Travel Guide To Charlotte, North Carolina

Introduction

Charlotte, North Carolina, also known as the Queen City, is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture lover, Charlotte has something to offer. In this travel guide, we will cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Charlotte has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to explore!

Top Attractions

U.S. National Whitewater Center

The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a must-visit attraction for adventure seekers. This outdoor recreation center offers a variety of activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, rock climbing, and mountain biking. It’s a great place to spend a day with friends or family.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

For racing fans, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-visit attraction. This interactive museum showcases the history of NASCAR and its drivers. Visitors can see race cars up close, participate in racing simulations, and learn about the sport’s evolution.

Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science is a fun and educational attraction for all ages. This hands-on science museum has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about physics, biology, and chemistry. It’s a great place for families to spend a day together.

Hidden Gems

Little Sugar Creek Greenway

The Little Sugar Creek Greenway is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the city. This 5.8-mile trail runs through several parks and neighborhoods and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It’s a great way to explore Charlotte’s natural beauty.

McColl Center for Art + Innovation

The McColl Center for Art + Innovation is a hidden gem for art lovers. This contemporary art center features exhibitions, artist residencies, and community programs. Visitors can see works of art by local and national artists and participate in workshops and events.

Midwood Smokehouse

Midwood Smokehouse is a hidden gem for foodies. This barbecue restaurant serves up some of the best smoked meats in town, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. It’s a great place to try Southern-style barbecue.

Food Scene

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar is a unique restaurant that blends sushi and burgers. This fusion restaurant offers a variety of creative dishes, including sushi rolls topped with burger toppings and burgers served with sushi ingredients. It’s a great place to try something new.

Price’s Chicken Coop

Price’s Chicken Coop is a Charlotte institution that has been serving up fried chicken since 1962. This no-frills restaurant offers some of the best fried chicken in town, along with sides like mac and cheese and hush puppies. It’s a great place to try Southern-style comfort food.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museum Days

Many of Charlotte’s museums offer free admission on certain days of the week or month. Check the museum’s website for details and plan your visit accordingly.

Food Trucks

Charlotte has a thriving food truck scene, with trucks serving up everything from tacos to grilled cheese. Food trucks are a great way to try new foods without breaking the bank.

Outdoor Adventures

Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain State Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. This state park offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to spend a day hiking or rock climbing with friends.

Lake Norman

Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. It’s a great place to spend a day on the water with friends or family.

Historical Landmarks

Charlotte History Center

The Charlotte History Center is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. This museum showcases the history of Charlotte, from its early settlers to its role in the Civil War. Visitors can see artifacts and exhibits that bring Charlotte’s history to life.

Levine Museum of the New South

The Levine Museum of the New South is another great museum for history lovers. This museum explores the history of the American South from the Civil War to the present day. Visitors can see exhibits that highlight the region’s history, culture, and people.

Family-Friendly Activities

Carowinds Amusement Park

Carowinds Amusement Park is a great place for families to spend a day together. This amusement park has roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions that are sure to thrill kids and adults alike.

Discovery Place Kids

Discovery Place Kids is a fun and educational attraction for young children. This hands-on museum has interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about science, art, and music. It’s a great place for families to spend a day together.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

7th Street Public Market

The 7th Street Public Market is a hidden gem that offers a unique shopping and dining experience. This indoor market has vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. It’s a great place to try new foods and support local businesses.

Charlotte Rail Trail

The Charlotte Rail Trail is a newly developed trail that runs through the heart of the city. This trail offers a unique perspective on Charlotte’s history and culture, with public art installations and street performers along the way. It’s a great way to explore the city on foot.

Natural Wonders

The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are a natural wonder that is worth a day trip from Charlotte. This national park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning views of the mountains. It’s a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is another natural wonder that is worth a day trip from Charlotte. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and plenty of opportunities for hiking and picnicking. It’s a great way to spend a day in nature.

Vibrant Nightlife

Epicentre

Epicentre is a popular destination for nightlife in Charlotte. This entertainment complex has bars, restaurants, and nightclubs that are open late into the night. It’s a great place to dance, drink, and socialize with friends.

NoDa Arts District

The NoDa Arts District is another great destination for nightlife in Charlotte. This neighborhood has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, music venues, and performance spaces. Visitors can see live music, comedy shows, and other performances on any given night.

Local Markets

Charlotte Regional Farmers Market

The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market is a great place to buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. This market has vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods and crafts. It’s a great place to support local farmers and artisans.

South End Market

The South End Market is a recently opened market that offers a variety of food and drink options. This market has vendors selling everything from coffee to beer to tacos. It’s a great place to try new foods and support local businesses.

Beaches and Mountains

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for beach lovers. This beach town offers sandy beaches, water activities, and plenty of shopping and dining options. It’s a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Asheville

Asheville is a popular destination for mountain lovers. This city is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers plenty of hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. It’s also home to a thriving arts scene and plenty of craft breweries.

Cultural Immersion

Levine Center for the Arts

The Levine Center for the Arts is a great place to immerse yourself in Charlotte’s cultural scene. This center includes the Mint Museum, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Visitors can see works of art from around the world and learn about different cultures.

Levine Jewish Community Center

The Levine Jewish Community Center is another great place for cultural immersion. This community center offers classes, events, and programs that celebrate Jewish culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about Jewish history, language, and cuisine.