Are you looking for a hotel for the holidays? Christmas is one of the busiest seasons for the hospitality and tourism industry. Hotels are decorated in full glam for the festive season and offer special packages for Christmas accommodations. Some even continue to hold their festivities until the New Year.
If you are visiting the Carolinas this holiday season, here are some of the best holiday hotels you should consider for the most decorated and spirited accommodations:
The Carolina Inn – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Santa Claus is making a special appearance at The Carolina Inn, spreading joy and cheer for guests of all ages. From December 2 to 23, visitors can enjoy many activities, including a festive meal with a magic show, face painting and the highlight – a visit from Santa himself.
For a unique experience, head to the Anne Hill Courtyard for the Bier Garten on December 3, 10, or 17, from 12 PM to 4 PM. Indulge in a delightful array of craft beers, mulled wine and signature cocktails, accompanied by tasty treats like soft pretzels, corn dogs and pulled pork.
Half Mile Farm – Highlands, North Carolina
Half Mile Farm in Highlands, North Carolina, is the perfect choice for a serene and peaceful Christmas celebration. On Christmas Eve, you can enjoy a complimentary chef-made breakfast in the Woodland View Room, followed by live music from 5 PM to 8 PM. Socialize during the Social Hour from 5 PM to 6 PM, leading to the magical Decorating and Lighting of the Half-Mile Farm Christmas Tree with a Champagne Toast.
On Christmas Day, relish another chef-made breakfast and opt for a special Christmas Lunch in the Woodland View Room (priced at $85, plus tax and gratuity), with seating starting at 2 PM and concluding at 5 PM. And don’t forget to enjoy live music from 12 – 4 PM and 5 – 8 PM in Woodland View Room.
The Carolina Hotel – Pinehurst, North Carolina
Experience a grand Christmas Day Brunch at The Carolina Hotel in The Grand Ballroom on December 25, from 11 AM to 3 PM EST. The brunch offers a lavish spread with full cash bars featuring special cocktails, opportunities for photos with Santa and a delectable buffet. Indulge in dishes like Carolina Farms Winter Greens Salad, Composed Salad, Artisan Cheese Display, Poached Jumbo Shrimp, Oysters on the Half Shell, and more. Kids 3 years old and younger can enjoy complimentary.
Montage Palmetto Bluff – Bluffton, South Carolina
Escape to Montage Palmetto Bluff’s Presidential Suite or the Signature Residences, where Christmas joy transforms each home into a winter wonderland. Adorned with fully decorated trees, wreaths and mantles, these residences evoke the season’s spirit. You will also enjoy a gingerbread house kit and sugar cookies delivered by Christmas elves. No wonder it is one of the top Christmas hotels.
During the Weekends of Holiday Splendor, you can enjoy festive Saturdays with Santa, live music, complimentary valet parking and brunch specials at Octagon. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with these exclusive offerings at Montage Palmetto Bluff.
Meeting Street Inn – Charleston, South Carolina
Book your stay at the Meeting Street Inn for a festive holiday escape to charming Charleston. Available from November 10, 2023, to January 02, 2024, their holiday package includes a welcome basket, nightly hot chocolate and cookies, a guide to Charleston’s best holiday sights, and a delicious breakfast each morning. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the southern charm of Charleston and enjoy the warmth and coziness of the holiday season.
French Quarter Inn – Charleston, South Carolina
Enjoy the holiday spirit at the French Quarter Inn in Charleston, where the entire hotel is adorned with seasonal splendor. A magnificent 15-foot Christmas tree takes center stage in the rotunda, creating a picturesque setting for guests. Complimentary treats, including cider, hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies, add a touch of warmth to the festivities. It is simply one of the top Christmas hotels.
For the ultimate holiday hideaway, indulge in the Sleigh Bell Suite, lavishly decorated with Christmas ornaments. Guests can enjoy special in-room amenities such as freshly baked cookies and milk next to the fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere. The holiday suite also offers the indulgence of bourbon-spiced eggnog, making every moment a celebration of the season.
The Dewberry – Charleston, South Carolina
Step into a world of Christmas magic at The Dewberry, where the famous holiday decor sets the stage for a memorable stay. This season, the Christmas hotel offers a unique experience with branded Volvo luxury house cars, ensuring guests can easily explore King Street’s vibrant shopping and dining scene.
Moreover, you can indulge in the daily tea and cookie cart in The Living Room, a delightful tradition that adds a touch of sweetness to your stay. Upon checking in, guests are greeted with a special holiday gift from The Dewberry, creating a sense of warmth and hospitality. The offer is available for stays between November 19th and December 31st, 2023, inviting guests to savor the holiday spirit throughout the season.
Spectator Charleston – Charleston, South Carolina
The Spectator Charleston is the ideal boutique hotel for a chic and intimate holiday escape. With its twenties-era style, this 41-room gem offers a glamorous library-style cocktail bar, personalized butlers and elegant design details that capture the season’s essence.
You can also enjoy a specially crafted holiday cocktail by their award-winning mixologists and a $10 credit to The Bar. Plus, receive a stylish Brackish Gatsby Bowtie and a pair of Brackish Delores Stud Earrings. Booking is available from December 25, 2023, through January 2, 2024.
Hotel Bennett Charleston – Charleston, South Carolina
Celebrate the season’s magic with the exclusive Holiday Splendor package at Hotel Bennett. Nestled in the heart of historic Charleston, this luxurious hotel offers guests a world of enchantment. The package includes luxury accommodations, complimentary valet parking, and more. Even get an exclusive Hotel Bennett ornament and a delightful treat of complimentary hot chocolate from their Life-Size Gingerbread House.
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family escape, or a festive solo adventure, Hotel Bennett provides the perfect setting. It is truly a great place for crafting unforgettable holiday memories. The Holiday Splendor offer is available for bookings through December 25, 2023. It applies for stays between November 19, 2023, and January 3, 2024.
Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head, South Carolina
Experience the epitome of coastal elegance at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. Located on one of the most beloved islands in the US, this resort is part of the prestigious Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort community.
Guests can explore the 11-mile lagoon system with bike trails, tennis courts and three championship golf courses. The resort offers incredible pools, elegant dining options, and a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation against the backdrop of the stunning Hilton Head coastline. Moreover, you can take your holiday experience to new heights with fantastic discount packages this holiday season.
The Westin Poinsett Greenville – Greenville, South Carolina
Discover the festive charm of downtown Greenville at The Westin Poinsett. This luxurious AAA Four-Diamond property, located in the heart of the city’s revitalized downtown district, becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
The 12-story facade of The Westin Poinsett is a majestic presence at the lower end of Main Street. Step inside to find a luxurious lobby adorned with garland, twinkling lights and ribbons, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The hotel’s holiday decorations add an extra touch of magic to an already delightful stay in this vibrant city. Oh, and don’t forget to take advantage of their CYBER WEEK SALE and save 20%.
Inn At Biltmore
The Inn At Biltmore is one of Asheville’s best boutique hotels filled with charming bed and breakfast views, heated outdoor pools and the sprawling grounds of the estate that are ready for exploration. The Christmas holidays are the perfect time to treat yourself to their four-story elegant escape.
Their Enchanted Christmas package will be available from December 20th to 29th, including Candlelight evenings with a multi-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner. You will also enjoy access to the grounds and estate, Christmas Day Santa visits, daily breakfast delivered to your room, and much more!
Omni Grove Park Inn
The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, ever since its opening in 1913, has become one of the most beloved resorts in the region. The 4-star spa resort offers free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, 5 restaurants and a wide range of amenities.
Celebrate your holidays at the Omni Grove Park Inn with their Gingerbread Holiday Package, available from November 22nd to December 30th. The package will include overnight accommodations, daily breakfast, holiday gingerbread cookies, overnight valet services, views from over 80 illuminated trees, and beautiful holiday decorations spread throughout the inn!
Chetola Resort
The Chetola Resort & Spa is an upscale resort in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. This 78-acre resort features accommodations, a spa, quality dining, and a host of outdoor activities. Besides offering some of the most warm accommodations, it is also one of the best holiday retreats during Christmas.
One of the most popular holiday traditions at the Chetola Resort is the “Festival of Lights,” featuring a dazzling display of illuminations that brings in thousands of visitors annually. The event will run from November 24th, 2023, to January 28th, 2024.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Spread over 12 acres of land, the Umstead Hotel and Spa is an independent 5-star luxury hotel in Cary, North Carolina. This year, they will have Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinner at the hotel, combining their signature warm hospitality and festive decor.
Seating will be available from 4 PM to 8 PM on both days, with dinner priced at $165 per head. The evening will also feature holiday classics, artful and elegant presentations, and expert wine pairings to elevate your dining experience.
The hotel will also host a Herons New Year’s Eve Dinner to welcome 2024 with an exquisite meal and festive toasts.
Grand Bohemian Asheville
The Grand Bohemian Hotel is a four-star luxury hotel located three miles from downtown Asheville. This year, the hotel offers various Christmas-themed events throughout the holidays until the New Year.
Residents can feast on hot cocoa every day from December 1 till February 22 from 2 PM to 6 PM in the lobby. Live music will also play in the hall every Friday and Saturday to elevate your evenings. To add sweetness to your holidays, the hotel will offer complimentary Christmas cookies and candy bags in the lobby from December 21st to 26th. For a festive 4-course meal, head to the Red Stag Grill on December 24th – 25th.
Grand Bohemian Greenville
The Grand Bohemian is a luxurious boutique lodge in Greenville, South Carolina. This lodge blends European and Southern-style holiday traditions in an illuminated setting overlooking the Reedy River. During your visit, Wander through the beautifully decorated Grand Bohemian Lodge, which will look even more spectacular with its fully-fledged Greenville Christmas Market. The market will feature live music, local vendors, holiday-themed food and beverages and photos with Santa.
Old Edwards
The Old Edwards Inn And Spa offers luxury accommodations, a spa, a golf course, farm-to-table dining, and beautiful views of the chic Highlands in North Carolina. The holidays are a magical time when the resort is fully decked out with magical decor and displays. Some holiday traditions at Old Edwards include Christmas tree lighting, a visit from Santa, a Christmas tree parade and much more. Without a doubt, it is one of the best Christmas hotels.
The hotel further offers holiday packages, including the “Christmas Tree Package,” which will include deluxe accommodations for two, a voucher for a 7 ft Christmas tree and a $50 credit that can be used at their restaurants.
The Horse Shoe Farm
The Horse Shoe Farm is a luxury boutique resort in Hendersonville, North Carolina. This 85-acre farm and riverfront resort is one of the most popular holiday destinations during the Christmas season. Besides offering their usual accommodations, they also host several holiday events this time of the year.
Start with their Thanksgiving Family Style Feast at their in-house Silo Cookhouse. The event will feature a mouthwatering feast, cocktails by the outdoor fire pit and scenic views of Mount Pisgah.
You can further enjoy their “Cookie Afternoon” hosted on December 17th, a family-friendly afternoon where you decorate cookies, sit around the bonfire and roast marshmallows while sipping hot cocoa!
The Ballantyne
The Ballantyne is a luxury collection hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina, boasting exceptional cuisine, an in-house spa, and some of the most relaxing accommodations in the city. From Thanksgiving till New Year’s Eve, the hotel has several exciting ticketed and free events lined up, making it one of the top holiday hotels.
A Thanksgiving Ballantyne Ballroom Buffet is scheduled for November 23rd, followed by Gingerbread Lane, which will be hosted every day from December 11th to 24th. This will include an enchanting display of gingerbread creations, festive hot cocoa, and libations. The hotel will further offer a Christmas Day breakfast, brunch and a 4-course curated dinner with holiday libations. Similarly, they will host an exciting New Year’s Eve party on New Year’s Eve!
The Fearrington House Inn
The Fearrington House Inn is located on the outskirts of Chapel Hill in North Carolina. The hotel offers various exciting events throughout the holidays, including Live Music, Free Wine Tastings, and Wine classes, making it one of the top hotels for Christmas.
One of the most notable events they will host is their “Christmas Eve Takeout for Two,” a multi-course boxed feast including a bit of everything. You can order takeout dinner by December 14th and pick it up on the morning of Christmas Eve from the Fearrington Barn.
The Duke Mansion
The Duke Mansion is a southern-style bed and breakfast in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was built in 1915 and has grown into one of the most frequented hotels in the vicinity. Besides being beautifully decorated, the hotel is hosting a specialty “Christmas at the Mansion” event on December 3rd, from 4 PM to 6 PM.
Bring your loved ones to the mansion for a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Feast on hot chocolate as you stroll through the sprawling gardens and enjoy the sounds of local carolers. Face painting will also be available for the young ones!
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a luxury oceanfront hotel close to Charleston in South Carolina. The resort offers guests a season full of festive dining and recreational events. From Thanksgiving till Christmas day, the halls are decked in festive decor, and a roster of fun activities is scheduled to get you in the holiday spirit. The events include the tree lighting ceremony, a craft-making workshop and Santa’s arrival. You will also be served their annual Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals. It is simply one of the top Christmas resorts.
The Wentworth Mansion
The Wentworth Mansion is a circa 1886 restaurant and hotel in Charleston, South Carolina. The hotel offers a host of packages for the holidays alongside a mix of events. Some amenities they offer include a full breakfast, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, evening drinks, in-room soft drinks, bottled water, and complimentary valet parking.
Belmond Charleston Place
The Charleston Place is an independent luxury hotel in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The holidays are a special time at the hotel featuring ornament decorating, a tree lighting ceremony, holiday story time, holiday dining, snowfall photoshoots, PJ cocoa parties, meetings with Santa, and much more, making it just perfect for Christmas lodging!
Their Holiday Room Package is specifically designed to offer accommodations to guests during the holidays. Experience a holiday-themed stay, in-room hot chocolate and cookies and access to the hotel’s festivities.
The Restoration
The Restoration is a boutique hotel you have to see to believe. They have two locations: Charleston, South Carolina and Asheville, North Carolina. The hotel offers luxury accommodations to its guests. The holiday season is one of the best seasons to come visit these hotels. Their specialty packages, “Merry Everything” and “Spread Holiday Cheer,” are worth exploring if you are planning on staying over during the holidays.
The hotel has several events planned; “A Christmas Carol,” the adaptation of Charles Dickens’s beloved Christmas tale, will be showcased at the hotel, featuring a marvelous mix of classic carols and seasonal music!
Final Thoughts
With the coming Christmas holidays, you will want to spend time with your loved ones. The holiday season is a magical time. What better way to celebrate it than by immersing yourself in the festive spirit at some of the best holiday hotels across the United States? So, enjoy the festive spirit in style. Book accommodations at any of the luxury hotels we have listed above. You will surely create a memorable holiday experience!
These hotels for Christmas offer a variety of experiences. You can get a festive meal with Santa or lively Christmas Eve celebrations and even a jingle-filled jog. Whether sipping hot chocolate in a luxurious suite or exploring the historic charm of Charleston, these hotels are great holiday options. No matter which one you choose, you will create lasting memories and bask in the joy of the season.
