The season of love is almost upon us, which means it’s time to start planning a romantic getaway with your sweetie. If you are in or near the beautiful state of North Carolina, there are numerous quaint towns and beautiful cities to escape to for a magical and memorable getaway. Here, you’ll find romantic hotels and fun activities to make memories that last. From the mountains of the west to the shores of the east, the Tar Heel State has something special for every couple, whether you’re into relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both.
Asheville
When it comes to romantic excursions in North Carolina, the city of Asheville is the perfect place. This eclectic town in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains offers all the amenities of a major city while maintaining the charm of a small town. Amidst picturesque mountain backdrops, you’ll find a mix of things to do, including quaint shops and first-class restaurants, as well as attractions like the Biltmore Estate and the Drum Circle. Some of Asheville’s most luxurious hotels include the Inn at Biltmore Estate and Omni Grove Park Inn.
Boone
The mountain town of Boone in western North Carolina offers lots of opportunities for romance and adventure. Spend a day on the Boone Area Wine Trail, where you can meet local winemakers, tour the facilities and sample the wines. If you’d rather explore nature, several local biking and hiking trails lead to gorgeous waterfalls, or opt for some rest and relaxation with a couples’ massage at one of the area’s destination spas like the Westglow Resort and Spa or stay overnight in a romantic cabin rental.
Blowing Rock
Just a short drive from Boone is Blowing Rock – a picturesque small town that looks like something out of a storybook. Wander through the downtown district and enjoy the quaint shops and restaurants or go for a hike on the scenic trailheads of Bass Lake. When it comes to restaurants, you’ll find everything from wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean fare to seafood and authentic pub food.
Ocean Isle Beach
If you prefer the beach over the mountains, why not take a romantic getaway to Ocean Isle Beach? The weather may be a little cool, but there are still plenty of attractions to explore, like the Museum of Coastal Carolina, the nearby lighthouses, and the Ocean Isle Beach Pier. For a bit of romance, take a stroll along the white sandy beaches, get a couple’s massage or go wine tasting at the Coastal Wine Room. For a complete romantic experience, book a stay at the popular Winds Resort, one of the best beach hotels in North Carolina.
Charlotte
If you’re visiting the Queen City for Valentine’s Day, there are plenty of opportunities for romance, luxury, and fun with your special someone. Hotels like The Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge, The Dunhill Hotel, and The VanLandingham Estate all offer special Valentine’s Day packages. And the selection of restaurants to dine at is virtually endless – featuring impressive selections of fine wines, stunning skyline views, and even specially curated holiday menus. But why stop at just dinner when there are so many other things to do in Charlotte, like the Charlotte Symphony, a show at the Knight Theater, a visit to a local vineyard, a horse-drawn carriage ride, or even a Valentine-themed cooking class at Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen.
Wilmington
For a romantic getaway to the coast of North Carolina, visit the beautiful city of Wilmington and shower your sweetheart with surprises. Options include a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic downtown district, a sunset cruise up the Cape Fear River, or a Valentine’s Day Beer Dinner at Bill’s Front Porch Pub and Brewery that includes a five-course meal with craft beer pairings. Then top it off with a romantic stay at the beach like the Valentine’s Day package at Shell Island Resort which includes a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and a $50 voucher for the on-site restaurant and bar.
Durham
Durham, in the “Triangle” region of North Carolina, might be most well-known for education and technology. But on Valentine’s Day, it’s all about celebrating how you feel about that special someone in your life. There is a long list of things to do in Durham, home to a charming downtown district dotted with restaurants, shopping, sporting events, attractions, and culture. Take a stroll through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, browse the shops at The Streets at Southpoint, or visit lemurs at The Duke Lemur Center.
