I moved to Charlotte four years ago and made it my mission to explore every corner of the Queen City and now I’m sharing all the gems I’ve found.
This list is packed with my favorite spots: foodie finds, hidden coffee shops, cool experiences, arts...
Map
Sections
5
Attractions & Experiences
Arts & Culture
Food & Drinks
Outdoors
Seasonal/Events
Attractions & Experiences
They have Rafting, zip lining, rock climbing and walking/running trails and they also have free yoga!! All you have to do is pay for parking if you’re not a member
U.S. National Whitewater Center
This place is such a vibe. You pick your vessel, choose your scent, and pour your own custom candle mix! They serve wine while you work, so it’s perfect for a chill girls’ night a date or solo!
Paddywax Candle Bar
Hands on exhibits and IMAX Dome Theater. Kids literally love it here.
Discovery Place Science
On the boarder in NC & SC. Carowinds is an amusement park for the whole family. Roller coasters, a water park & food! Seasonally they have SCarowinds & WinterFest
Carowinds
Massive indoor water park resort. It’s open year round!! If you have kids, they will never want to leave!
Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, NC
This is Charlotte’s most creative neighborhood! Sooo walkable, a lot of places to eat and drink. Beautiful murals. It’s such a vibe. On the first Friday of each month they have the Gallery Crawl!!
NoDa
Chill spot for a group of friends or date night. Fun golf games, drinks and food!!
Topgolf Charlotte - University
The place to be where A LOT of concerts happen. If you’re looking for a fun nightlife are this is great. Clubs and bars near
AvidXchange Music Factory
Arts & Culture
Rich with black culture, art, and history in a stunning modern space.
Harvey B. Gantt Center
Food & Drinks
We have been going here for 4 years now & I wouldn’t trade it for any other taco truck!! Simply amazing. Nothing fancy just PHENOMENAL tacos & food
PARTY LOCOS TACOS 2
This is a black-owned coffee shop with a lot of amazing black memorabilia. You must try Iced foxy brown latte with oat milk, it’s delicious!!
Archive CLT
Lang van is a staple!!!! One of the best if not the best Vietnamese food. The PHO!? Literally can cure anything
Lang Van
A beautiful Yemeni coffee shop with bold, rich flavors and cozy vibes. Must try the Pistachio latte (iced of hot) or Harazi latte you won’t regret it. The pastries are also amazing! The Bee Bites!? Yes yes yes!! Perfect for a slow morning or a solo w...
Haraz Coffee House
Very trendy spot but delicious nonetheless! It’s small but the pizza!?! & the CEASER SALAD!? Amazingggg
Bird Pizzeria
All I have to say is that the ricotta Stuffed French toast are amazing! If it’s cool out I recommend sitting outside.
Easy Like Sunday
We LOVE some Chex over here okay!! They have a million different flavored wings that for the most part delicious! Cooked just right and the wraps are great too!
Chex Grill & Wings
This is one about two hours from Charlotte in Raleigh but holy smokes I would drive here for this delicious food and the WINE LIST!!! Would impress the bougiest of your friends (or dad)
Angus Barn
Tucked inside the UNC Charlotte Marriott but it doesn’t feel like a hotel restaurant at all. The vibes are upscale without being stuffy, and the food? Good! Their cocktails and short rib pasta are especially worth it. Great for a dressed-up date nigh...
Golden Owl Tavern
Outdoors
Feels like you’ve left the city. Great trails, kayaking, and even a historic farm if you’re into that.
Latta Nature Preserve
If you go at night, the art installations glow. Makes a regular walk feel kinda magical. ✨
The Rail Trail
Seasonal/Events
(Spring–Fall)
Monthly pop-up market with music, food trucks, and local vendors. Support local businesses ✨ great finds!
Front Porch Sundays
This is the ultimate fall activity! As fall is peak apple season you MUST go apple picking at Carrigan Farm right outside of Charlotte! And they have pumpkins too 🤣
Apple picking at Carrigan Farms
They’ve got pumpkins, hayrides, farm animals, and a little market. Perfect fall activity 🫶🏽
Pumpkin patch at Hodges Family Farm
Can’t talk about fall and not mention Carolina Renaissance Festival!! Giant outdoor fair turned fantasy village; knights, queens, turkey legs, and endless photo ops.