Lodging
Lodging
Charlotte offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels and resorts to cozy bed and breakfast establishments. Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you’re in town for business, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway.
Where to Stay in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, has become a prominent destination for travelers, thanks to its rich history, dynamic cultural scene, and thriving economy. Over the years, tourism in Charlotte has grown significantly, driven by its reputation as a hub for sports, arts, and business. The city’s blend of Southern charm and modern amenities makes it an attractive location for all types of visitors, from families to solo adventurers.
Getting There: Charlotte is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest airports in the country, offering numerous domestic and international flights. For those driving, the city is well-connected by major highways, including I-77, I-85, and I-485. Amtrak also provides train services to Charlotte, with routes connecting to major cities along the East Coast.
Best Seasons to Visit: The best times to visit Charlotte are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in the fall. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild, with occasional cold snaps.
What to Bring to Wear:
- Spring: Light layers, including a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Summer: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun.
- Fall: Layers are essential, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. A light jacket is recommended.
- Winter: A warm coat, sweaters, and gloves for the occasional cold day, though heavy winter gear is typically not necessary.
Types of Lodging
Hotels and Resorts: Charlotte’s hotels and resorts cater to various tastes and budgets, offering a mix of modern amenities and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a high-end resort with a spa and golf course or a budget-friendly hotel with essential comforts, Charlotte has it all.
Bed & Breakfasts: For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, Charlotte’s bed and breakfasts offer charming accommodations often located in historic homes or quaint neighborhoods. These establishments provide a homey atmosphere, with personalized service and unique touches that make your stay memorable.
Hotels and Resorts
The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte
- Location: 201 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Spa, rooftop garden, indoor pool, fine dining restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- Suitability: Luxury travelers, business travelers, and special occasions.
The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel
- Location: 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277
- Amenities: Golf course, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Suitability: Luxury seekers, golf enthusiasts, and families.
Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
- Location: 303 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Rooftop bar, fitness center, pet-friendly policies, and complimentary evening wine hour.
- Suitability: Couples, solo travelers, and pet owners.
Omni Charlotte Hotel
- Location: 132 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, on-site dining, and access to the Overstreet Mall.
- Suitability: Business travelers and families.
Hilton Charlotte Uptown
- Location: 222 E 3rd St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Business center, fitness room, executive lounge, and connected to the Charlotte Convention Center.
- Suitability: Business travelers and conference attendees.
Le Meridien Charlotte
- Location: 555 S McDowell St, Charlotte, NC 28204
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, and free Wi-Fi.
- Suitability: Couples and luxury travelers.
The Westin Charlotte
- Location: 601 S College St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Indoor pool, spa services, business center, and a rooftop garden.
- Suitability: Business travelers and wellness enthusiasts.
Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown
- Location: 222 S Caldwell St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, free breakfast, and pet-friendly policies.
- Suitability: Families, couples, and pet owners.
AC Hotel by Marriott Charlotte City Center
- Location: 220 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Rooftop bar, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a European-style breakfast.
- Suitability: Young professionals and couples.
DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte Gateway Village
- Location: 895 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site dining, and pet-friendly policies.
- Suitability: Families and business travelers.
Bed & Breakfast
The Duke Mansion
- Location: 400 Hermitage Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
- Features: Historic charm, beautiful gardens, complimentary breakfast, and elegant rooms.
- Suitability: Couples, history buffs, and those seeking a romantic getaway.
Morehead Inn
- Location: 1122 E Morehead St, Charlotte, NC 28204
- Features: Classic Southern architecture, personalized service, complimentary breakfast, and event spaces.
- Suitability: Couples, wedding parties, and history enthusiasts.
The Villa at Waters Edge
- Location: 170 Charity Ln, Belmont, NC 28012 (Just outside Charlotte)
- Features: Italian-inspired villa, lakeside views, complimentary breakfast, and luxury suites.
- Suitability: Romantic getaways and special occasions.
Matthews Manor Bed & Breakfast
- Location: 1726 Spring Stone Dr, Matthews, NC 28105 (Suburb of Charlotte)
- Features: Historic home, pool, garden, and gourmet breakfast.
- Suitability: Families and couples.
The Inn on Little Pond Farm
- Location: 208 Valle Cay Dr, Vilas, NC 28692 (Near Charlotte)
- Features: Rustic charm, farm-to-table breakfast, and outdoor activities.
- Suitability: Nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals have become increasingly popular in Charlotte, offering travelers the option to stay in fully furnished homes or apartments. These rentals provide more space and privacy than traditional hotels and are ideal for families, groups, or anyone seeking a more “local” experience.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- More Space: Short-term rentals often offer more living space, making them ideal for families or groups.
- Kitchen Facilities: Many rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.
- Local Experience: Staying in a neighborhood gives visitors a more authentic experience of Charlotte.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of Services: Unlike hotels, short-term rentals typically do not offer services like daily housekeeping or a front desk for assistance.
- Inconsistent Standards: The quality of short-term rentals can vary, so it’s important to carefully vet listings.
Booking Tips
Platforms:
Airbnb and VRBO are the most popular platforms for booking short-term rentals. Both offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury homes.
Vetting Listings:
- Read Reviews: Check previous guest reviews to get a sense of the property and host.
- Check Amenities: Make sure the rental has all the amenities you need, such as Wi-Fi, parking, and kitchen facilities.
- Communicate with the Host: Reach out to the host with any questions before booking to ensure the property meets your needs.
Examples of Short-Term Rentals
Luxury Uptown Apartment
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Features: Stunning city views, modern décor, pool access, and a gym.
- Suitability: Business travelers and couples.
- Price: $$$
Historic Dilworth Home
- Location: Dilworth Neighborhood
- Features: Three bedrooms, a large backyard, a fully equipped kitchen, and proximity to shops and restaurants.
- Suitability: Families and groups.
- Price: $$
Charming Bungalow in Plaza Midwood
- Location: Plaza Midwood
- Features: Two bedrooms, eclectic décor, a private patio, and walking distance to local bars and restaurants.
- Suitability: Young professionals and couples.
- Price: $$
Modern Condo in South End
- Location: South End
- Features: One bedroom, sleek modern design, rooftop access, and close to the light rail.
- Suitability: Solo travelers and young professionals.
- Price: $$
Family-Friendly Home near Lake Norman
- Location: Near Lake Norman
- Features: Four bedrooms, a large yard, a playroom, and lake access.
- Suitability: Families and groups.
- Price: $$$
Arts District Loft
- Location: NoDa (North Davidson)
- Features: Open floor plan, artistic décor, walking distance to galleries and cafes.
- Suitability: Artists and creatives.
- Price: $$
Cozy Cottage in Matthews
- Location: Matthews (Suburb of Charlotte)
- Features: Two bedrooms, rustic charm, a large garden, and a quiet neighborhood.
- Suitability: Couples and small families.
- Price: $
Luxury Penthouse in Uptown
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Features: Panoramic city views, high-end finishes, concierge services, and a rooftop pool.
- Suitability: Luxury travelers and business executives.
- Price: $$$$
Quaint Apartment in SouthPark
- Location: SouthPark
- Features: One bedroom, modern amenities, access to shopping and dining.
- Suitability: Solo travelers and couples.
- Price: $$
Private Guest House in Ballantyne
- Location: Ballantyne
- Features: One bedroom, kitchenette, private entrance, and access to a pool.
- Suitability: Solo travelers and business travelers.
- Price: $$
RV and Camping
For those who love the great outdoors, RVing and camping offer a unique way to experience Charlotte and its surroundings. Whether you’re traveling in an RV or pitching a tent, there are numerous options close to nature, providing a peaceful retreat with easy access to the city.
Types of Facilities
RV Parks:
RV parks in the Charlotte area are equipped with amenities such as electrical hookups, waste disposal, water access, and bathhouses. These parks cater to travelers with RVs, offering spacious sites and often additional amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and recreational areas.
Campgrounds:
More rustic campgrounds are available for those who prefer tent camping or have smaller RVs. These sites might offer fewer amenities but provide a closer connection to nature, with options for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Planning and Preparation
Booking Campsites:
Campsites can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to book in advance. Many parks offer online reservations, making it easy to secure a spot.
Checklist of Essentials:
- RV Essentials: Electrical adapters, leveling blocks, freshwater hoses, and a sewage hose kit.
- Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bags, camping stove, cooler, lanterns, and insect repellent.
- Permits: Some campgrounds require permits for activities like fishing or campfires, so check ahead of time.
RV Parks and Campgrounds
McDowell Nature Preserve
- Location: 15222 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
- Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, bathhouses, hiking trails, and lake access.
- Suitability: Families and nature enthusiasts.
- Price: $
Carowinds Camp Wilderness
- Location: 14609 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, cabin rentals, pool, general store, and shuttle to Carowinds Amusement Park.
- Suitability: Families and amusement park visitors.
- Price: $$
Charlotte/Fort Mill KOA
- Location: 940 Gold Hill Rd, Fort Mill, SC 29708 (Just outside Charlotte)
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, tent sites, Wi-Fi, pool, playground, and pet-friendly policies.
- Suitability: Families and pet owners.
- Price: $$
Kings Mountain State Park
- Location: 1277 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702 (Near Charlotte)
- Amenities: RV sites, tent camping, bathhouses, hiking trails, and a fishing lake.
- Suitability: Nature lovers and history buffs.
- Price: $
Lake Norman State Park
- Location: 759 State Park Rd, Troutman, NC 28166
- Amenities: RV sites, tent sites, bathhouses, boat rentals, hiking and biking trails.
- Suitability: Outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers.
- Price: $
Wildlife Woods Campground
- Location: 2177 Wildlife Rd, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, lake access, pool, playground, and fishing.
- Suitability: Families and fishing enthusiasts.
- Price: $
Cross Winds Family Campground
- Location: 160 Campground Ln, Linwood, NC 27299 (Near Charlotte)
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, tent sites, pool, playground, and fishing pond.
- Suitability: Families and weekend campers.
- Price: $
Dan Nicholas Park
- Location: 6800 Bringle Ferry Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146 (Near Charlotte)
- Amenities: RV sites, tent sites, bathhouses, zoo, carousel, and mini-golf.
- Suitability: Families with children.
- Price: $
Mountain Island Lake
- Location: 5225 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078
- Amenities: RV sites, tent sites, lake access, hiking trails, and boat rentals.
- Suitability: Water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Price: $
Elmore RV Park
- Location: 4824 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly policies.
- Suitability: Budget travelers and long-term stays.
- Price: $
Planning and Preparation
Pet Policies
Many hotels, short-term rentals, and campgrounds in Charlotte are pet-friendly, offering amenities like pet beds, treats, and designated walking areas. Always check the specific pet policies before booking, as there may be restrictions on size or breed.
Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the hospitality industry. Several hotels in Charlotte, such as The Ritz-Carlton and Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, have implemented eco-friendly practices like energy-efficient lighting, water conservation programs, and recycling initiatives. Campgrounds like McDowell Nature Preserve also promote sustainable practices by encouraging responsible camping and wildlife conservation.
Seasonal Considerations
Accommodation prices and availability in Charlotte can vary depending on the season. Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit, so booking in advance is recommended. Summer can be busier due to family vacations, while winter offers lower rates but fewer outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Charlotte offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every type of traveler, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious adventurers. Whether you prefer the convenience of a hotel, the hominess of a short-term rental, or the rustic charm of camping, you’ll find something that fits your needs in this vibrant city. Remember to consider factors like location, amenities, and seasonal pricing when planning your stay to make the most of your visit to Charlotte.