The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a Forbes Five-Star luxury property situated on 12 acres of manicured woodland at the edge of William B. Umstead State Park in Cary, North Carolina, within the greater Raleigh–Durham Research Triangle region. The hotel is approximately 10 miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and 15 miles from downtown Raleigh, making it a preferred destination for corporate travelers and leisure guests alike.
Opened in 2007, the Umstead was designed as a residential retreat defined by gallery-quality original artwork, hand-selected furnishings, and an intimate scale. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Woodland Pond and the surrounding forest canopy, and the interior palette reflects the bark, stone, and foliage of the adjacent state park.
Accommodations range from Deluxe Rooms with pond or garden views to Junior Suites, One-Bedroom Suites with separate living areas, and the top-floor Penthouse Suite. All rooms feature oversized soaking tubs, custom linens, and premium bath amenities. Rates span approximately $350 to $650 per night.
The Forbes Four-Star Herons restaurant is the culinary centerpiece of the Umstead experience, serving contemporary American cuisine sourced from regional farms, Appalachian forage, and Coastal Carolina seafood. The restaurant's wine program has earned Wine Spectator recognition. Lighter options are available through the hotel's lounge and in-room dining service.
The spa holds a separate Forbes Five-Star designation and offers a full menu of treatments inspired by the surrounding woodland environment. Facilities include an indoor lap pool, steam rooms, a full fitness center, and private treatment suites. Valet parking, house-car service for local destinations, and 24-hour concierge and butler service reflect the Umstead's commitment to attentive hospitality. The hotel hosts regular evening concerts, wine dinners, and culinary events throughout the year.
Room types
- Deluxe rooms
- Junior Suites
- One-bedroom Suites
- Penthouse Suite
Amenities
- Forbes Five-Star Spa
- Herons restaurant (fine dining)
- Indoor pool
- Fitness center
- Lake access
- Valet parking
Location
100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, NC 27513
35.8219, -78.8027 View on map
Highlights
- Forbes Five-Star hotel and spa — one of North Carolina's most decorated luxury properties
- Herons restaurant holds a Forbes Four-Star rating for contemporary American cuisine
- 12-acre woodland setting adjacent to William B. Umstead State Park in Cary
- Indoor pool, Forbes Five-Star spa, and 24-hour butler service
- Ten miles from RDU airport — convenient for both business and leisure travelers
Tips for visiting
- The hotel's house-car service provides complimentary transportation within a five-mile radius — ideal for reaching downtown Cary or RTP
- Book Herons for dinner at least two weeks in advance; the restaurant draws Raleigh-area residents as well as hotel guests
- Spa packages bundled with room nights offer savings over booking treatments separately
- Ask the concierge about guided walks into adjacent Umstead State Park — nature trails begin just steps from the hotel garden
- The hotel's art collection is substantial; request a self-guided art tour map at check-in
Accessibility
The Umstead Hotel provides ADA-accessible guest rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. The property's flat woodland grounds and paved pathways allow wheelchair navigation between the main building, spa, and Woodland Pond. Guests requiring specific accessibility accommodations should contact the hotel directly when reserving.
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Frequently asked questions
Is The Umstead Hotel truly Forbes Five-Star rated?
Yes, The Umstead Hotel and Spa holds Forbes Five-Star ratings for both the hotel and its spa, making it one of only a handful of properties in North Carolina to achieve this level of recognition in both categories simultaneously.
How far is the Umstead from Raleigh-Durham International Airport?
The Umstead is approximately 10 miles from RDU, a drive of around 15 minutes depending on traffic. The hotel provides airport transfers and house-car service; inquire at booking for current transportation packages.
What makes Herons restaurant special?
Herons at the Umstead focuses on contemporary American cuisine with a strong emphasis on regional sourcing — local farms, Appalachian forage, and Coastal Carolina seafood inform the seasonal menu. The Wine Spectator Award-recognized wine list complements a tasting menu as well as à la carte options.
Are children welcome at the Umstead?
The Umstead welcomes families; children are accommodated with custom in-room amenities and can access the indoor pool. The property's quiet atmosphere is better suited to older children. The concierge can arrange family-specific outings in the Research Triangle area.