The Top 5 Reasons You Should Visit Charlotte, NC

Oct 13, 2016

Banks, Boom Town, Buildings, Business, Charlotte When you’re deciding where to take your next vacation, be sure to add Charlotte, North Carolina, to the list for consideration. This Southern city has plenty of charm, great places to eat, and cool attractions that make it well worth a visit.

1. The Food

Soul food is one of the reasons you simply must visit Charlotte. You can start with a plate of fried veggies, like okra or pickles, or nosh on collard greens. Favorite entrees include fried chicken; smoked and pulled meats like chicken, turkey, brisket, and pork; and ribs. Pair the main dish with a side of freshly mashed potatoes, French fries, baked beans, cornbread, coleslaw, or mac & cheese. Finish off your meal with a homemade dessert like banana pudding, red velvet cake, or pecan pie.

If you’re in a hurry, pay a visit to one of the local favorite food trucks that serve up a variety of foods that will satisfy any craving. From cupcakes to burgers, you can find it all. On the south end of Charlotte, trucks come together for Food Truck Friday.

2. The History

Charlotte has a rich history, so visitors can view gorgeous architecture during strolls through the various neighborhoods. There are even some haunted houses throughout the city, which are fun to visit around Halloween if you’re looking for something spooky. You can also check out some of the cool museums in Charlotte, like the Charlotte Museum of History, North Carolina Transportation Museum, and Carolinas Aviation Museum.

3. The Sports

Charlotte is home to several pro sports teams, including the Carolina Panthers, who play in the NFL; the Charlotte Hornets, who play in the NBA; and the Carolina Hurricanes, who play in the NHL. Grab tickets to a game and cheer on the home team while you’re in the area. If you prefer auto racing, BK Racing calls the city home and participates in the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Those who are in Charlotte outside of the regular racing season can also visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

4. The Outdoor Living

There are also plenty of fun outdoor activities available to Charlotte visitors. Whitewater rafting is a favorite, and you can learn how to participate safely with The U.S. National Whitewater Center. If you’d rather stay on land, rent a mountain bike and explore the trails. The botanical garden on the grounds of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is also worth visiting. It sits on 10 acres of land and includes a variety of plant life, from tropical flowers to local plants. There’s even a secret walled-in garden built in the 1920s by an environmentalist as an escape from the world. Today it has become a sanctuary for birds.

5. The Lodging

If you want to experience a truly luxurious getaway, book your stay at the Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, a sleek and world-class hotel located uptown. Reserve a spot at the spa for a detox massage, which includes the application of honey harvested from beehives kept on the top of the hotel’s roof.

Plan your next vacation to Charlotte and enjoy everything this unique city has to offer.

Image via Pixabay