3 Things Every Local Should Experience in Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, “The Queen City,” is known as the hub of the “New South” for a reason. This lively city boasts the best in arts, entertainment, shopping, and dining. Even if you’re a local, the city offers so much to do that you can be a tourist in your own town all year round. Learn more about Charlotte’s art and entertainment with our tips for discovering the best Charlotte has to offer.

Spend an Artistic Night in NoDa

The colorful galleries and culinary hotspots of the NoDa arts district pulse with energy on weekends. Start off with a meal at long-time favorite, Cabo Fish Taco. Afterward, on your way to Smelly Cat Café for a cup of coffee, walk over to Pura Vida Worldly Art to check out the eclectic selection of fair trade goods. Down the street, chat with local painter David French, who paints scenes of Charlotte on his sidewalk easel, year-round. Pop into a concert at the intimate Evening Muse. Wrap up your night in NoDa with a trip to Amelie’s, the bustling 24-hour French bakery. Their salted caramel brownie has developed a cult following in the Charlotte area.

Shop All Over Town

If shopping is your favorite form of entertainment, you’ll find plenty of options all over Charlotte to interest you. Outfit yourself in luxury goods from SouthPark Mall, where you’ll find everything from Louis Vuitton to Neiman Marcus, in addition to favorites like J. Crew. While you’re there you can indulge in a sweet treat at the Cheesecake Factory. Head to Sleepy Poet Antique Mall to experience a thrifter’s dream. This huge space is stuffed full of vintage housewares and retro clothing. For antique furniture and artwork, don’t miss Fifteen Ten Antiques or Century Vintage in Plaza Midwood. Your best bet for gifts is Paper Skyscraper, just around the corner. Stop into Soul Gastro lounge for dinner and a nightcap and enjoy the excellent view of the Charlotte skyline from their balcony.

Go Forth and Be Active

Charlotteans live active, healthy lifestyles. The area boasts numerous greenways and parks that are ideal for biking and walking, such as Freedom Park, and the White Water Center beckons for its rafting and hiking. Join your fellow Panthers and Hornets fans at a sports bar like Mac’s Speed shop on game day for drink specials and tasty barbecue.  You can take the light rail to South Blvd, a corridor filled with pubs full of loyal fans. Every Charlottean also needs to experience the thrill of Nascar live. Just a short drive north of the city, you can experience the thrill of the engines and the buzz of the crowd at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Fans also love meeting their favorite drivers and enjoying free concerts during the annual Speed Street Festival.

Entertainment abounds in Charlotte for the sports lover, shopper, and arts enthusiast. Dive in and explore everything Charlotte has to offer. You’ll find entertainment to inspire you, entertain you, and keep you fit, all while having fun in the Queen City.

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