Weekend Getaways in North Carolina
Searching for the best weekend getaways in North Carolina? For me, the best part of living in the "Tar Heel State", there is always a cool new weekend trip to discover. I hope you’ll love these vacation ideas on your 48 hour getaway too.
The Swag
Want to relax with views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park? We discovered the most incredible hidden gem at 5,000 feet: The Swag (Google Maps Pin).
You can stay in a room that's absolutely magical, with a wood-burning fireplace, and a deep soaking tub. There is even a private porch with rocking chairs where we felt transported back in time!
Worried that you'll be bored? Don't be! 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. For me, this is one of the most unique places to stay on a weekend getaway from Asheville, North Carolina.
What I loved best:
My favorite moment was enjoying sunrise coffee on the porch, wrapped in a blanket.
I have to warn you that this place only caters to adults. For family-friendly weekend getaways in North Carolina, keep reading for my other weekend ideas.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa
In the heart of Highlands, North Carolina, this European-style mountain retreat 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.
What I loved best:
My 60-minute massage at the spa, followed by 90 minutes in the relaxation lounge and in the sauna were my favorites.
Graduate Chapel Hill
In the mood for a city getaway with heaps of things to do? No place is quite Chapel Hill, NC. Right on Franklin Street, this boutique hotel 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.
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.
What I loved best:
The atmosphere balanced between youthful energy and boutique sophistication.
A downside? High parking cost - $27 per day and valet parking wasn't available.
Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill
I couldn’t believe such an awesome little gem existed in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just minutes from Asheville and Hendersonville.
This award-winning B&B blends Southern hospitality with a 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.
What I loved best:
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.
Blackbeard’s Lodge
This is one of my absolute favorite weekend getaways in the South because it's located on Ocracoke Island. I couldn’t believe such a spectacular spot existed on the East Coast. I adored being surrounded by beautiful North Carolina beaches.
My favorite part was the vintage character of the lodge which dates back to the 1930s. And don't worry...it's been upgraded with all the modern amenities (Wi-Fi, cable TV).
I recommend a two-night stay because it will allow you to fully relax and get to know the island. You can enjoy climbing the Ocracoke Lighthouse, strolling the village shops, exploring the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and learning about local history at the British Cemetery.
Moreover, 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.
Local tip: Ferry reservations to Ocracoke fill quickly during peak season, so book your transport early.
Historic Brookstown Inn
In the mood for city exploring on your weekend getaways in North Carolina? I have just the idea for you! Head to downtown Winston-Salem (population about 255,000) and check into Historic Brookstown Inn.
True to its name, this historic gem dates back to the 19th. In fact, it was originally a cotton mill built in 1837. I was in awe that we could still see the exposed brick walls, and original wood beams.
Our room for two days had a separate sitting area and fireplace which we requested for our anniversary vacation.
Nearby, you can enjoy exploring Old Salem Museums & Gardens, visiting the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, or go see a performance at the Stevens Center.
The Cottages at Cape Fear Winery
Friends who know wine recommended Elizabethtown, North Carolina to us so we decided on an overnight stay on a vineyard at Cape Fear Winery.
We loved the privacy of our cottage for two days. You can request a porch with a view of the water (or the woods) when booking your stay.
During the day, join a tasting at Cape Fear Winery, and stroll through the unique art installations.
Things to do nearby include kayaking or fishing at Jones Lake State Park, exploring downtown Elizabethtown’s shops, or taking a day trip to Wilmington if you want to be on the water (about an hour by car). This is one of my favorite weekend getaways in North Carolina because it lets you get back to nature.
Local tip: If you’re visiting over the weekend, check the events calendar because live music nights are a highlight.
Inn on Pamlico Sound
On Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, I fell for this is 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.
I was really won over by how the 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.
What I loved best:
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.
