Things to do in Charlotte this Spring
Charlotte, North Carolina, provides an experience unlike any other city in the South. That’s perhaps why the Queen City, as it is known, has received so many accolades over the years: number one most up and coming city in America by Yelp, one of 10 cities where everyone wants to live right now by WalletHub, and one of the 20 best places in the U.S. to live for the weather by U.S. News and World Report. But why does Charlotte wear the crown? The list to explain is quite long—and includes a wide variety of culinary options, attractions, and other sought-after offerings—and that’s why we’ve compiled our list of the must-do things in Charlotte this spring.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Since opening in 2006, the U.S. National Whitewater Center has been focused on all things active and outdoors. The Center’s 1,300 acres nearby the Catawba River offers up everything visitors could want to participate in more than 30 different recreational activities.
Carowinds
Look no further for thrills and amusement than Carowinds. This amusement park has been providing first-rate fun for families since it opened more than 45 years ago. Carowinds boasts approximately 60 rides, a water park, live entertainment, and, of course, cuisine that can only be found in North Carolina.
Camp North End
Imagination and inspiration abound in the 76 acres of Camp North End. Camp North End was designed for startups, artists, Fortune 500 companies, and more to push the boundaries of their fields and innovate, educate, and motivate. The campus’ repurposed space features outdoor patios and self-contained suites, allowing for any type of working or learning environment needed.
Optimist Hall
Optimist Hall is the spot to bring your appetite when in Charlotte to enjoy a whole lot of delicious food and a little bit of history. Originally home to the city’s largest textile mill that was built in 1892, Optimist Hall today is one of Charlotte’s first food halls. Here you’ll find everything from authentic Italian pizza and Asian street fare to fine cocktails, an Indian street grill, and a candy company.
Discovery Place Science
One of the top spots to get hands-on is Discovery Place Science. Located in Uptown Charlotte, the museum is home to a variety of interactive exhibits plus a massive IMAX Dome Theatre.
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Charlotte plays an important part in the history and heritage of NASCAR, so it’s no surprise that the city is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The facility, which opened in May 2010, features all sorts of artifacts, hands-on exhibits, theater, and Hall of Honor, as well as a restaurant, shop, and NASCAR Productions-operated broadcast studio.
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
All things art are celebrated in the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. The Mario Botta-designed museum boasts an impressive collection of pieces by some of the most important and influential artists of the mid-20th century, including Picasso, Warhol, Giacometti, and more. Until the museum opened in 2010, this collection was privately held by the Bechtler family of Switzerland.
Mint Museum Randolph
The Mint Museum Randolph opened in 1936 as the state’s first art museum. Situated in what was the original branch of the United States Mint, the museum has a second location in Uptown Charlotte as well, and the museum features one of the largest collections of art in the Southeast.