Things to Do in Charlotte
40 curated spots from Charlotte itineraries
Activities & Attractions
20 curated experiences
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Compact museum focused on mid-20th-century European and American modern art, located by the Levine Center for the Arts.[7]
1h 15m · $10-20
Carter Mountain Orchard
Pick apples or peaches seasonally, enjoy mountain panoramas and picnic spots.
1h 30m · $10
Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen – Cooking Class
Hands-on small-group cooking classes often featuring seasonal or Southern-influenced menus.
2h 30m · $85-140
Fourth Ward & Old Settlers’ Cemetery
Stroll Victorian homes, historic streets, and the oldest cemetery (1774-1878) with self-guided app.
2h · Free
Fourth Ward Historic District Walk
Self-guided stroll past restored Victorian homes, pocket parks, and historic churches just north of the main Uptown core.[3]
1h · Free
Freedom Park Stroll
Walk the paths around the lake, relax on benches, and enjoy a peaceful green space near Dilworth.
1h 30m · Free
Heist Brewery & Lounge Time
Sample local craft beers or cocktails and relax indoors or on the patio.
1h 30m · $10-25
Historic Downtown Pedestrian Mall
Stroll the vibrant street with **street markets**, shops, live music, and people-watching.
1h 30m · Free
Monticello
Tour Jefferson's plantation home with gardens and **photography spots** overlooking hills.
2h · $30
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Immersive museum with race cars, simulators, and exhibits on NASCAR history.[3][6]
2h · $30-40
NoDa Arts District Free Explore
Stroll past colorful murals, galleries, and boutiques in Charlotte’s historic arts and entertainment district.[3]
2h · Free (shopping extra)
Romare Bearden Park
Relax by the lake, musical stepping stones, and color-changing waterfall with skyline views.
1h 30m · Free
Romare Bearden Park & Free Explore Uptown
Relax in the urban park, then wander nearby streets, public art, and shops at your own pace.
2h · Free
Shopping on Downtown Mall
**Shopping** boutiques and galleries; hunt for local crafts and antiques.
1h 30m · Varies/Free to browse
St. Peter Catholic Church Visit
Historic Catholic church near The Green; step inside to appreciate the architecture and quiet atmosphere.
45m · Free (donation appreciated)
The Green & Light Uptown Shopping
Relax in this literary-themed pocket park and browse nearby shops and galleries.
1h 30m · Free (shopping extra)
The Mint Museum Uptown
Art museum featuring American, contemporary, and craft & design collections in a striking modern building.[7][3]
2h · $15-25
Trade Street Shopping & Murals
Browse boutiques, street markets, and Talking Walls murals; check Spectrum Center for sports events.
1h 30m · $0-20
U.S. National Whitewater Center – Afternoon Free Explore
Continue with additional zipline runs, rafting sessions, or hiking, or just relax by the water.[7][8]
3h · Included with activity pass
U.S. National Whitewater Center – Zipline & Activities
Outdoor adventure complex with ziplines, ropes courses, rafting, kayaking, and hiking trails along the Catawba River.[7][8]
3h · $70-120 (activity passes)Restaurants & Food
20 local favorites
7th Street Public Market
Indoor food hall with coffee, pastries, and local vendors; pick what appeals and grab a seat.
1h · $15-25 per person
Amélie's French Bakery
Cozy French pastries, coffee, and quiche in a whimsical setting.
1h · $10-15 per person
Amélie’s French Bakery & Café (NoDa)
Quirky, artsy bakery; enjoy coffee, croissants, and pastries before exploring the neighborhood.
1h · $15-20 per person
Barrington’s
Intimate fine-dining restaurant with a reputation for exceptional service and seasonal menus.
2h · $90-160 per person
Bernardin’s at Ratcliffe
Elegant New American and seafood in a historic building with a romantic atmosphere.
1h 30m · $80-140 per person
Boudreaux's Louisiana Kitchen
Casual spot for Cajun po'boys or gumbo with Southern hospitality.
1h · $12-20 per person
C&O Restaurant
Cozy spot for local trout or pasta—share the charcuterie board.
1h 30m · $20-25 per person
Community Matters Cafe
Bright cafe with hearty breakfasts and excellent coffee a short walk from Uptown museums.
1h · $15-25 per person
Fahrenheit Charlotte
Rooftop restaurant with skyline views; order sharable appetizers and creative mains, plus cocktails.
2h · $80-150 per person
Haberdish
Stylish Southern eatery and cocktail bar; fried chicken, sides, and craft drinks shine.
1h 15m · $30-45 per person
Market Street Market
Fresh sandwiches and salads from local ingredients—order the turkey club.
45m · $12-18 per person
Mert’s Heart and Soul
Beloved soul food spot; order shrimp and grits or fried chicken with classic sides.
1h · $25-35 per person
Roots Café
Casual café inside RailYard offering fresh, locally focused breakfast and coffee.
1h · $15-25 per person
Sea Level NC
Local oyster bar focusing on Carolina seafood with creative preparations.[7][8]
1h · $35-55 per person
STIR Charlotte
Oyster bar and craft cocktail spot in South End with a polished but relaxed vibe.
1h 30m · $60-100 per person
Sunflour Baking Company Dilworth
Neighborhood bakery and café with pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and good coffee.
1h · $10-20 per person
Superica South End
Tex-Mex favorite with bold flavors and a lively atmosphere; good for sharing plates post-class.
1h · $25-35 per person
The Asbury
Southern-inspired breakfast in the historic Dunhill Hotel; try the biscuits and seasonal omelet.
1h · $25-35 per person
The Capital Grille Charlotte
Classic upscale steakhouse; go for dry-aged steaks and an extensive wine list.
1h 30m · $90-160 per person
The Fig Tree Restaurant
Fine-dining New American cuisine in a historic Craftsman bungalow with an excellent wine list.
2h · $90-160 per person