As part of my recent birthday trip, I found myself with one night in Charlotte, North Carolina — a charming city I’d never visited before. Though it wasn’t on my radar initially, a stopover on my way to the Caribbean turned it into the perfect opportunity to explore. (Stay tuned for more on that Caribbean adventure coming soon!)
As you know, I’m trying to visit all U.S. states at some point, so this quick stop in Charlotte was a perfect excuse to explore a new city and make a memorable experience out of it. 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 chic, thought-through, and comfortable boutique hotels I’ve stayed at in a while — and it’s right in the heart of Charlotte’s vibrant Uptown district, making it the perfect home base for exploring the Queen City.
The Ivey’s Hotel
The Ivey’s is located in what used to be an old department store, designed by architect William H. Peeps and opened in 1924 — a little Charlotte trivia I learned from our Uber driver on the way in. “Mr. Ivey was a beloved man,” he said, “and the J.B. Ivey & Company Department Store was the place to go on weekends when shopping uptown.” He also mentioned that locals say “uptown,” not “downtown,” but by that point, I was already eyeing the building that used to house the department store, stretching an entire block right in the middle of uptown — super excited about the hotel.
Upon check-in, I immediately noticed that while you can still feel the history (there’s a massive arcade-like hall and winding staircases that look straight out of an old department store, and you’ll find exposed brick walls here and there), the hotel has added its own touch. Inside, it’s all moody lighting, velvet textures, plush soft carpets, and a mix of vintage-meets-modern design that gives the space a Parisian chic vibe — elegant and effortlessly cool. You’ll notice nods to Charlotte’s nickname, “The Queen City,” throughout the property — regal wallpapers, oversized portraits, 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 — it honestly felt like our own private apartment in the city. The design strikes a perfect balance between old-world charm and modern luxury, with elegant floral wallpaper, vintage-style touches, soft lighting, and contemporary furniture all coming together effortlessly.
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 joked I felt like a princess… but honestly, it wasn’t a joke. The bedding was some of the most luxurious I’ve ever experienced in any hotel. Waking up in that room was like living in a dreamy little bubble.
The attention to detail is what really stands out. From antique-style telephones to velvet-upholstered armchairs and elegant crown motifs subtly woven into the design, everything felt thoughtfully curated. And with two bathrooms (!), there was never a wait — a small luxury that makes a big difference.
One more unexpected perk? The hotel’s gym, which was impressively spacious and well-equipped (and right across the hall from our room) — way above average for a boutique hotel. Perfect if you’re someone who likes to fit in a workout while traveling. My husband went right away while I was taking these pictures…
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.
My Verdict: 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 simply passing through, The Ivey’s makes even 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’d had more time to spend here.
Book Your Stay: You can check out rates and availability at The Ivey’s Hotel here. If you love boutique hotels with character and comfort, it’s one to bookmark.
Disclaimer: This stay was kindly gifted by The Ivey’s Hotel, along with a food and beverage credit, in exchange for content. As always, all opinions are entirely my own. This post also contains affiliate links — which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to book through them, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my work and helping me keep this blog going!
Related Posts
The Coachman Hotel | A Hotel Review
Just blocks from Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain Resort, the Coachman Hotel is both a retreat and a gateway to the great outdoors. A retreat and a gateway to the great outdoors, with year-round activities at your fingertips to explore the best, Lake Tahoe, has to offer.
Anaya Koh Rong | A Hotel Review
After a busy day exploring the temples of Angkor and all that Siem Reap has to offer, Templation Angkor offers luxury and serenity. With the beautiful pools, facilities, spa, and restaurant, you may want to plan for a full day of your trip where you don’t even leave the property! A Hotel Review.
RondaiaRondaia Winery & Luxury Suites | A Hotel Review
In the middle of the Mallorcan countryside, but only 15 minutes drive from Palma, a three generation family has transformed their estate into an exclusive place for their guests – including an impressive vineyard.
Berlin TownhouseTownhouse – Vagabond Club | A Hotel Review
Returning to Berlin feels like a tourist's journey these days. I recently discovered the Vagabond Club—a unique hotel concept on Instagram. With stylish rooms, a trendy bar, and restaurant, it perfectly complements Berlin's culinary scene.
stilwerk Hotel KantGaragen in Berlin | A Hotel Review
stilwerk Hotel KantGaragen is a superb choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and unique experience in Berlin. Its impeccable design, meticulous attention to detail, and prime location have impressed me during my latest stay.
The Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs | A Hotel Review
Exploring California, Palm Springs caught our eye. Nestled between LA and Joshua Tree, its mid-century modern charm and sunny vibes embody the essence of laid-back California living. Our stay at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club added to the magic of this desert oasis.
POST COMMENT