Blowing Rock, NC, Phone: 828-295-3644
8. Fire Mountain Inn Cabins and Treehouses, Highlands
You can prepare yourself for an unforgettable getaway when you choose the Fire Mountain Inn, Cabins or Treehouses in Highlands. The resort is widely known for offering some of the best sunset views in the region and has the perfect accommodation option to suit your tastes. Options include comfortable Inn rooms (most of which feature private viewing balconies), very private and secluded tree houses (you need to be able to climb 3 sets of stairs to access these little gems, or larger cabins for families and groups. There is an on-site spa for the pampering and breakfast, lunch and dinner is served in the Fire and Water Restaurant or the Kitchen Café.
700 Happy Hill Rd, Highlands, NC 28775, 800 775 4446
9. Echo Mountain Inn, Hendersonville
Beautifully positioned for a relaxing getaway, the Echo Mountain Inn is located in what was once a private summer residence nestled on a mountain in Laurel Park, 3 miles from Hendersonville. The inn boasts 25 individually appointed guest rooms, several of which feature original period furnishings; for a special treat you can book the sumptuous Bridal Suite. Your home-from-home at Echo Mountain offers several comfortable places to just relax, read a book or enjoy the serenity of the mountains. There is a swimming pool, sun room, library and more. A hearty and delicious breakfast is served in the dining room.
2849 Laurel Park Hwy, Laurel Park, NC 28739, 828 693 9626
10. 1899 Wright Inn and Carriage House, Asheville
The historic Wright Inn and Carriage House was built for the Wright family in 1899 in the Montford community of Asheville. The building is an outstanding example of the Colonial Revival style of Queen Anne architecture, which is characterized by slightly odd shapes, styles and colors. You can feast your eyes on the multiple gables, Doric-columned porch and slate roof. Inside, the Wright Inn is just as impressive, boasting elegant and sumptuous period guestrooms and suites, each of which would have impressive tales to tell. The carriage house is spacious and can accommodate groups and visitors with pets. Special Romantic packages are available for special occasion stays.
235 Pearson Dr, Asheville, NC 28801, 800 552 5724
11. Heart & Soul Bed and Breakfast
Heart & Soul is within easy walking distance of historic Mount Airy and the home itself dates back to around 1901. Each of the four suites has its own unique character, with amenities such as wireless internet, desks with chairs, two queen-sized beds, a king or queen-sized bed, en suite baths, flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and/or two-person whirlpool tubs. Guests are welcome to sit on the wraparound porch to enjoy the outdoors or just take a short walk to visit nearby restaurants, shops, galleries, and wineries. It is also a quick drive or walk to the Blue Ridge Parkway, horseback riding, mountain biking, and more. The homemade daily breakfast varies but typically features fresh fruit as well as a main entree and of course your choice of hot beverages.
618 N. Main Street, Mount Airy, NC, Phone: 336-789-0126
12. Cape Hatteras Bed & Breakfast
Cape Hatteras Bed and Breakfast is just 500 feet away from the nearby beach so you can easily walk there in minutes. There are eight guest rooms, each with its own style and smoke-free accommodation. Every room has wireless internet, alarm clocks, coffee makers, mini fridges, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and private outdoor entrances. Rooms have a king-sized bed, a queen-sized bed plus a queen-sized sofa bed, or a queen-sized bed. Breakfast is always fresh, natural, and homemade so guests can begin their day on the right foot. Expect cookies or other baked goods as well. Those who want to make their stay extra special can also order wine, chocolate strawberries, flowers, or a fruit and cheese tray.
46223 Old Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC, Phone: 252-955-6004
13. The Columns Bed & Breakfast Inn
The Columns is within the Dillon historic district and is in the Greek Revival style. It was built around 1903 and delivers Southern hospitality with plenty of beauty in the restored home. Looking around, you will find period details like crystal chandeliers, fireplaces, and sliding pocket doors. There are five guest rooms, each with elegance, period antiques, tasteful décor, and a fireplace with restorations that take you back in time. Suites have large sitting areas, king-sized beds, down comforters and pillows, luxurious linens, bay windows, closets, armoires, oriental rugs, wood floors, claw-foot tubs, bead board wainscoting, and tile floors in their private baths. Chambers have queen-sized beds with down comforters, sitting areas, armoires, wood floors, fireplaces, dressers, oriental rugs, and walk-in showers or tub-shower combinations. Guests are welcome to take advantage of the comfortable rocking chairs on the columned veranda. There is complimentary wireless internet, cable TV, HDTV, movies, Pandora, DVDs, Netflix, and central heating and air conditioning. Enjoy the daily breakfast in the dining room where you eat on fine linens, silver, and china. Before breakfast, you will have fresh coffee or tea served outside your room.
601 East Main Street, Dillon, SC, Phone: 834-774-3456
14. The Buck House Inn on Bald Mountain Creek
This inn is close to Asheville and surrounded by the beauty of the 750 acres of conserved Blue Ridge Mountains. The inn itself is along the Bald Mountain Creek and covers 8 acres. Each of the four bedrooms has luxurious linens, private bathrooms, fluffy down comforters, decorative pillows, hair dryers, Turkish towels, and magnifying mirrors. There is wireless internet throughout the inn. Every room has at least a decorative fireplace while many have functional gas logs. Guests can explore the inn’s 8 acres of land or just sit on the wraparound porch and watch nature. There are a further 700 acres of forest right next to the inn. On the property, guests can go fly fishing, sit on the covered swings by the creek, sit by the fire ring, or play horse shoes, disc golf, bocce ball, or croquet. Guests can sit at a large table with other guests or at a small private one in the dining room at breakfast or even outside on the veranda. The menu constantly changes, but always features homemade bread, a side of meat, fruit, and a hot entree. You will also have access to a bottomless cookie jar and a complimentary station with snacks and beverages.
5860 Bald Mountain Road, Burnsville, NC, Phone: 828-536-4140
15. 1889 White Gate Inn & Cottage
This historic property provides guests with the amenities expected of a boutique hotel along with the charm of an Asheville Bed and Breakfast. Sleep in a grand four-poster bed in your guestroom with high ceilings. Each of the eleven rooms has its own distinctive style and unique decorations, but they feature common amenities. All have a flat-screen TV with DVD player, a CD player, and wireless internet along with poetry volumes by the poets the rooms are named after. The Cottage has a full kitchen and a bedroom. Most rooms have king-sized beds although some have queens or a king and a queen. Other available features include gas fireplaces, claw-foot soaking tubs, jetted tubs, and whirlpool tubs for two people, while some are pet-friendly. Guests can take the time to have a deep massage or other treatment at the on-site spa service. There are lush gardens on the property to explore with an extensive collection of trees and plants you aren’t likely to find anywhere else nearby. Downtown Asheville is just a short walk away with its world-class dining and unique shops.
173 E. Chestnut Street, Asheville, NC, Phone: 828-253-2553
16. Beaufort House Inn, Asheville
Beaufort House Inn is located in another of Asheville’s delightful historic mansions. Built in the late 1800’s, Beaufort House has appeared in articles in many travel publications and has won several awards for offering outstanding ambiance and hospitality. The lovely old mansion was once home to actor Charlton Heston for 6 months in 1947. Today guests can choose between 11 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, all of which are ideal for a romantic getaway weekend. Many of the rooms have 2-person whirlpools, private balconies and/or log- burning fire places - request one when you book. You can enjoy a fabulous breakfast each morning.
61 North Liberty St, Asheville, NC 28801, 828 713 4100
17. Wildberry Lodge
The Wildberry Lodge is situated close to historic Asheville, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The lodge is made from handcrafted logs that have been painstakingly carved. There are seven accommodations to choose from, including one luxury suite and four rooms within the main building along with two suites in the adjacent Cabin at Wildberry. Most rooms have whirlpool tubs and some also have a two-person shower. All rooms have high-speed wireless internet, luxury linens, spa bath robes, hair dryers, luxury bath amenities, irons, and private balconies or decks. Most also have fireplaces and suites have TVs with DVD players. In the great room, guests can sit by the large bay of windows that shows off the mountain landscape or by the massive stone fireplace. There is a stone fire pit perfect for toasting marshmallows and an infrared sauna and hot tub for relaxing. Other on-site amenities include a DVD movie collection, a copier/fax machine, a library, a BBQ grille, hammock swings and traditional hammocks, an infrared sauna, hiking trails, and a viewing deck. Every day starts with a four-course breakfast including granola, your choice of beverage, fresh fruit, and a hearty entree followed by dessert.
135 Potato Branch Road, Leicester, NC, Phone: 828-683-2525
Next read: NC Lighthouses, North Carolina Beaches, More Getaways
18. Robert Ruark Inn Bed & Breakfast
The Robert Ruark Inn Bed and Breakfast is very close to Bald Head Island and the beauties of Oak Island beaches as well as its golf courses. There are four guest rooms, each of which has a private bath with a vintage theme, claw-foot tub or spa-like shower, and granite counter. Most rooms also have fireplaces and one features antique stained glass windows. Expect luxury towels and linens, Aveda bath products, writing desks, flat-screen TVs, and internet access. The inn has bicycles for guests to borrow to explore historical Southport or guests can take a tour in the electric cart, a complimentary service guided by the innkeepers. Those who want to stay by the inn can relax in the sitting room, dining room, or on the front porch, all of which have numerous seating options. There is a full breakfast featuring multiple courses every morning and in the afternoon, guests are treated to wine and cheese. You can access bottled water, coffee, and tea 24/7.
119 N. Lord Street, Southport, NC, Phone: 910-363-4169
19. Inn on Main Street
The Inn on Main Street is an eco-friendly bed and breakfast with plenty of romance that is perfect for exploring the Asheville Area. The property features lovely antiques and green conservation policies with modern amenities. Guests can choose from rooms with twin, full, queen, or even king-sized beds. There are also two cottage rooms with queen-sized beds along with whirlpool tubs that fit two people. The five rooms have amenities like central air conditioning, gas fireplaces, HD cable TVs with DVD players, irons with ironing boards, hair dryers, tubs and showers, robes, and wireless internet. The cottages add the whirlpool tubs with a shower combination and a bit more privacy. Sitting on the porch gives you views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As part of their sustainability efforts, the inn uses herbs and vegetables grown organically in their garden whenever possible. Meals feature the inn’s private blend of coffee, which is roasted in Asheville, as well as juice, tea, fresh fruit, made-from-scratch muffins, homemade bread, and the daily entree. The meals can be adapted to meet dietary restrictions and you can typically enjoy breakfast on the back porch.
88 S Main Street, Weaverville, NC, Phone: 828-645-4935
20. The Roanoke Island Inn, Manteo
Located in lovely Manteo, on the North Carolina Outer Banks, The Roanoke Island Inn is a popular choice for an exceptional weekend away. The historic boutique hotel offers sweeping views over the water and the pretty garden, instantly putting visitors into a relaxed holiday mood. The original house in which the hotel is located dates back to the early 1900’s and has seen many alterations and additions over the years. Guests can enjoy a lovely lobby area, a well-stocked pantry and complimentary bike rentals. The rooms are beautifully appointed, featuring comfortable King Beds and attractive period furnishings. You will be spoilt with choices for day time activities on the island.
305 Fernando Street, Manteo, NC 27954, 252 473 5511
21. Morehead Manor Bed & Breakfast
Morehead Manor was actually first built for the Liggett and Meyers CEO, but the Colonial Revival style house has since been redecorated. This 8,000-square-foot manor is just a short walk to numerous attractions, including downtown and local universities. There are four guestrooms, each of which has a private bath. The Magnolia Suite features a king-sized bed and a sitting area while the Tiger Room has a king-sized bed in a very bright space. The Jasmine Room features a queen-sized bed while the Eagle’s Inn has a seven-head shower and two full beds. All rooms have sitting areas, iPod clock radios with speakers, soft bath towels, microfiber robes, irons, hair dryers, bath amenities, air conditioning, and luxurious bedding and linens along with wireless internet. Some rooms also have electric fireboxes and writing desks. Common areas include Jacob’s library, the Pecan Dining Room, and Preston’s parlor. The garden has swings and a hammock. There is always a full breakfast served in the morning and during the day you can enjoy complimentary beverages and homemade desserts. The inn can also host special events like weddings and conferences.
914 Vickers Ave, Durham, NC, Phone: 919-687-4366
22. Big Mill Bed & Breakfast
The Big Mill Bed and Breakfast gives guests the chance to experience farmstead lodging in the middle of farmland and plenty of forest within the Inner Banks. Each of the five guest rooms and suites has private entrances and views of the lake. One suite is ideal for those searching for longer term accommodation thanks to its kitchen. All rooms have workspaces, cable TVs with DVD players, kitchenettes, alarm clocks, private baths, fresh flowers, fireplaces, irons, and individual climate control. There are more than 200 acres of grounds for guests to explore, including original farm buildings, woodlands, and landscaped gardens. Guests can go hiking, walking, fishing, or use the grill. Spa services are also available. Most days, guests receive a continental breakfast delivered to their rooms right into their kitchenettes the evening before so they can enjoy it whenever they want. On weekdays, you get muffins, homemade granola, bagels, instant oatmeal, fresh fruit, grits, and drinks. On weekends, guests get one of several quiches.
1607 Big Mill Road, Williamston, NC, Phone: 252-792-8787
23. A Bed of Roses
A Bed of Roses lets guests stay in a Queen Anne inn that is tastefully decorated with numerous antiques throughout. There are five guest rooms featuring whirlpool tubs, private baths, and fireplaces. It is also possible to rent out the entire inn and there is free wireless internet throughout. Some rooms also have sitting rooms, private balconies, televisions, high vaulted ceilings, patchwork duvets, fluffy towels, walk-in showers, claw-foot soaking tubs, a private staircase, and the ability to adjoin with another room. During their free time, guests can relax on the shaded front porch while looking out at the tended gardens or sit inside the foyer with its natural wood surroundings. The gourmet breakfast includes two courses, including fruit and a fresh juice every day. All meals are made using herbs from the inn’s garden and fresh ingredients whenever possible. In the afternoon, guests are treated to freshly baked cookies and tea.
135 Cumberland Ave, Asheville, NC, Phone: 828-258-8700
24. Inn at Corolla, Corolla
The Inn at Corolla is perfectly located in the Corolla Light Resort on Currituck Sound, where it offers an idyllic location for a relaxing weekend break, a romantic getaway, a wedding or a family get-together. The Inn has a total of 42 rooms and suites, many of which feature private balconies, kitchenettes and separate lounge areas. 8 of the rooms are also dog-friendly, which means you don’t have to leave your fur-baby at home. There are a host of wonderful activities to keep you busy all day long – these include water sports at North Beach Water Sports (on-site), complimentary bike hire, tennis courts, walking and hiking trails, 6 swimming pools and much more.
1066 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC 27927, 252 453 3340
25. Pecan Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast
The Pecan Tree Inn is a coastal getaway with easy access to Beaufort’s quaint beauty and the nearby Atlantic Beach. It combines a seaside atmosphere with boutique hotel amenities, giving guests a unique escape. The seven guest rooms have their own character along with private baths, flat-screen TVs, cable, and hair dryers. Two deluxe suites feature two-person whirlpool tubs and king-sized beds. You can also select a room with a spacious closet, bay windows, an 11-foot ceiling, or a semi-private entrance. Guests get free parking and there is free wireless internet throughout the property. Relax on the porches while you catch a breeze or walk around the grounds to birdwatch. The day begins with a gourmet breakfast buffet featuring local, fresh ingredients and non-GMO eggs along with fresh fruit, fresh pastries, homemade granola, and cereal. In the afternoon, guests can enjoy a snack such as homemade maple butter pecan cookies.
116 Queen St, Beaufort, NC, Phone: 252-728-6733
What are the 25 Unique Weekend Trips in North Carolina?
The 25 Unique Weekend Trips in North Carolina according to local experts are:
- Oak Hill on Love Lane Bed and Breakfast
- Andon-Reid Bed and Breakfast Inn
- The Reynolds Mansion, Asheville
- Sobotta Manor Bed & Breakfast
- Sourwood Inn
- Davidson Village Inn
- Gideon Ridge Inn
- Fire Mountain Inn Cabins and Treehouses, Highlands
- Echo Mountain Inn, Hendersonville
- 1899 Wright Inn and Carriage House, Asheville
- Heart & Soul Bed and Breakfast
- Cape Hatteras Bed & Breakfast
- The Columns Bed & Breakfast Inn
- The Buck House Inn on Bald Mountain Creek
- 1889 White Gate Inn & Cottage
- Beaufort House Inn, Asheville
- Wildberry Lodge
- Robert Ruark Inn Bed & Breakfast
- Inn on Main Street
- The Roanoke Island Inn, Manteo
- Morehead Manor Bed & Breakfast
- Big Mill Bed & Breakfast
- A Bed of Roses
- Inn at Corolla, Corolla
- Pecan Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast
More Ideas in NC: Charlotte Museum of History
The Charlotte Museum of History is a nonprofit organization that interprets and preserves the history of North Carolina, in particular, historic sites across 8 acres of museum campus and a 36,000 square foot museum.
History
The Charlotte Museum of History first began as the Hezekiah Alexander Foundation in 1969. This nonprofit organization was started by the Daughter of the American Revolution after they had been maintaining and restoring the Hezekiah Alexander Rock House since 1949. This house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is the oldest home in Mecklenburg County having been built around 1774.
The Foundation raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars in restoration funding for the house and in 1975, the Mint Museum and the City of Charlotte completed the site and opened the Mint Museum of History in the summer of 1976.
A Hezekiah Alexander Women’s Auxiliary was established and provided furnishing to the Alexander House. In 1987 ownership of the Museum was transferred to the Parks department and the Mint Museum became the Charlotte Museum of History, being supported by the Hezekiah Alexander Foundation. The city separated from the museum in 1990 and the foundation raised over $3 million dollars for additional operating and upkeep costs.
The new 36,000 square foot museum was built in 1996 and features intensive exhibits related to the history of Charlotte from the 18th through 20th centuries. On New Year’s Eve of 1999, The Freedom Bell was added to the grounds and rung for the first time.
Exhibitions
The Museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday from 11am-5pm. There is exhibit space on the second-floor gallery that is curated for temporary and traveling exhibitions. Details on these shows can be found on the museum website.
Solving the Rock House Mysteries- Explore how historic preservation happens and the modern history of the Alexander House.
Charlotte Neighborhoods- The history of Charlotte from settlement through industrialization and the early 20th century is featured in this exhibit that highlights the historical value of Charlotte, North Carolina’s neighborhoods.
One the Way to Here: Adventures in Photography, Music, and Life- This collection focuses on Daniel Coston photographs of local Charlotteans over the past two decades. The snapshots are photos from Daniel’s life and mostly centered around musical acts in the region.
Keeping Watch on Water” Looking Back at Our City of Creeks- This exhibit educates visitors on the 3,000 miles of creeks in Mecklenburg County and features art inspired by the creeks in many mediums.
A Focus on Sports- More than 50 photographs taken from the Charlotte Observers archives demonstrate the history of sports in Charlotte.
Backcountry Gallery-Children can explore interactive replicas of Colonial homes, furniture, and garden. The houses represent the cultures of African-American, Catawba Nation, and European settlers.
Educational Opportunities
The Charlotte Museum of History provides many educational programs that seek to enhance class room curriculum. Programs can be tailored to grade level and conducted on site at the Museum, at the Alexander House, or at the school. Some of the programs include:
· When Charlotte was Young Like Me
· Colonial Charlotte
· The southern Campaign of the American Revolution
· Passport to World Culture
· Liberty: The Founding of a Nation
· Backcountry Programs
The programs are also available for homeschool groups. The museum website has detailed information on these programs as well as specialized homeschool programs and private tours.
Summer Camps- Two summer camps are offered at the museum which require advance registration and sell out quickly. Camps explore either World Cultures, or the Hornet’s Nest of Rebellion and General Cornwallis. Each camp runs for 4 days with age limitations.
Charlotte 240- An online digital program, Charlotte 240 is a compilation of short essays exploring local history. The database is frequently updates and added to making it a great source for research and projects. The program is available for free online.
Special Events
The Charlotte Museum of History frequently hosts special events to bring attention to Charlotte’s history and Colonial times as well as modern history events. Many of the events require advance tickets and registration.
History Teas- These events are 1.5 hours long and include lecture and discussion of historical events from the establishment of London to Revolutionary War.
Home Tours- The Mad About Modern Home Tours is a fall event that includes a tour of historic and significant homes in Charlotte. The Alexander House is a stop on the tour. Multiple tours are available each highlighting different architectural elements of the city.
3500 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28215, Phone: 704-568-1774
More Things to Do in Charlotte NC
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More Ideas in NC: The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill
Nestled in the foothills of Western North Carolina, the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is a newly built bed and breakfast that offers a comfortable home-away-from-home atmosphere in the heart of Asheville. The lovely inn features seven beautifully appointed guest rooms furnished in country-style décor and boasting modern amenities, and an elegant dining room in which a delicious three-course gourmet breakfast is served each morning.
The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is surrounded by six acres of stunning landscaped gardens which can be enjoyed from the comfort of Adirondack chairs on the sunny deck, the garden pavilion or Secret Garden with a book from the inn’s library.
If you want to explore, the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is conveniently located just 15 minutes away from Brevard and Hendersonville and 25 minutes from the magnificent Biltmore House. An array of activities in the area includes sightseeing, hiking in the Pisgah Forest, fishing in the Mills River, visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway, taking in the waterfalls of Dupont State Park or golfing at one of the many courses in the area.
The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill features seven well-appointed guest rooms, each of which is individually decorated in a comfortable country style and themed after several favorite Southern towns. All of the guest rooms feature private bathrooms with baths and showers, second-floor rooms enjoy individual heating and air conditioning control and modern amenities, including flat-screen televisions with cable channels, DVD players, irons and ironing boards, hair dryers, and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet.
Reminiscent of an old world, the Lexington Suite exudes classic southern elegance with a masculine, equestrian charm with wood beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, and a large wood-burning fireplace. The king suite features a seven-layered king-sized bed in beautiful linens, an en-suite bathroom with glass-enclosed shower and soaking bathtub, plush towels, and luxe bath products. This suite is located in the inn’s stand-alone carriage house and features a wet bar area complete with refrigerator, microwave, and beverage service. Guests staying in this suite have the option of suite dining.
The southern-styled Mountain Brook Suite is located in the inn’s stand-alone carriage house boasts beautiful mountain vistas and gorgeous garden views. The suite features a separate bedroom with queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with glass-enclosed shower and soaking bathtub, plush towels, and luxe bath products. A sitting area with a full-size twin pullout sofa bed, a wet bar area complete with refrigerator, microwave, and beverage service and an option of in-suite dining
The Seaside Suite is located on the ground floor and features a seven-layered king-sized bed in beautiful linens, an en-suite bathroom with glass-enclosed shower and soaking bathtub, plush towels and luxe bath products and twin sleeper sofa. Modern amenities include individual heating and air conditioning control, a flat-screen television with cable channels, DVD player, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet.
Named after Natchez in Mississippi, the Natchez Suite exudes Old-world French flair and features a queen-size four poster bed in clean linens, lovely window seat overlooking the surrounding horse pastures, and an en-suite bathroom with a large soaking tub, glass-enclosed shower, plush towels and luxe bath products.
Inspired by the charm of Charlottesville in Virginia, the Charlottesville Suite is located on the upper level of the inn and features a king-size bedroom with French doors that open into a private en-suite bathroom area with luxurious soaking bathtub and glass-enclosed shower. A stylish sitting area has comfortable sofas and a wood-burning fireplace. Modern amenities include individual heating and air conditioning control, a flat-screen television with cable channels, DVD player, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet.
The Beaufort Suite offers low-country flavor and style with a queen-sized bed in deluxe linens, an en-suite bathroom with shower/bath combination, double sinks, plush towels and luxe bath products. Designed to accommodate two additional guests, the suite offers twin fold-out window seat beds and stylish furnishings.
The upstairs Madison Suite is decorated in peaceful shades of blue and features a queen-size bed with refined linens, an en-suite bathroom with shower, plush towels and luxe bath products. Modern amenities include individual heating and air conditioning control, a flat-screen television with cable channels, DVD player, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet.
The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning, beautiful landscaped gardens with a pavilion and Secret Garden in which to relax, a well-stocked library with books, magazines, and other reading material.
A complimentary gourmet three-course breakfast is served in the elegant dining room every morning and includes continental and hot choices, as well as freshly brewed coffee, organic teas, and fresh fruit juices.
The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill offers a range of wedding packages, which include a beautiful outdoor ceremony site, a licensed wedding officiate a professional photographer, a bouquet for the bride and boutonniere for the groom, a customized wedding cake, and an elegant champagne toast.
Located in the heart of Asheville, The Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is ideally placed for exploring the area and enjoying all the activities and attractions that the region has to offer. Tiffany Hill is located on the edge of the Pisgah National Forest, which offers excellent hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is a short drive away. The Brevard Music Center hosts the renowned Summer Festival, which includes a variety of musical performances.
Back to: Romantic Weekend Getaways in North Carolina.
400 Ray Hill Rd, Mills River, NC 28759, Phone: 828-290-6080
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