Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the Queen City, is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a range of attractions, activities, and cultural experiences. From its rich history to its modern amenities, here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Charlotte.
Art lovers should not miss the Mint Museum, located in two separate locations: Mint Museum Uptown and Mint Museum Randolph. The museum showcases an extensive collection of American, European, and African art, including ceramics, photography, and contemporary works.
Located in Uptown, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art showcases an impressive collection of mid-20th-century modern art. The museum’s exhibits include works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Calder. Don’t miss the stunning architecture and design of the building itself.
If you’re seeking a peaceful escape, visit the Charlotte Botanical Gardens. These beautiful gardens span over 100 acres and feature a wide array of plants, including a themed orchid garden, a Japanese garden, and a rose garden. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the vibrant blooms, and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Located in Uptown, Romare Bearden Park is a delightful urban oasis named after the renowned African-American artist. This beautifully landscaped park offers walking paths, fountains, a children’s play area, and plenty of space to relax or enjoy a picnic. It’s a great spot to unwind and take in the cityscape views.
As one of the largest shopping destinations in the region, SouthPark Mall is a shopaholic’s paradise. It features a wide array of high-end stores, including designer boutiques, luxury brands, and department stores. From fashion and accessories to home decor and electronics, you’ll find a diverse range of retail options to explore.
The museum’s exhibits are its main attraction, offering a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the region’s history. Through a combination of artifacts, multimedia presentations, photographs, and interactive displays, the exhibits highlight various aspects of the South’s transformation, including the Civil Rights Movement, economic changes, immigration, and cultural shifts. The museum encourages visitors to reflect on the complexities and challenges of the region’s past and present.
The museum’s collection encompasses a wide range of art forms, including American art, European art, and art from ancient civilizations. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and decorative arts spanning different periods and styles. The collection features works by renowned artists such as Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Romare Bearden.
Romare Bearden Park pays homage to the life and work of Romare Bearden, one of the most celebrated African-American artists of the 20th century. Bearden’s collages and artistic style are reflected throughout the park, creating a unique and visually appealing experience.
The gardens feature a wide variety of plant collections that showcase the rich diversity of flora. From native North Carolina plants to exotic species, you can explore themed gardens such as the Carnivorous Plant Collection, the Native Woodland Garden, the Lost Hollow Children’s Garden, and the Susie Harwood Garden of Senses. Each area offers a unique experience and allows you to appreciate the beauty and complexity of different plant species.
The museum is situated on the grounds of the Hezekiah Alexander Homesite, which includes several historic structures. The centerpiece is the Hezekiah Alexander House, built in the 1770s and recognized as the oldest surviving house in Mecklenburg County. Visitors can explore the house and its surrounding outbuildings, gaining insights into colonial life and architecture.
The Catawba River is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes along its course. The river meanders through rolling hills, rocky gorges, and serene valleys, creating a visually stunning environment. Its tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Fourth Ward Park encompasses several acres of beautifully landscaped green space, featuring lush lawns, gardens, and tree-lined paths. The park’s design incorporates elements of nature, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere where visitors can relax, read a book, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquility of their surroundings.
Ray’s Splash Planet features a variety of water attractions that provide hours of entertainment and excitement. The park includes multiple water slides, splash pools, lazy rivers, and interactive water play structures. Whether you want to take a thrilling plunge down a water slide or simply relax in the water, there are options for everyone.
The garden is renowned for its extensive collection of roses, featuring over 1,200 varieties of hybrid teas, grandifloras, floribundas, climbers, and antique roses. Visitors can stroll through the garden’s carefully planned beds and enjoy the vibrant colors, delicate fragrances, and diverse forms of these stunning blooms. The collection includes both popular modern cultivars and rare heirloom varieties, offering a rich tapestry of rose specimens to admire.
Marshall Park features ample green spaces and well-maintained lawns, providing a welcoming environment for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The park’s paved walking paths offer a convenient way to explore the grounds and take in the scenic views.
the garden has received both regional and national accolades with their extensive assortment of Japanese maples, dwarf conifers, rhododendrons, dogwoods, hostas, ferns and other unique perennials.
First Ward Park features expansive open green spaces, providing a welcoming environment for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities. The well-maintained lawns offer ample room for families and friends to spread out, play games, or simply enjoy the fresh air.
The Elizabeth Lawrence House and Garden boasts beautiful and meticulously maintained gardens that reflect Lawrence’s passion for plants and gardening. The garden is divided into a series of “garden rooms” that showcase a wide variety of plants, including perennials, annuals, bulbs, and shrubs. Each garden room has its own unique theme, color scheme, and plant collection, creating a delightful and immersive horticultural experience.
Hornets Nest Park features playgrounds designed for children of all ages. The playground areas are equipped with age-appropriate equipment, including slides, swings, climbing structures, and interactive features. Kids can enjoy hours of fun and exercise in a safe and engaging environment.
McAlpine Creek Park is known for its extensive network of walking and biking trails that wind through the park’s lush green spaces. The trails provide scenic views of the park’s creeks, wetlands, and wooded areas, making it a perfect destination for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling. The trails are well-maintained and offer options for different skill levels.
Queen Charlotte that was designed with the use of a model, Megan Berryhill. The sculpture previously stood as the centerpiece in the Queen’s Courtyard between the parking decks. There have often been many assumptions made about why the sculpture is shaped the way it is.
Midtown Park offers numerous gathering spaces designed for community engagement and socializing. The park features open lawns, seating areas, and picnic spots where you can gather with friends, have a picnic, or simply soak up the sun. These spaces provide a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and connecting with others.
These are just a few highlights of what Charlotte has to offer. With its blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a thriving culinary scene, the Queen City is sure to captivate visitors with its Southern charm and modern amenities.
