5 Family-Friendly Activities to Do in Charlotte, NC

If you’re looking to escape the routine of everyday life, there’s no shortage of places to go and things to see in the Queen City. From food to museums to sporting events, Charlotte has many family-friendly options to keep everyone entertained, regardless of age or interest. Here are a few to check out.

1. The NASCAR Hall of Fame

Located in uptown Charlotte, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a fun attraction, even for those who aren’t die-hard racing fans. It offers four floors and 150,000 square feet of artifacts and relics, as well as 50 must-see interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take a guided tour that features plenty of interesting facts. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adult tickets cost $19.95, and kids ages 5 through 12 get in for $12.95. Children under 5 get in for free.

2. Carowinds Amusement Park

There’s nothing better than enjoying thrilling, heart-pounding rides with the people you love. Carowinds amusement park has almost 400 acres of some of the best rides around, along with restaurants, carnival games, and a water park. Ride one of the park’s 13 highly acclaimed roller coasters, or visit during one of their seasonal events, such as the Festival of Music. Located just south of Charlotte, Carowinds is open March through November. Hours vary, so call ahead or check the website before going. Tickets cost $59.99, although you can save $15 a ticket if you buy four or more online.

3. Discovery Place

Discovery Place in downtown Charlotte is the area’s premier destination for fun educational experiences. It has tons of interactive science exhibits geared toward younger children while still being interesting for adults. Discovery Place features seasonal exhibits and is home to the state’s largest domed IMAX. It’s open seven days a week, although hours vary daily. A day pass that includes the museum and IMAX costs $20 for adults and $17 for kids.

4. Lazy 5 Ranch

About a half-hour drive from the city center, the Lazy 5 Ranch allows visitors to see more than 750 animals from six different continents. Unlike at a zoo, you drive your own car through the park on a safari-style adventure. The kids will love seeing rhinos, giraffes, kangaroos, and much more during your visit. The park is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until one hour before sunset. Adult tickets cost $16, and kids’ tickets cost $11.

5. Catch a Game

No matter your sport of choice, Charlotte has you covered. Catch a professional hockey, basketball, or football game for good sport, food, and family time. Prices vary depending on the sport and game. However, if you want to see a pro sports team on the cheap, check out Charlotte’s major league lacrosse team, the Hounds.

Regardless of where you go in Charlotte, you’re destined to find something your family will love. After you decide what to do, the hardest part is getting the kids (and yourself) to leave.

Image via Pixabay

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