14 must-try activities in Charlotte, NC

Charlotte stands as North Carolina’s largest city, serving as a hub for numerous financial and commercial enterprises. Yet, beneath its business-oriented facade lies a vibrant spirit of creativity and playfulness, offering a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere.

With its unique blend of welcoming neighborhoods, green spaces, and urban gathering spots, the city continues to draw in newcomers who are often delighted by its diverse array of attractions. From culinary delights to artistic experiences and outdoor adventures, here’s how to fully enjoy Charlotte.

1. Conquer the rapids at the US National Whitewater Center

While white water kayaking and rafting take center stage at this expansive facility, the fun doesn’t end there. Spanning 1,300 acres, this family- and pet-friendly playground is a major highlight of Charlotte’s ecotourism scene. Whether you seek exhilarating Class IV rapids, hiking trails, climbing walls, or ropes courses, you can book individual activities or tackle them all.

Tip for planning: Visit the online calendar to align your trip with special events, like the Green River Revival in March, when the waters are dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day.

2. Stroll along the Charlotte Rail Trail

Charlotte's city leaders have made significant progress in enhancing pedestrian accessibility, and the Rail Trail exemplifies this effort. Developed alongside the local light-rail system, this multi-use trail connects various public paths while maximizing the surrounding areas. Just under 4 miles long, it features vibrant sections filled with murals, outdoor cafes, and street performers.

3. Enjoy a day at Camp North End

This vibrant and beautifully transformed 70-acre shopping and dining hub is all about fun, and each visit brings a new experience. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here, delighting your senses in an exhilarating way.

Taste goat cheese at the farmers market, admire local artwork, savor pork belly buns at Saru Ramen, or browse through the classics at That’s Novel Books. As night falls and the Charlotte skyline sparkles, the atmosphere becomes even more festive.

4. Toast at a brewery in Charlotte

While Asheville remains the leader in breweries per capita, Charlotte is close behind with over two dozen craft breweries throughout the city, making it easy to sample a variety of locally brewed beers.

Design your own self-guided brewery tour by visiting spots like Olde Mecklenburg, Sycamore, or Triple C Brewing. For those who prefer spirits, check out local distilleries such as Great Wagon Road and Doc Porters for whiskey, gin, and vodka.

5. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Badin Road Drive-In Theater

For a unique date night, skip the typical dinner and drinks and catch a double feature at the Badin Road Drive-In Theater. Although it's located outside of Charlotte in the serene town of Albemarle, the hour-long drive is well worth it. It's a hidden gem that offers a memorable night beneath the stars.

Planning tip: Movies are screened on two separate screens seasonally. Bring cash for tickets, popcorn, and soda at the concession stand.

6. Experience the thrill of speed at Charlotte Motor Speedway

Even if terms like “drafting” and “drag” aren’t part of your usual vocabulary, a visit to Charlotte Motor Speedway will have you speaking like a pro. The races are a cacophony of sound, intense heat, and breathtaking speeds that you can feel. You can even drive your own laps at 100mph with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Combine that with a trip to the NASCAR Museum, and you'll be well-versed in stock-car racing.

Planning tip: Consider an overnight stay – tent camping and RV sites with full hookups provide a unique experience.

7. Enjoy storytime for kids at ImaginOn

If you’re traveling with children, this spot is sure to earn you some serious brownie points. ImaginOn is an imaginative space filled with books, theatrical elements, and creativity – featuring a blend of stacks and a stage, it offers a continuous array of online activities, bilingual programs, and live performances suitable for all ages.

8. Get inspired at the Light Factory Photo Arts Center

Situated on Central Ave in the Plaza Midwood area, this cherished venue has been championing visual arts in Charlotte for over 50 years, showcasing both budding local talent and renowned photographers like Sally Mann and Bruce Davidson. The Light Factory hosts photo walks, gallery exhibitions, and engaging “salon” talks; enjoy a photography exhibition, then explore nearby eateries for a meal.

9. Explore the Levine Center For the Arts

With so much art to experience, you could easily spend a week just at the Levine Center. This expansive campus includes the Mint Museum Uptown, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, and the Harvey B Gantt Center, offering a feast for the senses through film, sculpture, music, and history.

Planning tip: If time allows, the most cost-effective option is the Levine Center for the Arts pass, a $20 all-access ticket valid for two days.

10. Enjoy a performance at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Located just a short walk from the Levine Center on Tryon St, you’ll discover another cultural arts gem. Comprising three venues – the Belk Theatre, Booth Playhouse, and Stage Door – the Blumenthal showcases a diverse array of dance, comedy, drama, and music. Talented artists from around the world perform here, making it a perfect opportunity for an “Uptown evening” with dinner and a show.

11. Indulge in some Carolina BBQ

Charlotte's dining scene is rich with international flavors, but there's something special about enjoying local cuisine – in the Carolinas, that means diving into some barbecue with all the sides.

If you're new to smoked meats, just relax: as long as you catch the aroma of hickory wood burning, the sauce is vinegar-based, and mac 'n' cheese is available, you're in for a treat. The beef brisket at Sweet Lew’s in Belmont or any of the “nooner specials” at McKoy’s are solid choices.

12. Attend a game

With five major and minor league teams – covering football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and baseball – Charlotte is a hub for professional sports. Venues like Bank of America Stadium and Spectrum Center bring in thousands of fans each season. In addition to regular games, look out for special family nights and themed events by checking the teams’ websites for details.

13. Explore the outdoors at one of Charlotte’s parks

The numerous green spaces throughout Charlotte remind us that the finest pleasures in life are often free. Rain or shine, these parks invite visitors of all ages to enjoy them. Freedom Park features playgrounds and bike paths, all set within its expansive 100 acres.

Veterans Memorial Park offers a splash pad and shady trees that provide a refreshing escape during the summer months. When spring arrives, the University of North Carolina's Botanical Garden and the McGill Rose Garden create beautiful floral settings perfect for picnics.

14. Enjoy games at Pins Mechanical Company

If you're seeking a night filled with friendly competition, DJ-spun dance vibes, and quirky Instagram moments, Pins Mechanical Company is your destination. Located in the South End neighborhood, this popular venue for adult games also has locations in other major cities. Challenge yourself to bowling, or sip on a Pinball Wizard or Game Over cocktail as you work your way to gaming glory. It's guaranteed to be a fun night out.

Planning tip: This venue welcomes families until 9pm, after which it becomes 21 and over.