The Top 4 things to Do this summer In Charlotte, NC

Jul 28, 2016

NC-Park There’s no need to ever sing the summertime blues in North Carolina, unless you are at a country music concert, of course. As one of the fastest growing metros in the United States, Charlotte provides employment, entertainment, and outdoor adventure to its residents. With a population of almost a million, it still manages to keep its southern charm. The locals flock to these summer venues you don’t want to miss.

The Swan Creek Wine Trail

Although the Swan Creek Wine Trail is about 80 miles from Charlotte, it’s a must-do for travelers and locals alike. Laurel Gray Vineyards features a tasting room fashioned out a 1930s milking parlor. The patio at Raffaldini’s Winery, a producer of Italian-style wines, overlooks the magnificent vineyards. At Dobbins Creek Vineyards, sit a moment on the porch and appreciate the view of Grandfather Mountain. Shadow Springs Vineyards focuses on French grapes and offers a strawberry wine called Shortcake. Windsor Run Cellars owns a distillery in addition to the winery. Each vineyard offers tasting for individuals and groups.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art features mid-century modern art in a variety of media. Featured artists include Alberto Giacometti, Jean Tinguely, Raffael Benazzi, and many others. On the first Friday of the month, the Ziad Jazz Quartet performs two 90-minute shows starting at 6 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Various guest artists perform with the quartet throughout the year. Tickets for the series are available in advance for $14 for nonmembers and $8 for members.

The Historic Latta Plantation and Nature Preserve

Historic Latta Plantation and Nature Preserve protects more than 1,343 acres of wildlife. Mr. James Latta owned and used the bulk of the land as a plantation in the 1800s. Most visitors drive between buildings due to the vastness of the property, but walking is permitted. Hiking and horseback trails cover 16 miles of the land and offer views of the lake, forests, and streams. No other Mecklenburg County property allows horseback riding. Guided trail rides cost $30. Summer day camps for children 7 and older are available.

The Charlotte Premium Outlets

Shopping on a budget in the Queen City is easy at the Charlotte Premium Outlets. The interactive website prominently displays the hours of operation daily, and it publicizes the stores’ deals. That way, you can prepare to get the best bang for your buck. Labels like J. Crew, OshKosh, New York & Company, and Jockey fill the racks at this outdoor mall. Notices on what’s trending in fashion keep you informed. Wish you hadn’t missed tweets about current sales? No problem, check out the social section of the site, and you’ll find what you missed in one accessible place.

In Charlotte, you can appreciate any season, but something about summer in the South causes excitement all over the region. Water sports and hiking provide great diversion, and the extra daylight allows for more fun before the sun goes down. Don’t miss an opportunity to enjoy this time.

Image via Flickr by cheriejoyful