10 Best Things to Do in Charlotte, NC

Are you looking for the best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina?

Known for being one of the US’s largest banking centers and fastest-growing metropolitan areas, of course, there’s plenty to see and do when you visit.

This buzzing city is home to a bounty of museums, beautiful botanical gardens, and much more.

So, get ready if you’re keen on a bit of history, maybe some adrenaline-pumping races, or a visit to Charlotte’s beautiful parks.

With all you could possibly do on a trip down to Charlotte, how do you choose what to do? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered!

Ready to explore Charlotte with me? Let’s dive in!

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Charlotte Essentials

Top Experiences & Tours In Charlotte

Where To Stay In Charlotte

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How to Get Around Charlotte

So, how do you get around the most populous city in North Carolina? I recommend doing what makes you most comfortable, but there are multiple ways to get around the city.

You can use the light rail system via the LYNX Blue Line light rail that links Uptown to the south side of Interstate 485, with 15 stations along the way.

The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) added an extension connecting Uptown to UNC Charlotte, offering 26 stations around the city.

CATS also operates bus routes with maps and schedules found here.

Then there’s Charlotte Joy Rides — a bike-share system with 30 stations. Buy a 30-minute pass for $10 or a 24-hour pass for $30 to ride around the city.

If you’re flying in, you can get a car from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) or rent your car in advance on rentalcars.com.

Uber and Lyft are also popular ride-hailing services in the city.

1. Take a Stroll Through Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Charlotte

With 380 acres of verdant meadows, woodlands, and lakefront property, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a beautiful escape just 20 miles outside of Charlotte.

Located in Belmont, you can drive down for a day and lose yourself in its splendor.

There is a garden for every season at this botanical garden.

The Four Seasons Garden displays a symphony of colors at any and all points in the year. The Cottage Garden is most spectacular in spring and showcases plants of the 19th and 20th centuries.

You should also see the William H. Williamson Orchid Conservatory, which is full of orchids and tropical plants, a waterfall, coca trees, and more.

2. Take in the Sights at Freedom Park

Among the top things to do in Charlotte is a visit to the breathtaking Freedom Park.

This 98-acre park is a natural haven tucked away in the heart of Charlotte.

You’ll have an abundance of outdoor activities to choose from there, from scenic walking trails, picnics, or renting a paddle boat.

There are biking paths, baseball fields, tennis and basketball courts, and let’s not forget the lush and open greenery surrounding you at all times.

You’ll notice families, joggers, and dog walkers passing through throughout the day, enjoying the serene, open space.

Events are held throughout the year, including the three-day Festival in the Park in September, which features local food, entertainment, and arts and crafts.

3. Eat at The Market at 7th Street

The Market at 7th Street is one of those Charlotte activities that is just perfect for foodies looking to sample Carolina cuisine.

This non-profit food hall, retail space, and meeting place supports small businesses in Uptown.

With pop-up stalls, plenty of yummy eating places for every meal time, and a wide array of food vendors, you can easily spend the day here shopping and eating.

I recommend having a coffee at Not Just Coffee, eating waffles at Sweet Crunch, and having a pizza at Geno D’s Pizza.

Look out for events like game nights and wine tastings when you plan your trip.

4. Hit the Water at the US National Whitewater Center

One of the best Charlotte attractions for some exhilarating outdoor fun is the National Whitewater Center.

There, you’ll have your pick of 30 different land and water activities.

Situated adjacent to the Catawba River, the center’s primary feature is its recirculating artificial whitewater river.

This not-for-profit outdoor reaction and training facility offers whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and even ice skating.

However, that’s not all that’s on offer. There are also live events, immersive yoga experiences, festivals, and river jams held throughout the year.

If this sounds like your vibe, I recommend you check out their all-access pass here and their other tickets on offer.

5. Seek Thrills at Carowinds Amusement Park

Take a day for one of the most fun things to do in Charlotte, NC: going to an amusement park.

Carowinds Amusement Park is a 407-acre establishment that sits on the state line between North and South Carolina.

The park is known for its many thrilling rides, especially its rollercoasters like Fury 325, the Carolina Cyclone, and Afterburn.

Then, there’s the Carolina Harbour water park included in park admission. It’s the largest waterpark in the Carolinas and includes plenty of slides, wave pools, cabanas, and dining spots.

To top it all off, the massive park hosts annual events and live entertainment.

The likes of which include the Carowinds Summer Music Fest and the Christmas-themed WinterFest.

6. Get Artsy at the Mint Museum

The Mint Museum is a must-see when in Charlotte. There are two locations, one in Rudolph and one in Uptown, the original branch that was established in 1936.

This branch was North Carolina’s first art museum, while the Uptown branch opened in 2010.

Both locations are home to a wide variety of American and European art.

Rudolph’s Mint contains plenty of collections of fine art, ancient American art, and North Carolina pottery.

On the other hand, expect to find craft and design, decorative arts, ceramics, and exciting new exhibitions on view throughout the year in Uptown’s Mint.

7. See the Billy Graham Library

The Billy Graham Library attracts those interested in religious sites, museums, parks, and gardens.

Situated less than 10 miles southwest of Uptown, visitors can explore the Graham family home and see the pastor’s extensive book collection.

Made as an ode to “America’s Pastor” Billy Graham, this public museum and library is quite beautiful and interesting to explore.

Its most notable feature is the large 40-foot glass cross entrance and how the library is shaped like a dairy barn. It also has well-manicured, gorgeous gardens.

This activity is completely free and a nice stop amidst the more grand activities on this list.

8. Explore Lake Norman

Looking for a fascinating day trip? Head to Lake Norman, a man-made lake created between 1959 and 1963.

Now a haven for leisure and fun, you’ll be surprised how much the lake offers.

The first thing you’ll notice is the extravagant mansions lining the waterfront.

With heaps of cool attractions, nightlife, art galleries, wine-tasting spots, and spas, what more could you want?

Meander around the historic main streets to shop and stop at lovely cafés and restaurants before heading out into the water.

Popular swimming spots include Lake Norman State Park and Jetton Park.

You can rent paddle boards, boats, and kayaks and there’s fishing and boating to be done.

9. Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame

In Charlotte, you must visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a 150,000-square-foot sports museum celebrating NASCAR’s 70-year-old history.

When there, you’ll be impressed by the four floors of fun.

Starting from the first floor up, there’s the High Octane Theater, various video screenings at the Great Hall, and Ceremonial Plaza.

Meanwhile, Glory Road offers a view of 18 different cars, and there’s much more on the second floor alone.

On floors three and four, you’ll see high-tech exhibits like the “Heritage Speedway” exhibit, racing simulations, and interactive displays and exhibits.

If you’re visiting via a guided tour, be sure to buy your admission tickets online in advance.

10. Get Curious at Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science is one of those things to do in Charlotte, NC, that everyone can enjoy.

The first thing you’ll notice when there is the amount of interactive exhibits to keep you busy.

Aside from the experiments and fascinating displays showcasing what this science and technology museum has to offer, there is also an incredible IMAX theater there.

The museum’s IMAX Dome Theatre is truly magnificent. It’s the largest of its kind in the Carolinas and has been around since 1991.

For those 21 and older, be sure to visit the monthly “Science on the Rocks” event that happens every fourth Friday of the month. Experience the museum after hours with a cash bar and live music.

Book a guided tour or check the website for admission tickets.

Check availability on Viator!

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Posted By: Arabella · In: travel