Charlotte, North Carolina Is Poised for Greatness

Having grown up near Charlotte, I've witnessed its evolution from a banking hub to a destination for newcomers. Attracting residents with its Southern hospitality and competitive living costs, Charlotte has quickly adapted to support a dynamic and ambitious community. The excitement continues to build—each visit brings new recommendations from friends on where to eat, play, and explore. While some beloved spots have vanished (farewell, Price’s Chicken Coop), countless fresh experiences are enriching the Queen City's scene.

Here’s everything you should know for your upcoming trip to Charlotte.

Accommodations in Charlotte

JW Marriott Charlotte

When the JW Marriott launched its inaugural North Carolina location in August 2021, the 381-room luxury hotel quickly distinguished itself in the vibrant heart of Uptown Charlotte. Its ideal setting placed it just a stroll away from the Bank of America Stadium, the Charlotte Convention Center, and the rich cultural offerings of Museum Row. Moreover, the hotel features a range of amenities—from a wellness spa with six private treatment suites and a couples’ room to a rooftop pool equipped with private cabanas—marking a grand debut for the JW Marriott brand in Charlotte.

To commemorate its first anniversary, the brand unveiled a VIP luxury experience this August, which includes a stay in a presidential suite, a spa retreat for two, and private limo service among other exclusive benefits—all for a rate of $8,000 per night.

Dining and Drinks in Charlotte

Optimist Hall

This food hall is one of many renovated mills revitalized in Charlotte’s urban scene. Since 2019, it has featured a variety of restaurants, including Indian-inspired Botiwalla by Meherwan Irani (whose Asheville venue, Chai Pani, was recently recognized as the Most Outstanding Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation) and Billy Sunday, a cocktail bar from Chicago.

It has become a favorite spot for digital nomads, Uptown workers on their lunch breaks, and friends catching up. Its popularity has grown so much that a paid parking system was introduced in early August to manage the demand. With ongoing new openings, including a branch of local Ethiopian restaurant Enat in May, it seems the crowds will continue to flock here.

Midnight Diner

Since 2009, this diner has been a go-to for Charlotte locals seeking comfort food in the early hours. The late-night hours aren’t the only attraction; menu favorites like shrimp and grits and fried chicken and waffles showcase exceptional Southern cuisine. Though the diner will soon leave its 115 East Carson Street location due to a $750 million development project, it will relocate just a mile away to East Trade Street and is set to reopen in the fall.

Southern Strain

Asheville is a celebrated North Carolina hotspot for craft beers, but Charlotte’s brewing scene is equally vibrant. Southern Strain is a recent addition, expanding from its original Concord location to a new spot in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood of Charlotte, which opened in April. Enjoy their signature Hop Helix IPA or treat yourself to a cherrymosa, their unique twist on the brunch favorite.

This brewery is just one of many recent newcomers to Charlotte, with the past spring and summer bringing Asheville-based Bhramari Brewing Company and Burial Beer Co., along with Charlotte's own Legion Brewing, all enhancing their presence in the Queen City.

Amelie’s

Amelie’s French Bakery has been a beloved fixture in Charlotte since opening in 2008 in the NoDa arts district. The local chain relocated its flagship store to a larger venue in April, now featuring three locations in Charlotte and one in Rock Hill. The new NoDa space retains its charming European eclectic decor (complete with a replica Eiffel Tower base on the wall), making it easier than ever to savor macarons and salted caramel brownies thanks to the ample seating and parking available.

Discovering Charlotte

Independent Picture House

After the cherished Manor Theatre closed in 2020, Charlotte lacked a dedicated venue for independent and foreign films. However, the film community came together, raising over $600,000 to establish the Independent Picture House, which opened this past June. This film venue shares a building with the Charlotte Art League and is already collaborating with the organization for events like the Charlotte Film Festival.

Camp North End

This 76-acre site is yet another of Charlotte’s renovated historic spaces, now a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, offices, and fitness facilities—everything you could want. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the art installations scattered around the campus and support local retailers during your visit to this area just north of Uptown.

Since 2017, the campus has steadily welcomed new tenants, including James Beard-nominated Chef Greg Collier’s Leah and Louise. Restaurants are taking center stage, with newcomers like The Abyss speakeasy and B.A.D. donut shop set to open this year, so make sure to arrive with an appetite.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Purchase tickets: Adult tickets are $27; visit nascarhall.com/tickets

Sports enthusiasts in Charlotte have much to celebrate year-round, thanks to local teams like the Charlotte Hornets and Carolina Panthers. However, during Memorial Day weekend, NASCAR fans converge at Charlotte Motor Speedway to support their favorites in the annual Coca Cola 600 race. As the hub of the NASCAR brand, it’s fitting that the NASCAR Hall of Fame is located here as well. Explore the racing simulator and other iconic museum features, including exhibits like Chevrolet: Winningest Brand in NASCAR, which launched in July.