North Carolina’s capital might be Raleigh, but its largest city is scintillating Charlotte. Historic sites, a host of museums, and vibrant neighborhoods make the city a real jewel of the south. Conservative in politics and style, Charlotte also has a vibrant albeit comparatively limited gay scene. That said, LGBTQ travelers will have absolutely no problems finding the best gay friendly hotels in Charlotte. The city celebrates Charlotte Pride in August and even Black Gay Pride in July and has a smattering of gay bars and clubs. You won’t find a discrete rainbow flag-flying neighborhood in Charlotte, but a host of gay-friendly ones. Plaza Midwood, for instance, has a discernible gay vibe with lots of gay-friendly restaurants, lounges, and cafes. What’s more, it’s also home to the long-running gay bookstore and pride shop White Rabbit.
Going further, the historic and formerly industrial neighborhoods of South End and NoDa (North Davidson) have blossomed into cool areas in recent years with a couple of gay bars. Besides a nice gay nightlife, there are many other Top Things To Do In Charlotte including the NASCAR Hall Of Fame, Freedom Park, and Mint Museum, among others. It also makes for a great base to visit Asheville, one of the Best US Winter Vacation spots. Even the North Carolina Zoo, which is one of the World’s Largest Zoos, is just over an hour away. If you’re planning a trip to the southeastern coast of the U.S., then North Carolina, and specifically Charlotte should definitely be part of your gay itinerary! So, check out the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Charlotte.
Charlotte Marriott City Center
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We start our list of the best gay friendly hotels in Charlotte with Charlotte Marriott City Center, where the entire philosophy is customer satisfaction at all times. It’s an excellent and well-located city center option for LGBTQ travelers who want to explore the city and its gay nightlife. In fact, it lies just a few streets from Petra’s and The Bar at 316, making it an excellent base for LGBTQ travelers who’re seeing Charlotte for the first time. There’s a lot you’ll like about this hotel, especially its first-rate rooms. Featuring modern decor, all rooms also come with cable flatscreen TVs, small fridges, and coffeemakers. If you upgrade to the executive rooms, they even offer you access to the M Club Lounge and its complimentary snacks and beverages.
The rest of the hotel is equally impressive, such as the free Wi-Fi in public areas. Work out in the 24-hour fitness center before enjoying an excellent meal at the on-site restaurant. You’ll even find a coffee shop and co-lab space on-site, which serves locally roasted coffee and playing soft music in the background.
Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
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With an Uptown location and one of the city’s hottest lounges, the gay-friendly Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel doesn’t even have to try and sell itself. It’s perfect for party revelers and the socializing LGBTQ public who want to explore the city’s nightlife. What’s more, some of the best gay bars and clubs in town are within walking distance of the hotel. Known for its pizzaz, this Kimpton property is jazzy and fashion-forward, but never over-the-top or in-your-face. You’ll especially love the rooms and suites which boast a zany look with upholstered headboards and chrome-accented furnishings. The sleek marble bathrooms take the experience a step further and even feature bathtubs for a luxuriating and romantic experience. The best bit? All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with jaw-dropping views of Charlotte. So, try and get a corner room with a wraparound glass window.
The hotel’s best feature is the rooftop bar Merchant & Trade, which serves bar snacks and craft cocktails 19 levels off the ground. Aside from a well-equipped fitness center, the hotel also has a rather picturesque yoga deck as well as in-room spa services for relaxation.
Omni Charlotte Hotel
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It literally feels like you’re at the center of Charlotte’s universe while you’re staying at the Omni Hotel, one of the best gay friendly hotels in Charlotte. The Uptown location itself is incredible; it lies smack dab in the heart of the city’s gay nightlife. Furthermore, it’s connected to excellent shopping, entertainment, and dining avenues in the city. As for the hotel itself, it’s buzzing and energetic in its own right. It’s no surprise that it’s constantly named amongst the Best Hotels in Charlotte, North Carolina. A superb breakfast buffet awaits you first thing in the morning, which is a great way to cure the previous night’s hangover. After breakfast, head straight to the divine rooftop outdoor pool, which is circled by sun loungers. Lounge on your plush perch and enjoy superb views of downtown Charlotte.
But, there’s more. The hotel also has a host of drinking and dining options, right from bagels and coffee to cocktails and quesadillas. If that wasn’t enough, it even offers guests access to Charlotte Athletic Club, which is connected to the hotel via a walkway so that your hair won’t frizz as you make your way there. Moody and sensuous are the first thoughts when you see the rooms and suites here. You’ll see neutral hues with pops of teal and gold, plush carpets, and huge windows with scenic views. But it’s the bathrooms that’ll take your breath away; think dark wood furniture, marble vanities, and deep-soaking tubs
The Ivey’s Hotel
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There’s nothing traditional or staid about The Ivey’s Hotel, a boutique hotel with gay-friendly and stylish flair. Right from the stylish decor to a not-so-regular check-in process, you’re treated like royalty at this Uptown Charlotte hideaway. The location can’t get any better. It’s right across the street from the Blumenthal Center and within walking distance of Uptown sights, including Charlotte’s gay bars. The chicness extends to the rooms, which possess a comfortable and seductive New Orleans-meets-Paris vibe. With just 47 rooms,s staying here is an intimate and exclusive experience. Plus, you’ll find Dean & DeLuca gourmet snacks, Nespresso machines, iHome docking stations, Bose soundbars, and 400-year-old French oak floors in all of them. Our pick? Go for the rooms with floating bathtubs. Sigh.
Even though it’s a boutique hotel, every amenity about this hotel is about going the extra mile to make travelers feel at home. Begin your day with a delectable and hearty full breakfast every morning. It includes everything from freshly ground coffee to locally sourced pastries. When you’re not exploring the gay scene, retire to the library to indulge in hand-picked champagne and wines, charcuterie, and cheese.
Morehead Inn
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Nestled at the southern end of the gay-friendly South End neighborhood is Morehead Inn, one of the most gorgeous gay-friendly hotels in Charlotte. The beautiful 1917-built property sits in a lovely Colonial Revival house and is peppered with Victorian-era antiques. Choose from 12 rooms at this inn, all of which offer tons of natural light and separate living and sleeping areas. If you want something special, go for the rooms on the second floor which have porches that overlook the quaint backyard and the lush gardens. During fall and spring, these rooms are extra special with just the right amount of romance you want on your vacation. Moreover, all rooms come with ensuite bathrooms which also have bathtubs!
The rest of the accommodation is equally charming and worth exploring. The main room, which was recently redone is a great place to hang out. The library-like room with a grand staircase and beautiful birds looks like it’s straight out of a movie set! What’s more, the place has lots of outdoor spots to enjoy the gardens and the weather. So, you can sit on the front or side porch on rocking chairs and cushy alfresco furniture and enjoy a cup of coffee. Last but not least, there’s a sumptuous breakfast that’s served every morning in the dining room. Think grits, bacon, toast, eggs, and more – yum!
The Ritz-Carlton
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The lineup of Range Rovers, Teslas, and Rolls-Royces lined up in the driveway of the Ritz Carlton Charlotte is the first sign that you’ve entered somewhere special. The granddaddy of luxury hotels in the region possesses all the possible bells and whistles you might expect from a hotel of this fame, and then some. For LGBTQ travelers who want a self-indulgent vacation, they’ve come to the right place. This Ritz boasts a bi-level penthouse spa with a pink Himalayan salt room! What’s more, you can pamper yourself with decadent chocolate and honey-based treatments. After a relaxing spa session, take the relaxation up a notch at the lush rooftop with a chef’s garden and million-dollar views of Charlotte. It’s the environmentally friendly hotel’s crown jewel – literally!
The rest of the hotel is equally great. Grab a drink at the renowned wine, scotch, and cocktail bar before heading off to party at Charlotte’s gay bars. Plus, two other restaurants offer delicious meals. Even the rooms here are great, and you’ll especially love the 55/65-inch-huge flatscreen TVs! Moreover, the modern and elegant interiors feature coffee/tea-making facilities and swish bathrooms.
The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel
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One of the most lavish gay friendly hotels in Charlotte is the spectacular Ballantyne, which has all the trappings of a luxury hotel without you having to leave the city. Delivering the best of both worlds, the hotel is a gentleman’s club and library with a dash of Hollywood glamour. This is the aesthetic channeled by the rooms, complete with brass accents and tufted headboards. A dove grey palette with pops of color punches up the atmosphere, while the full-length mirror is a very thoughtful addition found in very few hotels. Discerning gay travelers shall surely love these well-designed touches. The best bits are the minibars, huge windows with excellent views, and marble bathrooms with luxury bath amenities, slippers, and bathrobes.
Clearly, luxury is king at this glossy hotel, which welcomes you within with a jaw-dropping two-story lobby. When you want to relax, choose the indoor or the outdoor pool, both of which are sprinkled with sunbeds. The outdoor pool is innately Floridian in character with lush foliage surrounding it and a gazebo by the side. If you don’t want to work out in the gym, grab a bike and head off around the property or go walking along its trails. After a long outdoor session, a trip to the excessive spa is a must. Foodies will be thrilled by the choice of stylish Southern fare served at the restaurants. They also dole out afternoon tea and possess what is one of the Carolinas’ largest whiskey collections.
Grand Bohemian Charlotte Hotel, Autograph Collection
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Glamor radiates from every nook and corner of the fabulous boutique Grand Bohemian Charlotte Hotel. Tucked right in the heart of Charlotte’s Uptown, this hotel oozes style and will immensely appeal to design-loving gays. Think of an Alice in Wonderland-esque environment with sculptural furniture and ostentatious modern art.
The style begins in the shimmering and immaculate mirrored lobby and extends to the dimly lit cocktail bar with live music. The bar is the perfect place for a pre-jaunt drink or a nightcap before you retire to the amazing rooms. The Argentinian-inspired rooms and suites are another story altogether. Splashes of turquoise and fuchsia up the ante on style and zing. Adding to the glamor quotient are the Bluetooth speakers, portable steamers, and in-room Starbucks (yes!). Did we mention the floor-to-ceiling windows and sleek black shower areas for two? If you’re trying to impress your date, this hotel room really, really helps.
The rest of the hotel is no less spectacular, whether it’s the sixth-floor terrace or the fourth-floor gallery that has dinosaur-egg replicas. The best place is the 16th-floor rooftop bar, where you must be escorted, by the way, making for a very, very exclusive ambiance. Four on-site dining options aside, you’ll find 680 wine bottles displayed at the Mico Bar!
The Dunhill Hotel
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This 1929-built historic Dunhill Hotel is one of the most lavish gay friendly hotels in Charlotte. Amidst a sea of neverending new construction, this hotel flaunts its rich history and landmark status. An intimate lobby with traditional furnishings and yellow walls makes for an inviting atmosphere. The rooms and suites echo the public spaces, complete with classic mahogany furnishings and warm yellow walls. You’ll also find free minibars, plush bathrobes, and nightly turndown service with signature chocolates in every room. The pinnacle of decadence is the Penthouse Suite, which has a marble floor and panoramic views of Charlotte.
The rest of the hotel is equally fabulous, especially the caring and warm service. What’s more, there are a bunch of Unusual niceties such as a wine social on Wednesdays and freshly baked cookies every afternoon. Plus, the restaurant serves delicious Southern fare – think sticky biscuits and sweet potato and poppyseed pancakes.
Renaissance Hotel
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Renaissance Charlotte South Park Hotel is the quiet, impressive gay-friendly hotel on this list. LGBTQ travelers who’re interested in top restaurants and high-end shopping will absolutely love this hotel. Despite the hotel being a buzzing one, it doesn’t seem frenetic at all. This is evident right from the lobby where even the atrium fountain sets a soothing tone. Choose from a host of classic Marriott rooms complete with top-notch amenities and thoughtful technology. iPod docking stations, coffeemakers, small fridges, and cable flat-screen TVs are swanky additions, while the huge floor-to-ceiling windows offer stellar views of the city. Above all, you’ll love the blue and white bathrooms, some of which even come with bathtubs.
Whether you’ve come to Charlotte for a staycation, to party, or to explore, you’ll definitely spend time at this hotel exploring its amenities. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the indoor swimming pool and lounge on the sun chairs besides. Post a swim, work up an appetite in the fitness center, and relax in the sauna, soaking off all the stresses in your body. Finally, the on-site restaurant and bar serve delicious southern fare and craft cocktails.
The Westin
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Sitting atop the best gay friendly hotels in Charlotte is the chic and modern Westin, which sits in a funky high-rise in Uptown. Melding modern luxury and southern charm, this hotel is the epitome of comfort, style, and luxury in the heart of Charlotte. What’s more, it’s within walking distance of many of its amazing gay bars, allowing you to explore the city’s gay nightlife while you stay here too. The rooms feature archetypal Westin touches – think the “Heavenly” beds, rain showers in the bathrooms, and sleek and ergonomic workspaces. Huge picture windows with seating beside and free Starbucks are excellent additions to what makes for an extremely memorable stay.
The Westin’s amenities are second to none, especially the huge indoor pool area that’s peppered with sun chairs. The all-glass walls allow you to enjoy views of the outdoors as you enjoy refreshing dips in the pool. After a swim, work off those southern calories at the well-equipped fitness center. Did we mention that there’s a spa too? After a long day of exploring Charlotte and a night of partying, a massage is just what you need to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Just So You Know:
- Did you know that Charlotte has a gay rugby team? The 2004-founded Charlotte Royals support an inclusive environment and welcome members of all orientations. The action is both on and off the field, where people can play and learn about rugby while working with local charities.
Get Some Culture in Charlotte:
- Charlotte Pride: 2019 was only the seventh year when the Charlotte Pride Parade was held. Although the city has hosted LGBTQ parades since the 70s, it ended in the 80s, taking nearly two decades to relaunch. Charlotte’s Pride Festival is more than just a parade, and features a film festival, discussions, parties, and more.
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Charlotte:
- The Scorpio: No matter your zodiac sign, the stars surely align at the sizzling Scorpio, which is the longest-running LGBTQ nightclub in Charlotte. The 1968-founded place is famed for presenting some of the Southeast’s best drag shows. When you want to drink cocktails and groove on the dance floor, this is where you should be.
- The Bar at 316: Tucked in a two-storeyed home in the historic Dilworth neighborhood, this 1980s bar is one of the oldest gay-friendly establishments in Charlotte. Do you have a date? The stunning second-floor patio is the perfect place to chat while sipping drinks.
- Petra’s: This cozy and low-key gay piano bar and cabaret is fun for hobnobbing after dinner. Whether it’s karaoke, video,s or trivia night, you’re going to have fun at this friendly neighborhood hangout.
Best Gay Saunas in Charlotte:
- Eros Men’s Spa: Cruise-y vibes are present all day, every day at this steamy spa. With a Himalayan salt room, steam saunas, and a dry sauna, it’s a great place to hook up in the city.