Charlotte is located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina and boasts over 885,000 people as of 2017. As North Carolina’s largest city and major commercial hub in its region, Charlotte boasts modern architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and rich history – which make for plenty of things to see and do while visiting this vibrant city. Here we highlight some of its top attractions and activities.
Visit The NASCAR Hall of Fame
Racing fans shouldn’t miss the NASCAR Hall of Fame when visiting Charlotte. This state-of-the-art museum boasts interactive exhibits and displays that explore the history of NASCAR and its top drivers; historic race cars can also be viewed while learning about their mechanics. Plus, there are plenty of hands-on activities suitable for children.
Explore The Mint Museum
The Mint Museum is an art museum situated in uptown Charlotte that showcases an extensive collection of American, European and African art – as well as contemporary works from all around the globe – as well as contemporary pieces created around the globe. Housed within two buildings: Mint Museum Uptown is in Charlotte’s historic Eastover neighborhood, while Mint Museum Randolph stands proudly in Uptown Charlotte itself. Both facilities host exhibitions, educational programs and events throughout the year to enhance and diversify their exhibits and collections.
Explore Freedom Park on a Leisurely Walk
Freedom Park, situated near the center of Charlotte, encompasses 98 acres. Featuring walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and an 88-acre lake containing several ponds as well as monuments commemorating World War II as well as statues honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Park provides an ideal space to relax, picnic or run through.
Explore Modern Art at The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art in uptown Charlotte is a contemporary art museum featuring works by well-known artists like Picasso, Warhol and Matisse, as well as lesser-known international artists from around the globe. Housed within an iconic modernist building designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta. Furthermore, lectures, film screenings and special events take place year-round at this contemporary art institution.
Take a Brewery Tour
Charlotte boasts over 30 craft breweries, making it an ideal destination for beer enthusiasts. Many of these establishments provide tours and tastings, giving visitors a chance to sample some of Charlotte’s best local beers, such as NoDa Brewing Company, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, and Birdsong Brewing Company – some of the more well-known ones being NoDa Brewing Company, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, and Birdsong Brewing Company.
Explore The Levine Museum of The New South
The Levine Museum of the New South is an interactive history museum located in uptown Charlotte that documents South American history from after the Civil War to today through interactive exhibits and displays that cover topics such as civil rights, urbanization and the rise of the New South. This a great spot for history enthusiasts or anyone curious about the cultural heritage of this region.
Visit The US National Whitewater Center
The US National Whitewater Center is an outdoor recreational center situated just outside Charlotte. Offering whitewater rafting, ziplining, rock climbing, mountain biking and concerts all year round, as well as offering concerts and other events – it provides adventure seekers with an excellent place to enjoy nature. The center also hosts concerts throughout the year. A great destination for anyone seeking outdoor excitement.
Check out The Charlotte Symphony
The Charlotte Symphony is an award-winning orchestra that performs at the Knight Theater in uptown Charlotte. Their wide repertoire spans classical and contemporary genres, as well as featuring guest soloists and conductors from around the world. Additionally, besides hosting concerts throughout their regular season schedule, they also provide educational programs and community outreach initiatives.
Visit Carolina Raptor Center
The Carolina Raptor Center is a non-profit organization committed to the conservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey. Through educational exhibits and programs, visitors can gain knowledge about these fascinating birds as they explore their role in nature’s ecosystem. Home to over 25 species, such as owls, hawks and eagles, visitors can witness daily flight demonstrations.
Attend a Carolina Panthers Game
Football enthusiasts in Charlotte should make attending a Carolina Panthers game an absolute must. As the city’s NFL team, the Panthers play at Bank of America Stadium located in uptown Charlotte – known for its state-of-the-art facilities and fan-friendly atmosphere, even casual fans of football may find attending one of these thrilling encounters enjoyable and engaging. Even without being particularly passionate about sport yourself, attending one can provide a memorable and thrilling experience.
Explore The Historic Fourth Ward by Touring its Streets
The Fourth Ward is a historic neighborhood located in uptown Charlotte that offers Victorian-era homes and buildings as well as numerous parks and public spaces, art galleries, restaurants and shops – making this the ideal way to experience Charlotte’s rich history and architecture. A stroll through its streets will provide an invaluable glimpse of its rich history and architecture.
Visit Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library is a museum and library dedicated to the life and legacy of Billy Graham, one of America’s best-known evangelists. Featuring exhibits that delve into Graham’s life and work as well as bookstore and cafe facilities located conveniently close to Charlotte city center, it’s located just southwest Charlotte, a short drive away.
Explore The Little Sugar Creek Greenway by Going For a Stroll Along its Path
Little Sugar Creek Greenway is a 19-mile trail system that spans Charlotte and its surroundings, offering walking and biking paths as well as natural areas and wildlife habitats to discover the city’s natural beauty while getting some exercise at the same time. It’s an excellent way to enjoy both Charlotte’s beauty and exercise at once.
Discover The Discovery Place Science Museum by Taking a Guided Tour
Discovery Place Science Museum in Charlotte offers visitors an interactive science experience through exhibits and displays that teach about science and technology. A great destination for families, there are activities and programs tailored specifically to children of various ages throughout the museum.
Attend a Show at The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center
The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in uptown Charlotte is an extensive performing arts complex featuring multiple theaters and performance spaces as well as various programs and events throughout the year. Attractions at the Blumenthal include Broadway shows, concerts and dance performances.
To Conclude
Charlotte is an energetic city offering many things to see and do for visitors of all kinds. Be it history, art, sports or outdoor recreation you’re after, Charlotte offers something for everyone. So when planning a trip here, make sure you visit some of these top attractions and activities.
