a front of a brick building with a lawn and bushes

HOTELS IN CHAPEL HILL

Name: The Carolina Inn
Address: 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516
Telephone: (919) 933-2001

A CAROLINA Legacy

Affectionately referred to as “the University’s Living Room,” The Carolina Inn has been a beloved mainstay of the University of North Carolina since 1924. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Inn was built by John Sprunt Hill and donated to UNC in 1935. Ever-evolving and always stylish, it’s with timeless elegance and the spirit of tradition that this beloved landmark continues to flourish, offering gracious service, an atmosphere of celebration, and a true Carolina experience—all in the perfect Chapel Hill location.

a group of people sitting on couches and drinking wine

a large brick building with a lawn and a lawn

a room with a checkered floor and chandeliers

History & Tradition

Since 1924

Built in 1924 by distinguished alumnus and University trustee John Sprunt Hill, the Inn's original concept was "to provide for the special wants and comforts of the University alumni... and University visitors.” In 1935, Hill generously donated the Inn to UNC, with profits to be used for "the maintenance and support of the University library, and especially for the support of the collection of books and papers known as the North Carolina Collection." His wishes are carried out to this day.

1924 – 1994

Architecturally, the Inn is a charming blend of colonial and antebellum styles, incorporating late 18th-century elements from George Washington's Mount Vernon, as well as early 19th-century elements from Richland, a historic plantation home in Louisiana. The first major expansion of the Inn took place in 1939,, and in the late 1960s it was renovated again to include a ballroom, a new cafeteria and 45 more guest rooms. The main entrance and lobby were also moved from the east to the west side of the building at this time.

1994 – 2011

In 1994, the Inn underwent a massive, $16.5 million expansion, reopening in the fall of 1995 with the addition of a 55-room wing. In total, the hotel has undergone six major renovations since 1924, the most recent seeking to return the Inn to its original grandeur and traditional warmth, while offering guests the most up-to-date and innovative services and amenities across guest rooms, public spaces, the lobby, and Crossroads Chapel Hill.

…and Today

Through the decades, The Carolina Inn has hosted millions of visitors—including some of the century’s most prominent figures from the worlds of government, business, sports, entertainment and the arts. Now managed by international boutique hotelier Destination Hotels, The Carolina Inn invites you to share in its rich traditions, signature hospitality, and heartfelt welcomes for years to come.

a man and woman holding hands and smiling

HOTELS IN CHAPEL HILL

A CAROLINA Legacy

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