7 Best Hotels in Charlotte, North Carolina

Spending a night at this historic, luxurious inn seems more like borrowing a wealthy friend's estate than staying in a hotel. The well-preserved property—including gorgeous gardens and courtyards—was once home to Duke University benefactor James Buchanan Duke. The inn is now run by a nonprofit organization. A few of the rooms have original fixtures, including bathtubs and vanities. Spacious sleeping-porch balconies overlook the well-maintained grounds. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, comfortable beds, and cozy robes. In the morning, a full breakfast is served in the dining room.

Charlotte's take on this art-focused chain hotel is sleek and modern, like the Queen City, but with a subtle Argentinean undercurrent that's apparent in the paintings and sculptures, and in the food at Mico, the on-site restaurant. White marble and black accents set an upscale, neutral tone, while large-format portraits and gold-plated ceilings provide contrasting color. The rooftop bar, Buho, is a weekend hot spot for locals.

This stately resort hotel offers a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, an expansive fitness center, and luxurious amenities, although the slightly gaudy nature of the Marriott property can feel more like the Bellagio than a classic Southern inn. The spacious guest rooms have classic furniture and color schemes of gold, cream, and sage, and many have large porches. One side of the hotel once looked out on a golf course, adding to the resort vibe, but the course is also being redeveloped into homes and commercial space.

This 16-story hotel is within walking distance of the convention center as well as many arts and sports venues. An escalator whisks you to the Overstreet Mall, where you'll find shops and restaurants. Many guest rooms have glass walls overlooking the city skyline. Satin hangers and rainfall showers help guests feel pampered.

For an upscale taste of Uptown, it's hard to get much better than this massive business hotel that's next to the convention center. The 700 rooms feature ultra-comfy beds and roomy showers in marble bathrooms, as well as stunning views of the city. There's a fantastic gym and a stop for the LYNX light-rail inside the hotel.