Curator’s statement
Charlotte, NC, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends Southern charm with modern attractions. Visitors can explore its rich history at museums, enjoy thrilling adventures at the NASCAR Hall of Fame or relax in the city's lush parks and scenic neighborhoods. With a thriving culinary scene, diverse shopping options and a growing arts culture, Charlotte offers something for every traveler. Plus, its central location makes it an ideal gateway to explore the Carolinas.
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Where to stay in Charlotte, NC
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Things to do in Charlotte, NC
NASCAR Hall of Fame: A shrine to the history and heritage of NASCAR under one roof with ever-evolving exhibits for you to explore.
Carowinds: A 407-acre amusement park owned and operated by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, the park first opened to the public on March 31, 1973
Sullenberger Aviation Museum: An aviation museum on the grounds of Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is one of a few aviation museums located at an airport which serves as a major hub
US National Whitewater Center: Recreation grounds with whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, rappelling, rock climbing & more.
Billy Graham Library: Large library dedicated to religious leader Billy Graham, plus his original home with tours
Optimist Hall: Hip site with a wide variety of food & bar stands plus art, events & indoor-outdoor seating. Home to 25+ food stalls, retailers and restaurants, guests can enjoy countless cuisines.
Charlotte Motor Speedway: A 1.500-mile quad-oval intermediate speedway in Concord, North Carolina. It has hosted various major races since its inaugural season of racing in 1960, including NASCAR, IndyCar and IMSA SportsCar Championship races
Spectrum Center: An indoor arena owned by the city of Charlotte and operated by its main tenant, the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association.
Day Trips
Atlanta, GA
Duck/Kitty Hawk, NC
Raleigh, NC
Asheville, NC
Savannah, GA
Charleston, SC
Places to eat & drink in Charlotte, NC
Restaurants
Alexander Michael’s: Unpretentious American fare & craft beers served in a down-to-earth pub setting.
Optimist Hall: Hip site with a wide variety of food & bar stands plus art, events & indoor-outdoor seating. Home to 25+ food stalls, retailers and restaurants, guests can enjoy countless cuisines.
Rhino Market: Cool deli for eclectic sandwiches & a market with beer, wine & readymade pastas, plus local breads.
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar: Gourmet burgers, sushi & fusion combos plus beer & spirits in a vibrant, colorful space.
The Goodyear House: Casual, rustic venue with outdoor seating serving local staples, plus draft beer & unique cocktails.
Fahrenheit Charlotte: A sleek, buzzing hot spot offering New American fare with an Asian bent, backed by a long wine list.
The Giddy Goat Coffee Roasters: A laid-back coffee shop serving delicious, house-roasted coffees as well as a full, breakfast-focused menu.
Breweries
Hi-Wire Brewing: An Asheville-based craft beer company dedicated to producing a wide variety of beers. Learn more about Hi-Wire & our ever-growing number of taproom
Wooden Robot Brewery: Modern redbrick brewery with a rotating selection of draft and to-go beers, plus a beer garden.
Charlotte Beer Garden: Offers the world's largest selection of draft beers available in one restaurant
HopFly Brewing Company: Relax with a great beer in great community and amazing atmosphere
Resident Culture Brewing: When you step through the portal to Resident Culture's realm, you reach a space where the absurd is normalized and accepted
Birdsong Brewing Company: Lively brewery producing craft beers plus a taproom serving flights, pints & growlers.
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Travel Advisor
Stuart Sokoloff
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Charlotte. For more, check out my guide, Spellbound in Salem: A Magical Guide to History, Haunts and Hidden Gems.