things to do in charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting activities to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Charlotte:
Museums and Galleries
- NASCAR Hall of Fame: A must-visit for racing fans, featuring interactive exhibits and a Hall of Honor.
- Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: Showcasing an impressive collection of modern art from around the world.
- Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture: Exploring the history and culture of African Americans.
- Mint Museum: Two locations in Charlotte, featuring art, history, and cultural exhibitions.
Outdoor Activities
- U.S. National Whitewater Center: A popular spot for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining.
- Reedy Creek Nature Preserve: A 1,200-acre nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views.
- Freedom Park: A 98-acre park featuring a 7-acre lake, walking trails, and a 40-foot tall Freedom Bell.
- Carolina Thread Trail: A network of trails and parks connecting Charlotte to the surrounding countryside.
Food and Drink
- NoDa Brewing Company: A popular brewery with a taproom and restaurant.
- The King’s Kitchen: A non-profit restaurant serving Southern cuisine with a mission to feed the hungry.
- Midwood Smokehouse: A barbecue joint with a wide variety of meats and sides.
- The Asbury: A trendy hotel with a rooftop bar offering craft cocktails and live music.
Sports and Entertainment
- Bank of America Stadium: Home of the Carolina Panthers (NFL) and host to various concerts and events.
- Spectrum Center: A multi-purpose arena hosting basketball games, concerts, and more.
- Charlotte Knights Baseball: Catch a minor league baseball game at BB&T Ballpark.
- Blumenthal Performing Arts: A performing arts center featuring Broadway shows, concerts, and more.
Neighborhoods and Shopping
- NoDa (North Davidson): A vibrant arts district with galleries, restaurants, and shops.
- Uptown Charlotte: The city’s central business district, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Plaza Midwood: A charming neighborhood with unique shops, restaurants, and bars.
- SouthPark Mall: A large shopping mall with over 200 stores and restaurants.
Other Attractions
- Charlotte Motor Speedway: A NASCAR track offering tours and racing events.
- Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring over 390 acres of plants and flowers.
- Romare Bearden Park: A 5.4-acre park featuring public art installations and a playground.
- USNWC’s zip line: A thrilling zip line experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Charlotte. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.