North Carolina is a southeastern state offering extraordinary geographic diversity — from the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in the west, to the rolling Piedmont Plateau in the center, to the iconic Outer Banks barrier islands and warm Atlantic beaches in the east. Home to nearly 11 million residents, the state blends Southern hospitality, world-class barbecue, vibrant college-town culture, outdoor adventure, and a deep historical heritage stretching from the Wright Brothers' first flight to Civil War battlefields.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
The Inn on Biltmore Estate
The only hotel on Vanderbilt's legendary 8,000-acre estate, offering 213 rooms with mountain views, a full-service spa, four restaurants, and unlimited estate access. Guests may stay after day visitors depart, experiencing the grounds in tranquility.
Omni Grove Park Inn
Legendary 1913 Arts & Crafts resort built of granite boulders on a mountainside, with panoramic Blue Ridge views. The 43,000-sq-ft underground spa is one of the most celebrated in America. Hosts the National Gingerbread Competition annually.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Forbes Five-Star hotel on 12 woodland acres near Research Triangle Park. Features the Umstead Spa (also Forbes Five-Star) and Herons, one of NC's most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. A model of sustainable luxury.
The Fearrington House Country Inn
Relais & Châteaux property in a converted 18th-century farmstead village south of Chapel Hill. The Fearrington House Restaurant has been a James Beard semifinalist. The property has resident belted Galloway cattle and herb gardens.
Pinehurst Resort
America's premier golf destination with nine championship courses including Pinehurst No. 2 (US Open host). The 1895 Holly Inn and 1901 Carolina Hotel anchor the historic village. Donald Ross designed many of the courses.
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.
Herons Restaurant
Chef Steven Greene's progressive American cuisine in an intimate Forbes Five-Star restaurant. Seasonal tasting menus $145-185/person (USD); extensive NC wine and spirits list.
Curate
Chef Katie Button's acclaimed Spanish restaurant has earned James Beard nominations. Authentic Spanish tapas, Iberian wines, and house-made charcuterie.
Kindred
James Beard Award winner; seasonal new American cuisine in a beloved college-town restaurant. Milk bread is the signature; book 3-4 weeks ahead.
The Fearrington House Restaurant
AAA Four Diamond restaurant in a Relais & Châteaux country inn; prix-fixe seasonal menus celebrate NC ingredients; one of the state's most romantic dining settings.