The best hotels in Raleigh offer a range of options for all types of travelers. With careful navigation and a keen eye for deception, you might just find a place to lay your weary head that isn’t entirely out of a Charles Dickens nightmare. From boutique hotels with unique charm and luxury hotels offering top-notch service to convenient airport and midtown hotels, Raleigh has something for everyone. Enjoy a delightful stay downtown, near NC State, Lenovo Center, RDU airport, or in midtown Raleigh.
I’ve personally stayed in, or visited family or friends staying in all of the boutique hotels and downtown hotels I recommend. My other recommendations are based on hotel locations, online reviews from multiple sources, and information provided by hotel websites.
- Best Boutique Hotels in Raleigh
- Best Luxury Hotels in Raleigh
- Best Downtown Raleigh Hotels
- Best Hotels Near NC State
- Best Hotels Near Lenovo Center and the Fairgrounds
- Best RDU Airport Hotels
- Best Midtown Raleigh Hotels
Best Boutique Hotels in Raleigh
Unlike generic chain hotels, boutique hotels offer a whimsical escape. Imagine a hideaway on a tree lined street, hidden balconies, a cozy lobby, and unique rooms whispering of a bygone era. The best boutique hotels in Raleigh defy predictability, offering a chance for a charming surprise.
Heights House Hotel
308 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603
The Heights House Hotel, a charming 1860 Italianate mansion, offers adult-only tranquility in a quiet neighborhood near the Contemporary Art Museum and Raleigh Union Station. Chic rooms (no elevator) boast intriguing art, luxurious linens, and modern comforts such as Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and Bose Bluetooth speakers. Upgraded options add fireplaces or living areas. Explore the city on loaner bikes, and fuel your adventures with the daily continental breakfast.
The Longleaf Hotel
300 N Dawson St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Allow me to introduce The Longleaf Hotel, a hotel so chic, it would make even the most jaded socialite raise an eyebrow. An updated 1960s motor lodge, this hotel has the distinction of being the only Raleigh hotel in the Michelin Guide. Situated a mere eight minutes walk from the North Carolina State Capitol (a place where very important decisions are made while wearing very important suits), and 16 minutes from both Raleigh Union Station and the Red Hat Amphitheater.
Hip rooms feature all the modern conveniences a weary traveler could desire: flat screen TVs, minibars, Bluetooth speakers, snacks, and sitting areas. Suites offer separate living rooms with sofabeds. At the end of any long day, an amazing retro-style bar and patio await, with libations guaranteed to be far more exciting than lukewarm chamomile tea.
Guesthouse Raleigh
420 S Bloodworth St, Raleigh, NC 27601
The Guesthouse Raleigh is another charming adults-only haven. Tucked away on a leafy downtown street, this 19th-century Victorian offers a tranquil escape mere minutes from the bustle of the city. A 12-minute walk will get you to the North Carolina State Capitol or the Raleigh Convention Center.
Airy rooms emit a delightful mid-century modern vibe, complete with all the modern conveniences a discerning traveler could desire: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, bluetooth speakers, sound machines, minibars, sitting areas, and designer toiletries and linens. Upgraded options for the truly discerning offer balconies or patios with city views, perfect for contemplating the mysteries of urban sprawl. A light in-room breakfast will surely fortify you for your explorations. Other amenities include a modern, shared kitchen, a lounge, and a courtyard with a pecan tree.
Best Luxury Hotels in Raleigh
A good luxury hotel extends a velvet glove of service, anticipating its guests’ every whim. Bellhops whisk away luggage, concierges conjure reservations, and rooms offer sultan-worthy amenities. For a price, of course. But for those seeking an unforgettable escape, a luxury hotel stay in Raleigh may be just the ticket.
The StateView Hotel, Autograph Collection
2451 Alumni Dr, Raleigh, NC 27606
The StateView Hotel awaits on North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus. The hotel overlooks the charming tree-lined shores of Lake Raleigh and is located a mere two miles from the bustling I-40, providing easy access to nearly every other road on the continent.
Within the hotel’s walls, fancy upscale rooms await! Each has a comfortable sitting area, perfect for pondering the day’s adventures. Expect complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen TVs, and tea and coffee makers in every guest room. Some even offer delightful lake views! Spacious suites offer a separate living room – perfect for contemplating the mysteries of the universe. Should you prefer not to leave the hotel, a contemporary restaurant and bar awaits. And for those seeking to improve their upper body strength, a 24 hour fitness center and heated outdoor pool beckon.
Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel
4100 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609
For the intrepid traveler seeking a refined respite, Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel awaits just off I-440 and adjacent to the bustling North Hills. Rooms are equipped with luxury linens, 55″ flat screen TVs (and TVs embedded behind vanity mirror in each bathroom!), ergonomic chairs and desks, and Wi-Fi but only if you pay for it.
Upgraded rooms offer access to a most delightful lounge serving a complimentary continental breakfast, a mid-day snack, hors d’oeuvres, dessert, and grab-and-go snacks all day. Suites offer separate living areas with pull-out sofas and whirlpool tubs! Look also for two onsite restaurants and a fitness center.
Best Downtown Raleigh Hotels
If you want a place to rest your head near everything downtown has to offer, you’re going to want a downtown Raleigh hotel. These hotels are within walking distance of Raleigh Union Station, the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM), Red Hat Amphitheater, the Convention Center, the Center for the Performing Arts, the North Carolina State Capitol, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina Museum of History, and so much more.
The Longleaf Hotel
300 N Dawson St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Remember me mentioning The Longleaf Hotel, a hotel so chic, it would make even the most jaded socialite raise an eyebrow? An updated 1960s motor lodge, this hotel has the distinction of being the only North Carolina hotel in the Michelin Guide. Situated a mere eight minutes walk from the North Carolina State Capitol (a place where, one presumes, very important decisions are made while wearing very important suits), and 16 minutes from both Raleigh Union Station and the Red Hat Amphitheater.
Hip rooms feature all the modern conveniences a weary traveler could desire: flat screen TVs, minibars, Bluetooth speakers, snacks, and sitting areas. Suites offer separate living rooms with sofabeds. At the end of any long day, an amazing retro-style bar and patio await, with libations guaranteed to be far more exciting than lukewarm chamomile tea.
The Casso
603 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603
For anyone seeking an escape from the ordinary, look no further than The Casso on the edge of the Warehouse District. Here, nestled amongst the vibrant streets, awaits a delightful upmarket hotel. A mere 7 minute stroll gets you to the Contemporary Art Museum, CAM Raleigh, and 8 minutes gets you to Raleigh Union Station.
Trendy rooms, each showcasing a touch of local flair in their decor, offer complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and coffeemakers. Should you be traveling with adventurous youngsters, in-room camping gear is available upon request. And for those seeking a moment of zen, yoga mats are also available! A hip restaurant and bar offers a plant-based menu to tantalize your taste buds. Don’t forget the fitness center if you need to squeeze in a workout.
Heights House Hotel
308 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603
Consider the Heights House Hotel, a charming 1860 Italianate mansion that offers adult-only tranquility in a quiet neighborhood near the Contemporary Art Museum and Raleigh Union Station. Chic rooms (no elevator) boast intriguing art, luxurious linens, and modern comforts such as Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and Bose Bluetooth speakers. Upgraded options add fireplaces or living areas. Explore the city on loaner bikes, and fuel your adventures with the daily continental breakfast.
Guest House Raleigh
420 S Bloodworth St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Guest House Raleigh is another charming adults-only haven. Tucked away on a leafy downtown street, this 19th-century Victorian offers a tranquil escape mere minutes from the bustle of the city. A 12-minute walk will get you to the North Carolina State Capitol or the Raleigh Convention Center.
Airy rooms emit a delightful mid-century modern vibe, complete with all the modern conveniences a discerning traveler could desire: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, bluetooth speakers, sound machines, minibars, sitting areas, and designer toiletries and linens. Upgraded options for the truly discerning offer balconies or patios with city views, perfect for contemplating the mysteries of urban sprawl. A light in-room breakfast will surely fortify you for your explorations. Other amenities include a modern, shared kitchen, a lounge, and a courtyard with a pecan tree.
Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown
616 S Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Delightful news for travelers seeking a comfortable base in Raleigh! Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown is a stone’s throw from the Raleigh Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater and offers a most convenient location for exploring the city’s delights. Each guest room shines with a sparkling marble bathroom, a well-equipped kitchen, and a delightful living area complete with a sofa bed. Complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions ensure you’ll stay entertained even if you decide not to leave the room. For those requiring even more space, one-bedroom suites are available, some offering balconies.
A complimentary hot breakfast awaits each morning and there are two onsite restaurants, one of which has a lovely rooftop bar. Additional amenities include a gym, coin-operated laundry for those inevitable wardrobe mishaps, and a convenience store. I’m sad to mention that this is one of the few hotels in Raleigh where parking is not free.
If you are looking for a hotel near the Convention Center or Red Hat Amphitheater, consider also Raleigh Marriott City Center or Sheraton Raleigh Hotel.
Best Hotels Near NC State
If you want to be near the Wolfpack action on campus, this is your best hotel option.
Aloft Raleigh
2100 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
Aloft Raleigh is a stylish hotel sitting directly across from North Carolina State University. Streamlined rooms, each featuring a touch of whimsy with colorful accents, exude a modern vibe. Expect complimentary Wi-Fi, 49-inch flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and coffeemakers in each room. Suites offer the luxury of separate living areas, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
A hip restaurant and bar offers food, obviously, but also live music on a regular basis. Don’t forget the lovely terrace with bell tower views, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Best Hotels Near Lenovo Center and the Fairgrounds
These are the best hotels near Lenovo Center, Carter Finley Stadium, and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds.
Four Points by Sheraton Raleigh Arena
1200 Hurricane Alley Way, Raleigh, NC 27607
Four Points by Sheraton Raleigh Arena is a delightful casual hotel, a mere 8 minute walk from Lenovo Center. Each airy room offers complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and mini fridges. One and two-bedroom suites offer the luxury of separate living rooms and bar areas, perfect for hosting a small gathering of friends. There is also a fitness center, seasonal outdoor pool, and restaurant on site.
Hyatt Place Raleigh / Cary
710 Corporate Center Dr, Raleigh, NC 27607
Hyatt Place Raleigh / Cary sits just two miles from the site of the North Carolina State Fair and is also convenient to Lenovo Center and Carter-Finley Stadium. Straightforward rooms, each offer complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, mini fridges, pull-out sofas, dedicated work areas, and separate living and sleeping areas. This haven of convenience also offers a complimentary airport shuttle, an outdoor pool, hot tub fitness center, coffee and cocktail bar, and a 24/7 convenience store.
Best RDU Airport Hotels
These are the best hotels available if you want the convenience of being near the airport for a quick escape.
The Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport
3931 Macaw St, Raleigh, NC 27617
The Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport offers a free airport shuttle and offers a convenient location near the airport. The lobby shines with a plethora of golden oak leaves hanging from the ceiling, a nod to the City of Oaks. Sophisticated guest rooms each feature plush Heavenly 2.0 Beds, free Wi-Fi, a microwave and coffeemaker, and the offer of 24-hour room service.
Ascend to the rooftop and discover a delightful pool, perfect for a refreshing dip on a sunny day. Feeling energetic? Head to the Westin WORKOUT studio with Peloton bikes, enjoy some sunrise rooftop yoga, or explore the area with RunWestin (I’m not here to judge your choices). An Italian inspired menu featuring local ingredients awaits at the hotel’s onsite restaurant and bar.
Hyatt House Raleigh/RDU/Brier Creek
10030 Sellona St, Raleigh, NC 27617
Off I-540, across from a delightful wooded area, awaits Hyatt House Raleigh/RDU/Brier Creek, a modern apartment hotel. This haven of comfort offers a perfect home base for extended stays or those seeking a touch more space than a traditional hotel room. Casual studios and one or two-bedroom apartments await. Each has complimentary Wi-Fi, convenient kitchenettes, and living rooms. Some apartments offer the luxury of full kitchens.
But wait, there’s more! An extensive fitness center and pool! A complimentary breakfast buffet! A billiards room! A fashionable bar! An on-site restaurant! A free shuttle service!
Cambria Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport
300 Airgate Dr, Morrisville, NC 27560
A polished airport hotel, Cambria Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport awaits just off I-40 and a mere two miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport. It offers a convenient respite for those arriving or departing on grand adventures thanks to a free airport shuttle. Each contemporary suite has complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and coffeemakers, and desks with ergonomic chairs. Separate living areas with pull-out sofas offer a touch of grandeur and provide an additional sleeping solution.
A complimentary breakfast buffet fuels your adventures each morning, but look also for an on-site restaurant, bar, and 24/7 convenience store. When it’s time for recreation, look for an indoor heated pool, a soothing hot tub, and a well-equipped gym.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Airport Brier Creek
8001 Arco Corporate Dr, Raleigh, NC 27617
Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Airport Brier Creek is located just three miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport. This laid-back airport hotel features polished rooms, each with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini fridges, and coffee makers. Suites offer the luxury of separate living rooms with pull-out sofas, and some even have fireplaces for maximum cozy charm.
Expect an airport shuttle, daily made-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with delectable snacks – all complimentary. Want more? Look for a charming lobby bar and an on-site restaurant, an indoor heated pool, a soothing hot tub, and a well-equipped gym.
Best Midtown Raleigh Hotels
These hotels are great for being close to North Hills for shopping and events, and for if you’re visiting someone that lives in North Raleigh but you wouldn’t want to impose on them. Or something.
Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel
4100 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609
For the intrepid traveler seeking a refined respite, Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel awaits just off I-440 and adjacent to the bustling North Hills. Rooms are equipped with luxury linens, 55″ flat screen TVs (and TVs embedded behind vanity mirror in each bathroom!), ergonomic chairs and desks, and Wi-Fi but only if you pay for it.
Upgraded rooms offer access to a most delightful lounge serving a complimentary continental breakfast, a mid-day snack, hors d’oeuvres, dessert, and grab-and-go snacks all day. Suites offer separate living areas with pull-out sofas and whirlpool tubs! Look also for two onsite restaurants and a fitness center.
AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills
101 Park at N Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609
A haven nestled amidst a bustling retail park, just off Interstate 440, lies this modern marvel: AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills! Streamlined rooms each offer complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, mini fridges, and coffeemakers. Some rooms also offer the convenience of pull-out sofas. Check out the rooftop tapas bar with city views, a well-equipped gym, and coin-operated laundry facilities.
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