As part of my recent birthday trip, I found myself with one night in Charlotte, North Carolina — a city I’d never been to, and one I likely wouldn’t have discovered so soon if it hadn’t been a stopover on the way to the Caribbean (more on that adventure coming soon).
Since I’m slowly making my way through all 50 states, it felt like the perfect excuse to explore a new city and turn a quick visit into something memorable. I was invited to stay at The Ivey’s Hotel for the night in exchange for content, and I’m so glad I said yes. It turned out to be one of the most stylish and comfortable boutique hotels I’ve experienced in a while — and it’s right in the heart of Charlotte’s vibrant Uptown district.
The Ivey’s Hotel
The Ivey’s is located in what used to be an old department store — a little Charlotte trivia I learned from our Uber driver on the way in. “Mr. Ivey was a beloved man,” he said, “and the Ivey’s was the place to go on weekends when shopping uptown.” The building still carries that charm, but once you step inside, it’s all moody lighting, velvet textures, and curated vintage-meets-modern details that make the space feel both elegant and cool.
You’ll notice nods to Charlotte’s nickname, “The Queen City,” throughout the property — subtle crown motifs, rich color palettes, and antique accents that give the hotel a distinct sense of place. It’s luxurious without being too polished, warm without trying too hard. The kind of place that instantly feels special — but also comfortable and welcoming.
THE KING EXECUTIVE SUITE
We stayed in the King Executive Suite, which came with two full rooms, two bathrooms, and more space than we knew what to do with — seriously, it felt like our own private apartment in the city. The design strikes a perfect balance between old-world charm and modern luxury: elegant floral wallpaper, vintage-style touches, soft lighting, and contemporary furniture all come together in a way that just works.
And then there’s the bed — enormous and ultra-plush, with the kind of crisp linens and dreamy pillows that make you feel like royalty. I kept joking that I felt like a princess… but it really wasn’t a joke. The bedding was some of the most luxurious I’ve experienced in any hotel. Waking up in that room felt like living in a dreamy little bubble.
The attention to detail is what truly stands out. From antique-style telephones to velvet-upholstered armchairs and elegant crown motifs subtly woven into the design, everything is thoughtful and beautiful. And with two bathrooms (!), there was never a wait — a small luxury, but one that makes a big difference.
One more unexpected perk? The hotel’s gym is extra spacious and very well-equipped (and was right across the hallway from our room)— way above average for a boutique hotel. Perfect if you’re someone who likes to fit in a workout while traveling.
Room tip: If you’re celebrating something special or just want to treat yourself, the King Executive Suite is worth it. The perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
Food & Drink: Sophia’s Lounge & Beyond
I’m not one to turn down a good drink or bite to eat, and The Ivey’s did not disappoint. The hotel is home to Sophia’s Lounge, a beautifully styled bar that’s cozy enough to feel like a hidden gem, yet chic enough to be a go-to for both locals and guests. The atmosphere is all velvet, warm lighting, and European-inspired accents — you almost feel like you’re in a sophisticated Parisian lounge.
Sophia’s offers a complimentary happy hour for hotel guests (think curated wine, champagne, and light bites), which was a fantastic way to kick off the evening. But we ended up sticking around later for more drinks, because the cocktails were just too good to pass up. The bartenders here really know their craft, and it shows in the perfectly balanced drinks and elegant presentation. Even if you’re not staying at The Ivey’s, you should make a point of stopping by for a drink. Trust me, it’s worth it.
The next morning, we ordered breakfast in bed — French toast that was fluffy, sweet, and indulgent enough to feel like dessert. Eating it while sunlight poured into the suite was a whole moment. The perfect slow start to the day before our flight.
Location, Location
One of the best things about The Ivey’s is its location. It’s smack in the middle of Uptown Charlotte — walking distance to restaurants, cocktail bars, museums, and plenty of cute corners to explore. You can get by without a car if you’re just staying for a short visit, though Ubers are also easy and quick to grab.
I didn’t get to see everything in just one night, but the central location made it easy to squeeze in a lot without feeling rushed.
Why Stay at The Ivey’s?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Charlotte for a weekend getaway, work trip, or even a quick stopover like mine — The Ivey’s is a fantastic pick. It feels luxurious without being stuffy, stylish without trying too hard, and personal in a way that makes you feel like more than just a guest.
Whether you’re in town to explore the Queen City or just passing through, The Ivey’s makes a one-night stay feel like a proper getaway. It’s everything you want in a boutique hotel: elegance, comfort, great food, and a prime location. I only wish I had more time to spend here.
Book Your Stay
You can check out rates and availability at The Ivey’s Hotel here (← affiliate link). If you love boutique hotels with character and comfort, it’s one to bookmark.
→ Want to see more photos from our stay? Check out my full Charlotte travel diary here.
→ Planning a U.S. trip? You might also like my bucket list of all 50 states — and how I’m slowly working through them.
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