Resorts stand out as an ideal choice for effortless family vacations, and North Carolina boasts a diverse array of resorts as varied as its geographical regions. From the stunning mountains to the beautiful beaches and everything in between, North Carolina family resorts offer something for every family’s taste and style.
It’s important to note that some of these popular Family Resorts In North Carolina experience high demand, especially during peak season, and should be booked well in advance. Others operate seasonally, so planning your visit around their opening times is essential. If you’re considering a family vacation in North Carolina, explore these five exceptional options for a memorable stay.
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Top Family Resorts in North Carolina
Inn on the Biltmore Estate
Outdoor pool at Inn on the Biltmore Estate surrounded by chairs and trees
Where: Asheville
What: The Inn on the Biltmore Estate, nestled in the vibrant city of Asheville, has earned accolades as a top family-friendly destination, even receiving a 4½-star rating from Disney Family website. This resort is particularly well-regarded for catering to families with both children and teenagers.
Located at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in artistic Asheville, The Inn, established in 1889, is celebrated for its impressive architecture and historical charm.
Set within an expansive 8,000-acre estate, guests can enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits such as horseback riding and Segway tours. To further accommodate families, the inn provides an outdoor pool and professional babysitting services. This blend of amenities makes it one of the premier family resorts in North Carolina.
Best For: Families seeking a vacation that combines arts, culture, fine dining, and outdoor adventures.
Book a memorable stay at the Inn at the Biltmore Estate.
Earthshine Mountain Lodge
Loft area with beds in a wooden cabin at Earthshine Mountain Lodge
Where: Southern Blue Ridge Mountains
What: Under new management since 2019, Earthshine Mountain Lodge in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains is dedicated to providing a blend of outdoor excitement and cozy indoor accommodations. This family resort in North Carolina serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Adventure awaits with two state parks, a national park, and a national forest all located nearby. During the summer months, families can participate in a variety of engaging activities, including archery, wilderness survival skills workshops, guided hiking expeditions, and yoga sessions.
Accommodation options range from rooms in the timber lodge to private cottages, catering to different family sizes and preferences. For a reasonable additional fee, guests can enjoy communal breakfast and dinner, fostering a friendly and social atmosphere. This focus on nature and community makes Earthshine a unique choice among family resorts in North Carolina.
Best For: Active families and those who love mountain environments.
Planning A Trip? Book a weekend at the Earthshine Mountain Lodge. Search Trip Advisor for more North Carolina resorts and inns. Use Expedia to book your airfare and packages to North Carolina.
Blockade Runner Beach Resort
Person paddleboarding in the ocean near Blockade Runner Beach Resort
Where: Wrightsville Beach
What: The Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach is a premier beachfront destination, offering direct access to the ocean and the serene sound and marshes, perfect for a range of water sports. You can easily arrange activities right at the resort, making it a convenient choice for families. The resort features a stylish pool deck and a spacious lawn ideal for kids’ games and activities like cornhole.
Rooms are designed with a modern, airy aesthetic and include private balconies, enhancing your beachside experience.
Dining options are plentiful with an onsite main restaurant featuring a covered patio that extends onto the lawn, offering a casual menu with a focus on fresh seafood. A separate bar provides an upscale-casual dining experience for lunch and dinner, including special lobster nights. For ultimate relaxation, a poolside bar allows you to order from the restaurant menu while lounging by the pool. This variety of amenities and beachfront location positions Blockade Runner as one of the top family resorts in North Carolina for beach lovers.
Best For: Families desiring a quintessential beach vacation experience.
Book a beach getaway at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort.
The Pinehurst Resort
Swimming pools at Pinehurst Resort with lounge chairs and umbrellas
Where: Pinehurst
What: If your family bonds over golf, The Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst is your ideal destination. Known for its eight world-class golf courses, it has proudly hosted all five of the USGA’s major championships, making it a legendary spot for golf enthusiasts. This is truly one of the most renowned family resorts in North Carolina for golfing families.
Beyond golf, the resort offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. Enjoy a lakeside beach club, swimming pools, bicycle rentals, fishing, tennis, and a dedicated kids club.
The charming town of Pinehurst features a quaint, walkable center and historic homes for touring, adding cultural depth to your stay.
Guests can choose from three distinct inns, offering a range of accommodations from comfortable modern rooms to spaces that reflect the inn’s late 19th-century origins. This blend of golf, recreation, and history makes Pinehurst Resort a versatile choice among family resorts in North Carolina.
Best For: Families passionate about golf, though there are numerous activities for non-golfers as well.
Book a stay at Pinehurst Resort’s Manor Hotel, the Holly Inn or the Carolina Hotel.
The Fearrington House Inn
Exterior view of The Fearrington House Inn in springtime with blooming trees and green lawn
Where: Pittsboro
What: Situated on a historic farm, The Fearrington House Inn in Pittsboro is a Forbes Five Star hotel offering an elegant and serene escape. This scenic location frequently hosts weddings, adding to its romantic charm. As one of the more refined family resorts in North Carolina, it provides a unique experience.
The inn features guest rooms decorated with an English countryside inspiration, combined with contemporary amenities for comfort and convenience.
Children will find delight in exploring the gardens, visiting the farm’s gentle Galloway cows, enjoying homemade ice cream, or participating in a sophisticated afternoon tea service.
Parents and kids alike can relax and enjoy the casual outdoor beer garden, providing a laid-back setting for family time. Fearrington House Inn offers a distinctive take on family resorts in North Carolina, blending luxury with a relaxed, pastoral setting.
Best For: Parents seeking a family vacation that is both upscale and enjoyable for children, with a focus on refined experiences.
Book a family-size room at Fearrington House.
Any of these five locations are sure to provide your family with a memorable and enjoyable vacation in North Carolina. The question is, which of these family resorts in North Carolina will you choose for your next family adventure?
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Text overlay image: Rustic mountain inn, beach resort, woodsy family resort? These 5 north carolina hotels suit every family
