The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte

"What's this place all about?If you want all the trappings of a resort and a posh spa, yet don't really want to leave the city, The Ballantyne delivers the best of both worlds. Is it part of a chain?The Ballantyne Hotel is part of Marriott's The Luxury Collection. How are the rooms?If you took a gentleman's library and married it with a little Hollywood Regency glamour you'd have the rooms and suites at The Ballantyne. The hotel is swanky sophistication in a very polished and restrained way. Tufted headboards and brass accents lean traditional while a few pops of color punch up the primarily gray palette. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?The Wi-Fi is free. What are our dining and drinking options?There is an all-day dining restaurant and two bars with an impressive whiskey collection. Dining is also available at the spa and seasonally by the pool. How's the service?It's a well-oiled machine here. What's the crowd like?Got whale-patterned shorts? Be sure to pack them, along with that pink polo—you'll fit right in with the crowd. How's the neighborhood?The Ballantyne is the jewel in the crown of this gleaming South Charlotte neighborhood. Just across this street is a major corporate center; there are also shopping centers with plenty of restaurants. The hotel also offers a shuttle so you don't need to scuff your penny loafers on your way to your meeting. Any standout features?The spa is considered one of the best in Charlotte. There are also indoor and outdoor pools and an impressive fitness center with everything from personal training to yoga. What's the bottom line?This is a true getaway, yet still manages to be close to Uptown." - Nancy DePalma