Fun Things to Do in Charlotte This Weekend
Charlotte offers exciting weekend activities for everyone. The Queen City has bustling arts districts and serene parks. You’ll find diverse experiences whether you’re a local or visitor.
Camp North End is a 76-acre complex with over 50 tenants. It’s perfect for a day of exploration. Food lovers should visit Optimist Hall. It has 650-plus seats for sampling local culinary delights.
Thrill-seekers must visit Carowinds amusement park. It features Fury 325, America’s tallest, longest, and fastest Giga coaster. The park recently added Aeronautica Landing, an aviation-themed section with five new attractions.
Nature enthusiasts will love the U.S. National Whitewater Center. It spans 1,300 acres and offers over 30 land and water activities. For a relaxing outdoor experience, visit Romare Bearden Park. Its 5.4 acres of gardens and fountains are perfect for leisurely strolls.
History buffs can explore the Levine Museum of the New South. It showcases the region’s post-Civil War history through engaging exhibits. Racing fans should check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It boasts 40,000 square feet of exhibits.
Charlotte’s weekend activities cater to all interests. Discover the perfect way to spend your time in the Queen City!
Explore the Arts District in NoDa
NoDa, short for North Davidson, is Charlotte’s vibrant arts district. This eclectic neighborhood buzzes with creativity and unique charm. It offers a mix of events and nightlife that draw both locals and tourists.
Visit Local Art Galleries
NoDa is a paradise for art lovers. The area has many galleries showing different artistic styles. The Charlotte Art League features rotating exhibits of local talent.
For a hands-on experience, try one of the four self-guided art walks from Art Walks CLT.
Attend Live Music Events
At night, NoDa turns into a music lover’s dream. The Evening Muse hosts regular house music and local acts on weekends. For bigger shows, check out the Neighborhood Theatre, a historic venue since 1945.
NoDa offers more than just art and music. It’s home to several breweries, including Free Range Brewing and NoDa Brewing Company. The Company Store NoDa serves local craft beers and homemade sangria.
Looking for a quiet evening? Amelie’s French Bakery is a cozy spot for pastries and coffee.
Unwind at Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a 98-acre green gem in Charlotte. It blends natural beauty with fun facilities. The park’s 7-acre lake is a peaceful centerpiece for various activities.
Locals and visitors love this urban oasis. It’s one of Charlotte’s most popular spots for relaxation and recreation.
Enjoy a Leisurely Picnic
Bring a basket of local treats to Freedom Park. Find a cozy spot under the big oak trees. The park has many picnic areas for family-friendly fun.
Spread out on the large green spaces. There’s plenty of room to relax or play outdoor games.
Take a Scenic Walk Around the Lake
Stroll along the paved trails around the lake. Watch for the park’s many bird species. The paths are great for leisurely walks or brisk exercise.
Look for interesting sculptures as you walk. Don’t miss the charming bridge. These spots are perfect for taking photos.
| Freedom Park Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 98 acres |
| Lake Size | 7 acres |
| Amenities | Walking paths, playgrounds, sports fields, fishing spots |
| Special Events | Outdoor concerts, movies, Festival in the Park |
Freedom Park hosts exciting events all year long. You can enjoy outdoor concerts and movies. The annual Festival in the Park is a local favorite.
This festival showcases local arts, crafts, and food. It also features live performances. It’s a great place to experience Charlotte’s community spirit.
Taste Culinary Delights in Uptown
Uptown Charlotte offers a diverse array of restaurants for every taste. This bustling district has become a top attraction for food enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a wide range of culinary options in this vibrant area.
Dine at Popular Restaurants
Leah & Louise is a must-visit for innovative Southern cuisine. This James Beard-nominated restaurant requires reservations due to high demand. Community Matters Cafe serves delicious food while focusing on social impact.
Join a Food Tour
Food tours offer a chance to sample dishes from multiple restaurants. These guided experiences also teach about Charlotte’s culinary history. The Funny Bus Comedy City Tour combines laughs and local eats for $35 USD.
Optimist Hall houses over twenty restaurants and shops under one roof. It showcases Charlotte’s diverse food scene with options from artisanal pizzas to gourmet tacos. This destination is perfect for those craving variety in their dining experience.
To fully enjoy Charlotte’s culinary scene, plan a four-day visit. The city’s food offerings range from fine dining to casual eats. You’ll likely find yourself wanting to return for more delicious experiences.
Experience Charlotte’s Sports Scene
Charlotte’s sports scene offers exciting weekend activities for everyone. The city boasts a rich array of athletic events. These provide thrilling experiences for visitors and locals alike.
Catch a Panthers Game
The Carolina Panthers deliver heart-pounding action at Bank of America Stadium. They’ve been a cornerstone of Charlotte’s sports culture for over 30 years. The NFL season runs from September to January, drawing crowds of 70,000+ fans per game.
The electric atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience. A sea of black and blue fills the stadium. Fans cheer on their team with incredible energy.
Attend a Charlotte Hornets Match
Basketball fans shouldn’t miss a Charlotte Hornets game at the Spectrum Center. Owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan, the Hornets offer fast-paced action from October to April. Recent draft picks, like James Bouknight, bring fresh talent to the court.
Arrive early to soak in the pre-game buzz. You can explore the surrounding area too. The excitement builds as game time approaches.
For a diverse sports experience, check out other local teams. These include Charlotte FC (MLS), the Charlotte Knights (Minor League Baseball), and the Charlotte Checkers (AHL hockey). Each offers unique activities throughout the year.
Discover History at the Levine Museum
The Levine Museum of the New South is a top Charlotte attraction. It offers a fascinating look into the city’s history. Located at 401 S Tryon St, it covers the region’s past from early settlements to today.
Engage in Interactive Exhibits
The museum’s light-filled atrium houses walk-through exhibits that bring Charlotte’s story alive. The main exhibit, “Charlotte: Moving Forward, Looking Back,” showcases the city’s growth.
Visitors can explore the museum in about an hour. This makes it ideal for families seeking educational and fun activities in Charlotte.
Participate in Special Programs
The Levine Museum offers more than just displays. It provides various family-friendly activities, both in-person and virtual.
The museum’s storytelling approach encourages community involvement. Visitors can even suggest ideas for future exhibitions, keeping the museum fresh and relevant.
The Levine Museum addresses current issues through historical context. It celebrates Charlotte’s past while looking to the future.
This museum offers a unique experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike. It’s a must-visit among Charlotte’s many attractions.
Enjoy Family Fun at Carowinds Amusement Park
Carowinds is a 407-acre playground on the North and South Carolina border. It offers thrilling rides and fun activities for all ages. This family-friendly attraction in Charlotte hosts exciting seasonal events and entertainment.
Thrilling Roller Coasters
Carowinds boasts North America’s longest steel coaster, Fury 325. It stands 325 feet tall and reaches speeds of 95 mph. The coaster features an intense 81ยฐ drop that will leave you breathless.
For more excitement, try Intimidator with its 80 mph speeds. Or brave Afterburn’s 113-foot drop for an adrenaline rush.
Special Events & Shows
Carowinds transforms throughout the year with exciting seasonal events. SCarowinds, the largest Halloween event in the Carolinas, offers haunted mazes and scare zones.
WinterFest brings holiday cheer with light displays and ice skating. Enjoy nightly Christmas parades during this festive time. The Summer Music Fest features headline performances and local bands.
| Event | Season | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| SCarowinds | Fall | Haunted mazes, scare zones |
| WinterFest | Winter | Light displays, ice skating, Christmas parades |
| Summer Music Fest | Summer | Headline performances, local bands |
| Tricks and Treats | Fall | Family-friendly Halloween activities, themed parade |
Carolina Harbor Waterpark is included with park admission. It features a three-acre kids’ area, water slides, and wave pools. Carowinds offers diverse attractions for everyone seeking family-friendly fun in Charlotte.
Attend Festivals and Fairs
Charlotte’s festival scene offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. The Queen City’s calendar brims with exciting events year-round. From craft beer celebrations to cultural extravaganzas, there’s something for everyone.
Check Out Local Craft Beer Events
Beer lovers flock to the annual Queen City Brewers Festival. Over 30 local breweries showcase their finest brews here. The event pairs Charlotte’s hoppy creations with delicious bites from local eateries.
Explore Cultural Celebrations
The Festival of India and Greek Festival are standout cultural events. The Yiasou Greek Festival transforms a corner of Charlotte into a Mediterranean haven. Visitors can enjoy baklava-making demonstrations and lively folk dances.
Charlotte’s festivals cater to diverse interests and budgets. About 70% of the 20 highlighted festivals are free to attend. Some events, like the Boomtown Bash, charge a small fee of $5 per person.
The Charlotte SHOUT! festival spans 17 days. It offers a mix of free and ticketed events across multiple locations. STEAMfest provides over 100 free hands-on activities for families.
Art lovers can enjoy the Kings Drive Art Walk. It features more than 70 artists, musicians, and performers. Check the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority website for upcoming festival information.
Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame
The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a top Charlotte attraction. This 86,500-square-foot facility showcases racing history. It draws visitors from over 500 miles away, reflecting America’s love for motorsports.
Learn About Racing History
Explore NASCAR’s rich heritage at the Hall of Fame. The Hendrick Motorsports 40 Years exhibit features six iconic race cars. It also includes 160 photos and over 70 artifacts.
This exhibit shows the team’s growth. They started in a small garage with five workers. Now, they have a huge campus with over 600 team members.
Participate in Interactive Simulators
Experience NASCAR firsthand with interactive simulators. Try a timed pit stop or feel the rush of a race simulation. These activities make the Hall of Fame exciting for racing fans and casual visitors.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Accessibility | ADA-friendly, wheelchair-accessible simulations |
| Location | Adjacent to Charlotte Convention Center |
| Hendrick Motorsports Achievements | 14 NASCAR Cup Series championships, 310 race wins |
The NASCAR Hall of Fame offers history and interactive experiences. Its prime location makes it a top Charlotte attraction. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to feel NASCAR’s excitement.
Browse Local Farmers Markets
Charlotte’s farmers markets offer a slice of local culture and fresh flavors. They’re perfect for kickstarting your weekend. These vibrant hubs are must-visit spots in Charlotte.
Discover Fresh Produce
The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market showcases the Piedmont region’s agricultural bounty year-round. Spring brings fragrant strawberries, while fall offers crisp apples and hearty squashes. This market highlights the area’s rich farming heritage.
Sample Artisan Goods
The Matthews Community Farmers’ Market offers a more intimate experience. Its “producers-only” policy ensures you’re buying directly from local artisans. You’ll find small-batch goat cheeses and hand-crafted soaps scented with local lavender.
| Market | Operating Hours | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Regional Farmers Market | Year-round | Seasonal produce, local dairy |
| Matthews Community Farmers’ Market | Saturdays | Artisanal goods, strict “producers-only” policy |
These markets are more than shopping destinations; they’re community gatherings. Many feature cooking demos to inspire your market haul. They connect you with Charlotte’s culinary scene and agricultural roots.
Relax at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a top Charlotte attraction. It spans 1,300 acres of outdoor fun. Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy here.
Try Whitewater Rafting
The center’s main draw is its man-made whitewater river. Brave Class III and IV rapids for an exciting yet safe experience. You can enjoy whitewater rafting without leaving the city.
Enjoy Scenic Hiking Trails
Hikers and mountain bikers can explore over 50 miles of trails. The River Loop trail offers amazing views of the Catawba River. On clear days, you can even see the Charlotte skyline.
The center hosts many events throughout the year. Tuck Fest is a popular three-day event with bands and competitions. It features deep water solo climbing and obstacle courses.
Music fans can enjoy live shows every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. These performances run from spring to fall.
| Event | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Memorial Day Celebration | May 28, 2023 | Trail races, live music |
| 4th of July Celebration | July 3-4, 2023 | Fireworks, special activities |
| Flow Fest | September 16, 2023 | Variety of yoga practices |
| Build Your Own Boat Competition | October 14, 2023 | Unique boat-building challenge |
The U.S. National Whitewater Center charges only $6 for parking. It’s an affordable day out filled with adventure and natural beauty. Don’t miss this exciting Charlotte destination.
Experience the Charlotte Science Museum
Discovery Place Science is a top family attraction in Charlotte. It blends education and fun for all ages. The museum offers interactive exhibits and engaging programs for locals and tourists.
With over 30 exhibits, there’s always something new to explore. Visitors can enjoy fresh experiences on every trip. The museum makes complex science accessible and exciting for young minds.
Participate in Hands-On Activities
Learning comes alive through hands-on experiences at Discovery Place Science. “Project Build” offers engineering challenges for budding inventors. In “World Alive,” visitors can explore diverse ecosystems up close.
These activities make scientific concepts fun and easy to understand. They spark curiosity and encourage learning through play.
Attend Planetarium Shows
The museum’s crown jewel is its state-of-the-art planetarium. Visitors can journey through the cosmos in stunning detail. The immersive dome theater offers various shows throughout the day.
Space enthusiasts and curious minds alike will be amazed by the planetarium. It brings the wonders of the universe to life in breathtaking ways.
FAQ
What are some free activities to do in Charlotte this weekend?
Charlotte offers many free activities. Explore the NoDa Arts District or stroll through Freedom Park. Attend free gallery openings during “NoDa First Fridays” or visit local farmers markets.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Charlotte?
Charlotte has plenty of family-friendly attractions. Carowinds Amusement Park and the U.S. National Whitewater Center offer exciting adventures. Discovery Place Science Museum and Freedom Park provide educational and fun experiences.
What are some popular nightlife options in Charlotte?
Charlotte’s nightlife scene is vibrant, especially in NoDa and Uptown. Enjoy live music at venues like the Evening Muse or Neighborhood Theatre. Explore craft breweries or dine at upscale restaurants in Uptown.
The city also offers various bars and clubs for dancing.
Where can I experience Charlotte’s local food scene?
Uptown offers a range of dining options, from Southern comfort food to international cuisines. Join a FEAST Food Tours for a curated experience. Visit local farmers markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Explore diverse eateries in neighborhoods like NoDa and South End.
What outdoor activities are available in Charlotte?
Charlotte offers numerous outdoor activities. Hike or bike at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Enjoy water sports on Lake Norman or Lake Wylie. Relax in Freedom Park or explore the city’s extensive greenway system.
For thrill-seekers, try whitewater rafting or ziplining at various locations.
Are there any upcoming festivals or events in Charlotte?
Charlotte hosts many festivals throughout the year. Popular events include the Queen City Brewers Festival, Festival of India, and Greek Festival. Check the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority website for up-to-date information on upcoming events.
What museums are worth visiting in Charlotte?
Charlotte has several noteworthy museums. The Levine Museum of the New South explores post-Civil War Southern history. NASCAR Hall of Fame is perfect for racing enthusiasts. Discovery Place Science offers interactive exhibits.
Art lovers should visit the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Mint Museum.
