The Umstead Hotel and Spa

3 Best Day Trips from Charlotte

"The Umstead Hotel and Spa is technically in neighboring Cary, but pop off the busy highway and wind through its wooded property up to the front doors, and you'll forgive us for the bit of misdirection. Once you hand over the car keys and walk in, the traffic—and the world—will begin to fade away in the cool, calm of the lobby, all massive nature-themed art, warm wood, and hospitable staff. You'll see mothers and daughters having lunch, couples and business people, sipping fruit water while waiting to be called for a spa treatment; the facials, massages, manicures, and scrubs are a huge draw." - Stephanie Burt