Indoor and outdoor activities around Charlotte, NC to beat the summer heat and keep parents sane over school break.
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5
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Local Favorites
Outdoor Activities
So much to do here that you'll never tackle it all in one day!! A splash pad, zoo, pond, paddle boats, ice cream shop, playgrounds, and gem mining are just a few awesome things this park has to offer. The best part is that the prices are very afforda...
Dan Nicholas Park
Great for a quick hike with little ones. A very short hike to the top and signs detailing the history of the location. The Sno Biz shaved ice place is just a couple minutes away and makes a great treat afterwards!
Dunn's Mountain Park
Great place to take a day trip to from Charlotte. Plenty of space to play in the water and have a picnic
Riverpark at Cooleemee Falls: The Bullhole
A great little park with so much to offer including a splash pad, train ride, carousel, and more!
Village Park
If your kids like racing and arcade fun, this is a great place to take them for some high adrenaline activities.
The Speedpark at Concord Mills
Tigers and more! A fun educational place to take kids for a few hours of entertainment
Tiger World
Indoor and outdoor activities as kids learn about what these amazing birds eat and do.
Carolina Raptor Center
A great place to buy season passes for the summer and take full advantage of the water park!
Carowinds
Unique park with a splash pad right by the YMCA. Great to visit!
Hope Park
A great little beach park just 30 minutes from Charlotte on Lake Norman
Ramsey Creek Park
Great day trip to take a nice hike to a scenic overlook. Driving up is also an option
Uwharrie National Forest
One of the biggest parks in the area with rolling hills, multiple playgrounds, walking trails, a lake, and a brand new event barn.
Delicious food, an arcade attached, and plenty of space to spread out. A literal food mall. There's also some nice cozy seating on the wraparound porch!
Gibson Mill Market
Breakfast food is always a win with our kids, and we love this family-friendly spot!
SUNSHINE FAMILY RESTAURANT - CONCORD
Giant pizzas by the slice! A definite WOW factor for kids
Benny DaCorsa's
Other Food & Drinks
Super yummy and affordable shaved ice that the whole family will enjoy. They have so many unique flavors and combinations, and the big chair is very fun to take photos in.
Sno Biz of Granite Quarry - Facebook
Fantastic coffee, much better than the big chain stores. Must try their signature French Express latte!
coffee house
One of our kids' favorite places!
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers | Order Online Here
Expensive but a very special treat for kids and adults alike!
Concord/Charlotte, NC - Locations - The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar
The best coffee in Concord, and they have specialty ice cream options for kiddos!
The Percantile and Creamery
A whole stinkin vibe. The best coffee in the downtown Concord area, and the flavors they offer are so unique!! Adorable little place with tables and board games
Coffin House Coffee
Our FAVORITE frozen yogurt spot. Great vibes, and it's priced by the size instead of the weight!!
Frozen Kups
A big place to hang out and play games. They have a few arcade machines including pac man, board games, and more. The outdoor seating is nice too
Southern Strain Beer Company, LLC
Arts & Entertainment
They always have some play or another going on. If your kids are into theater, definitely worth trying out!
Old Courthouse Theatre
A great escape from the summer heat, and they participate in a “kids bowl free” program for the summer!
Stars and Strikes: Bowling Alley, Arcade, Birthday Parties
Sign up for this program and use it at your local place! Stars and Strikes of Concord participates.
Kids Bowl Free
Great for younger kids up to 6 years old, perfect for a day trip and escaping the heat!
Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville
If your kids are into legos this is a must visit spot!! They also have summer camps
Brick Ed & More
Local Favorites
A great place to take kids for hours of play on rainy or hot days
The Fun Factory
A very cool piece of history and a fun place to visit on warmer days
Boone's Cave Park
A fun place to see trains up close, and they have amazing special holiday events that sell out months in advance such as the Polar Express experience during Christmas.