History and Elegance at the Duke Mansion in Charlotte, NC (2024)

Come to Light Photography , Cristey Rowe, and George Lannis

The Duke Mansion is part of the culture of the South, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and run by a foundation that puts all of its proceeds into preserving the stately home of James Buchanan Duke. Duke University is named after the home's notable owner and its walls have seen leaders who have shaped the modern age grace their walls.

Today, the Duke Mansion offers a classic retreat to those in search of genuine hospitality. The twenty room mansion is close to Charlotte's attractions, just two miles from the heart of the cultural district. The four and a half acre property has a fitness and business center, a library, and offers free Wi-Fi in all of the rooms. The front desk staff is available 24-hours a day, and the mansion's concierge is an expert at suggesting one of the classic Duke tours, arranging picnics on the grounds, recommending nearby restaurants, and coordinating transportation between the mansion and Charlotte.

Charlotte is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Charlotte Philharmonic Orchestra, the Carolinas Aviation Museum, the Carowinds Theme Park, and the Discovery Place Science Center.

Stately Rooms

King Porch rooms have a private bathroom and are appointed with king- sized beds, a shared sleeping porch, and a flat screen TV. Located on the second floor of the mansion, the rooms reflect the elegance of the South; fine linens including goose down pillows, luxury bath accessories, and plush robes greet you upon arrival.

King, queen, and double rooms have the same stately design without the sleeping porch; some have their own entrance for privacy and skylights for checking out the evening stars. All accentuate the nooks and crannies of the parts of the building they occupy, adding to the charm. Each room is thoughtfully designed to give you the best of Southern comfort, detailed with a refreshing mix of historic-themed fixtures while blending in modern amenities.

The Dowd Suite is the star attraction of the Duke Mansion's accommodations; offering a lofty space with a king mattress, a shared sleeping porch overlooking the grounds, and a spacious bathroom. The bathroom has a Roman-style tub for two, great for relaxing after a day on the town. Other room fixtures include a reading desk, bedside telephones, and look and feel that transports you back to a time gone by in the annals of Southern history.

Al Fresco Dining

A full-catered breakfast is served to all guests of the mansion as part of the price. Although there is no restaurant on the property, there is an in-house culinary staff on-hand to prepare gourmet picnic baskets upon request. To accommodate guest's dining needs further, the Duke Mansion offers vouchers that can be redeemed at of the nearby collection of restaurants. The concierge handles the reservation, and is happy to recommend the favorites of past guests.

The picnic basket option gives you a taste of the South amidst the elegant charm of the mansion's gardens. Included in the package is a choice of wine or champagne and a selection of gourmet salads, sandwiches, dips, spreads, and homemade desserts. House made ricotta, pressed country ham ciabatta, a Southern fried chicken Cobb salad, and homemade Mansion chips set the stage for a memorable day enjoying the exquisite gardens of the grounds in style.

Other Amenities

In addition to the fitness and business centers, the workout room, and the other features listed, the Duke Mansion has dry cleaning and laundry services, a meeting and event staff, and allows for bridal photos in the house and around the grounds for a fee.

The grounds alone could easily outclass just about any other spot you’ll find in any historic landmark. From the rocking chairs out front that overlook the perpetual fountain to the quaint flower beds adorned with roses of all colors, the surrounding area is a star on its own.

The Bottom Line

The Duke Mansion is a great place to soak up the history and deep culture of the South, while keeping in touch with the present day through modern conveniences. Each of the individually decorated rooms tells a story, and the small details, including sweets left at turn down add a personal, homey touch.

Come to Light Photography , Cristey Rowe, and George Lannis

COME TO LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY , CRISTEY ROWE, AND GEORGE LANNIS

COME TO LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY , CRISTEY ROWE, AND GEORGE LANNIS

Come to Light Photography , Cristey Rowe, and George Lannis