The Longleaf Hotel
Mid-century modern motor lodge revival — retro bones, current sensibility. Unpretentious but deliberate. The lounge has more personality than most downtown hotel bars.
Thursday Uncorked: every Thursday the lounge runs half-price bottles of wine. No gimmick, just a good deal.
Why It Matters
Michelin-certified since April 2024. One of the few hotels in the US that genuinely recovered a Sixties motor lodge structure — the original breeze blocks, the motel court layout — and made it feel intentional rather than nostalgic. Named for the longleaf pine, North Carolina's endangered state tree, and built with collaborations from NC artisans throughout.
A 1960s Travelodge got an archaeological-grade excavation and a modernist makeover — and came back as one of downtown Raleigh's most characterful places to sleep. The original starshine breeze blocks, hidden for decades under stucco, are back on show. Every inch of the redesign leans into NC: longleaf pine needle wallpaper, shibori-dyed robes by local makers, bar snacks from celebrated chef Vivian Howard. It's 56 rooms, no pool, no gym, but a lounge that pulls in locals and visitors alike.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
King Deluxe
From USD150 / nightThe standard king with room to breathe. Extra lounge seating, a larger bathroom with walk-in shower, and a patio view. Only available on the second floor, so you get a bit of elevation on the motor court below. Same artisan details and in-room amenities as the standard, just more space to spread out.
King
King Suite
From USD200 / nightOver 500 sq ft on the ground floor — the most space in the building. A king bedroom connects to a proper living room with a fold-down queen sleeper sofa, making this the only room that can sleep four. Two bathrooms. Ground floor location means easy access with luggage, and the extra parlor is genuinely useful rather than just decorative.
King
Standard Double
From USD130 / nightTwo double beds with the same design DNA as the Standard King — the signature headboard, artisan details, Malin+Goetz products, built-in desk and task chair. Good option for two guests who each want their own bed, or families with one child.
Two DoublesStandard King
From USD120 / nightThe signature room. Cozy is the honest word — 230 to 250 sq ft — but every inch is carefully considered. Kingsdown pillowtop mattress, solid wood details, shibori-dyed throw pillows and robes, longleaf pine wallpaper, Malin+Goetz bath products, Bluetooth speaker, stocked mini fridge, and snacks. Built-in desk and task chair for work. It's a mid-century motor lodge room done properly.
KingThe Property
Eat & Drink
2 venues on property
Restaurant
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
Hosted on the patio by John Riccitelli (Bingo Starr), game supplies provided and prizes for winners. Free to play. Often runs alongside Harry's food truck.
Ticketed patio brunch event combining mimosas, a brunch buffet, and stand-up comedy. Tickets run approximately $40.
A collaboration with Ghost Pepper Industries. Designed as a space for the hospitality community but open to guests — an escape from the busy shift, with food on-site.
Harry's hot dog truck parks outside the hotel and lounge on select evenings. Runs from 4pm until sold out.
Guided tastings featuring North Carolina distillers — past events have included Cook's Mill Whiskey, Sutler's Gin, and Kill Devil Rum at the Longleaf Lounge.
Every Thursday the Longleaf Lounge offers all bottles of wine at half price. No special code needed — just show up. Runs 4pm–10pm.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
Counter Culture coffee is provided free each morning for overnight guests at the lobby espresso bar, alongside Yellow Dog Bakery pastries and Tin Roof teas.
Stocked mini fridge and snacks included in all room types.
Free membership with Stash Hotel Rewards. Earn points for every stay redeemable across hundreds of independent hotels in North America. Points never expire.
Private patio attached to the lounge, used for regular events including bingo nights, food truck pop-ups, and private bookings. Also serves as the morning coffee spot.
Motor court-style on-site parking available for hotel guests and lounge visitors. Free for overnight hotel guests, a rarity for downtown Raleigh. Some third-party sources note a parking surcharge — confirm directly with the hotel.
Pets are welcome at the hotel. Charges may apply. Confirm pet fee at time of booking.
BUILD YOUR THE LONGLEAF HOTEL PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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