The Carolina Inn

The Carolina Inn

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Panorama of the Deluxe Double King at The Carolina Inn
360
Panoramas (14)
Room & Suite (380)
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Avg. $396 /night, 2/15 - 2/16
$707
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$543
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$379
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About

#3 of 17 hotels in Chapel Hill
Location
4.9
Rooms
4.6
Value
4.4
Cleanliness
4.8
Service
4.7
Sleep Quality
4.7
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
We are conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chapel Hill, at the doorstep of the beautiful campus of The University of North Carolina. Come experience world-class service, elegantly appointed guest accommodations, superb dining, outstanding meeting and banquet facilities, and an expert staff.
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Property amenities
Valet parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Business Center with Internet Access
Conference facilities
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Paid private parking on-site
Wifi
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Vending machine
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Concierge
Gift shop
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
ATM on site
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Allergy-free room
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Room service
Safe
VIP room facilities
Iron
Flatscreen TV
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish

Location

211 Pittsboro St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516-2739
4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles2,262 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
Powered by AI

The Carolina Inn boasts a prime location near UNC and downtown, complete with shuttle access, which guests frequently commend. The hotel's cleanliness and friendly service generally garner positive remarks, although there are occasional mentions of housekeeping oversights and maintenance concerns. While the inn's atmosphere and amenities are appreciated by some travelers for their comfort and charm, others express disappointment over the loss of the hotel's historic character post-renovation. Opinions on the value and room quality are mixed, with high costs and varied room experiences noted.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Uninspiring
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Mixed
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Well-appointed

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Traveler rating
  • 1,750
  • 321
  • 106
  • 47
  • 38
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Detailed Reviews
StuZLondon wrote a review May 2024
London, United Kingdom
4.0 of 5 bubbles
This is the classic hotel if you are in Chapel Hill. You can walk most places, also into Carrboro and around the campus easily and safely. It is beautifully appointed and although not quite the classic look it had (I have stayed here many times, many years ago) it is clean and smart and feels like you are part of a special country club.
It is more relaxed than some other smart hotels but that is part of its charm and character.

My main criticism however is the room cleaning and amenity item refreshing on a daily basis.
We had to request a bed line change twice, we twice had to ask for toilet paper and boxes of tissues and also vanity kits as they were either not replaced or replaced with shower caps. Small things, but they should be done as a routine every day in such hotels and it is inexcusable to run out of toilet paper in your room when this is a basic item that should be checked each day.

It is so well placed that I would stay again, but it needs some staff training for its cleaning team to be as customer focused as the front of house staff.
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Date of stay: May 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Dylan Livingston, Guest Services / Front Office at The Carolina Inn
Responded Nov 21, 2024
Dear StuZLonder, Thank you for choosing to stay with us at The Carolina Inn. We value each guest, as we know that you have a choice when deciding where to stay while here in Chapel Hill on business or pleasure. We strive to exceed our guest expectations by providing the right room, the right technology and the right service to make every stay relaxing, invigorating, stimulating and filled with positive interactions. I have taken a few moments to review your comments and I am deeply sorry we fell short in our room cleaning. This has been passed to our director of housekeeping for review and correction. Thank you again for your kind feedback, we truly appreciate knowing about our guest's experiences so we can celebrate our successes and address our challenges to better serve you in the future. We look forward to your return when you are in the area again! Sincerely, Dylan Livingston Front Office Manager The Carolina Inn Hotel dylan.livingston@carolinainn.com (919)-933-2001 ext. 3131
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
irenedumastyson wrote a review Aug 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
From the moment I pulled into the property, I was welcomed and directed to parking and check in. There was no hot tea bags in the room but staff brought several tea bags beautifully presented on a tray with honey and lemon. Small details and prompt service were awesome!
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: August 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gillian C, Guest Services / Front Office at The Carolina Inn
Responded Nov 8, 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for choosing to stay with us at The Carolina Inn. We value each guest, as we know that you have a choice when deciding where to stay while here in Chapel Hill on business or pleasure. We strive to exceed our guest expectations by providing the right room, the right technology and the right service to make every stay relaxing, invigorating, stimulating and filled with positive interactions. Thank you again for your kind feedback, we truly appreciate knowing about our guest's experiences so we can celebrate our successes and address our challenges to better serve you in the future. We look forward to your return when you are in the area again!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
J M wrote a review Nov 2022
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We attended a family bar mitzvah celebration at The Carolina Inn last weekend, and our hotel stay could not have been more perfect.

The front desk and management were helpful, housekeeping was friendly and conscientious, and the dining staff at the Crossroads restaurant was knowledgeable about tree nut allergies. The catering staff also checked with the chef and provided safe foods for my daughter to eat. Every staff person we encountered throughout our 3 days at The Carolina Inn went out of their way to be accommodating and personable.

The beds and linens were well appointed and comfortable, and everything about the Inn's decor felt luxurious. The public bathrooms and lounges were spotless, and our hotel room bathroom was well stocked with NEST brand toiletries.

The location is also perfect for anyone visiting the UNC Chapel Hill campus. I highly recommend The Carolina Inn, especially for a special occasion.

Thank you to the management for your hospitality.
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: November 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trip31648443432432 wrote a review Oct 2023
1.0 of 5 bubbles
They start room cleaning service at 8am. You will hear them knock on nearby doors, use a loud vacuum, etc.

I will be happy to take down this review if you guys change the policy to have room service start at at more reasonable time like 10am.

Also.. my room smelled like fish.
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: October 2023
1.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GrandTour690387 wrote a review Jun 2024
2.0 of 5 bubbles
While the hotel itself is lovely and nicely appointed, the staff provided little to be praised. From the moment I checked in until my checkout, not one staff member was gracious or kind. While dining at the bar, the bartender was completely inattentive and never warned me the kitchen was closing - until I placed my order - 5 mins too late. Even though I was waiting for 20 mins for him to take my order. Additionally, when I asked the shuttle driver to take me to a local residence, they did so reluctantly, repeating to me how they were doing me a favor because the house was just passed their limit of destination (the location was 5 mins away from the hotel on the UNC campus) and when we arrived, the driver refused to drive up the driveway. At the small cafe - several of the yogurts for sale were punctured open. Just no hospitality, pride, or attention to detail.
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: June 2024
2.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Dylan Livingston, Guest Services / Front Office at The Carolina Inn
Responded Nov 21, 2024
Dear GrandTour690387, Thank you for choosing to stay with us at The Carolina Inn. We value each guest, as we know that you have a choice when deciding where to stay while here in Chapel Hill on business or pleasure. I have taken a few moments to review your comments and I am deeply sorry our service level did not meet expectations. I have passed this along to members of the restaurant and guest service leadership teams for review and correction. We strive to exceed our guest expectations by providing the right room, the right technology and the right service to make every stay relaxing, invigorating, stimulating and filled with positive interactions. Thank you again for your kind feedback, we truly appreciate knowing about our guest's experiences so we can celebrate our successes and address our challenges to better serve you in the future. We look forward to your return when you are in the area again! Sincerely, Dylan Livingston Front Office Manager The Carolina Inn Hotel dylan.livingston@carolinainn.com (919)-933-2001 ext. 3131
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
232tmg wrote a review Jan 2022
Raleigh, North Carolina
+1
4.0 of 5 bubbles
This hotel has a significant history and plenty of Old Money class, it is a wonderfully elegant hotel and apparently now participates in World of Hyatt.

The Carolina Inn is a hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, it is centrally located to many restaurants and pubs, as well as the planetarium.

Expect immediate help upon pulling into the driveway, the valets are immediately responsive and very willing to help you get settled into the lobby quickly. I have not experienced a more efficient check-in process for quite a while, the concierge is directly across from the front desk and a great resource.

Unfortunately, the restaurant was completely booked so we made reservations for a spectacular restaurant within walking distance, I found this to be a better option after comparing the dinner menus. When it comes to afternoon tea or drinks, the hotel restaurant is a great option and offers very comfortable outdoor seating.

Being in a pandemic many hotels are scaling back services, resulting in lesser cleaning standards, not at the Carolina Inn. I was very impressed with the level of cleanliness throughout the hotel, even the common areas were sheen and clean. With the exception of onsite dining options, this is a very comfortable and impressive hotel.
Cheers!
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Date of stay: December 2021
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ElvisTrio wrote a review Apr 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We recently stayed at the Carolina Inn on a visit to UNC. The tulips were in full bloom and lawn was well manicured. Inside the Inn was immaculate. Staff were very friendly and while the structure of the Inn is older, there were no smells or odors in our room or anywhere throughout the building. We also very much enjoyed our breakfast at the Inn. The staff there were very friendly and kind.
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: April 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RaleighHendersons wrote a review Oct 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
It had been at least 5 years since we stayed at the Carolina Inn. The room refurbishments are fantastic, bringing a blend of contemporary appeal to this very traditional space. The location is very convenient for exploring the campus and visiting Franklin St.
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Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: October 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
juliemccay wrote a review Mar 2024
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We hosted a large group (100+) at the Inn and everyone from the Sales and Catering departments to the housekeeping department were on their A-game! No details were left unattended. I would highly recommend the Inn for your next event!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with Hyatt Hotels
Date of stay: March 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Dylan Livingston, Guest Services / Front Office at The Carolina Inn
Responded Nov 21, 2024
Dear juliemccay, Thank you for choosing to stay with us at The Carolina Inn. We value each guest, as we know that you have a choice when deciding where to stay while here in Chapel Hill on business or pleasure. We strive to exceed our guest expectations by providing the right room, the right technology and the right service to make every stay relaxing, invigorating, stimulating and filled with positive interactions. Thank you again for your kind feedback, we truly appreciate knowing about our guest's experiences so we can celebrate our successes and address our challenges to better serve you in the future. We look forward to your return when you are in the area again! Sincerely, Dylan Livingston Front Office Manager The Carolina Inn Hotel dylan.livingston@carolinainn.com (919)-933-2001 ext. 3131
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jblehner wrote a review Mar 2022
New York, NY
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We just did a road trip through VA and NC to look at colleges for our oldest child and stayed at 6 places in 11 places and this was one of our favorites! We booked two rooms for our family of five--they were not connecting, but they were down the hall from one another. We liked the historic feel of the inn, but also note that it also felt updated, fresh, and clean. The lobby was pretty and there were lots of areas throughout the hotel to sit, gather, and chat. We ate many meals in the hotel restaurant and found the food and service quite good. The proximity to the UNC campus and to Franklin Street was ideal and we appreciated the washer/dryer available to guests on the second floor. Would definitely stay here again and recommend to others!
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Date of stay: March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Answer from manager1924
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Hello, Thank you for your question. We will be able to keep your car up front in our horseshoe where we have staff from 6:30am-11pm every day, who will keep a personal eye on your vehicle. Thank you!
Answer from manager1924
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Dear Ashley S, Thank you for your email. We are more than happy to accommodate your 5 month old baby. The Carolina Inn welcomes all guests regardless of age. Please note that we are also more than happy to set up a crib in your guestroom complimentary. In case you have any further questions or requests, please do not hesitate to reach out to Michael our Concierge under 919.933.2001, We are looking forward to welcoming you!
Jacki C asked a question Jul 2016
Nashua
Is The Carolina pet friendly? Thank you.
Answer from BobR26
North Scituate, Rhode Island8 contributions2 helpful votes
According to their website they are a pet-free facility.
Answer from YoPinky
Baltimore, Maryland27 contributions17 helpful votes
There is on site parking for which a fee is charged. You can choose to do either valet or self park. As for the restaurant it was under construction this summer so they served meals off the lobby area.I did not eat there and do not know when the restaurant is scheduled to reopen.
JoAnn L asked a question Jul 2015
Lubbock, Texas
Is there a pool?
Answer from 8013
Seattle, WA35 contributions37 helpful votes
It doesn't have one. I believe that there are a couple of newer hotels that have them not too far away (although a car for getting around is probably necessary), and if you are traveling with kids or it's really hot, the charm of the Carolina Inn may not be enough to counter heat and humidity or children who need to cool off or blow off some steam.
Dobeman wrote a tip Dec 2024
Roswell, GA91 contributions93 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"You will likely encounter between-class crowds since the hotel is in the middle of the UNC campus, so plan accordingly. "
Read full review
DNB wrote a tip Nov 2024
Holmdel, New Jersey60 contributions27 helpful votes
3.0 of 5 bubbles
"Self parking available if you ask, cookies available in the lobby, walkable to town and campus"
Read full review
Grace P wrote a tip Aug 2024
Florence, Italy20 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Enjoy playing board games in the lobby, enjoy the breakfast at Crossroads. While food was just above average, service + ambiance was A+"
Read full review
Nicole S wrote a tip Apr 2024
Newton, Massachusetts80 contributions31 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Only ate at Crossroads - Didn't stay. But it is a great spot. Really beautiful. The staff are very friendly and helpful."
Read full review
Mngdad wrote a tip Mar 2023
Vienna, Austria46 contributions28 helpful votes
2.0 of 5 bubbles
"Valet parking is a joke. It’s essentially the same lot as regular parking! Paying for nothing."
Read full review
…
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Chapel Hill area.
PRICE RANGE
$395 - $495 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
the carolina hotel chapel hill, carolina hotel chapel hill
LOCATION
United StatesNorth CarolinaChapel Hill
NUMBER OF ROOMS
185
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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THE CAROLINA INN - Updated 2025

Frequently Asked Questions about The Carolina Inn
Which popular attractions are close to The Carolina Inn?
Nearby attractions include University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (0.3 miles), Ackland Art Museum (0.2 miles), and He's Not Here (0.3 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at The Carolina Inn?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at The Carolina Inn?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at The Carolina Inn?
Yes, paid private parking on-site and valet parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Carolina Inn?
Conveniently located restaurants include Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery, Crossroads Chapel Hill, and Buns.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Carolina Inn?
Yes, guests have access to a fitness center during their stay.
Is The Carolina Inn located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.4 miles away from the center of Chapel Hill.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Carolina Inn?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does The Carolina Inn offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business center, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at The Carolina Inn?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Are there any historical sites close to The Carolina Inn?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Old Chapel Hill Cemetery (0.5 miles) and Horace Williams House (0.8 miles).
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