Top 27 Places to See and Things to do in Charlotte (NC)

Charlotte which is home to many corporate headquarters and a NASCAR epicenter, offers a good tourism experience too. Explore Queen City with our list of things to do in Charlotte

Charlotte, named after the Queen of King George the second, is a city that has the potential to cater to the expectations of any traveler. Here are some spots for you and your family to check out in Charlotte

Billy Graham Library

Reverend Billy Graham influenced the whole of America with his evangelical work and his hometown, and Charlotte built a Library with tons of information on Graham’s work and evangelism. The serenity of this place and the kind of wisdom it offers

will make your family feel closer to God and is sure to keep you peaceful. If you are wondering about the things to do in Charlotte NC, this place is worth considering.

Billy Graham Library entrance sign, Charlotte, NC IMG 4201.JPG
By Billy Hathorn, CC BY 3.0, Link

Address: 4330 Westmont Dr, Charlotte, NC 28217, United States | Timing: Monday to Saturday 09:30 am-05:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/XWf1xPJr2qZCAC6W7 | Phone Number: +17044013200

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Charlotte is mainly known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a museum that exhibits different pieces relating to NASCAR sports. From historic race cars, racing simulators, A magnificent theatre, and other artifacts. The Hall of fame is one of the most visited attractions in the city and is undoubtedly a fantastic place to experience. NASCAR enthusiast or not, the Hall of Fame deserves a place on your list of things to do in Charlotte.

NASCAR Hall of Fame Entrance.jpg
By Justin Felder, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Wednesday to Monday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm, Tuesday Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/WdVxKQTZJehEmh7V9 | Phone Number: +17046544400

Discovery Place

Discovery place is a science museum featuring interactive exhibits that help in understanding different concepts of science. If you are wondering what to do in Charlotte with your family, Discovery place can be a good option. This place offers equal numbers of activities for adults as well, such as a giant IMAX screen, frequently organized events with themed activities, and others. Overall, you must consider Discovery place if you want to spend your day productively.

Body Worlds @ Discovery Place

Address: 301 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: 12:00 pm – 05:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/L7bXi1uKw4X9P1Cb9 | Phone Number: +17043726261

BB&T Ballpark

The BB&T Ballpark is the Charlotte Knights’ home field and is one of the top tourist attractions that amuses both locals and tourists alike. People come to this ballpark to get the best view of their favorite teams in action while enjoying the amazing food. You can get a great view of the game from almost all the seats here, which is an added advantage. The game season is typically between April and August and is the best time to visit the ballpark.

BB&T Ballpark 2.jpg
By James Willamor, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: 324 S Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/K7Hpk48rN6iUCqmj6 | Phone Number: +17042748300

Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

There are multiple cultural institutions around North Carolina, and the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center is definitely among the most noteworthy. This venue hosts spectacular events of various performing arts, and the experience provided is fantastic. Visitors often praise this venue’s sound system, and you can have a great view from almost any seat. Make sure to check out the events planned in Blumenthal Performing Arts Center if you and your family visit the south.

Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.JPG
By HangingCurve, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 130 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Friday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am-04:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 -05:00 pm, Monday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm, Wednesday, Thursday closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/9aW9XCxaqiQrSHuT6 | Phone Number: +17043721000

Carolinas Aviation Museum

If you are an aviation geek, there is no better place in Charlotte than the Carolinas aviation museum. The exhibits here cover different aviation aspects involving the history, development, and evolution of technology in the field and others. You can visit with your family to see various aircraft on display for a more indulging experience. The stories behind the legendary aviators and aircraft will leave you motivated and amused for sure.

N106US aviation museum.jpg
By RadioFan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 4672 1st Flight Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Az4MQDjuNV24AHdG7 | Phone Number: +17049973770

U.S. National Whitewater Center

The U.S National Whitewater Center is spread over a 1300-acre land and featuring a variety of water and land activities and is among the top things to do in Charlotte. These activities encompass rafting, paddleboarding, rock climbing, mountain biking, trail running, and others you can take part in by yourself or with your family. This place is the best option for you if you are looking to sweat out while having a good time. The Whitewater center also hosts events, and If you are lucky, you might also be able to witness one of the light music concerts that take place in the Whitewater Center

US National Whitewater Center.jpg
By Doug Letterman, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214, United States | Timing: Monday to Sunday 7:00 am-10:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/EF39iqBSshVshg4T6 | Phone Number: +17046544400

Paramount Carowinds

If you want your adrenaline to shoot up, the Paramount’s Carowinds amusement park will do it effortlessly for you. It is more than a typical amusement park and offers a ton of rides that will keep you and your family entertained in the best way possible. Paramount Carowinds is the home to great roller coasters, especially the Giga coaster, which will spike your adrenaline up and must be on your list of Charlotte things to do.

Paramount's Carowinds 2004

Address: 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273, United States | Timing: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/2tbX3Dijts6a1dpZ8 | Phone Number: +17045882600

Levine Museum of the New South

The Levine Museum in North Carolina ballpark features different artifacts and information on the south’s post-Civil War era. It is a great place to spend a day with your family. This place also has Interactive exhibits that will entertain you while enlightening you with historical information and the evolution of different aspects. This place hands out the best of knowledge about the post-civil war period and is worth visiting.

Levine Museum of the New South.jpg
By James Willamor, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 200 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Friday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am- 04:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 – 05:00 pm, Monday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm, Wednesday, Thursday closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/jStZ3RNStjRMTgdv8 | Phone Number: +17043331887

Little Sugar Creek Greenway

As the name suggests, Little Sugar Creek Greenway is indeed a lovely place. You and your family can witness nature unwinding beautifully and encompassing the whole area. You can see elements like bridges, grass trails, and more that add to the natural splendidness. This place also houses a stream restoration project that is aimed at improving water quality. If you ever feel like going on a relaxing walk or a cute picnic, this place is your best bet.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway at 4th Street.jpg
By Katy Warner, Link

Address: 1133 Metropolitan Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204, United States | Timing: 24X7 | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/UaLP1G3upeWcmmHM8

Hendrick Motorsports Museum

Hendrick Motorsports Museum is known for its NASCAR Sports teams, and you can witness legendary racers getting it on the track. You can also get to know about various technologies and facilities linked to racing. If your family has NASCAR fans, you must not miss the Hendrick Motorsports Museum, which is one of the top Charlotte attractions

Tim Richmond Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet on display.jpg
By Mike Kalasnik , CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: 4425-4471 Papa Joe Hendrick Blvd, Concord, NC 28027, United States | Timing: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/UTURGVNvF98xbyYk6 | Phone Number: +18774674890

Carolina History and Haunts Ghost Tour

This walking tour is pretty famous among the tourists, and it features a tour around the town, to some infamous landmarks connected with urban legends of paranormal activities. These tours are spooky and fun at the same time, and there is no room for boredom. If you are looking for some thrill with your family while on your trip, what is better than a Ghost tour with haunted stories from the past?

Charlotte Settlers' Cemetery.jpg
By AlexiusHoratius, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Tours meet at 214, N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Wednesday 10:00 am-10:00 pm, Thursday Closed, Friday and Saturday 10:00 am-10:00 pm, Sunday and Monday closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/zZsw7oJVfNsjxoGF7 | Phone Number: +17046997959

Mint Museum Uptown

The Mint Museum Uptown features a wide variety of art of both American and European origin. The exhibits of arts and crafts pieces and design collections made of different materials like fiber, studio glass, clay, wood add to the things that your family must see in the south. Besides, you can even rent this place for a wedding or other events. This is one among the two exhibits (Uptown and Randolph), and both these venues exhibit different collections.

Mint Museum in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina.jpg
By Bz3rk, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 11:00 am- 06:00 pm, Sunday 01:00 to 05:00 pm, Monday | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/dmrZxypFubbyHFuv5 | Phone Number: +17043372000

Unleash our inner foodie at 7th Street Public Market

7th Street Public Market is absolute foodie heaven to visit if you wonder what to do in Charlotte. You can get a taste of fresh produce that is organically farmed in North Carolina. Apart from that, you can find local vendors who sell flowers, wine, and different varieties of snackable. The local Pizza joints here have a great reputation when it comes to freshness and taste. The

coffee joints down this market are known to brew the best varieties of coffee and serve them super fresh. When in the south, if you want to experience street food with your family, the 7th Street Public Market is the place for you.

7th Street Market, Charlotte

Address: 224 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Thursday, Sunday 10:00 am -05:00 pm, Friday, Saturday 10:00 am- 07:00 pm, Monday to Wednesday closed | Google Map location: https://g.page/7thStreetPublicMarket?share | Phone Number: +17042304346

DEFY Charlotte

DEFY Gravity is a Trampoline Park featuring tons of bouncy activities that will leave you joyful. There is a common misconception that trampolines are just for kids, which is completely proven wrong at DEFY. Children and adults can have a great time alike, bouncing around. Trampolines are great stress-busters, and if your family wants to relax, this is the best place to be. DEFY also features other activities such as Trapeze, Dodgeball, etc. You can sweat all your stresses and bounce them away at Defy Gravity and go back home feeling refreshed.

Source: Defy Charlotte

Address: 8116 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28213, United States | Timing: Monday to Thursday 09:00 am -08:00 pm, Friday, Saturday 09:00 am- 09:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 07:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/nqtpPjg8Nn6np7mz8 | Phone Number:+17048174660

ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center

ImaginOn is one of the most spectacular performing arts venues in the south and is known for its prestigious LEED Silver certification. It spreads over an area of 106,000 square feet and features two different theatre spaces. One of the theatres can seat an audience of 570 people while the other can hold 275 people. You can also find a multi-story space with many interactive exhibits and different activity zones to keep your family entertained.

ImaginOn The Joe & Joan Martin Center.jpg
By Holzman Moss Bottino Architecture, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 300 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Monday to Thursday 09:00 am- 08:00 pm, Friday to Saturday 09:00 am – 05:00 pm, Sunday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/M5CQ8WhhYeMtMAYR7 | Phone Number: +17044164600

Charlotte Motor Speedway

It is a no-brainer that Charlotte’s history is intertwined with sports and the Charlotte Motor Speedway stands as a symbol of that fact. A visit to this amazing speedway with your family will leave you with a lot of excitement and thrill. You can witness world-class exhibiting their skills on the speedway with their beautifully crafted machines. If you are in Charlotte during the season, this speedway is one of the must-visit Charlotte NC attractions.

Charlotte Motor Speedway, June 2012.JPG
By Nascar1996, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 5555 Concord Pkwy S, Concord, NC 28027, United States | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/X3wmg9kym9DZG96i8 | Phone Number: +18004553267

McDowell Nature Center and Preserve

If your family is into Hiking and nature trails, the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve will provide all you need. This center is also ideal for kids as it features numerous educational tours on the natural ecosystem of the preserve. The natural woods filled with rocky trails make this preserve ideal for hiking purposes. You can also participate in boating, fishing, and Kayaking activities that will complement your trip to North Carolina in the best way possible.

timber

Address: 15222 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278, United States | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/UoZgsuei3djFwaF77 | Phone Number:+19803141128

Historic Rosedale Plantation

The Historic Rosedale Plantation is spread over a nine-acre land meticulously landscaped and is one of the top Charlotte attractions. It features a plantation home built in the early 1800s by a local merchant named Archibald Frew. You can tour around to see a blacksmith shop and gardens with many flowering trees with your family and have a great time.

Rosedale Plantation House from driveway.jpg
By Cratons, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: 3427 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206, United States | Timing: Saturday 05:00 -07:30 pm Monday to Friday, Sunday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ap8jyfp7Jrtms13S8 | Phone Number:+17043350325

Carolina Raptor Center

The Carolina Raptor Center is known to the world as a rehabilitation center for raptors and houses over 35 different species. Located towards the northwest of the state, this place is a zoo with just raptors. These creatures are utterly fascinating, and your family can learn a ton of things about their anatomy, habitat, and other features.

Carolina Raptor Center-08809

Address: 6000 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078, United States | Timing: Wednesday to Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm 01:30- 04:00 pm, Monday and Tuesday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/oCx8fxU8arq4kM5y5 | Phone Number: +17048756521

Wing Haven

Wing Haven features a spectacular garden and sanctuary that will cleanse your mind of any negativity. This place is truly a spectacle for those who enjoy being out in nature. There is nothing more calming than spending an evening along with your family while witnessing nature’s beauty, and Wing Haven offers you just that. Besides, you can rent this venue for an outdoor wedding or other events too.

Wing Haven, a Garden in Charlotte, NC

Address: 248 Ridgewood Ave, Charlotte, NC 28209, United States | Timing: Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 am-12:00 pm 01:00 pm -03:00 pm, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/PmXAigRntBph5o997 | Phone Number:+17043310664

Charlotte Museum of History

If your family wants to know about the city in-depth, this is the best place. The venue features archives of information on Charlotte and the surrounding places. You can find three different exhibits bubbling with information. If that is not enough to keep you entertained, you can participate in the tours inside the Museum that are fun and informative. These tours are guided, and you will not miss out on any facts about everything in the Museum. Some of the things to take a second look at are the Hezekiah Alexander House, the Springhouse, etc.

20110925 07 Early Carolina Settlement diorama

Address: 3500 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte, NC 28 215, United States | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/VESW66d3GvXfCDJi6 | Phone Number: +17045681774

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Modern and contemporary art is spectacular in many ways, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is the best place to witness it with your family. It features various excellent artists who put in tons of imagination and hard work to create the pieces. There are over 1.5 million individual pieces in the Bechtler Museum, and it is quite impossible to go through all of them in a single day.

Charlotte - Bechtler  Museum of Modern Art

Address: 420 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Monday, Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 am-05:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 – 05:00 pm, Tuesday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/8RoXCUansRYaYiJWA | Phone Number: +17043539200

Chill at Merchant and Trade

If you are looking for fun things to do in Charlotte and in need of a cool place to kick in some alcohol and have a great evening, Merchant & Trade is the place for you. This rooftop bar is sophisticated and comfortable at the same time. You can switch to celebrity mode one evening and have a great time at the Merchant and Trade while enjoying refined cocktails and great food. The menu here is very versatile and has many options that will cater to different taste palettes. This venue is undoubtedly one of the classiest in the city and is worth a visit.

Source: Merchant and Trade

Address: 303 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States | Timing: Wednesday to Friday 04:00 pm – 11:00 pm Saturday 02 pm – 11:00 pm, Sunday 02:00 pm – 09:00 pm, Monday, Tuesday closed | Sunday 12:00 -05:00 pm, Tuesday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/aERhkpNUGb531r91A | Phone Number: +17044452550

Freedom Park

Freedom Park spreads over a whopping 100 acres and houses a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained. It is one of the top Charlotte NC attractions and features basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, for athletes to get their game going and have beautiful walking trails to stroll over a calm evening. If you are into biking, you would love the biking trails of Freedom Park. One of the best features of this park is its large ground area. It never feels crowded, despite the number of people. Besides, Freedom park also hosts concerts and events to enjoy with your family.

Lake shot at Freedom Park in Charlotte, NC

Address: 1908 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203, United States | Timing: Monday to Sunday 07:00 am -07:00 pm | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/nM9hzpKyJd1apZnN6 | Phone Number: +19803141002

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is an all-season plantation spread over 380 acres and requires a spot on the Charlotte, NC things to do. It is known for its conservatory that houses a huge variety of tropical plants. The garden also hosts events like art exhibits and weddings all around the year, which you can participate in. This place is also ideal for taking strolls early in the mornings or evenings, which is the locals’ most preferred activity.

Fountain, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, North Carolina.jpg
By Robert Nunnally, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: 6500 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012, United States | Timing: Thursday to Sunday 10:00 am- 04:00 pm, Monday to Wednesday Closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/VeRy7sHNjanggQuL6 | Phone Number:+17048254490

Mint Museum Randolph

The Mint Museum features a wide variety of American and European art and is one of the top Charlotte attractions. The exhibits of arts and crafts pieces and design collections made of different materials like fiber, studio glass, clay, wood add to the things that your family must see in the south. This is one among the two exhibits (Uptown and Randolph), and both these venues exhibit different collections

Mint Museum of Art Randolph Front With Fountain.jpg
By Expedia – Threshold, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 1908 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203, United States | Timing: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 11:00 am-06:00 pm, Wednesday, Friday 11:00 am- 09:00 pm, Sunday 01:00 – 05:00 pm, Monday closed | Google Map location: https://goo.gl/maps/WAFuNmFG2G5sUcZM8 | Phone Number: +17043372000

From the NASCAR Hall of Fame to the 7th street market, the variety of places you can explore in this city is truly amazing. You can find a wide variety of sightseeing spots and touristy areas in Charlotte that will amuse all sorts of travelers.