Top 20 things to do
in Charlotte, NC

What is it?
A must-visit destination for any fan of auto racing, part entertainment attraction and part museum, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of Charlotte's top attractions.

Why should you go?
A must-visit destination for any fan of auto racing, part entertainment attraction and part museum, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of Charlotte's top attractions.

The spacious, high-tech venue is the place to explore the history of NASCAR and its best drivers, crew chiefs and owners, broadcasters, and other people who contributed to the development of one of America's favorite sports. How would you like to get behind the wheel of a NASCAR stock car replica? The local museum features historic race cars, simulators, hands-on exhibits, the Hall of Honor, a 278-person state-of-the-art High Octane Movie Theater, a broadcast studio, a gift shop, and a cafe.

Specialization
Sports museum

Perfect for
Motorsports enthusiasts

What is it?
A mid-20th-century modern art museum located in an elegant building.

Why should you go?
Founded by the Swiss Bechtler family in 2010, this art museum occupies a unique four-story building designed by the renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta, which is itself a work of art. The terra cotta exterior and the indoor atrium create a warm atmosphere filled with natural light.

The museum is home to over 1,400 artworks representing the major art movements and schools from the 20th century by European, British, and American artists. The collection includes masterpieces by Picasso, Miró, Giacometti, Le Corbusier, and others. From exhibitions and talks to film screenings and jazz concerts, the Bechtler Museum has something cool and educational for everyone.

Specialization
Modern and contemporary art

Perfect for
Art lovers

What is it?
An outdoor recreational facility offering a range of activities.

Why should you go?
Looking for fun things to do in Charlotte, NC? How about a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure? Occupying approximately 1,300 acres of land by the Catawba River, the US National Whitewater Center offers over 30 recreational activities for any fitness level. Whitewater rafting, yoga, kayaking, climbing, zipline rope courses, mountain biking, ice skating — whatever floats your boat! Many of the activities are suitable for children, so consider it a family-friendly option.

The place also hosts international sports competitions and organizes festivals, concerts, and other events. Sport is not your cup of tea? You can always order catering and enjoy a meal with a great view of the whitewater course.

Specialization
Nature + outdoor sports

Perfect for
Fans of outdoor activities

What is it?
An expansive park with a lake, trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Why should you go?
One of the most relaxing activities to do in Charlotte, NC, is, of course, spending a summer afternoon in a local park. The city boasts quite a few of these, and we'd like to recommend this one. Spanning around 100 acres of natural beauty, Freedom Park is home to walking trails, picnic areas, tennis and volleyball courts, playgrounds, and an amphitheater. Festivals, concerts, and events take place here year-round. Our favorite feature is the local lake, where visitors can rent paddle boats or just feed the resident ducks.

Overall, the park's lush green spaces offer a perfect environment to relax and unwind, watch the kids play, or go for a romantic walk.

Specialization
Park

Perfect for
Families with kids, couples, and anyone who feels the need to touch grass

What is it?
Family-friendly amusement park on the border between North and South Carolina.

Why should you go?
Already discovered a few fun things to do in Charlotte, NC itself, and feel like venturing out? Why not grab the family and head to the North Carolina-South Carolina state line for another amazing adventure?

Dating back to 1973, this amusement park boasts more than 60 rides, a waterpark, live entertainment, as well as onsite dining and camping options. Roller coasters like the Fury 325, the Intimidator, and the Carolina Cyclone provide a heart-pumping experience. Water rides like the Boogie Board Racer and Kiddy Hawk Cove offer a chance to cool off on hot summer days. They also host events throughout the year, including WinterFest, The Great Pumpkin Fest, and the Grand Carnivale.

Specialization
Rides and attractions

Perfect for
An adventurous day out with the family

What is it?
An interactive science and technology museum.

Why should you go?
Located in Uptown Charlotte, this fascinating venue traces its history to 1946, when a tiny science museum opened in Charlotte. Over the decades, it has significantly expanded and is currently an exciting space to help visitors embark on a journey of discovery.

From the fascinating world of underwater creatures in the aquariums to state-of-the-art lab spaces, from indoor rainforest exhibit with all the sights and sounds, birds and frogs of an authentic jungle to the impressive Accenture IMAX Dome Theatre with its laser projection system and 12-channel sound system. Who said educational exhibits couldn't be fun?

Specialization
Science museum

Perfect for
Budding scientists and explorers of all ages

What is it?
A history museum with a focus on post-Civil War life in the region.

Why should you go?
Established in 1991, the Levine focuses on the story of the southern US from the end of the Civil War to the present day. Visitors can learn about issues such as race relations, economic development, and the impact of the civil rights movement on the region.

The museum features a range of interactive and multimedia exhibits, as well as artifacts and photographs from throughout the South. Exhibitions rotate frequently. It also hosts a range of educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and classes for schools and community groups, designed to facilitate discussion on the complex history of the region.

Specialization
Local history museum

Perfect for
History buffs with interest in the South

What is it?
Art, craft, and design museum located in Charlotte city center.

Why should you go?
Opened in 2010, Mint Museum Uptown is home to an impressive craft and design collection, plus exceptional collections of American and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and other objects. One of the best things to do in Charlotte, NC, if you're into art exhibitions in cool spaces, it hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as special events in its five-story building with distinctive architecture.

Various visitor amenities are available, including the 240-seat James B. Duke Auditorium, the Lewis Family Gallery, art studios, a restaurant, and a gift shop that sells art-related books, souvenirs, and other items.

Specialization
Art, design, and architecture

Perfect for
Culture vultures

What is it?
An interactive aquarium with a multitude of sea creatures.

Why should you go?
Based at Concord Mills in Concord, a suburb of Charlotte, this gorgeous aquarium is one of the top kid-friendly places in the area, and a trip here is totally worth it. This is a truly captivating underwater world inhabited by over 5,000 aquatic animals, including rays, sharks, sea stars, jellyfish, seahorses, and many others.

The cool thing is you can get up close and personal with sea creatures like sea stars, sea urchins, and hermit crabs in the interactive touch pool while also learning about marine animal conservation and protection initiatives. Plus, North Carolina's only ocean tunnel is a great opportunity to snap that ultimate selfie with a shark swimming leisurely just over your head!

Specialization
Aquarium

Perfect for
Fish lovers

What is it?
Beautiful botanical gardens located at the University of North Carolina campus.

Why should you go?
The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens is a stunning outdoor oasis located on 7.5 acres in the heart of the university's campus. The garden consists of diverse ecosystems, including a carnivorous plant collection, a native woodland garden, a greenhouse conservatory, a collection of orchids, and other sections. We love the Dinosaur Garden, which hosts living fossils and offers a glimpse into prehistoric vegetation.

The garden is a beautiful educational resource for adults and kids alike, offering various tours, events, and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in botany, horticulture, or just looking for a relaxing outdoor escape.

Specialization
Botanical gardens

Perfect for
Nature enthusiasts

What is it?
A football stadium in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, home to the local football teams.

Why should you go?
Bank of America Stadium is a modern and iconic sports venue, the home facility and headquarters of the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League and Charlotte FC of Major League Soccer. A visit to the stadium is a must-do in Charlotte for any real American football fan!

The stadium has striking, fortress-like architecture and a seating capacity of almost 75,000 fans. It is known for its amazing sightlines and top-notch amenities, including luxury suites, club-level seating, and state-of-the-art technology. Besides football games, the stadium hosts important events and concerts throughout the year.

Specialization
Stadium and concert venue

Perfect for
Sports fans

What is it?
An indoor market with bars, eateries, and shops in downtown Charlotte.

Why should you go?
You don't need tickets to visit one of the best places in Charlotte, a vibrant foodie's paradise in the bustling heart of the city. Celebrating the food culture of the Carolinas and aiming to promote local and regional farmers, food artisans and entrepreneurs, this indoor market features an eclectic array of vendors selling a variety of handcrafted goods, artisanal foods, and locally grown produce.

The market is home to a mix of unique, boutique-style shops, including a coffee shop, a Liege waffles joint, a restaurant specializing in coastal Black Southern cuisine, a cheese shop, and a wine store. It also hosts weekly events, from wine tastings to tango classes, making it an exciting destination for craft enthusiasts and families alike.

Specialization
Urban market

Perfect for
Foodies and hipsters

What is it?
A history museum sitting on a wooded campus in East Charlotte.

Why should you go?
One of the great things to do in Charlotte, NC, is explore its history — and this nice little museum offers a glimpse of what life was like in the region in the past. The main attraction here is the Rock House, which was built in 1774 for the Hezekiah Alexander household and is the site of the oldest surviving house in Mecklenburg County. A relocated Revolutionary-era barn, a reproduction log kitchen, and a reconstructed two-story springhouse are also located onsite.

Museum tours are available to showcase the locals' way of life back in the day and the manner in which different cultures coexisted and shaped Charlotte's past.

Specialization
Local history

Perfect for
History buffs

What is it?
Charlotte's first municipal cemetery with graves of notable residents.

Why should you go?
Located in downtown Charlotte, Old Settlers' Cemetery was established in the early 1770s, with graves of a number of the first settlers (hence the name). Notable people interred here include local politicians, Revolutionary War heroes, and Thomas Polk, Charlotte founding father and great-uncle of President James K. Polk.

The historic cemetery was closed in the mid-19th century and has not been used as a burial ground since. Today, you can visit it to explore the rich history of the city through the stories of the people buried there and relax while strolling down its paved pathways under the majestic oak trees.

Specialization
Historic cemetery

Perfect for
Graveyard enthusiasts

What is it?
Charlotte's oldest and largest craft brewery and beer garden.

Why should you go?
We've mentioned quite a few family-friendly attractions and sites that are great to see with kids. But what would be one of the best things to do in Charlotte for adults? Naturally, a visit to one of the few dozen local breweries!

The Olde Mecklenburg features a spacious indoor taproom and a beautiful outdoor beer garden that is perfect for enjoying a pint or two on a sunny afternoon. The brewery prides itself on brewing German-style beers using traditional brewing methods and locally-sourced ingredients. There's also a food menu featuring a variety of German-inspired dishes as well as classic bar fare.
(And actually, they've got a whole "family zone" in the back of the garden where kids can play — so you don't really have to leave the little mites with the sitter!)

Specialization
Brewery and beer garden

Perfect for
Beer geeks

What is it?
A trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and quirky shops.

Why should you go?
Located in east Charlotte, this eclectic neighborhood has been revitalized after a period of urban decline in the 1990s and has a unique personality and bohemian charm. You can easily spend the whole day here, and we think it's one of the top things to do in Charlotte!

There's plenty to discover: Plaza Midwood boasts a lively mix of independent businesses, including quaint shops, tattoo parlors, hip cafes and restaurants with a distinctive local vibe, craft bars, and live music venues. One of the area's highlights is its dynamic arts and culture scene, with regular events such as festivals, outdoor concerts, and art walks. The neighborhood also has several parks and green spaces, such as Midwood Park and Veterans Park.

Specialization
Funky neighborhood

Perfect for
Hipsters

What is it?
An annual Greek food festival, one of the major local cultural events.

Why should you go?
This annual celebration of Greek culture and heritage has been held in Charlotte since 1978 and has long become a staple of local life. Held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the festival features a wide range of activities and attractions, including live music, traditional dancing, tastings, cultural exhibits, and a marketplace selling authentic Greek food, pastries, and crafts.

The Greek cuisine is the major highlight of the event, with delicious specialties such as spanakopita, gyro sandwiches, baklava, and loukoumades. You can also stock up on vegetables, olive oil, grains, fish, wine, cheese, lamb, and other traditional ingredients used in Mediterranean cooking.

Specialization
Greek food and culture

Perfect for
Foodies

What is it?
A stylish restaurant serving Carolina-inspired Southern fare and craft cocktails.

Why should you go?
Based in the NoDa neighborhood, a popular arts and entertainment neighborhood and a former center of the textile mill industry, this trendy eatery is designed to evoke an old-fashioned Southern charm with its brick walls, vintage lighting fixtures, and a relaxed atmosphere. It pays homage to the local heritage: just check out those bar taps made of reused spindles from a former mill.

The menu features a variety of modern interpretations of classic Southern fare, such as fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese (we recommend starting with the house pickles and shrimp and grit cakes). Another highlight of Haberdish is its craft cocktail menu, which features some pretty cool and unique drinks made with local ingredients and spirits.

Specialization
Local cuisine

Perfect for
Any hungry tourist

What is it?
A shopping mall in the heart of Charlotte's affluent SouthPark neighborhood.

Why should you go?
SouthPark Mall opened in 1970 and is described as one of the best things to do in Charlotte for those looking for an exclusive shopping experience. This expansive retail complex features over 175 specialty retailers, including brands such as Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Burberry. The mall is also anchored by several major department stores, including Nordstrom, Dillard's, and Macy's.

In addition to its impressive selection of retail options, SouthPark Mall also offers a variety of dining experiences, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, such as The Cheesecake Factory, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and Maggiano's Little Italy. The mall's spacious layout, sleek architecture, and top-notch retail offerings make it a popular destination for shoppers and visitors seeking an upscale retail experience.

Specialization
Shopping mall

Perfect for
Fashionistas and fans of luxury

What is it?
A distillery with Irish roots and a little bar.

Why should you go?
North Carolina boasts up to 80 distilleries producing gin, whiskey, rum, vodka, and moonshine, and it would be a shame to visit Charlotte without seeing one of them. We'd like to recommend this proud NoDa resident: founded by an Irish native in 2013, this boutique distillery has been focused on producing high-quality, small-batch spirits. The signature product here is a smooth and flavorful whiskey, which is aged in oak barrels and has won several awards for its premium quality.

The distillery has its own little speakeasy and a spacious outdoor patio. Plus, they have live music every Wednesday and Saturday! Guided tours of the facility are available to let you sample the locally produced spirits and learn about the art and science of craft distilling.

Specialization
Distillery

Perfect for
Those who need a drink