Things to do in Charlotte

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Billy Graham Library

Charlotte Attractions

Charlotte, North Carolina, known to many as the Gem of the South, is the perfect destination for your next vacation. The city is packed with things to do like Charlotte excursions to one of the area's many famed historic sites and trips to the city's well-known churches. The sheer number of churches and religious sites have garnered the city another nickname: City of Churches. There are also many Charlotte activities perfect for families visiting the area with children.

One of the best places in Charlotte, or The QC, for history lovers is the Historic Rosedale Plantation. A trip to this plantation gives tourist a look at Charlotte's illustrious past. Another of the must see spots for those looking to experience Charlotte's history up close and personal is the Fourth Ward. The Fourth Ward, which can also be experienced on Charlotte tours or by picking up a map, is a residential district filled with beautiful old homes.

The Carolinas Aviation Museum is an additional place to visit which is filled with relevant pieces that appeal to both local and out of state visitors alike. While traveling through the various churches to be found in Charlotte, you'll also want to visit The Billy Graham Library and learn more about this famous individual and his church.

Some of the top attractions in Charlotte are perfect for families traveling with children. One of the most famous of these attractions is Carowinds, the famed amusement park. Two other interesting attractions for children, Discovery Place and ImaginOn and The Joe & Joan Martin Center, help children learn about subjects in a fun way. The animal fans in your family have a number of sites to enjoy in Charlotte, too. Head to the Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary to see their favorite animals or go to the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve to learn more about the fragile ecosystem of the area.

From walks through Little Sugar Creek Greenway to fishing and boating on Lake Norman, there are numerous things to keep you busy on your next trip to Charlotte, NC. Let Expedia be your guide when you travel.


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Most popular activities in Charlotte

What to do in Charlotte

Free Things to Do in Charlotte

Traveling to Charlotte on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Wells Fargo Museum - Take the entire family and embark on a journey of discovery through history together.

Abbott Park - Let down your hair and add some extra fun to your vacation here.

Queens University of Charlotte - Drop by this modern local landmark and marvel at its distinctive design.

Old Settlers' Cemetery - Amble around this historic site and learn some secrets from long ago.

Foundation For The Carolinas - Flick through your guidebook and learn why this place is worth adding to your must-see list.

Fourth Ward Park - Grab your rug, pack some finger food and find a shady area to appreciate Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Charlotte with Kids

Escaping with the kids? There are lots of activities and tours in Charlotte that'll put huge smiles on little faces. Look into these family friendly experiences:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Charlotte? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Charlotte on a sunny day?
You won’t want to be lazing around in the hotel when you could be out having a blast on a Charlotte Haunted Pub Walking Tour.
What to do in Charlotte on a rainy day?
If the weather is misbehaving and you’re looking for something to do, throw down your umbrella and try a SEA LIFE Charlotte Concord Aquarium.
What should I not miss in Charlotte?
If you’re eager to see the best of this destination, slot these attractions into your schedule:

  • Spectrum Center
  • Bank of America Stadium
  • Carowinds Theme Park
  • University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Are there cheap things to do in Charlotte?
What can you do in Charlotte for free?
You could even leave your credit card in the hotel safe for the day, because these great attractions won’t cost you a dime:

  • University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  • Lake Norman
  • EpiCentre
  • Concord Mills


Discover the most popular places to visit in Charlotte

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte Center City showing outdoor art and modern architecture

Uptown Charlotte

4.5/5(2,123 area reviews)

Boasting a bustling business district, Uptown Charlotte offers over 245 restaurants, 50 nightspots, and attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Easily accessible via the Lynx Blue Line, it's perfect for sports enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Uptown Charlotte
Yummy fried egg!

Ballantyne

4.5/5(199 area reviews)

Explore Ballantyne Village's diverse restaurants and outdoor spaces, or marvel at the 30-foot monuments symbolizing Charlotte's spirit at Johnston Road and Ballantyne Commons intersection. Enjoy rooftop dining in the Panorama Tower.

Ballantyne
On a recent trip to Charlotte, we were turned on to this delicious spot by a member of our film crew.

Though almost every upscale sushi restaurant strives to be innovative, Baku really pulls it off. Unusual and exciting favors can be discovered in their unique signature rolls. The tuna tartare was a tasty surprise. 

Great selection of cocktails and sakes. Very professional, upscale service, cozy modern atmosphere. Highly recommended.

#Food #Delicious

SouthPark

4.5/5(219 area reviews)

Experience upscale shopping at SouthPark Mall, featuring high-end designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, or explore nearby complexes like The Village at SouthPark. Easily accessible via CATS buses and I-77, the area also offers a popular route for runners along the SouthPark Corridor.

SouthPark
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University City

4/5(974 area reviews)

Known for its ample dining options and great live music, there's plenty to explore in University City. You can visit top attractions like UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens and Shoppes at University Place, and jump on the metro at McCullough Station or JW Clay Boulevard /UNC Charlotte Station to see more of the city.

University City
New brewery in Charlotte with great beers and a nice patio with a view of uptown. Plan to go on a Friday so you can eat at "Food Truck Friday" two blocks over before walking over.

South End

Experience a vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and industrial development in this high-density area, featuring the Design District and Atherton Mill. Easily explore with the Lynx Blue Line.

South End
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Dilworth

5/5(6 area reviews)

Stately oak trees and charming bungalows line the walkable streets, while East Boulevard offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and offices in renovated homes. Nearby, find Sedgefield Park and Charlotte's largest hospital.

Dilworth

 

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Popular day trips from Charlotte