Charlotte is an ambitious and very rapidly growing city in the southern part of central North Carolina. It is the largest city in the state. Residents within the city limits. It is also considered the center of finance, industry, technology, and entertainment for the region. Primarily known in the past as a business center, the Queen City is steadily developing its fledgling tourist industry. And currently, its central core is one of the most visitor-friendly districts in the Carolinas. The great thing about Charlotte is that it has something for everyone. And some of the best things to do in Charlotte are all-encompassing of some very varied interests! Whether you’re looking for unique culinary or brewery experiences, museums, live music, shopping, sports, outdoor adventure, or family fun, Charlotte’s got something for all of us!
Related: Find Rooms For Rent In Charlotte
Outdoor activities in Charlotte, NC
1. Carowinds Amusement Park
One of the coolest things to do in Charlotte is riding the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster! It’s a 325-foot-tall Fury 325, at Carowinds amusement park — that makes up for a great evening out in Charlotte!
But that’s not all! For over 45 years, Carowinds has been right at the heart of where the Carolinas come together, so we know a thing or two about Carolina culture. It’s something mighty special, especially in the hearts of the people of Charlotte. Located off I-77 at the NC/SC border, we have everything you need to make lifelong memories. Giggle with little ones at the crazy antics of Snoopy and the PEANUTS™ gang at Camp Snoopy, our 12-acre children’s area filled with interactive play areas and rides. Grab a friend and scream out loud on one of our 14 world-class rollercoasters or take in a live show! Share a delicious funnel cake, and give away the last bite. Get completely soaked – again and again – at Carolina Harbor, our all-inclusive waterpark.
2. Take a dip in The Quarry at Carrigan Farms
Carrigan Farms is a 5th generation, family-owned, farm. Carrigan Farms specializes in growing quality fruits and vegetables, educational school tours and field trips, weddings, swim parties, and other special events. The lifeguards here are super friendly, and ensure a safe and fun time during the summer. There are also people who bring their own fishing gear. They are also permitted to enjoy catch-and-release fishing at our two farm ponds during open swim. The ponds have bass, bream, and crappie. However, fishing is not permitted in The Quarry during swim times.
Entry Fee:
Depends on the package purchased.
Timings:
SUN: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM MON-WED: CLOSED THU-FRI: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM SAT: 7:30 PM-10 PM
3. Kayak or raft at the US National Whitewater Center
The U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) is dedicated to the promotion of the active, outdoor lifestyle. Since 2006, the USNWC has been promoting access to the outdoors for all levels of participants through its all-day pass programs, instruction, leadership school as well as festivals, races, and other outdoor events. Whether you visit the Center’s 1,300 acres on the Catawba River or participate in the offsite programs featured throughout the United States, the USNWC wants you to play, relax and learn outside. But we definitely recommend going rafting in the rapids of the Catawba river!
Entry Fee
If you’d like to try your hand at whitewater, flatwater, and land activities at the center, buy a Day Pass. Anyone 10 and older pay $59. Admission for children 9 years old or younger costs $49. Timing: 10 AM – 5 PM; SUN-SAT
Sports in Charlotte
In Charlotte, packed stadiums, courts, and fields roar with the thunder of applause all year long. Giants of every sport showcase their talent while storming the bases and longtime fans and newcomers alike are invited to come together to root for the home teams. Here are the many things to do in Charlotte, if you’re looking for sports and related events in the city!
1. NASCAR Racing Experience
The NASCAR Racing Experience is what fans of the sport say, the closest to the real deal. There are varying packages you can purchase, based on the amount of time you wish to spend on the track. As the driver, you can also meet with the crew chief, get training and instruction. And then just get behind the wheel and drive a NASCAR Race Car for timed racing sessions on the Nation’s Premier Speedways.
You’re also allowed to pass other drivers, and drive as fast as you want!
Hours:
Sun-Sat 8AM to 7PM
Cost:
Varying packages
2. Golfing in Charlotte in Revolution Park!
The Dr. Charles L. Siford Golf Course at Revolution Park is one of the city’s more affordable county-owned public courses and is located just minutes from Uptown. This was a once overlooked course that went through a $10 million renovation in 2010. This renovation then included the addition of a driving range, new pro shop, and full-service snack bar to the nine-hole course.
Hours:
Sat-Sun: 6AM-9PM
Cost:
Package, times and party specific.
Related: Roomi’s Guide For The First Time Renter
3. Stroke Putt
Located in the Plaze Midwood area, Stroke Putt is a sports arcade and pub where all your sports dreams come true. There are tons of things to do here, from miniature golf to a variety of cocktails! This location also makes a wonderful spot for date night, or even just for hanging out with your friends! Their vibe is, what they call, a whimsical mix of a country club and speakeasy — and there are surprises at every turn!
Hours:
4 PM to 11 PM on weekdays, 11 AM to 11 PM on weekends | Monday closed. 21 and up after 7:30 PM.
Costs:
Reservations are encouraged, though not required | Putt packages start from $10
Museums in Charlotte
Charlotte has a diverse museum scene, ranging from classic pieces to quirky and unique modern art. While most of the galleries charge admission, every so often (or weekly, in some cases) the museums will open their doors free of charge to those lucky enough to know the days.
1. Mint Museum
This is one of the best things to do in Charlotte, especially if you’re into the classical art scene. It is located in the heart of Charlotte’s burgeoning city center. Mint Museum Uptown is an integral part of the Levine Center for the Arts, a cultural campus that includes many more such museums.
Hours:
Monday closed, Sunday 1PM-5PM, Rest of the week: 11AM-6PM
Costs:
Free admission on Wednesdays from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. | Adults: $15, Kids 5-17: $6, College Students and Senior Citizens over 65: $10, 4 and under: Free!
2. Levine Museum of the New South
Levine Museum of the New South is perfect for those who like interactive exhibits. The museum takes you on an industrial tour through Charlotte’s history. And their exhibits focus mainly on life in the North Carolina Piedmont after the American Civil War.
Hours:
- Monday & Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Tuesday – Thursday: Closed
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Sunday: 12 noon – 5 p.m.
Cost:
- Adults $10.00
- Seniors (62+): $8.00
- Students, Educators, Frontline workers, and Active Military: $8.00 (with current, valid ID)
- Children (6-18): $6.00Ages 5 and under: FREE
3. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
What’s very reminiscent of a European art gallery, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art has a little something for everyone – including the kids. The museum is named after the family of Andreas Bechtler, a Charlotte resident and native of Switzerland. He assembled and inherited a collection of more than 1,400 artworks created by major figures of 20th-century modernism — which can now be found at this museum.
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm
- Tuesday: Closed
- Sunday12pm – 5pm
Costs:
- Adult: $9.00
- Senior (65+): $7.00
- College Students (with school ID): $7.00
- Educators: $7.00
- Youth (11 to 18): $5.00
- Children (up to 10): Free
Culture in Charlotte
1. Ballantyne Village
Great for couples, Ballantyne Village is the perfect destination for a meal and a movie. With 20 different restaurants to choose from, you’ll find many favorites. Try exotic, spice-infused Indian fare at Blue Taj, pizza at Mellow Mushroom, and craft beers and classic American fare at Blackfinn Ameripub.
Hours:
Free Admission
Costs:
People usually end up spending upwards of $70 here.
2. River Jam Summer Concert Series
Live music takes place throughout the year at a one-of-a-kind outdoor venue in the middle of the world’s largest man-made whitewater river. Genres including roots rock, Americana, bluegrass, folk, and funk are featured on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from May through September and at each of the Whitewater Center’s festivals.
Hours:
May-Sept; 7PM onwards
Costs:
Passes start from $64 for adults for one day.
Camp North End
Call this one a must-try experience. This is by far, one of the coolest things to in Charlotte. What used to be a manufacturing site for Model T cars and assembling Hercules missiles, has now been transformed into a hub for some of the city’s most innovative businesses. Deemed one of the trendiest hangouts in Charlotte, Camp North End is home to murals, local retailers and artisans, and an array of diverse food businesses.
Hours:
7AM to 12AM
Cost:
Admission Free
Restaurants in Charlotte!
1. 5Church Charlotte
With its exposed ductwork, black leather couches and gorgeous bar, 5Church is without question Charlotte’s sexiest restaurant. And the man in the kitchen, chef Jamie Lynch, is a big deal. The “Top Chef” alum was named best chef by Charlotte Magazine in 2018.
Here, inside the ultra-cool boutique hotel The Ivey, his menu is confident and bold, with yellowfin tuna tater tots and spiffed-up steakhouse classics, including a tomahawk for two. Sides are served family-style and—with selections like Southern street corn and white truffle cheddar mac ‘n’ cheese. They’re the main event unto themselves.
Cost:
Dishes are all $30 and under
Hours:
Sunday: 10a.m.–4p.m.5–10p.m. Monday: Closed Tuesday to Friday: 5–11p.m. Saturday: 10a.m.–4p.m., 5p.m.–2a.m.
2. Stagioni
Tucked into a historic home in Charlotte’s Eastover neighborhood, Stagioni beckons with its warm ambiance and blissful location away from the fray. Inside, cookbooks and wooden lamps add homey design touches to this charming Italian spot from well-known Charlotte restaurateur Bruce Moffett. Do not confuse Stagioni with a typical red-sauce joint. Although you’ll find a few pizzas and pasta, they’ll be far from familiar. Instead, expect tortellini stuffed with spicy ‘nduja and housemade ricotta, or seared gnocchi in a nettle pesto.
Hours:
Closed, Monday. Tuesday-Sunday: 5-10PM
Costs:
Upwards of $60
3. Ayrsley Town Center
Honestly, just your entire family to Ayrsley Town Center. This is a complex that has rightfully earned the moniker the “Uptown of Southwest Charlotte.” You can catch a double feature at the independent Ayrsley Grand Cinemas 14, where themed film showings (retro horror, anyone?) are all the rage. But also, you must grab a post-popcorn lunch at Harry’s Grille & Tavern—where you can also order a handcrafted cocktail—or Portofino’s Italian Restaurant. You’ll find some seriously hearty portions of pasta here. Shopping stops include Expressive Impressions jewelry, where something sparkly is sure to catch your eye.
Hours
7 AM – 1 AM
Costs
Variable
D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers find things to do in Charlotte, NC? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever!
