Since 2012, the number of breweries in Charlotte has grown from seven to over 60.
From world-class museums to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, pro and collegiate sporting events, the Queen City isn’t just for business meetings.
It has an extensive and eclectic food scene, buzzing nightlife, and is an easy hop from anywhere in the East or Midwest – perhaps a perfect winter getaway.
Where to stay in Charlotte? There are some great choices – and they are the focus of this week’s issue.
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte
2. The Ivey’s Hotel
3. The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
4. The Duke Mansion
5. Omni Charlotte Hotel
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte
Awards: AAA/CAA Five Diamond Awards 2020
U.S. News says, “Sitting just one block from the Spectrum Center in downtown Charlotte, this Ritz lives up to its brand’s name. The hotel’s muted wood tones are offset by large, colorful examples of contemporary art, while the spacious guest rooms house oversized beds and large bathrooms. All accommodations are also equipped with iPod docking stations, work desks, and two flat-screen TVs – one in the bedroom and one in the bathroom’s mirror, though there is a fee for Wi-Fi. Although room rates are typically high, visitors say that the experience is worth the splurge. For many, the hotel’s spa – which offers a diverse treatment menu, as well as a peaceful indoor pool – seals the deal on a great stay. For others, it’s the hearty French cuisine served at BLT Steak (BLT standing for Bistro Laurent Tourondel), not to mention the confectionary creations found at Bar Cocoa.”
The Ritz-Carlton Suite
The 2,900 sq.ft. Ritz-Carlton Suite features a spacious living room, parlor, and bedroom. Located on the 16th floor, there’s a fitness room equipped with Peloton Bike for a convenient workout. It could come in handy if you host a dinner in the formal dining area, which seats eight with a prep kitchen en suite and wine cooler.
More suites at The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte.
2. The Ivey’s Hotel
Awards: Condé Nast Readers’ Choice List 2020
“There’s nothing staid or traditional about The Ivey’s, a boutique hotel with stylish decor not found anywhere else in Charlotte. Even check-in strays from the norm: Settle into a teal velvet chair as you’re welcomed into this seductive, appealing home-away-from-home. Rooms have a seductive, comfortable Paris-meets-New Orleans, and the location can’t be beaten: directly across from the Blumenthal Center and within walking distance of everything else in Uptown,” says Conde Nast Traveler.
U.S. News adds, “The Ivey’s Hotel opened in 2017 in the trendy Uptown neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina, and receives rave reviews from recent guests for its luxurious amenities and attentive staff. This property sits within walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and businesses in the city center…The Ivey’s Hotel also features a business center and a fitness center, plus room service is available. Those looking to leave their rooms for a meal can grab breakfast (for a fee), snacks, and nightly hors d’oeuvres at the guests-only Library Lounge. Alternatively, lodgers can enjoy innovative American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner at 5Church Charlotte, or grab a cocktail at Sophia’s Lounge, the upscale on-site bar.”
Balcony Suites
The three Balcony Suites are drenched in sunlight and overlook the heart of the city. Enjoy plush bedding, custom millwork and century-old flooring, elegant furnishing, and one-of-a-kind artwork.
More suites at The Ivey’s Hotel.
3. The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2020
Conde Nast writes, “Kimpton properties are known for their pizzazz, and Charlotte’s Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel is no exception. It’s fashion-forward but never in-your-face; jazzy, but not over-the-top. The rooms and suites sport a fresh, modern look with boldly patterned carpets, chrome-accented furnishings, and upholstered headboards. The sleek marble bathrooms complete the polished, yet nontraditional look. In addition to in-room spa services and a yoga deck, the hotel’s fitness center has all the equipment you’d need.”
U.S. News adds, “The hotel is also home to a popular rooftop bar, though fairly strict dress codes apply: ‘dress to impress,’ the property recommends.” Also try the modern Italian-inspired restaurant, Angeline’s.
Presidential Suite
The 1,291 sq.ft. Presidential Suite features a 75” flat-screen TV in the living room, wet bar, and dining room table with ballpark views.
More suites at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel.
4. The Duke Mansion
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2020
U.S. News reports, “Located just two miles from the center of downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, The Duke Mansion’s 20 individually decorated rooms and nearly five acres of landscaped grounds and gardens provide a welcome escape from city life. Originally built in 1915 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mansion boasts screened-in porches, a guest library (and offers) a blend of Southern charm with modern conveniences, including skylights, shared porches, and flat-screen TVs. Past guests appreciated the hotel’s convenient location, friendly staff, lush grounds, and tasty breakfasts. Others were impressed with how quiet the rooms were, especially since the hotel hosts a lot of weddings and meetings.”
Conde Nast Traveler writes, “Tucked away in leafy Myers Park, The Duke Mansion is the epitome of Southern elegance. Leave your keys with the valet and suddenly you’ll notice you’re standing just a little bit straighter. After all, right before you is the former private home of the Duke family. If you took impeccable Southern manners, mixed in a genuine desire to delight, and added a clear sense of pride in the property, you’d have the Duke Mansion staff.”
Dowd Suite
The Dowd Suite is the biggest, with a view of the courtyard and lovely gardens. It is appointed with a king-sized bed, a shared sleeping porch, and a spacious bathroom with a soaking tub and a shower for two.
More rooms at The Duke Mansion.
5. Omni Charlotte Hotel
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2020
Of this pick, Conde Nast says, “It’s hard not to feel like the center of Charlotte’s universe when you’re staying at the Omni. The location alone is incredible: directly opposite the hopping bars and restaurants of the Epicentre complex, and connected to Uptown’s major headquarters by skywalk (so your hair won’t fall frizz on the way to meetings in Hearst Tower or Bank of America building). As for the hotel itself, it’s energetic and buzzing in its own right.”
Scott and Shepard Suites
These twin 1,200-sq.ft. suites include an adjoining sitting room with a wet bar and refrigerator, a large garden tub, a separate shower, and dramatic views of uptown Charlotte. Suites are located on the 15th floor and have access to the Signature Lounge.
More suites at The Omni Charlotte Hotel.
