North Carolina’s Queen City, Charlotte, is the perfect blend of lush greenery and tall skyscrapers right in the heart of the city. This vibey city is a draw for many tourists, and couples looking for romantic getaways are no exception!
The urban forest of Charlotte has many romantic hotels, restaurants, and excursions. There is also an endearing history with lots of museums and galleries. Every couple will be able to find exactly what they are looking for!
Read on to find out the best romantic hotels in Charlotte and what you and your lovey can do while visiting this gorgeous city.
What Makes Charlotte Perfect For Romantic Getaways?
Charlotte is a large city in North Carolina. Although it is a bustling city with a lively nightlife scene, this city also retains some historic charm.
There are plenty of attractions for couples in Charlotte. If you love motorsports, you are in luck, as the NASCAR Hall of Fame is located here!
Of course, there are more than just fast cars in the city. There are plenty of green spaces, restaurants, and fun activities! Not to mention all the Charlotte romantic hotels where you can relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
Charlotte is easy to reach. You can fly to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (and book into the La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Charlotte Airport South if you have a late flight), or if you are keen on a road trip, you can drive into the city.
The budget you set aside for your trip to Charlotte will depend on the duration of your stay. In this article, we have compiled a sample itinerary and budget for a Charlotte romantic escape, so keep reading!
Most Romantic Getaways Charlotte, NC
Most couples head directly to Uptown Charlotte and book into one of the romantic hotels there, but the outskirts of the city also has plenty to offer!
In this section, we will look at some of the best locations in Charlotte, including where to stay and what to do while you and your partner are visiting.
Southpark
Shopaholics rejoice! Southpark is the place to be if you love splashing the cash on Burberry and Gucci.
But there is plenty more to do in Southpark than just shopping! Here are our top activities for couples in SouthPark:
- Enjoy a cold one at Legion Brewing South Park Tap Room.
- Get your sweat on at the outdoor gym at Marion Diehl Park or walk around the water and watch a live musical performance at Symphony Park.
- For views of the neighborhood, head to RH Rooftop Restaurant for brunch or dinner.
- If you do want to shop, then the Southpark Mall is the place to be!
Best Accommodations in SouthPark:
1. Canopy by Hilton
- Price per Night: $210 – $254
The beautiful Canopy by Hilton is a 4-star hotel in the Southpark district. This hotel offers everything you would expect from a Hilton hotel.
The modern amenities at the hotel include complimentary WiFi, the on-site Fine & Fettle restaurant, a fitness center, and even rooms that can cater to your furry friend!
And speaking of rooms, the modern, contemporary rooms are available in King Bedrooms, King Bedrooms with Balconies, King Peloton Wellness Rooms, and Queen Rooms.
When it comes to offers, we recommend you and your partner book the Sweeten Your Stay package, where you get credit to spend at the restaurant as well as a luxury room and early check-in.
2. Renaissance Charlotte
- Price per Night: From $260
The Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark Hotel is one of those Charlotte romantic hotels you must stay in.
This boutique hotel has a laid-back atmosphere and boasts an indoor pool and fitness center. After you have worked up an appetite, head over to the R Bar for some American classics or the R Cafe for Starbucks treats. Complimentary breakfast is served daily in the Concierge Lounge.
All guest rooms, including the Executive Suite, have flat-screen TVs, WiFi, luxury bedding, and en-suite bathrooms. This luxury hotel really offers all the modern amenities you could want!
3. Charlotte Marriot
- Price per Night: From $236 per night
The Marriot Hotel in Charlotte is the perfect destination for couples who want to relax after spending the day walking all over town. It is ideally located close to the center of the district, a short walk from many restaurants and shops.
The chic rooms at this luxury collection hotel feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city skyline. If this doesn’t convince you that it is one of the most romantic hotels in Charlotte, then maybe the Stoke Charlotte restaurant with American fine dining will do the trick!
Ballantyne
Ballantyne was previously a rather secluded, quiet place, but recent decades have seen this neighborhood boom. This affluent south Charlotte district retains the southern charm of the city but has a real upmarket vibe.
Here are our top activities for couples staying in Ballantyne:
- For a quick snack on the go, head over to Potbelly Sandwich Shop for some of the best toasties in Charlotte.
- Even if you are not staying at the hotel, the Spa at Ballantyne offers luxury treatments for the ultimate relaxing experience. Just note it is best to book your appointments at least four weeks in advance!
- For something more daring, test your brain and puzzle-solving skills at Timed Out Escape.
- Get lost in the trees at Ballantyne District Park. You can walk, run, or mountain bike here.
Best Accommodations in Ballantyne:
1. The Ballantyne
- Price per Night: $409 – $1,335
The Ballantyne is one of the most romantic hotels in Charlotte. This luxury collection hotel has lavish rooms, spiral staircases, and amazing outdoor areas.
Guests at The Ballantyne can escape to the spa, salon, fitness center, or indoor and outdoor swimming pools. After relaxing, head over to Carolina’s for American fine dining.
If you want to stay at The Ballantyne but not actually at The Ballantyne, you can also book the luxury room at The Lodge at Ballantyne or The Cottage at Ballantyne. At the hotel, you will find 199 rooms and nine exclusive suites, each with Frette Linen and Molton Brown Bath Products.
2. Home2 Suites by Hilton
- Price per Night: $124 – $140
For couples looking to spend longer than a weekend in Charlotte, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Charlotte Piper Glen is the perfect destination.
This 3-star hotel is a more budget-friendly option, offering air-conditioned rooms with complimentary WiFi. The rooms each come with an equipped kitchen, making it perfect for couples who enjoy cooking.
There is also an indoor pool and fitness center. If your pup is along for the trip, Home2 Suites offer pet-friendly rooms.
Guests can tuck into a free hot breakfast every morning before hitting the town.
3. Matthews Manor Bed and Breakfast
- Price per Night: $149 – $220
Couples who prefer a more personal experience should book into the Matthews Manor Bed & Breakfast.
Located just 12 miles from the heart of Charlotte in Ballantyne, this B&B is the perfect retreat for couples who want to get away from it all. It offers guests shared living and dining rooms, a guest kitchen, a game room, and an outdoor pool.
There are only four rooms at Matthews Manor, each uniquely and comfortably decorated. The most luxurious is the Viscaya Room, complete with a king-sized bed, private hot tub, and a seating area.
Charlotte City Center
Those wanting to be in the thick of it need to stay in the city center. There is plenty of public transport options in the city, and so much to see and do, including several luxurious accommodations!
Couples can enjoy any of the following activities in the heart of Charlotte:
- Head over to Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen for a gourmet cooking class. This way, you can spoil your partner in the future as well!
- Adrenaline junkies and lovers of the outdoors can head over to the US National Whitewater Center. There are free trials, live music, zip lines, kayaks, and whitewater rafting.
- Have some old-school fun at Pins Mechanical. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy playing arcade games.
- If your budget allows it, why not book a helicopter tour with Charlotte Helicopters or Heliventures?
Best Accommodations in Charlotte City Center:
1. Omni Charlotte Hotel
- Price per Night: $284 – $789
The Omni Charlotte Hotel is a gorgeous hotel in the financial district. As formal as it sounds, it is perfect for romantic getaways.
Close to everything Charlotte has to offer, The Omni Charlotte Hotel has all the modern amenities and luxuries you could want. The hotel restaurant is a real treat, serving classic comfort food with a twist. If you would rather skip the big meal, the Coin Bar on the Omni Charlotte Hotel rooftop offers drinks and grills.
When it comes to wellness at the Omni Charlotte Hotel, couples have access to the Charlotte Athletic Club or the incredible rooftop outdoor pool with views across the city.
Guest rooms at the Omni Charlotte Hotel include plush robes, a Keurig coffee machine, a mini fridge, and bathroom amenities. There are 373 rooms at the hotel, each with a spacious floor plan and spectacular views.
2. Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte
- Price per Night: $311 – $547
The Grand Bohemian Hotel is well-named. It is located in the central district of Charlotte and simply oozes opulence ad Bohemian style.
From the first step through the Grand Bohemian Hotel doors, you will be overwhelmed by a tasteful and luxurious common space. This extends to the rooms as well. There are Standard, Double, and Executive Rooms available, as well as Suites and rooms with private terraces.
The Grand Bohemian Hotel offers many amenities to guests to improve their stay. There is a large Bohemian Garden and Lawn to relax in the afternoons or break out a sweat at the Artful Wellness Center.
Dining options at the Grand Bohemian Hotel include the Mico Restaurant with Argentinian cuisine, the Buho Bar with live music and DJs, or wine taste at Altitude Flight.
3. Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
- Price per Night: From $325 per night
The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel is a luxury hotel that outranks many other Charlotte hotels when it comes to romantic weekend getaways. This is because of the marble bathrooms, spa, and large outside terrace that sets it apart from many Charlotte hotels in the heart of the city.
The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel is a large hotel with a boutique feel that offers 217 guest rooms and suites. The rooms either have oversized showers or a large soaking tub, something that you don’t often find on Charlotte romantic weekend getaways. There is even a yoga mat in every room!
Other amenities include valet parking, Angeline’s restaurant, complimentary tea and coffee, a yoga deck with classes, and a wonderful rooftop bar.
North Davidson
North Davidson, known to locals as NoDa, is the perfect weekend getaway for couples. This artsy district has many galleries and art studios, and if you want to head out for the day, the Blue Ridge Mountains are a 2-hour drive to the west.
Apart from that, here are our top pics for couples staying in NoDa:
- Relive your student days and meander around the gorgeous campus of Davidson College.
- Treat yourself to local produce at the Davidsons Farmer’s Market.
- Explore the downtown area. There are plenty of shops and eateries, or you can join a spooky Davidson Ghost Tour ($10 for adults).
- Head over to Lake Norman. Here you can enjoy a picnic, go fishing, rent a kayak, or speed up with a jet ski.
Best Accommodations in North Davidson:
1. Homewood Suites by Hilton
- Price per Night: $227 – $329
Homewood Suites is located close to Lake Norman as well as the busy district of Davidson.
This hotel offers guests a free hot breakfast, but if you would rather stay in, there is a full kitchen in the suite too! And if you don’t feel like getting groceries, there is an on-site convenience store.
There is also free WiFi, a putting green, and an indoor pool to enjoy.
The suites have seating areas and workspaces, and some have balconies with gorgeous views.
2. Carnegie Guest House
- Price per Night: $145 – $165
Carnegie Guest House is a specialty inn that welcomes guests to Davidson College. That doesn’t mean you need to have any connection to the campus to stay there, though!
There are eight rooms at the Guest House, each with a private bathroom and free WiFi.
Couples can tuck into the complimentary breakfast before heading out to explore the campus or the rest of Davidson.
3. Davidson Village Inn
- Price per Night: $173 – $219
Davidson Village Inn is located in the heart of Davidson. It is perfect for romantic weekend getaways in Davidson and its surroundings, as it truly feels like a home away from home.
At the Inn, you will find welcoming and personable staff, a library, and a lot of small touches that will make you feel at ease.
Breakfast is included in your stay. The breakfast buffet is absolutely delectable, or you can head out to one of the many restaurants within walking distance of the Inn.
There are rooms and suites available, each with modern luxuries like hair dryers, L’Occitane bath products, bamboo towels, and Comphy Company linens.
Top Excursions & Activities To Do On A Charlotte Romantic Getaway
Clearly, Charlotte has a lot of amazing destinations, and each destination also has plenty to see and do! You and your partner obviously want to have a truly unforgettable experience in Charlotte, so we have gathered together all the best excursions and activities while visiting the Queen City.
- Motorsport enthusiasts should head straight to the NASCAR Hall of Fame! This museum is a true shrine to the history and popularity of NASCAR. There are informative and interactive exhibits to explore. Tickets start at $27 per adult and can be purchased online.
- Get your blood pumping and heart racing at Carowinds amusement park. There are plenty of rides and experiences, and the waterpark is perfect for those hot summer days. Tickets cost $29.99 per adult.
- Walk around the trails or have a picnic at Freedom Park. There is also a beautiful river.
Sample Itinerary & Budget For Your Romantic Getaways In Charlotte, NC
So we have covered the most romantic Charlotte hotels and what to do while in the city, but actually organizing your life and mapping out an itinerary can be a bit of a struggle. Below is a sample itinerary for a long weekend in Charlotte, as well as a budget estimate.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: City Center
Begin by exploring the uptown area. Either walk around town or go on a Segway Tour.
Some great sights include the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Mint Museum Uptown, the First Ward Park, and the Truist Field (if you love sports).
For dinner, hit the lively night scene for that southern hospitality. Dine at Leah & Louise, considered by many the top restaurant in the city, or grab a drink at The Cellar at Duckworth’s.
Day 2: Fun and Games, NASCAR or Lakeside Relaxing
Day 2 is yours to customize. Below we have provided you with three options:
- Head to Carowinds amusement park for a day of fun in the sun!
- Sports fanatics can head to Charlotte Checkers stadium to support the hockey or watch either the Hornets (basketball), Knights (baseball), or Panthers (football) in action.
- Drive north to Lake Norman for a relaxing day in the fresh water and on the shores of the lake.
Day 3: NoDa
Many people prefer Uptown, but North Davidson is a great destination for couples. You can walk across the entire area, entering art galleries as you go. There are also plenty of live music venues, bars, eateries, and wall murals to discover.
Sample Budget
Charlotte is possibly one of the most affordable big cities in the country. On average, a person can spend around $150 per day, including accommodation and food.
There are also plenty of free activities in the city, which is great for travelers on a budget!
Here is a sample budget for a long weekend in Charlotte for a couple.
| Activity | Price |
| Accommodation: | $220 per couple per night. |
| Car Rental: | $30 a day |
| Public Transport: | $10 per couple per day (depending on where you travel) |
| Dining and drinks: | $80 per couple per day |
| Activities and excursions: | $60 per couple per day (unless you do free activities) |
| TOTAL: | $400 per couple per day |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Charlotte romantic getaway cost on average?
The cost of a romantic escape to Charlotte will depend on the duration of your stay, your hotel or B&B, and which activities you enjoy.
On average, you can expect to spend around $350 – $400 per couple per day, including accommodation, food, car rental, or local transport and activities.
This cost can be decreased if you prefer to do the free activities in Charlotte and stay at affordable chain hotels.
When is the best time to visit Charlotte, North Carolina?
The best time to visit Charlotte is between March and May. During this time, the weather is really pleasant, but you are also missing the crowds that descend during peak season.
Fall is also a lovely time to visit the city. You will get to marvel at the fall colors in the parks and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of a city not overrun by tourists.
Although the summers are really lovely, a lot of people visit Charlotte during summer, which means you may be paying peak-season prices and fighting the crowds at many of the tourist sites.
How long do people typically spend in Charlotte on a romantic getaway?
We recommend three days minimum to spend exploring Charlotte. However, for a more relaxed stay, it is easy to extend your trip to five days or a whole week! This will allow you to explore the city and surrounding areas at a relaxed pace and will also enable you to drive out to the Blue Ridge Mountains for a day or two.
Start Planning The Ideal Romantic Getaway
Charlotte has many romantic hotels and is the perfect city for romantic getaways. This is because this urban forest city has a bustling nightlife, plenty of green spaces, and so much to do and see!
From NASCAR museums to local wineries and outdoor adventure, Charlotte has something for everyone. There are also several luxury hotels in the city, but for something more private, a couple can opt for a bed and breakfast outside of the city center instead.
Are you ready to start planning your trip to Charlotte or anywhere else in the United States? Make sure to check out Couples Travel for all the top tips and destinations for couples looking for a romantic break!