Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, is a vibrant and exciting destination for visitors of all ages and interests. From its bustling downtown to its many attractions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day of shopping, a night out on the town, or a quiet stroll through nature, Charlotte has plenty to offer. Here are the top 20 places to see in Charlotte.
1. U.S. National Whitewater Center: Located just outside of Charlotte, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. The center also features a variety of educational programs and events.
2. Carolina Panthers Stadium: Home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, the stadium offers an exciting game-day experience. Visitors can explore the stadium’s many amenities, including a pro shop, a museum, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
3. Discovery Place: This interactive science museum is perfect for families. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, including a butterfly garden, a planetarium, and a hands-on science lab.
4. Levine Children’s Hospital: This hospital is dedicated to providing the best care for children in the Charlotte area. The hospital offers a variety of services, including a pediatric emergency department, a neonatal intensive care unit, and an outpatient clinic.
5. U.S. National Whitewater Center: Located just outside of Charlotte, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. The center also features a variety of educational programs and events.
6. Mint Museum Uptown: This museum showcases a variety of art from around the world, including works from the African diaspora, Native American art, and contemporary art. The museum also features a variety of educational programs and events.
7. NASCAR Hall of Fame: This museum celebrates the sport of stock car racing and honors its greatest drivers. Visitors can explore the museum’s many interactive exhibits, including a 3D theater and a virtual race car simulator.
8. Freedom Park: This city park offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking trails, a lake, and a playground. The park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including the annual Freedom Park Festival.
9. Carowinds Amusement Park: This family-friendly amusement park features a variety of rides, including roller coasters, water slides, and more. The park also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
10. Billy Graham Library: This library honors the life and legacy of Billy Graham, one of the most influential Christian evangelists of all time. Visitors can explore the library’s many exhibits, including a replica of Graham’s childhood home and a collection of his personal items.
11. Charlotte Motor Speedway: This racetrack is home to a variety of NASCAR events, including the Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America 500. Visitors can explore the speedway’s many amenities, including a museum, a gift shop, and a variety of restaurants.
12. Charlotte Museum of History: This museum showcases the history of Charlotte and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, including a replica of an early Charlotte home and a variety of artifacts.
13. Charlotte Nature Museum: This museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the natural world. Visitors can explore the museum’s many interactive exhibits, including a butterfly garden and a live animal exhibit.
14. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: This garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including native species and exotic varieties. Visitors can explore the garden’s many pathways, as well as its butterfly house and conservatory.
15. Charlotte Douglas International Airport: This airport is the sixth busiest airport in the world. Visitors can explore the airport’s many amenities, including a variety of restaurants and shops.
16. Charlotte Convention Center: This convention center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including conventions, trade shows, and concerts. Visitors can explore the center’s many amenities, including a variety of restaurants and shops.
17. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: This museum showcases a variety of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Miró. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries, as well as its sculpture garden.
18. ImaginOn: This library and theater is dedicated to inspiring children’s imaginations. Visitors can explore the library’s many interactive exhibits, as well as its theater and movie theater.
19. Charlotte Knights Stadium: Home to the minor league baseball team, the Charlotte Knights, this stadium offers an exciting game-day experience. Visitors can explore the stadium’s many amenities, including a pro shop, a museum, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
20. Charlotte Motor Speedway: This racetrack is home to a variety of NASCAR events, including the Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America 500. Visitors can explore the speedway’s many amenities, including a museum, a gift shop, and a variety of restaurants.