Known to be the most populous city in North Carolina, USA, nicknamed “Queens City” this city is home to numerous historic and well known national teams and monuments like two American star Racing track (NASCAR) NBA team Charlotte Hornets, NFL team the Charlotte Panthers among a whole lot of other monuments. With so many things to do in Charlotte, the only question remains, ‘When are you coming?’ While you decide on an answer to that, scroll down to know what to include in your itinerary!
10 Best Things To Do In Charlotte
It’s certain that when you visit this city there are a lot of things you can do but here are a few best things you can do when you visit this city even if it’s for a week as a tourist, a student or for whatever reason you find yourself in the city of Charlotte.
1. Food
Image Source When you visit Charlotte, check out some of its restaurants with comfort foods that are sure to make your taste buds dance joy. Restaurants like the FEAST Food tours and the Charlotte NC Tours or if you have other cravings visit Atherton Mill and Market where sandwiches, pizza, sweets, beer, juices and a few locally made souvenirs that are amazing for keeps or gifts to friends and family. For barbecue lovers, try the Bar-B-Q-King, Midwood Smokehouse and the City Smoke for barbeques that will make you want to drop in every time you visit the city. Best Restaurants: Kindred Restaurant, Fig Tree, Alexander Michael’s, The Capital Grille Nearby attractions: Out Of Time Escape, NASCAR Hall of Fame
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2. NASCAR Hall Of Fame
Image Source Charlotte is home to NASCAR racing and it’s natural that it has a hall of fame. This piece of marvel has racing simulations, racing artifacts, and a beautiful theater with a 278 sitting capacity, a gear shop and a Buffalo wings restaurant. This hall immortalizes the very sport and would be sure to give you a thrill and a story to tell when you travel back to your home country. Location: 400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA Nearby attractions: Discovery Place Science, Romare Bearden Park
3. Billy Graham Library
Image Source For book readers, be sure to visit the Billy Graham Library to immerse yourself in the vast knowledge that is contained in this library. For those who don’t know who Billy Graham is, he is one of the famous pastors in the Northern part of America. The library has a vast land of 40,000sq ft in which you will have the chance to wander the grounds and learn about the life and path he led. It is known that the location of this library is close to where the pastor grew up; there is absolute freedom to roam the vast land and also help yourself to nicely priced food from a restaurant there. Location: 4330 Westmont Dr, Charlotte, NC 28217, USA Nearby attractions: Carolinas Aviation Museum, Exit Strategy, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Freedom Park
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4. Science Exhibitions
Image Source In this place science comes to life, the World Alive discovery place is an interactive space and shows the exhibitions and wonders of science. From the laws of gravity, species of various animals to the very human cycle and crushing objects its one place where there are amazing things shown here that would thrill and make you want to visit over and over again. Find innovative and fun ways to interact with science, try hands-on experiments and indulge in stargazing at Discovery Place Nature’s planetarium. Location: Discovery Place Science, 301 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA Nearby attractions: NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, Mint Museum UPTOWN
5. City Tour
Image Source This is perhaps the oldest and very first thing a strangers/visitors do in the very first place. From moving around in a horse-ridden carriage to riding the Funny Bus Comedy City Tours you are sure to have a swell time laughing and interacting with fellow tourists. While you’re out and about in Charlotte, North Carolina in USA, this is surely an experience you cannot afford to miss out! Location: 301 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
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6. Reed Gold Mine
Image Source This gold mine is absolutely free for both admission and tours. The Reed Gold Mine is known to be the location where the country’s first gold was found. Gold was found on this land in 1799 and I would add that if you want to pan for gold you’d have to pay $3 for that. Since the time of discovery, this place has gained limelight and gold mining has spread gradually to other nearby countries and eventually into southern states. It has been designated as an important National Historic Landmark since the time of gold finding and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Location: Reed Gold Mine, 9621 Reed Mine Rd, Midland, NC 28107, USA Nearby attractions: Robinson House Rock Ruins, NASCAR Racing Experience, Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park
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7. Nightlife
Image Source If you love the night and life of the party you are not in a strange place there are places that are guaranteed to give you that late night vibe. Places like the EpiCentre located in the heart of the city has a nicely themed bar, restaurant and nightclub. You can also try the mechanical bull at the Whisky River, the list is endless but you are sure to have a wonderful time in Charlotte if you try these places. Best night clubs: EpiCentre, Whisky River, Rooftop 210, Howl At The Moon Nearby attractions: Thomas Polk Park, Romare Bearden Park, First Ward Park
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8. Bowling
Image Source For people who either know how to bowl or have only heard of it or not actually tried bowling before it’s something you should try, just look them up on the internet or have your tour guide take you there. It’s a great place to meet with people or hang out with friends, have a drink or two and enjoy life. Ten Park Lanes, Strike City are a few great bowling alleys that you can find in Charlotte. Grab a glass of beer and have a fun bowling session with your friends while you compete against them in a friendly match. Best Bowling Alleys: 10 Park Lanes, Strike City, AMF Carolina Lanes Nearby attractions: Park Expo Center, Fresh Attractions Deli, Camp Snoopy, Billy Graham Library, Freedom Park
9. Carolina Aviation Museum
Image Source Known to be an attractive spot for as long as most locals can remember, the Charlotte airport was opened in 1936-37 where it was said to receive its first commercial flight into the city. The airport has two buildings, one hangar, 3 runways of three thousand foot and two thousand foot respectively. Visitors would see both civilian and military planes. Tourist or visitors would be able to watch videos on the operations, planes and also the privilege of seeing videos on the plane called “Miracle on the Hudson” that in 2009 thumped into the Hudson River. Location: Carolina Aviation Museum, 4672 1st Flight Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208, USA Nearby Attractions: Romare Bearden Park
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10. Performing Arts
Image Source If you love performing arts or just want to watch a little classic, going to the Blumenthal performing arts center which was opened in 1992 is highly recommended. It’s a very beautiful and wonderful place to go into especially if you love musicals and classical music. The theater has very spacious and comfortable seats and also you would have a great view of the stage and you won’t miss a thing. They also have restaurants for that cinema-like feeling; it’s sure a fun place to go to. Location: 130 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA Nearby attractions: First Ward Park, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park
11. Nature Walks
If you’re looking for good picnic spots to spend your day in the outdoors and unwind with your loved ones then these parks like the Little Sugar Creek, McDowell Nature Center & Preserve, and Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary are a few great options to grab your cosy blankets and spread out your mats under a tree. These parks are ideal for a visit when it comes to enjoying a day out amidst lush greenery and crystal clear waters of the stunning ponds. Amongst free things to do in Charlotte, these parks make for a perfect spot to stroll through the paved walkways and swamp lands, beautiful ponds and under the bridges to enjoy the scenic beauty of Charlotte. Best Parks: McDowell Nature Center & Preserve, Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary, Little Sugar Creek Greenway Nearby attractions: Carowinds, Funtasticks Charlotte, Camp Snoopy, Billy Graham Library12. Kid-Friendly
Image Source If you’re looking for fun things to do in Charlotte for kids, then check out DefyGravity Trampoline Park, it is the perfect place for kids to have fun and have a great time. Carowinds is another kid-friendly spot that features thrill rides and animated characters that will keep the kids happy. Next up is ImaginOn that serves as a stunning open air library with attractions that kids can enjoy. Children can keep themselves occupied by indulging in activities like Lego playing area, magnetic poetry wall, touch screens, puppet center, and more for the little ones. Best hangout spots for kids: Carowinds, DefyGravity Trampoline Park, ImaginOn Nearby attractions: Dinosaurs alive, Camp Snoopy, Canaan Zip line Canopy Tours13. Strawberry & Pumpkin Picking
Image Source Enjoy strawberry and pumpkin picking at a family owned and operated farm called Hall Family Farm located in South charlotte. Experience the adventure of strawberry picking in the spring time and pumpkin picking in the fall depending on the season, this farm attracts a lot of visitors who come to spend a day at the farm indulging in activities. Take away with you some home treats like hot apple cider, warm cider donuts and funnel cakes. Location: Hall Family Farm, 10713 Providence Rd W, Charlotte, NC 28277, USA Timings: 9 am – 7 pm Nearby attractions: Cullman Park, Sports Connection, Big Rock Preserve, McAlpine Creek Greenway Parking & Rest Area, Riverwalk Trestle14. Antique Shopping
Image Source Have you ever indulged in Antique shopping on an extensive level? If not, then get experimental and head to the Sleepy Poet Antique Store in Charlotte to take a shopping spree a notch up and splurge on antiques. You’ll find everything from antique furniture to vintage clothing and Vintage Vinyl. A must-visit for all vintage lovers, this store is a one-stop shop for everything vintage. Location: Sleepy Poet Antique Mall, 4450 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209, USA Timings: 10 am – 8 pm Nearby Attractions: Park Expo Center, II Grand Disco, Musical Parking Garage, The Green, Bechtler, Museum of Modern Art, Romare, Bearden Park15. Festivals & Concerts
Mark your calendars with these exciting festivals and events that are held in Charlotte, and not to be missed while taking a trip to Carolina. Feel the heart thumping music while you groove to the rhythmic music, fill your days with happiness with your loved ones as these festivals offer fun and exciting things to do in Charlotte for couples. Get ready for never-ending entertainment that will make you want to come back for more. Challenge your friends to beer chugging and keep the drinks flowing at Charlotte beer festival that is held throughout the year, Queen City Brewers Festival, Moo and Brew Craft Beer and Burger Festival, North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival to name a few. Apart from these, you can relish good music and art at the Kings Drive Art Walk. Best Festivals: Charlotte Pride Festival & Parade, Kings Drive Art, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival, Moo and Brew Craft and Beer and Burger FestivalFurther Read: The Largest Mall In USA Is All Set To Open & It’s The ‘American Dream’ You Always Wished For!
There are more places to be visited and things to be done however it’s all about finding what you love the most and doing it. However, if you are open to new ideas and trying new things try out a few of these things or just consult the locals or a tour guide. Book your trip to USA with TravelTriangle to tour this mesmerizing city. Hope you have a safe holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Charlotte
What are the top attractions to visit in Charlotte?
Charlotte is considered one of the major cities in North Carolina. Some of the top attractions to visit in Charlotte include NASCAR Hall of Fame, Billy Graham Library, Discovery Place, Paramount's Carowinds, U.S. National Whitewater Center, Aviation museum, Levine museum, Hendrick museum, and Freedom Park.
What are the best outdoor activities in Charlotte?
Best outdoor activities in Charlotte are rafting in the US National White Water Center, strolling around the neighborhood and visiting various parks, trailing at Greenways Galore, relaxing at the Botanical Gardens, and exploring the Crowders Mountain State Park.
Is it safe to visit Charlotte during covid times?
The North Carolina State Government has issued some important covid guidelines for visitors such as the complete vaccination has been mandatory for individuals above 18 years of age. Unvaccinated people should provide their medical documents as proof of not getting the vaccination. A negative RT PCR report should be done 24 hours prior to departure. Wearing a face mask in public places is also recommended.
What is there to do in Charlotte right now?
If you are Charlotte right now, then you can indulge in activities such as going on a history tour, trying appetizing dishes, visiting the U.S. Whitewater center, and explore the Carowind amusement park.
How do I spend a day in Charlotte NC?
Top 3 tourist attractions you can visit in a day are the NASCAR Hall of Fame museum, the Levine museum of the New South, and the Discovery Place Science which consists of innovations such as the IMAX Dome Theater and an Aquarium.
What is Charlotte famous for?
Charlotte is one of the biggest cities in North Carolina and comprises several amazing attractions for visitors such as museums, scenic parks, outdoor activities, and exceptional places to eat.
What is the best time to visit Charlotte?
The best time to visit Charlotte is between September and December because of the pleasant temperatures and the affordability of some places. June till August (the hottest months) is the busiest time of the year and the prices of hotels also hike up. Winter is not a popular month to visit Charlotte, but you will experience very less crowd during this time and affordable accommodations.
How many days are required to explore Charlotte?
You need at least 3 days to explore Charlotte and visit the famous tourist attractions. Charlotte consists of many historical places and fun activities to do. If you do have some free time left, then you can also see some popular sights in North Carolina outside Charlotte.
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