Asheville, NC
Asheville is a city in western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its arts scene, the robust history, and plenty of food and drink, Asheville is perfect for a romantic weekend trip.
Where to stay: The Haywood Hotel & Atrium
What to do:
- Visit the Biltmore Estate – The Biltmore estate is a historic museum and tourist attraction. The main residence, the Biltmore House, is a mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the breathtaking mansion, fine dining and a wine tasting while they take in the scenic culture.
- Enjoy the Omni Grove Park Inn Patio – The Omni Grove Park Inn is a AAA Four-Diamond Hotel nestled in the heart of Asheville facing the slope of Sunset Mountain. If you have the chance, visit this resort for dinner or just a drink on this gorgeous terrace.
- Explore Downtown – You’ll find blocks of art, wonderful architecture, local shops, tasty dining, and more breweries than you can imagine. Set aside at least one full day to enjoy the streets of Downtown Asheville.
Grove Park Inn Patio
Boone and Blowing Rock
Both Boone and Blowing Rock are cities in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plenty of trails, hikes, quaint local shops, and wineries to keep you weekend diverse and fun.
Where to stay: Chetola Resort
What to do:
- The High-Country Wine Trail – Visit three wineries in the high country: Grandfather Mountain Winery, Banner Elk Winery, and Linville Falls Winery while enjoying a scenic ride down the Blueridge Parkway along the way.
- Hike or drive Grandfather Mountain – The nonprofit state park offers visitors multiple ways to get to the peak, whether you want to get some exercise or just take in the views. Don’t miss the legendary swinging bridge!
- Shopping - Between the downtown areas of both Boone and Blowing Rock, you’ll find plenty of boutique shops to enjoy. Also, be sure to visit the Mast General Store to feel like you took a step back in time.
Grandfather Mountain Swinging Bridge
Charlotte
Perfect for night life lovers, Charlotte, NC is a great destination for a weekend of dancing, eating, and drinking.
Where to stay: The Duke Mansion
What to do:
- The US National Whitewater Center – Enjoy zip lines, ropes courses, paddling, and white water rafting in the same place the US Whitewater team practices.
- Night life – There is no shortage of nightlife in Charlotte, but definitely start at the Epicenter where there are plenty of dining and bar options indoors.
- Find 101 fun things to do in Charlotte here: https://www.charlottesgotalot.com/articles/things-to-do/101-fun-things-to-do-in-charlotte
Charlotte Epicenter
The Outer Banks
Just off the coast of, North Carolina, you’ll find the barrier islands known as the Outer Banks.
Where to stay: The Inn on Pamlico Sound
What to do:
- Jockey’s Ridge – The 426-acre park is the largest natural sand dune on the East coast. Walk all the way to the top for a sunset picnic and enjoy the view!
- Cape Hatteras – This is the tallest lighthouse in America, so be prepared to do some stair stepping, but the view and history are well worth it.
- Go fishing – You can hop on a charter boat at Jennette’s Pier for your shot at catching world class game at one of the East Coasts most famous fishing spots.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse