What to do in Charlotte, NC

Activities, attractions and tours

Charlotte
Charlotte
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art showing outdoor art and modern architecture
Charlotte featuring autumn colours 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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What to do in Charlotte


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Charlotte

Charlotte Center City showing outdoor art and modern architecture

Uptown Charlotte

4/5(6 area reviews)

Ample dining options, fascinating museums, and great live music are just a few top things to explore in Uptown Charlotte. A visit to Spectrum Center or Bank of America Stadium might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at Tryon Street Tram Stop or Charlotte Transportation Center Station to get around town.

Uptown Charlotte
Boardwalk along Lake Wylie, at McDowell Nature Preserve, in Char

Ballantyne

Travellers come to Ballantyne for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like The Amp Ballantyne and Reclining Bulls Statue while you're in town.

Ballantyne
Charlotte_SouthParkMall_6180181_0006

SouthPark

SouthPark is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Phillips Place and SouthPark Mall.

SouthPark
Byron's Courtyard South End in Charlotte

South End

When in South End and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Spectrum Center or Bank of America Stadium and hop on the metro to see more of the city at East-West Blvd Station or Bland Station.

South End
This picture was taken in downtown Charlotte,NC about 10 minutes after arriving in the city by car. The orange bike is one of the rental bikes that are available everywhere downtown. You just go to one of the automated bike stands and swipe a credit card,and then just leave the bike somewhere downtown when done. A gps activates in the bike and some one will come around and collect it It was bitterly cold, it started snowing about 20 minutes after this photo was taken. Nice city lots to do,but only go during the warm months.

Second Ward

Noted for its theatres and museums, there's plenty to explore in Second Ward. Top attractions like NASCAR Hall of Fame and Queen City Quarter are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at 3rd St - Convention Center Station or Stonewall Station to see more of the city.

Second Ward
skyline of a modern city - charlotte, north carolina, usa

Dilworth

While Dilworth may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Spectrum Center and Bank of America Stadium.

Dilworth

 

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.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Charlotte

Frequently asked questions

Is Charlotte worth visiting?
Renowned for its dining and history, discovering awesome things to do in Charlotte is a breeze. Remember to add NASCAR Hall of Fame to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Charlotte?
After you've checked off popular attractions like NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place, spend some time enjoying the food and retail options in Charlotte.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charlotte?
The top tourist attraction in Charlotte is NASCAR Hall of Fame, so don't forget to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Charlotte?
Three days in Charlotte is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers spend two days on average. NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place and The Mint Museum are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Rock Hill.
Is Charlotte a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Charlotte is a good destination to experience on foot. Wander between NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place. Then take a stroll around Uptown Charlotte, located 0.16 kms (0.10 miles) from downtown, and Second Ward, which is about 0.64 kms (0.40 miles) away.
What are some activities to do in Charlotte with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Charlotte with kids.

What to do in Charlotte for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Charlotte, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to NoDa Brewing Company or Birdsong Brewing Co..
Are there free things to do in Charlotte?
One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Charlotte is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Afro-American Children's Theatre is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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