Fun Springtime Outdoor Activities Near Charlotte. NC

Spring is a great time of year to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you want to spend a relaxing day in the park or you want to head out on the water, there are plenty of things to do. Here are some fun springtime outdoor activities near Charlotte.

Visit the U.S. National Whitewater Center

The U.S. National Whitewater Center has a variety of different activities you can take part in during the spring. Explore the woods from up in the trees on a canopy tour along the Catawba River and experience the exhilaration as you travel from platform to platform in the trees by way of zip lines, sky bridges, and rappels. You can also go whitewater kayaking or whitewater rafting if you are up for a big adventure, or challenge yourself with some rock climbing or on the high ropes course. You’ll find the center on Whitewater Center Parkway in Charlotte, and it’d open year round.

Go to McMullen and Lower McAlpine Creek Greenway

With more than 30 miles of greenways to explore, this area is a great place to spend the day. The trails are perfect for walking, biking, and even inline skating. The majority of the path is paved, with boardwalks to get you over the creeks and wetlands. As you make your way along the path, look for blue herons and woodpeckers, and stop to take a look at the trailside signage that will tell you about the local wildlife. Parking areas sit on Johnston Road and Vista Grande Courte, with restrooms available on the Johnston Road end.

Lazy 5 Ranch

See all kinds of animals up close at Lazy 5 Ranch. This drive-through safari ranch is home to more than 750 exotic animals. You can drive through in your own vehicle or ride in a horse-drawn wagon as you make your way along the 3-1/2 mile ride. Some of the animals you’ll see include emus, giraffes, ostriches, and rheas. It is important to note that the ranch only takes cash, and adults are $11 to enter and kids are just $8. It opens at 9 a.m. and closes an hour before sunset.

Visit Freedom Park

Freedom Park has a little something for everyone. If you want to spend your spring day playing pickup basketball or taking a walk along Sugar Creek, you can do it at this large Charlotte park. There are also volleyball courts, a playground, and a steam engine for the kids to explore. Parking is free, and the 7-acre lake has several pavilions for those who want to use the grills for a picnic lunch or dinner. Carolina Panthers fans can bring the kids to the mini training area to try out the obstacles and get some exercise.

If you are in the Charlotte area this spring and want to spend some time outside, try one of these outdoor activities. Whether you want just to sit and relax, enjoy some entertainment, or get some exercise, there is something for everyone.

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