Raleigh, North Carolina offers a unique blend of history, mid-century charm and luxury, making it an exceptional destination for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re seeking a historic experience, a retro ambiance and an upscale retreat, Raleigh’s diverse hotels cater to everyone’s taste and needs.
Highlights
- Heights House Hotel: Immerse yourself in pre-Civil War elegance at this historic landmark, featuring beautifully restored rooms, thoughtful hospitality and charming afternoon tea; perfect for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate elegant accommodations.
- The Longleaf Hotel: Enjoy mid-century retro style with modern conveniences and easy access to downtown attractions; ideal for travelers looking to combine comfort with a fun, nostalgic atmosphere.
- The Umstead Hotel and Spa: Indulge in a tranquil escape surrounded by nature, complete with a five-star spa, art exhibits and fine dining, making it perfect for those seeking relaxation and wellness.
The writer was hosted.
If you’re planning a visit to Raleigh, North Carolina, you’ll find three hotels with distinct personalities: pre–Civil War elegance at Heights House Hotel, mid-century cool at The Longleaf and five-star art-and-nature calm at The Umstead. Whether you value history and hospitality rituals, retro comfort and convenience and museum-level art and wellness, these are the best hotels in Raleigh for your stay.
Choose your stay: historic walkability (Heights House), retro ease (Longleaf) or spa/art escape (The Umstead). All suit solo women, couples, families and groups, with options for any budget.
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Heights House Hotel: Pre–Civil War History in Boylan Heights
A National and Raleigh Historic Landmark built in 1860, Heights House Hotel features :
- Nine guest rooms
- 15-foot ceilings
- Original hardwood floors
- Pocket doors
- Ten fireplaces
- A library
- A Parlor bar
- Afternoon Tea
- European breakfast
- An espresso bar
- Gardens
- Complimentary breakfast
- Complimentary bicycle
- Complimentary WiFi
- A free gym pass
- Walkable to dining and shopping
We love the history and thoughtful restoration at Heights House Hotel. The warm welcome—including bubbly with berries—the boutique property tour and the Boulted Bread at breakfast all make for a memorable stay. Sipping a Dirty Dill Martini in the Parlor, as well as one prepared and delivered to our room, adds a special touch.
Don’t miss
Dine at Irregardless, approximately a 10-minute walk away. Features local artists and live music.
She Buys Travel Tip: Heights House offers one accessible guest room on the first floor and has a lift on the back porch to accommodate those with mobility issues.
The Longleaf Hotel: Mid-Century Style With Easy Downtown Access
A boutique retro-style hotel renovated from a 1960s Travelodge on the north side of Raleigh, the mid-century modern Longleaf Hotel features :
- 56 rooms (king deluxe, king suite with parlor)
- Ptarshine breeze blocks
- Period-inspired decor
- Pillowtop beds
- Luxury bedding
- Bathrobes
- Blackout curtains
- Earplugs
- Bluetooth speakers
- Stocked fridges
- Free on-site parking
- Complimentary Counter Culture coffee
- Outdoor patio
- Dog-friendly
- Free WiFi
- Longleaf Lounge
We appreciate The Longleaf Hotel’s convenient proximity to downtown restaurants and attractions, along with easy parking and its inviting retro style.
Don’t Miss
Dine at Death & Taxes, about ten minutes walking distance. Famous for wood-fired cuisine.
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, about five minutes walking distance. Perfect for the entire family.
She Buys Travel Tip: The Longleaf Hotel offers two floors and no elevator. Be sure to reserve a ground-floor room when booking if you have mobility issues.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa: Art, Nature, Wellness in Cary
Set amid peaceful woodlands in Cary, The Umstead Hotel and Spa, a luxury property near Raleigh, promotes art, nature and wellness. The Umstead, a multi-year Forbes 5-Star and AAA Five Diamond winner, offers:
- 150 rooms and suites
- A Forbes Five-Star spa
- A scenic lake
- Outdoor pool
- State-of-the-art gym
- Rotating featured artists
- Weekly floral arrangements in the lobby
- A permanent Chihuly art exhibit
We appreciate the variety of art on exhibit, the engaging self-guided art tour and the impressive floral sculpture in the lobby. The remarkable attention to detail and the extent to which management encourages staff to proactively serve guests and patrons stand out.
Don’t Miss
Dine at Herons Restaurant – fine dining at The Umstead Hotel and Spa.
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) – a large permanent collection of classic to contemporary exhibitions, outdoor sculptures, about five miles away.
She Buys Travel Tip: The Umstead Hotel is ADA-compliant, with elevators, wheelchair-accessible routes to public spaces, accessible guest rooms and more.
Best Time to Visit Raleigh
Time your visit to Raleigh in early May, one of the best times of year. Spring blooms and comfortable weather make it easy to walk downtown, in parks and at outdoor attractions. Fall also offers good weather and easy sightseeing. Avoid summer because the heat, humidity and tropical systems can bring heavy rain and wind.
Getting There
Fly into Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU), about 25 minutes from downtown. Amtrak serves Raleigh Union Station (station code RGH) in a modern downtown hub. Driving approaches from Interstates 40, 75, 77 and 95 to the Research Triangle, the metro region anchored by Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.
Heights House Hotel offers Raleigh history with warmth, a welcome ritual and a cozy Parlor. The Longleaf is fun and practical, combining retro style, comfort and easy parking. For full art-and-wellness luxury, The Umstead in Cary provides five-star service, a spa and a self-directed art experience. Three unique personalities for hikers, culture vultures, culinary travelers and wellness warriors.
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