Things to do in Charlotte

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Charlotte
Charlotte
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art showing modern architecture and outdoor art
Charlotte featuring fall colors and a garden
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

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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!

 


 


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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Steele Creek

4.5/5(12 area reviews)

While visiting Steele Creek, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Wylie and Lake Wylie Park.

Steele Creek

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Charlotte

Frequently asked questions

Is Charlotte worth visiting?
With a mix of dining and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Charlotte. While you're here, check out NASCAR Hall of Fame, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Charlotte?
After you've checked off leading attractions like NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place, spend some time discovering Charlotte's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charlotte?
The top tourist attraction in Charlotte is NASCAR Hall of Fame, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Charlotte?
Three days in Charlotte is enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many guests spend two days on average. NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place and The Mint Museum are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Rock Hill.
Is Charlotte a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Charlotte is a good place to discover on foot. Wander between NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place. Then take a stroll through Uptown Charlotte, located 0.1 miles from the center, and Second Ward, which is roughly 0.4 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Charlotte with kids?
What to do in Charlotte for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Charlotte, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to NoDa Brewing Company or Birdsong Brewing Co..
Are there free things to do in Charlotte?
In Charlotte, Afro-American Children's Theatre is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Charlotte.