Here’s how to spend 24 hours at Charlotte’s new Grand Bohemian Hotel

If you’re in need of a getaway, try immersing yourself for 24 hours in the artful luxury and South American flair of Charlotte’s new Grand Bohemian Hotel.

ICYMI: The Grand Bohemian opened its doors earlier this month on the corner of Trade and Church. The highly-anticipated hotel boasts 254 rooms, 2 restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a spa.

With many summer plans canceled, we know Charlotteans are looking for anything close to resembling a vacation. Luckily, 24 hours at the Grand Bohemian really feels like one, and it scores major points for being in our own backyard.

If you’re curious about the safety precautions the hotel is currently taking, you can check out their updated policies here.

When you arrive, drop your car at the valet, grab your bags, and then gawk at the stunning hotel lobby. Seriously. I almost didn’t realize that was the check-in counter.

Developed by The Kessler Collection, the Grand Bohemian Charlotte has its own unique feel and similar to other Grand Bohemian hotels (you can find them in Asheville, Charleston, and Savannah), it’s oozing with art and luxury appeal.

Time to settle in and check out your room. Whether you opt for a standard room or a suite, every room in the Grand Bohemian offers luxurious finishes and decor.

Rates vary by room type, but, for reference, they start at $265 (including taxes) for a king guest room with a city view. And the rooms are pet-friendly, in case you have anxiety about leaving your dog at home. You can book a room here.

Once you settle in, it’s time to grab a cocktail downstairs at the bar at Mico, the hotel’s South American-inspired restaurant.

Guests can’t currently sit at the bar, due to current safety restrictions but you can grab a drink and find a spot in the lounge area. The chandelier is gorgeous, though.

With a drink in hand, it’s a great time for a self-guided tour of all of the hotel’s art. Yes, the Grand Bohemian is basically its own art museum.

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte’s unique art collection is comprised of works that have been curated by Richard C. Kessler, CEO of The Kessler Collection as well as a passionate collector and supporter of the arts.

The collection includes commissioned paintings by Argentinian and other international artists. Some of my favorites are the original oil paintings in the lobby by Argentinian artist Andrea Carreras.

The sixth-floor outdoor terrace (Queen Terrace) features a 10 ft. x 50 ft. building mural designed as a tryptic by Atlanta artist Niki Zarrabi.

Even the guest rooms find unique ways to showcase art. I loved the custom nightstands featuring Chilean artist Pablo Santibañez Servat.

And don’t forget to look up. From the glass chandeliers to the ceiling on the rooftop terrace, there’s something beautiful to look at in every corner of the hotel.

When it’s time for dinner, head back down to Mico for an elegant South American-inspired feast.

The 260-seat space features gold ceiling details, deep jewel-toned walls, velvet and leather seating, ornate chandeliers, and a 680-bottle wine display. It’s as beautiful as the rest of the hotel.

After you’re done taking in the space, start with the Heirloom Tomatoes – Buttermilk Queso De Paraguay, Fava Beans, Ají Panca Caviar, Upland Cress, Agrodolce ($13) and then get the Oak Grilled Chicken – Achiote Stained Chicken Breast, Roasted Asparagus, Heirloom Tomatoes, Peruvian Beans, Ají de Huacatay ($18).

Finish off the meal with the Iguazú Falls – Vanilla Bean Cheesecake, Cherry Coulis, Lemon Chiboust, Candied Almonds, Almond Streusel, Fried Sage ($9).

Mico, currently open for lunch and dinner, isn’t just for hotel guests though. You can make a reservation here and peruse the lunch and dinner menus ahead of time.

After dinner, it’s time to relax in your room. The rooftop bar, Búho, is expected to open this October and they’re putting on the finishing touches. Here’s a sneak peek at the space.

In the morning, head down to the hotel Starbucks for a familiar, tasty latte.

Then it’s time to relax and indulge at the hotel’s Poseidon Spa.

The penthouse boutique spa has three massage therapy rooms, a nail area, and a rooftop relaxation terrace, which is perfect for chilling out before or after your treatment. Check out their menu of services here.

Pro tip: You don’t have to be a hotel guest to use the spa. If you don’t do a full staycation, you can at least do fancy lunch and a facial. Call 980-999-5553 to book a spa appointment.

After your massage, head out to The Bohemian Garden for lunch and a cocktail.

The grab-and-go restaurant is located outside along a picturesque pocket park and offers sandwiches, salads, and cocktails. For now, it’s open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday.

I enjoyed a Kombucha Margarita – El Toro Silver, Triple Sec, Fresh Lime Juice, Kombucha ($12) and Mezze Plate – Grilled Skirt Steak, Pita Chips, Hummus, Sweet Pepper Muhammara, Salt Cured Olives, Charred Cauliflower, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Vincotto ($17). Check out the full lunch menu.

It’s finally time to check out. Cheers to staycations.

Want to plan your own 24 hours (or more) at The Grand Bohemian Charlotte? Book a stay.

(This content was created in partnership with the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte.)