As the months continue to pass by, the need to get away becomes even greater. If you aren’t quite ready to take a road trip, or even fly, a staycation is a safe way to change the scenery for a few days.
Staycations are mini vacations right in your own city or home base. You don’t have to go very far, however, you’ll still get the feeling of going on vacation— even if it’s just one night.
If you are in or near Charlotte, we’ve found the perfect luxury staycation to cure your cabin fever blues.
Where to stay
As the largest city in North Carolina, and one of the nation’s biggest banking cities, Charlotte has plenty of hotels for you to choose from. However, if you want to experience a newly-opened luxury stay, we highly suggest the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte.
This high-rise hotel opened in early August and is located in the heart of uptown Charlotte. With an Argentinian theme throughout the property, it will feel like you’ve somehow transported to the South American nation as soon as you walk in the door.
Choose from a king or two-queen beds, and if you really want to splurge opt for the suite. The rooms are decked out in bold greens and purples, including a fancy lounging chair and a beautiful soaking tub in the bathroom.
What to do
By staying at the Grand Bohemian Charlotte, you are in walking distance (or a short e-scooter ride) away from lots of things.
Within the hotel, pamper yourself at Poseidon spa or get in a workout at the Artful Wellness Center. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera and a few cute outfits, because the hotel has plenty of photoshoot worthy spots.
Start with the Queen’s Terrace, which is technically an outdoor event space, but the mural is a must-see. The hotel lobby, Bohemian Garden, and Búho Bar (opening in late September) are also must see.
Just behind the hotel is Romare Bearden Park. Put down a blanket and have a picnic in the park, while you take in views of the Charlotte skyline. At night, you can see the park’s fountain come to life with it’s own colorful light display.
If you happen to visit on the weekend, a few blocks away is the designated spot for the city’s Uptown Farmer’s Market.
You are also in walking distance to several museums and galleries including The Harvey B. Gantt Center (African American history and art), the Levine Center for the Arts, and The Mint. Once shows resume post COVID restrictions, you can also catch a Broadway show at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
If you want to spend a day supporting Black-owned businesses around the city, check out this sample itinerary.
Where to eat
On the lobby floor of the hotel, you’ll find Charlotte’s hottest new upscale dining experience. Mico restaurant brings Argentinian flavors with a twist. With most of the culinary team being some of the area’s best Black fine dining chefs, you can expect flavorful dishes unlike anything else you’ll taste in Charlotte. Suggestion: order the lamb skewers and a side of the mashed sweet plantain, you won’t be disappointed.
For lunch, check out The Bohemian Garden (also on the property) for healthy bowls and cocktails.
If you prefer a light breakfast, just across the street is a cute little açaí bowl shop called Spoons. You can create your own bowl or choose one from the menu. For a full breakfast, walk just a block and a half over to the new Tupelo Honey Cafe location. The outdoor patio is perfect for people watching.
If you want to check out some of Charlotte’s Black-owned restaurants and food trucks, check out this list.
As you can see, uptown Charlotte is the perfect place to enjoy a luxury staycation. Enjoy!
Note: Per NC COVID rules, masks are required inside all public places and where social distancing isn’t possible. Restaurants are also operating at limited capacity.
Related: Inside Charlotte’s Hottest Black-Owned Food Truck, What The Fries