Private Charlotte: Exploring Classicism in the Southeast

Join the ICAA and Classical Excursions this November on an insider access tour of Charlotte, NC known to Charlotteans as the "hornet's nest of rebellion" —a nickname coined by British General Cornwallis during the American Revolution. This is a vibrant city known today for its financial prowess and modern skyline, with deep historic roots that stretch back to its colonial past. Founded in 1768 and named in honor of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of King George III of England, the city proudly carries its royal heritage in both name and spirit, having earned its reputation as a hotbed of independence and defiance during the Revolution. Come discover Charlotte’s rich historic fabric—preserved in its buildings, museums, culture and communities.

This tour is arranged by Classical Excursions with the ICAA North Carolina Chapter. Please note, that you must contact Classical Excursions’ Director, Lani Summerville to formally register for this program. Upon completing a registration form, submitting a deposit to Classical Excursions, and receiving a confirmation from Classical Excursions you will be considered registered for this program. Payment of the $600 donation to the ICAA prior to registration does not guarantee placement on the trip. Again, to inquire about registration for this program, please contact Lani Summerville at [email protected] or 413-446-8728.

A fully tax-deductible donation of $600 per person is required to participate in this travel program. Please note that this donation is non-refundable except in the case that this travel program is cancelled by the organization. All travel program participants have the opportunity to receive a complimentary Individual level membership for one year to the ICAA.

Built in 1915 and tripled by its most famous owner James Buchanan Duke, Duke Mansion has been home and host to leaders of the 20th century. Duke’s most lasting legacies, including Duke University, Duke Energy and The Duke Endowment, took shape at the home. Today, the mansion is run as a nonprofit historic inn, gardens and meeting place in the heart of Charlotte. The home was built by Zeb Taylor and remains a fine example of Colonial Revival Architecture.

Private tours of residences designed by such architects as Ruard Veltman, Bobby McAlpine, Martin Boyer and Pursley Dixon Architects.

Located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, Wing Haven provides a natural oasis for reflection and study of its three public gardens. The Elizabeth Lawrence House & Garden is the site of a world-renowned garden writer’s living laboratory featuring an amazing variety of plants with something in bloom every day of the year.

A private reception at Jane Schwab's residence (as featured in Veranda).

A dinner at the Stagioni—previously the home of socialite Reynolds-Gourmajenko, known for her lavish parties and vivacious sense of humor, originally named "The Villa", designed by William Lawrence Bottomley.

A dinner at the charming Charlotte Country Club, a renowned golf club in North Carolina featuring a rich history including a red brick house (known as the "Rock House").

A lunch at the regal Quail Hollow Country Club, a white southern-style building founded in 1959 with the original golf course designed by George Cobb.

What’s included

  • A luxury 3-night stay at the historic Duke Mansion
  • Private tours of residences designed by such architects as Ruard Veltman, Bobby McAlpine, Martin Boyer and Pursley Dixon Architects
  • A visit to the Wing Haven Garden
  • A lunch at the regal Quail Hollow Country Club
  • A private reception at Jane Schwab's residence (as featured in Veranda Magazine)
  • A dinner at the charming Charlotte Country Club
  • A dinner at the Stagioni


Stay tuned—more to be announced!

Charlotte Brevard Court Historical Homes



Charlotte, NC - Trail Of History



UNC Charlotte



Robert A.M. Stern Architects Charlotte Courthouse



Image: Wing Haven Gardens (Wikimedia Commons/DysonsSphere)



FAQ

How do I register for an ICAA travel program?

If you would like to register, you may contact the travel operator organizing the program. Please note that a $600 donation per person to the ICAA is required in order to participate in each travel program.

What does the required $600 donation fund?

Your $600 donation helps to further the ICAA’s goal of advancing the practice and appreciation of the classical tradition in architecture and the allied arts by supporting its varied educational programs, including continuing education courses, college workshops, the Summer Studio in Classical Architecture, New Heights, and many more.

Am I required to pay a $600 donation for each travel program I register for?

Yes, a donation of $600 to the ICAA is required for each travel program you register for. The donation is required for each person attending a tour.

How do I make my $600 donation to the ICAA?

You can make your $600 donation to the ICAA online, or you can download, complete, and mail this form to the ICAA. You can alternatively fax a copy to 212-730-9649. You may also call 212-730-9646 x111 or email [email protected] to make a donation. Donations must be made separately from the registration fee.

Do I have to be a member of the ICAA to participate in an ICAA travel program?

No, membership is not required to attend an ICAA travel program. However, complimentary Individual membership to the ICAA is included with your $600 required donation.

I don’t see the full itinerary for the tour I am interested in. When will it be released?

For full itinerary and more information, contact [email protected], 413-446-8728. Due to the exclusive nature of our tours, some private locations or visits may be omitted from the ICAA's website.

What kinds of trips does the ICAA offer?

Over the past several years, the ICAA has travelled to destinations including Paris; Andalusia; Atlanta; Barbados; South Africa; Chicago; the Netherlands and Belgium; Scotland; the French Riviera; Morocco; the Italian Lake Region; Charlottesville; Naples; and New Delhi, among many other locations. The ICAA is always looking to diversify its travel offerings. If you have a suggestion or location you would like to see added, please email [email protected].