Charlotte has no shortage of fresh air pursuits that will provide a break from your own backyard this spring. Whether your thrill comes from conquering mountains, navigating whitewater rapids or trekking through nature-filled trails, the Queen City invites you to experience every kind of offering under the sun.
In less than a two-hour road trip, you can take on endless activities like paddle boarding or rock climbing at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, a premier outdoor recreation center; immerse yourself in the excitement, passion and history of NASCAR through interactive experiences at the NASCAR Hall of Fame; or practice your swing in climate-controlled bays at Topgolf, a premier entertainment and event venue.
Charlotte’s parks, greenways, and urban trails offer wide open natural spaces to enjoy with the company of a friend. With more than 21,000 acres of green space, over 200 parks and 50 miles of greenways, there are ample outdoor adventures to choose from. Find a trail that piques your interest and get moving on one of six curated routes on the Charlotte Trail Guide or walk along a paved path around Freedom Park’s 7-acre lake in the historic Dilworth neighborhood.
For the innovators and creatives, make your way to Camp North End to check out Dupp & Swat, a studio that provides a platform for artists and a local shop for the community, and BLK MRKT CLT, a studio and gallery focusing on developing emerging artists. Both workshops feature and sell pieces from local Black artists and often host events. Next, grab a bite from Leah & Louise, a Southern juke joint-inspired restaurant owned by James Beard-nominated chef Greg Collier. The restaurant was recently named the No. 2 “Best New Restaurant in the Country” by Esquire magazine. Walk off your meal and wrap up your day by mural hopping around this open-air artistic hub.
Charlotte takes pride in its craft beer scene, especially since it’s one of the top craft beer cities in the Southeast. The Queen City is home to Salud Beer Shop, which took the title for “Best Beer Bar” in the country; Edge City, a spacious and dog-friendly atmosphere with traditional and experimental beers; and Town Brewing Company, the first brewery in the Wesley Heights neighborhood serving small batch, sour, and malty brews. Need we say more?
Each of these attractions help set the Charlotte apart from the rest. Treat yourself to a stay in the heart of the city at boutique establishments like the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, The Ivey’s Hotel or Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel for the ultimate getaway.
No matter your socially-distanced activity, you’ll soon discover why the Queen City is what’s now and what’s next.
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