Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Charlotte, NC

  • Published 2022/10/28

If you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway, Charlotte in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, is the place to be!

From its early days as a small trading outpost to its role in the center of the Civil War, Charlotte has always been an important part of the United States’ history.

The city was home to the Confederate arsenal and was a key transportation hub for the Confederate army.

In April 1865, Union troops marched into Charlotte and seized control of the city.

This marked the end of the Civil War and the beginning of Reconstruction.

From its vibrant culture and history to its exciting nightlife and world-class attractions, this southern city has something for everyone.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina:

Explore Charlotte’s Pivotal Role During the Civil War at the Levine Museum of the New South

Exterior of the Levine Museum of the New South

James Willamor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Visit the Levine Museum of the New South to learn about Charlotte’s history and culture.

The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the New South from the Civil War to the present day.

The museum features exhibits on topics such as the civil rights movement, Southern music, and more.

The Levine Museum of the New South has become the home to several famous exhibits over the years.

One is The Confederate Yard, which tells the story of the Confederate arsenal in Charlotte and its role in the Civil War.

Cotton to skyscrapers exhibit in the Levine Museum of the New South

Tetra09, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Road to Freedom showcases the African American experience in Charlotte from the Reconstruction period to the present.

The Carolina Crossroads depicts the story of Charlotte’s history and culture from the colonial era to the present day.

Their most recent exhibit is called Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers.

It features stories of the Reconstruction, including the South’s industrial transformation until the Civil Rights Era.

The Levine Museum of the New South is one of the best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, not just for history buffs but also for anyone interested in learning about the city’s rich culture and past.

Back exterior of the Levine Museum of the New South

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Stroll through the Historic South End Neighborhood

A building at South End Neighborhood

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The historic South End neighborhood is one of Charlotte’s most vibrant and exciting areas.

This trendy neighborhood is home to an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more.

Take a stroll down South Boulevard and pop into some of the unique shops, or grab a bite to eat at one of the delicious restaurants.

A restaurant at South End Neighborhood

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Be sure to check out the Atherton Mill and Market, where you can find locally made goods, fresh produce, and more.

The historic South End neighborhood is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring Charlotte’s unique culture.

A shop at South End Neighborhood

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Admire the Artwork at the Mint Museum

Exterior of the Mint Museum

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The Mint Museum is one of the best things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, for art lovers.

This world-renowned museum is home to an impressive collection of art from around the world.

The museum features exhibitions on various topics, such as European and American art, contemporary art, and more.

One of its most famous collections includes Native American art from tribes in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Guatemala, from the nineteenth century to today.

Grounds of the Mint Museum

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They also have an extensive display of modern and contemporary art and an installation called Craft in the Laboratory: The Science of Making Things, which explores how contemporary artists and designers use science and math as an inspiration for their work.

The Mint Museum is also home to a Children’s Gallery, where kids can learn about art through interactive exhibits.

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for something to do in Charlotte, the Mint Museum is a great option.

Art piece at the Mint Museum

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Cheer on the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium

Exterior of the Bank of America Stadium

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If you’re a sports fan, Bank of America Stadium is a must-visit destination in Charlotte.

This world-class stadium is home to the Carolina Panthers and is the perfect place to watch a game or enjoy a concert.

The stadium has a seating capacity of 73,778 people and features some of the best amenities in sports.

It’s also been ranked as one of the best stadiums in the NFL.

The stadium features a variety of amenities, such as club seats, suites, and a food court.

Aerial view of the Bank of America Stadium

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There is also a Panthers Pro Shop, where fans can buy team merchandise.

Whether you’re a die-hard Panthers fan or just looking for a fun sporting event to attend, Bank of America Stadium is a great option.

For anyone visiting Charlotte during football season, be sure to check out a Panthers game at Bank of America Stadium.

You won’t regret it!

Football game in the Bank of America Stadium

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Learn about Racing History at the NASCAR Hall of Fame

Exterior of the NASCAR Hall of Fame

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The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for any racing fan.

This world-class museum is home to various exhibits that chronicle NASCAR’s history.

The museum is housed in a beautiful four-story building and features a variety of interactive exhibits.

Some highlights include a replica of the first NASCAR race track, a simulator that lets you race against some of NASCAR’s best drivers, and more.

Race car displayed in the NASCAR Hall of Fame

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Several artifacts are also on display, including cars, trophies, and uniforms.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is the perfect place to learn about the history and culture of NASCAR.

Anyone who loves racing will surely love to spend an afternoon at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

A trophy in the NASCAR Hall of Fame

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Take a Tour of the Billy Graham Library

Exterior of the Billy Graham Library

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The Billy Graham Library is a religious landmark in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This library is dedicated to the life and work of Billy Graham, one of the most influential Christian ministers of all time.

The library features a variety of exhibits that chronicle Graham’s life and work.

Some highlights include a replica of his childhood home, a multimedia theater, and more.

A vintage study inside the Billy Graham Library

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Visitors can also watch a film about Graham’s life and work.

The library also has a bookstore, which sells books and other items related to Graham.

The Billy Graham Library is the perfect place to learn about the life and work of one of Christianity’s most influential figures.

Welcome sign of the Billy Graham Library

Billy Hathorn, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Explore the Great Outdoors at the Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve

The Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve is the perfect place to spend an afternoon if you love the outdoors.

This nature center features hiking trails, a playground, and a variety of educational programs.

The nature center is also home to various animals, such as birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Visitors can learn about these animals through the nature center’s educational programs.

Whether you’re looking to hike, learn about animals, or just enjoy the outdoors, Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve is a great option for a fun outdoor adventure.

Indulge Yourself in Some Luxurious Retail Therapy at SouthPark Mall

Exterior of SouthPark Mall

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SouthPark Mall is one of the best places to go for some luxury retail therapy.

It’s a popular shopping destination in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This upscale mall features over 150 stores, including high-end retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom.

This mall also features a variety of luxury brands, including Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton.

Gucci storesign in SouthPark Mall

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The mall also has a food court with a variety of dining options, as well as a movie theater.

It’s the perfect place to shop for luxury brands or catch a movie.

Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or just want to window shop, SouthPark Mall is a great option.

Cheesecake factory at SouthPark Mall

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Discover Charlotte’s Southern Charm and Visit the Historic Rosedale Southern Garden and Event Venue

Daytime view of Rosedale Southern Garden

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For history buffs, the Historic Rosedale Southern Garden and Event Venue holds an important piece of Southern history in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This historic plantation was built in the early 1800s and was home to several prominent families.

Today, the plantation is open to the public for tours.

The Rosedale Plantation is a great place to learn about Charlotte’s history.

Visitors can see the plantation house and outbuildings like the kitchen and the old slave quarters.

There are also several event venues on-site, which can be used for weddings, corporate events, and more.

For history buffs or those looking for an elegant event venue to celebrate special occasions, Historic Rosedale Southern Garden and Event Venue is a great option to add to your list.

Admire the Art at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Exterior of the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

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The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is one of the go-to destinations for art lovers in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This museum houses a collection of mid-20th-century art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Andy Warhol.

The Bechtler collection includes representatives from most of the key art movements and schools from the 20th century, with a particular focus on the School of Paris after World War II.

The collection features mid-century modern art in various media by masters such as Joan Miro, Barbara Hepworth, Alberto Giacometti, and BS Jean Tinguely.

Many of these artists have explored various themes or subjects through a variety of media and techniques.

Firebird statue at Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

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The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is also home to various exhibits that change throughout the year.

Some of the museum’s recent exhibits included works from Annemarie Schwarzenbach, Isaac Julien, and Josef Albers.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is constantly changing its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.

Whether you’re a fan of Warhol or Picasso or just interested in modern art, this museum is well worth a visit.

The museum also has a variety of educational programs, such as lectures and workshops.

View of the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art at night

Bechtler, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Go for a River Rafting Adventure at the US National Whitewater Center

Grounds of the US National Whitewater Center

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The US National Whitewater Center is one of the best things to visit in Charlotte for adventure seekers.

It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts.

This center offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as rafting, climbing, and zip-lining.

Water rapids at US National Whitewater Center

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For those looking for a thrill, the Whitewater Center has several whitewater rafting trails that range in difficulty from beginner to expert.

There’s something for everyone at the Whitewater Center.

If you’re not interested in rafting, there are plenty of other activities to choose from.

The center has a world-class climbing gym and a zip line course with 10 different zip lines and three suspension bridges.

Rafting boats at the US National Whitewater Center

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The US National Whitewater Center is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

This center has something you’ll surely enjoy, whether you’re an experienced climber or just looking for a leisurely rafting trip down the river.

The center also has a restaurant and brewery on-site, so you can relax and enjoy the outdoors after a fun day of adventures.

Rock climbing course at US National Whitewater Center

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Learn about Charlotte’s African American History at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture

Exterior of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts

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Anyone interested in African American culture will surely enjoy a visit to the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture.

This museum is dedicated to the African American experience.

The museum features a variety of exhibits, such as a timeline of African American history and a collection of African American art.

Facade of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts

Mark Clifton, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Gantt Center also has a theater and an auditorium for events and performances.

Whether you’re interested in learning about African American history or just want to enjoy a cultural experience, the Harvey B. Gantt Center is a great option.

Take a Stroll through the Romare Bearden Park

Aerial view of Romare Bearden Park

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Romare Bearden Park is a great place to spend a sunny day, especially for nature lovers.

This park features a variety of sculptures and art installations, as well as a walking trail.

The park is also home to a farmers market and a playground.

The playground is perfect for kids, with various swings, slides, and climbing structures.

The farmers market at the park is open on Saturdays.

Pathway at Romare Bearden Park

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You can find a variety of local produce and other products at the market.

Romare Bearden Park is the perfect place to spend a day with the family.

You can enjoy some art, get fresh produce, and let the kids play in the playground.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors or just want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Romare Bearden Park is the right place for you.

Steps at Romare Bearden Park

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Get the Kids into Some Hands-On Scientific Exploration at the Discovery Place Science Museum

Exterior of the Discovery Place Science Museum

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The Discovery Place Science Museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

The Discovery Place Science Museum is also home to a variety of educational programs.

The museum offers summer camps, after-school programs, and workshops for students of all ages.

Building sign of the Discovery Place Science Museum

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It’s the perfect place for kids to learn about science.

The museum has a variety of exhibits that are both fun and informative.

The planetarium is a great place to watch a show and learn about the universe, and the IMAX theater offers an immersive cinematic experience.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina, from visiting museums and parks to enjoying playgrounds and theaters.

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s sure to be something that appeals to you.

If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, Romare Bearden Park is a great option.

If you’re looking for some cultural experiences, the Harvey B. Gantt Center and Levine Museum of the New South are both excellent choices.

So whatever your interests may be, don’t miss out on all that Charlotte has to offer!

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