Raleigh, N.C. (July 30, 2024) – Whether you think of Raleigh as a hidden gem, a second city or simply a U.S. state capital, you probably don't know much about the area's luxury offerings unless you've visited and experienced indulgence the way locals do. Raleigh residents work luxury, little treats and self-care into their everyday lives. The city of tech executives, life science workers and academics excels at slowing down and enjoying the little things right at your fingertips in Raleigh. Visitors and locals alike can experience luxury relaxation the southern way with an unforgettable stay at either The Umstead Hotel and Spa or Heights House Hotel, where opulence and relaxation go hand in hand.

Immerse yourself in the lush forest setting at The Umstead Hotel, a premier destination known for its exceptional service and elegant ambiance. This Forbes 5-Star and AAA 5-Diamond hotel is nestled amidst picturesque surroundings and offers unparalleled comfort and tranquility. Pamper yourself in one of the top-rated spas in the country, dine at the award-winning Heron's restaurant on-site, and unwind in the natural world around you. Visitors to the restaurant can indulge in experiences like Afternoon Tea or the multi-course Art Tour Tasting Menu, which showcases The Umstead's culinary farm and draws inspiration from the art and nature of the property.

Heights House Hotel is the perfect choice for those seeking a historic and unique boutique experience. This charming property blends modern amenities with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Relax in the thoughtfully designed rooms and enjoy the calming ambiance that surrounds the hotel. With personalized service and attention to detail, Heights House Hotel offers an unforgettable stay. Heights House partners with several licensed massage therapists and estheticians for on-site massages and facials. The hotel also offers bookable experiences, including boutique picnics on the lawn and afternoon tea in the sitting rooms. The Parlor, Heights House Hotel's bar, features Italian-inspired cocktails, mocktails and a selection of Italian wine and local beer.

Raleigh also has no shortage of luxe dining options for a wide range of tastes. James Beard Award-winning chef Ashely Christensen's fine dining establishment, Death & Taxes, offers elevated southern fare made with seasonal N.C. ingredients. Beard-nominated Crawford & Son, Scott Crawford's flagship restaurant, is a neighborhood joint with inventive dishes and exceptional hospitality. Crawford is also known for Jolie, a French-inspired bistro, and his newest venture, Brodeto, a delectable dining experience inspired by foodways along the Adriatic Sea. For diners who want to get dressed up and experience extravagant service, Oro is a chic Black-owned restaurant in the heart of downtown known for its sleek, upscale vibes and over-the-top dishes and cocktails. More adventurous diners should visit Raleigh's most remarkable hidden culinary gem, Stanbury, a local secret gem with casual vibes and first-rate food and service.

Raleigh's top spa and wellness experiences happen at The Umstead Hotel's Spa, which is open to non-hotel guests Monday through Thursday and exclusively for hotel guests on weekends. Lorena Luca is a one-stop shop for a spa with cutting-edge technology, aesthetics and top-tier relaxation. Current Wellness in downtown Raleigh is home to fitness and wellness, with offerings ranging from group fitness classes to Reiki and massage therapy. Finally, Dose Yoga in the new North Hills Innovation District is your go-to for yoga, meditation, sound baths and hot and cold contrast therapy.

To fully embrace a slower pace, visitors can explore the stunning North Carolina Museum of Art and Museum Park or create a custom letterpress design at Decree Letterpress boutique shop. For a truly extravagant, one-of-a-kind experience with an unforgettable souvenir, try Raleigh Denim Workshop's Omakase Custom experience with owner-designer Victor Lytvinenko. Visitors should also consider Quercus, a fair-mined and recycled fine jewelry store to shop existing stock or experience a custom design appointment with goldsmith and owner Lauren Ramirez.

No luxury trip is complete without a bit of shopping, and Raleigh's elite shopping districts are North Hills and Village District. Both centers house numerous national luxury retailers and host several remarkable local high-end businesses. In North Hills, shoppers can explore new stores like Hellbent, Ky's Kandles and Designed for Joy. Village District's standout stores include Uniquities, Vermillion and Bailey's Fine Jewelry.

Discover slow living the southern way with a laidback luxury getaway in Raleigh and indulge in the finest accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, captivating arts, unique shopping and rejuvenating spa experiences.

About the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Raleigh):
As the official destination marketing organization for Wake County, the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Raleigh), is responsible for promoting Wake County as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, the organization strengthens the economic position of and provides opportunity for people throughout Wake County. Raleigh, N.C./Wake County welcomes nearly 18 million visitors annually whose spending tops $3 billion. The visitor economy supports over 24,500 local jobs in Wake County and generates $287 million in state and local tax revenues, saving each Wake County household $601 in taxes annually. visitRaleigh.com

Media Contact:
Visit Raleigh
Veronica Thring
Public Relations and International Tourism Manager
919.819.8292
vthring@visitraleigh.com

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