Best Scenic Hotels in Raleigh: A Glimpse of the City Skyline

Raleigh, North Carolina, is not only known for its rich history and southern charm but also for its stunning skyline views, particularly from the many high-rise hotels scattered across the city. I have spent the last few months exploring Raleigh’s best hotels with panoramic vistas that showcase the heart of the city, lush green parks, and even distant mountain ranges. Whether you’re in town for business, leisure, or a special getaway, these scenic hotels will leave you in awe as they offer unmatched views of the city and beyond. Here’s a guide to the best scenic hotels in Raleigh, each with its own unique charm, service, and, of course, unforgettable views.

1. The Longleaf Hotel & Lounge

Location: 3009 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC
Overview: The Longleaf Hotel & Lounge is one of the newest boutique hotels in Raleigh, located near the city’s bustling Hillsborough Street. This retro-inspired hotel blends vintage charm with modern comfort, offering a cozy atmosphere with a vibrant touch. Its rooftop bar has become a local favorite, providing an incredible view of downtown Raleigh’s skyline.

Features & Advantages:

• The hotel’s rooftop bar offers a 360-degree view of the downtown area, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail.
• The Longleaf Hotel combines style, comfort, and an unbeatable location, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
• Its location allows guests to easily explore nearby attractions like North Carolina State University and Pullen Park.

Guest Reviews:
Many guests rave about the hotel’s retro decor, excellent customer service, and stunning views from the rooftop bar. The casual yet stylish ambiance is perfect for both young travelers and families. A few guests also mentioned that the soundproofing in rooms could be slightly improved, but overall, the experience was exceptional.

Best Booking Platform: You can usually find the best rates on Booking.com or Expedia. Both platforms offer free cancellation options and flexible dates.

Cost: Rooms start at around $130 per night. Rooftop cocktails and drinks range from $8 to $15, depending on your selection.

Booking Tips: Book directly through the hotel’s website or use platforms like Hotels.com to gather loyalty points and enjoy additional perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.

2. The Umstead Hotel and Spa

Location: 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary, NC (just outside Raleigh)

Overview: Nestled just a short drive from downtown Raleigh, The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a luxurious retreat located within the natural beauty of Umstead State Park. This stunning five-star property is the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of serenity and luxury, offering picturesque views of tranquil lakes, dense forests, and rolling parklands. Its peaceful surroundings make it an ideal location for romantic getaways, relaxing spa weekends, or anyone in need of a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The hotel offers an elegant and intimate ambiance, complete with lavish decor that seamlessly integrates the natural elements surrounding it. From its expansive windows to its beautifully landscaped grounds, The Umstead provides a perfect fusion of luxury and nature. The property’s location, though outside the heart of Raleigh, offers a peaceful alternative for those looking to experience the tranquility of the great outdoors, yet still be close enough to explore the vibrant city when desired.

Features & Advantages:

• Stunning Views: The rooms at The Umstead feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to panoramic views of the surrounding Umstead State Park. Many of the suites overlook the serene, reflective waters of the Lake Crabtree. Whether you’re enjoying the view from your bed or the comfort of your private balcony, the peaceful landscape offers a relaxing atmosphere like no other.
• World-Class Spa: The hotel is home to the renowned Umstead Spa, which offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you opt for a deep tissue massage, a facial, or a body wrap, you’re guaranteed a luxurious and peaceful spa experience.
• Gourmet Dining: The hotel also boasts Herons, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves exquisite gourmet dishes inspired by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Dining here is an experience of its own, offering a fine-dining experience with sweeping views of the hotel’s lush grounds.
• Peaceful Ambiance: Perfect for those seeking tranquility, the hotel’s serene atmosphere, surrounded by acres of parkland, offers a peaceful escape that feels miles away from the daily stresses of life.

Guest Reviews:
Guests often describe The Umstead Hotel and Spa as the epitome of luxury and relaxation. Many reviews highlight the impeccable service, with staff going out of their way to make every guest feel pampered and special. The spa treatments are frequently praised for their quality and relaxation benefits, making this hotel a top choice for those looking for a restful and indulgent getaway. Guests also rave about the serene lake views, claiming that watching the sunrise or sunset from their room or the outdoor patio is a truly unforgettable experience.

Best Booking Platform:
For the best deals and to book your stay at The Umstead, check out platforms like Travelocity or Expedia. These platforms often offer bundle deals where you can save by booking flights, car rentals, and hotel stays together. You can also find seasonal promotions and discounts on these websites that can lower the overall cost of your stay.

Cost:
The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a high-end destination, with room rates typically starting around $500 per night for standard rooms. For those looking to enhance their stay, luxurious suites or spa packages can raise the cost to $700 to $1,000 per night. During the off-season or with early booking, guests may find better rates or special offers, making it a little more accessible for those seeking luxury at a more reasonable price.

Booking Tips:
To secure the best rates, it’s advisable to visit during the off-season (typically in the fall or winter months) when prices are lower due to decreased demand. Signing up for the hotel’s newsletter or loyalty programs is also a great way to receive exclusive offers, discounts, and special packages. Additionally, booking directly through the hotel’s official website often allows you to access unique deals not available on third-party booking sites. If you want to experience everything The Umstead has to offer, consider booking one of their spa and dining packages, which often provide significant value for those looking to enjoy the full luxury experience.

3. The AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown

Location: 700 W. South Street, Raleigh, NC
Overview: Situated in the heart of downtown Raleigh, The AC Hotel combines sleek modern design with European influences. It’s one of the tallest buildings in the area, providing panoramic views of the city skyline. The rooftop bar, AC Lounge, is a perfect spot to unwind and take in the stunning cityscape, particularly at sunset.

Features & Advantages:

• The AC Hotel boasts large floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring that the views of Raleigh’s skyline are part of the room’s ambiance.
• A great choice for business travelers thanks to its central location, with easy access to the convention center and nearby office buildings.
• The hotel also offers a fitness center, a full-service business center, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Guest Reviews:
Guests love the hotel’s central location and modern design. The rooftop bar is a favorite, offering cocktails with a view. A few reviewers noted that while the rooms are modern, they could use a bit more storage space. Nonetheless, the overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

Best Booking Platform: Check Hotels.com or Booking.com for great deals on AC Hotel, and be sure to look for any special promotions they might be running.

Cost: Rates start at $150 per night, with higher rates for suites or during busy seasons.

Booking Tips: For a better chance of securing a room with a city view, book your stay well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during special events in the city.

4. The Raleigh Marriott City Center

Location: 500 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC
Overview: The Raleigh Marriott City Center is one of the most popular hotels in the downtown area. It offers exceptional city views from the upper floors and is conveniently located next to several local attractions like the Raleigh Convention Center and the Red Hat Amphitheater.

Features & Advantages:

• Stunning city views from the higher floors, especially on the concierge level.
• A beautiful rooftop terrace that’s perfect for evening events, meetings, or just a quiet drink while watching the sun set over Raleigh.
• Convenient location with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

Guest Reviews:
Guests consistently praise the Marriott’s excellent service, friendly staff, and prime location. The restaurant and bar are also frequently mentioned for offering great food and drinks with impressive views of downtown Raleigh.

Best Booking Platform: The best prices for Marriott can often be found directly on Marriott’s website, especially for members. For general booking, Expedia is also a good option for package deals.

Cost: Expect to pay $160 to $250 per night depending on the time of year and room type.

Booking Tips: Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy rewards to earn points for free nights and upgrades, which will enhance your experience at this hotel.

5. Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Cary

Location: 131 Columbus Avenue, Cary, NC (a short distance from Raleigh)
Overview: This Hilton property is a gem for travelers looking for a quieter location near Raleigh. Located in Cary, a suburban town just outside Raleigh, it offers great views of the surrounding nature while still being close to the city’s major attractions.

Features & Advantages:

• A cozy, boutique-style hotel that balances comfort with scenic views of nearby parks and outdoor spaces.
• Ideal for families and business travelers looking for a peaceful retreat but still close to the action.
• The hotel offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and convenient access to shopping and dining options.

Guest Reviews:
Guests love the peaceful atmosphere, cleanliness, and exceptional customer service. The location in Cary is perfect for those who want easy access to both Raleigh and the surrounding area, including the Research Triangle Park (RTP).

Best Booking Platform: Hilton’s official website or Booking.com for flexible cancellation policies and better rates.

Cost: Starting at $130 per night, with discounts available for extended stays.

Booking Tips: Hilton offers loyalty benefits, so be sure to sign up for Hilton Honors for perks like free Wi-Fi, discounts, and room upgrades.

Raleigh is a city that offers a little bit of everything—from beautiful natural landscapes to a vibrant downtown area, and the hotels here truly reflect the charm of the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a lively city view, the options listed above offer the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and breathtaking scenery.

When booking your next stay, be sure to check platforms like Expedia, Hotels.com, Booking.com, and the hotels’ official websites for the best rates. Booking early and being flexible with your travel dates can also help you secure a great deal. So, whether you’re in Raleigh for business or leisure, don’t forget to book a room with a view—you won’t regret it.