Top Things to Do in Charlotte
Guide to the Charlotte Region
Top Things to Do in Charlotte, NC
From scenic lake days and peaceful nature trails to arts, dining, travel convenience, and charming nearby towns, the Charlotte region offers something for every lifestyle. With communities like Cresswind Charlotte, Cresswind Wesley Chapel, HandsMill on Lake Wylie, and the upcoming Cresswind Rocky River, everything you love is within easy reach.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Escapes
U.S. National Whitewater Center
A regional favorite offering rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, rock climbing, zip-lines, hiking, festivals, and live music. Learn more.
Cane Creek Park, Waxhaw
Cane Creek Park is a 1,050-acre, water-focused recreation destination centered around a 350-acre lake. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, picnic areas, disc golf, playgrounds, mountain biking, and peaceful year-round scenery. Union County residents age 65+ can obtain a free lifetime Senior Permit for park access.
Arts, Culture & Local Entertainment
Museums
Charlotte’s cultural scene features standout museums including the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Mint Museum Uptown, and the Sullenberger Aviation Museum. Together, they offer everything from contemporary art and design to aviation history and interactive exhibits.
Theaters & Performing Arts
Enjoy Broadway shows, concerts, and live performances at venues like Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and Knight Theater at the Levine Center for the Arts, both located in Uptown Charlotte.
Historic & Heritage Destinations
Andrew Jackson State Park blends history, art, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits about Andrew Jackson’s boyhood, a living-history museum, an 18th-century schoolhouse replica, nature trails, picnic areas, and a fishing lake.
Travel Made Easy
Convenient Access via I-77 & I-85
Interstates 77 and 85 provide quick connections to Uptown Charlotte, Lake Norman, surrounding communities, and beyond—making daily errands, commuting, and weekend getaways effortless.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the nation’s busiest and most connected airports, offering nonstop flights across the U.S. and internationally. In 2024, Airports Council International ranked CLT sixth busiest worldwide for aircraft movements.
Casual Local Spots
Charlotte’s neighborhoods are filled with relaxed, well-loved eateries perfect for everyday outings. Favorites include:
- Foxcroft Food & Wine – Waverly
- 131 Main Restaurant – Blakeney
- Little Mama’s Italian – Rea Farms
- Emmet’s Social Table – Waxhaw
These spots offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s great for meeting friends, hosting visiting family, or keeping date night easy and local.
Local Favorites
From shopping and dining to spa days and live events, these Charlotte-area destinations are local go-tos:
- SouthPark Mall
- The Bowl at Ballantyne
- The Ballantyne Hotel & Spa
- Waverly
- Blakeney Town Center
These spots make it easy to plan an afternoon out, run errands in a beautiful setting, or meet friends for dinner close to home.
Charlotte Sports
Cheer on Charlotte’s many professional sports teams, including:
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- Charlotte Checkers (AHL)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Charlotte Knights (MiLB)
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
Whether you love game-day energy, family-friendly outings, or motorsports weekends, there’s always something to rally around in the Charlotte region.
Why Active Adults Choose the Charlotte Region
The Charlotte region continues to attract active adults seeking a lifestyle that blends outdoor recreation, culture, and everyday convenience. With communities like Cresswind Charlotte, Cresswind Wesley Chapel, HandsMill on Lake Wylie, and Cresswind Rocky River (Coming 2026), Kolter Homes offers access to the very best of the area.
- Endless ways to stay active with lakes, greenways, parks, and year-round recreation
- Easy access to shopping, dining, and major healthcare providers
- Charming small towns and vibrant suburban centers close to home
- A mild four-season climate perfect for outdoor enjoyment
- Supportive communities with lifestyle programming and amenities designed for active adults
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor activities near Charlotte?
Popular outdoor activities include visiting the U.S. National Whitewater Center, boating and fishing on Lake Wylie, and exploring Cane Creek Park in Waxhaw, which offers trails, lake access, picnic areas, and year-round recreation.
What museums and cultural attractions are in Charlotte?
Charlotte is home to several notable museums, including the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Mint Museum Uptown, and the Sullenberger Aviation Museum. The city also offers live performances at venues like Belk Theater and Knight Theater.
Is Charlotte a good location for travel and connectivity?
Yes. Major highways I-77 and I-85 provide easy regional access, and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) offers nonstop flights across the U.S. and internationally, making travel convenient for residents and visitors.
What are some popular dining and shopping destinations in Charlotte?
Popular destinations include SouthPark Mall, Waverly, Blakeney Town Center, and The Bowl at Ballantyne. Charlotte also offers a diverse dining scene with both upscale restaurants and casual neighborhood favorites.
Why do active adults choose the Charlotte region?
Active adults are drawn to Charlotte for its mix of outdoor recreation, cultural amenities, healthcare access, mild four-season climate, and thoughtfully designed 55+ communities offering social programming and resort-style amenities.