David and I love traveling to new places in North Carolina and with summer right around the corner, we wanted to share our favorite hotels around the state. We have linked our favorite hotels by region: Coastal Plains, Piedmont, and the Mountains and are sharing the top 10 unique North Carolina hotels today. There is something for everyone, whether it’s a bed and breakfast, traditional hotel, or a resort style property.
Top 10 Unique North Carolina Hotels
Eastern North Carolina Hotels
I was born and raised in eastern North Carolina, and am particularly fond of the region. Two of my favorite spots in Eastern North Carolina are quaint small towns with charm and delicious food.
The O’Neil – Kinston
For my Christmas gift a few years ago, David took me to Kinston to stay at the O’Neil and to eat at Vivian Howard’s restaurants. We had a great time visiting the town and made a return trip a few weeks ago. Check out our travel guide here.
The Castle – Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Island is one of my all time favorite places to visit. I’ve been going on family vacation to the island since 5th grade, and it is something I look forward to every summer. The Castle has amazing amenities, a gorgeous view of the harbor, and a pool.
Central North Carolina Hotels
I’ve called central North Carolina home for over 10 years now and I love all that the Triangle has to offer. Recently, I’ve been spending more time in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, which are also really fun cities with awesome history, food, and things to do. I’m going to break these up a little bit by regions within the region to make it a bit easier.
The Triangle
21c Hotel – Durham
Durham is such a hip, foodie city and always has something cool happening. I am completely obsessed with 21c Museum Hotel in Durham. It is located in the most happening part of town and the art gallery, restaurant, and bank vault make it such an eclectic hotel perfect for visiting the Bull City. See my full review of 21c here.
The Carolina Inn – Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is such a beautiful, southern town and the Carolina Inn embodies the southern hospitality that I love so much about the town. Check out our experience here.
Fearrington House Inn – Pittsboro
I could get lost at Fearrington Village and not be mad about it. There is so much to offer in this community in Pittsboro but it’s close enough to Pittsboro to explore the community there. Fearrington House Inn has amazing dining options, afternoon tea, and I love sitting and overlooking the farm. Check out my experience here and here.
The Triad
The Graylyn Estate – Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is such a cool spot and has some of my favorite restaurants and art districts in the state. Our stay at the Graylyn Estate was such an amazing one and I highly recommend it. Here is another travel guide from a recent holiday adventure.
The Proximity Hotel | O. Henry Hotel – Greensboro
It’s hard to pick a favorite between these two sister hotels in Greensboro. The Proximity is a beautiful, energy efficient hotel with loft style bedrooms with Print Works Bistro, a European style restaurant. The O.Henry Hotel is an elegant hotel with afternoon tea, evening jazz hours, and Green Valley Grill, a Mediterranean flavored restaurant. There is also transportation to take you between the two hotels.
Western North Carolina Hotels
I didn’t spend a ton of time in the western part of the state until recently, but David and I have really enjoyed exploring the area. I’ve loved seeing the water falls, finding the elk, and viewing the gorgeous views.
Hampton Inn Shelton Vineyards – Dobson
If you’re going on a wine tour in Surry County, be sure to stay at the Hampton Inn Shelton Vineyards. There is a shuttle that takes you down to Shelton Vineyards and is the only Hampton Inn that has its own wine bar.
Lakeview at Fontana – Bryson City
Last year, David and I took an anniversary trip to Lakeview at Fontana for a spa getaway. We relaxed, we explored Bryson City, and we thoroughly enjoyed our experience. We highly recommend a stay here, especially with a tree top soak and a spa day. The hotel also has breakfast every morning and a happy hour each evening. You won’t regret it!
The New Public House & Hotel – Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is such an amazing mountain town and the New Public House & Hotel is right in the midst of town. It’s walking distance to great shops, restaurants, and activities. The hotel serves a delicious breakfast every morning. I loved the clawfoot tub and the comfortable linens.
Check out My Love Letter to North Carolina and my North Carolina Bucket List. P.S. Check out my sunless tanning routine and my favorite swim suits for summer.
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I would love to stay in so many of these places! That view from the bathtub at Lakeview at Fontana has me sold! And the new public house & hotel in blowing rock looks absolutely charming!! graylyn estate has always been on my list, but i’ve only walked the grounds and haven’t made it inside yet!!