1) The Sip + Stay Vineyard Staycation (Wine, Dining, and a Gorgeous Setting)
If your ideal getaway includes a wine tasting, a slow meal, and a peaceful place to stay, a vineyard staycation is hard to beat because the whole day is planned for you.
Perfect for: Couples, anniversary weekends, girlfriends getaways, we need a break Saturdays
Look for: On-site dining, tasting room hours, outdoor seating, and whether you can stay overnight
A vineyard staycation worth the drive: Laurel Haven Estate (Lancaster, SC)
Just about 45 minutes from Charlotte, Laurel Haven Estate Vineyard & Winery is a rare all-in-one destination: vineyard + winery + bistro + bed & breakfast + event venue on 37 scenic acres.
What makes it feel like a real getaway (not just a quick stop):
- Wine tastings daily in a beautiful tasting room
- Farm-to-table dining at The Vineyard Table
- A historic farmhouse inn with overnight rooms (so you can linger)
- Wide-open, romantic scenery that makes your camera roll look like a travel ad
If you want that destination feel without the travel stress, this is it.
2) The Lake-Day Staycation (Water Views + Casual Downtime)
Sometimes the best reset is simple: a lake, a book, and nowhere to be.
Perfect for: Families, couples, anyone who wants quiet
Look for: Walkable waterfront areas, boat rentals, picnic spots, sunset views
3) The Small-Town Charm Staycation (Shopping + Coffee + Strolling)
A charming downtown can do wonders for your nervous system. Think: boutiques, antique stores, coffee, and a long lunch.
Perfect for: Girlfriends day out, low-key weekends
Look for: A main street area, local restaurants, places to browse
4) The Spa Staycation (The I Want to Be Pampered Plan)
If youre burned out, choose the staycation that does the work for you.
Perfect for: Birthdays, post-stress recovery, couples
Look for: Massage availability, sauna/steam, quiet lounge spaces, easy dining nearby
5) The Foodie Staycation (Brunch + Dessert + Lets Try That Place)
This is the easiest staycation to planand one of the most satisfying.
Perfect for: Couples, friend groups, parents needing a treat
Look for: A signature menu, seasonal specials, reservations, and a scenic place to linger
Pro tip: Pick a spot with a great atmosphere so youre not rushing back home.
6) The Hiking + Views Staycation (Fresh Air Therapy)
When you want to feel better fast, go outside.
Perfect for: Active couples, families, solo resets
Look for: Trails with a payoff view, easy parking, and a post-hike meal option
7) The Romantic Night Away Staycation (Quiet + Beautiful + Intentional)
This is for when you want to reconnectno distractions, no errands, no we should probably
Perfect for: Anniversaries, date nights, proposals
Look for: A peaceful setting, cozy rooms, and something special to do on-site (wine, dining, firepit, etc.)
8) The Events + Experiences Staycation (Something Fun on the Calendar)
A staycation feels more memorable when theres an activity: a seasonal event, a market, a class, live music, or a themed brunch.
Perfect for: Groups, families, social weekends
Look for: Ticketed events, limited-time menus, vendor fairs
9) The Do Nothing Staycation (The Underrated One)
No schedule. No plans. Just rest.
Perfect for: Anyone whos tired
Look for: A comfortable room, a pretty view, and permission to be offline
How to Choose the Right Staycation Near Charlotte (Quick Checklist)
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to be around people or away from them?
- Do I want an activity (wine tasting, hiking, shopping) or pure rest?
- Do I want to drive home or stay overnight?
- What would make this feel special? (A great meal, a view, a cozy room, a celebratory toast.)
If you want the easiest yes to all four: choose a place that bundles experience + food + scenery + overnight stay in one location.
FAQ: Staycations Near Charlotte, NC
How far should a staycation be from Charlotte?
Ideally 30-60 minutes for a day trip, or 60-90 minutes for an overnight. Close enough to be easy, far enough to feel different.
Whats the best staycation for couples?
Something romantic and low-effort: wine + a great dinner + an overnight stay is the winning combo.
Whats a good staycation when you only have one day?
Pick a destination with a built-in experience (like a tasting + brunch) so youre not spending the day figuring out what to do.
Ready for a Staycation That Feels Like a Real Getaway?
If you want a staycation near Charlotte that’s equal parts beautiful, relaxing, and memorable, come escape to Laurel Haven Estate Vineyard & Winery where you can sip, savor, and stay on a scenic estate designed for slow moments and special memories.
CTA: Book your visit today! plan a wine tasting, reserve a table at The Vineyard Table, and turn your we need a break into an actual getaway.

