What to do in Charlotte, NC

Activities, attractions and tours

Charlotte
Charlotte
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art showing modern architecture and outdoor art
Charlotte which includes a garden and autumn colours
Billy Graham Library

Charlotte Attractions

Charlotte, North Carolina, known to many as the Gem of the South, is the perfect destination for your next vacation. The city is packed with things to do like Charlotte excursions to one of the area's many famed historic sites and trips to the city's well-known churches. The sheer number of churches and religious sites have garnered the city another nickname: City of Churches. There are also many Charlotte activities perfect for families visiting the area with children.

One of the best places in Charlotte, or The QC, for history lovers is the Historic Rosedale Plantation. A trip to this plantation gives tourist a look at Charlotte's illustrious past. Another of the must see spots for those looking to experience Charlotte's history up close and personal is the Fourth Ward. The Fourth Ward, which can also be experienced on Charlotte tours or by picking up a map, is a residential district filled with beautiful old homes.

The Carolinas Aviation Museum is an additional place to visit which is filled with relevant pieces that appeal to both local and out of state visitors alike. While traveling through the various churches to be found in Charlotte, you'll also want to visit The Billy Graham Library and learn more about this famous individual and his church.

Some of the top attractions in Charlotte are perfect for families traveling with children. One of the most famous of these attractions is Carowinds, the famed amusement park. Two other interesting attractions for children, Discovery Place and ImaginOn and The Joe & Joan Martin Center, help children learn about subjects in a fun way. The animal fans in your family have a number of sites to enjoy in Charlotte, too. Head to the Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary to see their favorite animals or go to the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve to learn more about the fragile ecosystem of the area.

From walks through Little Sugar Creek Greenway to fishing and boating on Lake Norman, there are numerous things to keep you busy on your next trip to Charlotte, NC. Let Expedia be your guide when you travel.

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Most fun & popular experiences in Charlotte

Tours & day trips

See all 37 activities
Curses,Crimson,& Corsets:Charlotte's Candlelight Ghost Tours

Curses,Crimson,& Corsets:Charlotte's Candlelight Ghost Tours

Activity duration is 1 hour
6.8 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $33 per adult
Curses,Crimson,& Corsets:Charlotte's Candlelight Ghost ToursOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 10 activities
Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City

Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $342 per traveller*
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Attractions

See all 3 activities
SEA LIFE Charlotte Concord Aquarium

SEA LIFE Charlotte Concord Aquarium

Activity duration is 2 hours
7.8 out of 10 with 82 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $34 per adult
SEA LIFE Charlotte Concord AquariumOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in Charlotte

Number of things to do
45
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own...: CA $10
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Charlotte

Discover the most popular places to visit in Charlotte

Lake Norman

Lake Norman

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Norman, a popular spot to commune with nature in Charlotte. Stroll along the lakeside in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Lake Norman
University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Walk around the campus of University of North Carolina at Charlotte, a top university in Charlotte. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Spectrum Center

Spectrum Center

Catch an event at Spectrum Center during your trip to Charlotte. Experience the entertainment choices and acclaimed theater scene in this vibrant area.

Spectrum Center
Charlotte Convention Center showing modern architecture

Charlotte Convention Center

In downtown Charlotte check out trade shows, sporting events and conventions at this key venue that features grand ballrooms and dining areas.

Charlotte Convention Center
Charlotte Motor Speedway

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Catch an event at Charlotte Motor Speedway during your trip to Concord. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and great live music.

Charlotte Motor Speedway
NASCAR Hall of Fame which includes interior views as well as a small group of people

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Experience the roaring speed of a car race in a simulator, see historic muscle cars, and test out your mechanical skills in this place of honor for successful car racers.

NASCAR Hall of Fame
PNC Music Pavillion

PNC Music Pavillion

You can enjoy a show at PNC Music Pavillion on your trip to Charlotte. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.

PNC Music Pavillion
Bojangles' Coliseum

Bojangles' Coliseum

Catch an event at Bojangles' Coliseum during your trip to Charlotte. Experience the acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.

Bojangles' Coliseum
Billy Graham Library

Billy Graham Library

The life of famous evangelist Billy Graham, whose sermons touched millions through TV and radio, is illustrated in films and exhibits at this barn-like building.

Billy Graham Library

Explore areas of Charlotte

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Uptown Charlotte

4.5/5(44 area reviews)

Boasting a bustling business district, Uptown Charlotte offers over 245 restaurants, 50 nightspots, and attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Easily accessible via the Lynx Blue Line, it's perfect for sports enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Uptown Charlotte
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Third Ward

Well-liked for its art galleries and sporting events, Third Ward is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Bank of America Stadium and Truist Field, and jump on the metro at Tryon Street Tram Stop to get around the city.

Third Ward
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Ballantyne

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

Explore Ballantyne Village's diverse restaurants and outdoor spaces, or marvel at the 30-foot monuments symbolizing Charlotte's spirit at Johnston Road and Ballantyne Commons intersection. Enjoy rooftop dining in the Panorama Tower.

Ballantyne
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SouthPark

Experience upscale shopping at SouthPark Mall, featuring high-end designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, or explore nearby complexes like The Village at SouthPark. Easily accessible via CATS buses and I-77, the area also offers a popular route for runners along the SouthPark Corridor.

SouthPark
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University City

4/5(12 area reviews)

Known for its ample dining options and great live music, there's plenty to explore in University City. You can visit top attractions like UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens and Electrolux Corporate Headquarters, and jump on the metro at McCullough Station or JW Clay Boulevard /UNC Charlotte Station to see more of the city.

University City
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South End

Experience a vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and industrial development in this high-density area, featuring the Design District and Atherton Mill. Easily explore with the Lynx Blue Line.

South End

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Charlotte worth visiting?
Renowned for its dining and history, discovering awesome things to do in Charlotte is a breeze. Remember to add NASCAR Hall of Fame to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Charlotte?
After you've checked off popular attractions like NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place, spend some time enjoying the food and retail options in Charlotte.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charlotte?
The top tourist attraction in Charlotte is NASCAR Hall of Fame, so don't forget to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Charlotte?
Three days in Charlotte is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers spend two days on average. NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place and The Mint Museum are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Rock Hill.
Is Charlotte a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Charlotte is a good destination to experience on foot. Wander between NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place. Then take a stroll around Uptown Charlotte, located 0.16 kilometres from downtown, and Second Ward, which is about 0.64 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Charlotte with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Charlotte with kids.

What to do in Charlotte for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Charlotte, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to NoDa Brewing Company or Birdsong Brewing Co..
Are there free things to do in Charlotte?
One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Charlotte is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Afro-American Children's Theatre is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.