If you’re planning on visiting a place with plenty of charm and great food, then Charlotte, North Carolina, should be on your list. This Southern city is known for its incredible attractions and various places to eat.
As the most populous city in North Carolina, Charlotte can get overwhelming. Despite its numerous cultural institutions, festivals, and tourist attractions, there are no beaches in the area.
In a recent survey conducted by the US News & World Report, Charlotte was named one of the best places to live in the country for 2022-23.
The article covers the various exciting things to do in Charlotte (NC)
Where Is Charlotte, North Carolina?
Charlotte, located in North Carolina’s Mecklenburg County, is the most populous city in the state. According to the US Census Bureau, the city’s population will grow to almost 900,000 in 2020.
It is regarded as one of the most populated cities in the south and the second most populous place in the Southeast. It is also the county seat of Mecklenburg County.
From 2004 to 2014, Charlotte was regarded as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country.
It also became one of the fastest-growing major cities in the country when the US Census Bureau analyzed it from 2005 to 2015. As a result, residents of this area are referred to as Charlotteans.
The city is home to prominent financial institutions such as Bank of America and Trust Financial.
These companies have made Charlotte one of the largest banking centers in the country.
Things To Do In Charlotte (NC)
NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. This museum features interactive exhibits and films about auto racing.
Besides this, it hosts various professional sports teams such as the Charlotte Knights and the Carolina Panthers.
These are 21 of the most fun things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina;
1. Discovery Place
The Science Center is a must-visit if you plan to visit Charlotte, North Carolina. This facility features interactive exhibits and films designed to provide a fun and educational experience.
The Science Center’s interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the human body’s life cycle and other natural phenomena.
In addition, World’s Alive offers a wide range of educational programs about the fascinating lives of other animals.
Address: This attraction is at 301 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
2. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center
The Carolina Theatre, which was opened in 1992, is a modern theater that can accommodate various musical and play performances.
The facility’s comfortable seating and impressive acoustics make it an ideal choice for a night out.
Besides this, the theater also offers a variety of other activities, such as jazz and symphony performances.
Address: This Theatre is located at 130 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
3. Black Out
Family games are a great way to spend time with the family. You and your friends can participate in a strategy game designed to use your skills and imagination through this activity.
Escape rooms are also an excellent way to spend time with the family. They can provide a variety of activities that are designed to keep the whole family entertained.
Some of the most popular games that can be played in this type of room include puzzles and riddles.
Address: This attraction is located at 8107 Arrowridge Blvd Suite Q, Charlotte, NC 28203-4116, USA.
4. The Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library is a great place for people interested in learning more about the life and legacy of the famous pastor.
This facility features a 40,000-square-foot library that provides a comprehensive view of his life.
The facility itself is set on 20 acres of beautiful grounds. Although you’re free to wander around the grounds, you can also take guided tours.
These tours can be conducted for a reasonable fee of around an hour and a half.
Address: This library is located at 4330 Westmont Drive/Charlotte, NC, USA.
5. Carowinds
Thirteen world-class roller coasters are featured at the facility. Some of these include Planet Snoopy, a fun-filled ride for children.
Other family-oriented attractions include Boo Blasters on Boo Hill, RipRoarin’ Rapids, Skytower, and Dinosaurs Alive, which features 30 life-sized animatronic monsters.
Thrill lovers will love visiting Carowinds, the Thrill Capital of the Southeast. These rides are some of the best worldwide and are designed to provide the entire family with an enjoyable experience.
Address: This attraction is located at 300 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273.
6. Carolinas Aviation Museum
One of the best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, is to visit the Charlotte Airport, which was constructed in 1936.
It was the first facility in the region to receive a commercial flight. Eastern Airlines started using the facility in 1938.
During that time, the airport featured two buildings, a beacon tower and a hangar.
It also had two 3,000-foot runways, as well as a 2,500-foot runway. Some of the planes found in the hangar include military and civilian airplanes.
Address: This attraction is located at 4672 1st Flight Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208.USA.
7. NASCAR Hall of Fame
One of the best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, is to visit the Hall of Fame for professional racing.
This modern facility is set in a 150,000-square-foot area and features various interactive exhibits. Besides these, it also has a large theater that can accommodate 278 people.
Address: The NASCAR Hall of Fame is at re400 E MLK Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
8. BB&T Ballpark
The BB&T BallPark is a beautiful baseball stadium home to the Charlotte Knights. This facility is popular among families due to its well-designed and laid-out atmosphere. The two-level seating area provides excellent views of the city.
The stadium has plenty of local food outlets and is easy to park. If you’re planning on treating the entire family, you should consider purchasing a ticket to the Home Plate Club or the Suites. These are both costly options.
Address: The BB&T BallPark is at 324 S Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
9. Mint Museum Uptown
The Mint Museum Uptown is an excellent place for people interested in learning more about the history and culture of art.
This museum features a variety of European, American, and contemporary art.
It also has multiple art studios and galleries designed to provide the entire family with an enjoyable experience.
Address: The Mint Museum Uptown is at 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
10. DefyGravity Charlotte
Another fun thing to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, is visiting the DefyGravity Sports Park.
This facility features a variety of cutting-edge equipment, such as the Angled Wall Trampolines.
It also has a giant foam pit and a large ball cage. This is an excellent place for children to burn off energy and have fun simultaneously.
Address: This attraction is located at 8116 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28213, USA.
11. Hall Family Farm
If you’re looking for something different for the whole family, take the kids to the Hall Family Farm.
The Hall family has operated and owned this farm for over 70 years. It’s a great place to try some hand-picked apples and sweet strawberries.
Besides the farm’s regular activities, such as strawberry picking, you can enjoy various other fun activities, such as hayrides and picnic tables.
The farm’s admission is free, and the kids can enjoy their hand-picked fruits and vegetables. There’s also a variety of hot and cold beverages available, as well as local produce.
Address: The Hall Family Farm is at 10713 Providence Rd W, Charlotte, NC 28277-1563, USA.
12. The Sleepy Poet Antiques Mall
If you’re in Charlotte for a great shopping experience, head to the Sleep Poet Antiques Mall.
This facility features over 250 booths designed to provide the entire family with an enjoyable experience.
This is a 55,000-square-foot mall that’s perfect for people who are interested in finding a variety of different types of clothing and home furnishings.
Address: This attraction is located at 6424 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28217, USA.
13. Historic Rosedale Plantation
Another fun thing to do in Charlotte is visiting the magnificent plantation known as Historic Rosedale Plantation.
This property features over eight and a half acres of beautiful grounds. It’s a great way to understand the south in the 1900s, and it’s located near the city of Charlotte.
The Archibald Frew House was built in 1815 and is known for its impressive design.
It’s an excellent place for people interested in learning more about the history of architecture in North Carolina. This house is undergoing restoration work, and public tours are also available.
Address: The Historic Rosedale Plantation is at 3427 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206, USA.
14. Metalmorphosis
One of the unique sculptures currently available in Charlotte is “The Big Head,” which is a massive sculpture by Czech artist David Cerny.
This work of art features a large and complex arrangement of stainless steel plates.
Address: This attraction is located at 3600 Arco Corporate Dr. Whitehall Corporate Center, Charlotte, NC 28273-8100, USA.
15. McDowell Nature Center and Preserve
This is an excellent place for the entire family to enjoy various activities. Numerous trails are designed to provide the whole family with an enjoyable experience.
This is also a great place to rent a boat and take advantage of the fishing opportunities available.
This nature center and preserve feature an outdoor arena, native animals, and an exhibit hall. It’s an excellent place for people interested in learning more about the area’s natural flora and fauna.
Address: This attraction is located at 15222 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278.
16. The Joe & Joan Martin Center
The Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (The Joe & Joan Martin Center), known as the ImaginOn, is also a fun and open-air library that features various attractions for children.
This is an excellent place for people interested in learning more about the history of architecture in North Carolina. In addition, multiple games and activities can be enjoyed by the entire family.
Address: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is located is 300 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202.
17. Codescape
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend time with the family, head to Codescape.
This facility features various interactive games designed to provide the entire family with an enjoyable experience.
One of these is the popular game “Shipwrecked.” In this game, the team of archaeologists must find and retrieve treasure before the other players.
Address: This attraction is located at 933 Louise Ave Suite 201, Charlotte, NC 28204-2131.
18. Hendrick Motorsports Complex
Another exciting thing to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the HMS Motorsports complex.
This facility is owned by the renowned racing organization, which has earned several national championships.
It’s an excellent place for people who are interested in learning more about the history of racing.
Address: This facility is at 4400 Papa Joe Hendrick Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262.
19. Carolina History and Haunts Ghost Tour
If you’re skeptical about ghosts, this is a great way to explore the city’s history.
This tour is designed to provide you with an enjoyable experience. It’s also a great way to hear some exciting stories about the neighborhood.
The guides are very entertaining and informative, giving you a deeper understanding of Charlotte’s history.
This tour is suitable for everyone and lasts for around 90 minutes. Make sure to bring your walking shoes with you.
Address: This attraction is located at 610 E Rosemary St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA.
20. Levine Museum of the New South
The Levine Museum is an excellent place for people who are interested in learning more about the history of the south.
This museum’s mission is to engage the entire family in learning more about the region’s rich history.
It’s also designed to provide an interactive experience that allows people to learn more about society following the Civil War.
Address: The Levine Museum is at 401 South Tryon Street, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA.
21. Little Sugar Creek Greenway
The Little Sugar Creek Greenway is an excellent place for the entire family to enjoy a walk-through.
This area features various paths and trails designed to provide the family with an enjoyable experience.
The path can go back and forth over the creek or be used to stop and enjoy a picnic.
Address: This attraction is at 1133 Metropolitan Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA.
Best Time To Visit Charlotte, North Carolina
The best time to visit Charlotte is spring and summer when the city is less crowded. Also, during the shoulder seasons, the hotels are less expensive.
Cost Of Visiting Charlotte, North Carolina
To visit Charlotte, North Carolina, you should expect to spend around $153 daily.
This is based on the expenses of other people in the area. Some past travelers have also paid around $27 for local transportation.
The average hotel price in Charlotte is $189. On the other hand, a trip to the city for two people can cost you around $2,142.
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