A curated set of itineraries for your BON VOYAGE!

Beautiful Uptown Charlotte
Precisionviews, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3-Day Itinerary for Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, NC, known as the Queen City, blends Southern hospitality with cosmopolitan flair. Explore its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings, all against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers and lush green spaces. Here's a suggested 3-day itinerary for a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina:

Day 1: Exploring Uptown Charlotte

Morning:
  • Breakfast at Amélie's French Bakery: Start your day with delicious pastries, coffee, and breakfast items at this charming French bakery located in Uptown Charlotte.
  • Discovery Place Science: Spend your morning exploring interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at Discovery Place Science, perfect for families and science enthusiasts alike.
Afternoon:
  • Lunch at 7th Street Public Market: Head to 7th Street Public Market for lunch. This indoor market offers a variety of food options from local vendors, including sandwiches, salads, and more.
  • NASCAR Hall of Fame: Dive into the world of auto racing at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Explore exhibits showcasing the history of NASCAR, interactive experiences, and iconic race cars.
Evening:
  • Dinner at Queen City Quarter: Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Queen City Quarter, a vibrant entertainment complex in Uptown Charlotte offering a range of dining options.
  • Nightlife in Uptown: Experience Charlotte's nightlife by visiting bars, clubs, or lounges in Uptown. Check out places like Slate Charlotte or The Imperial for live music and cocktails.

Day 2: Cultural and Outdoor Exploration

Morning:
  • Brunch at The Original Pancake House: Start your day with a hearty brunch at The Original Pancake House, known for its delicious pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast favorites.
  • Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: Explore the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, which houses a collection of mid-20th-century modern art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Giacometti.
Afternoon:
  • Freedom Park: Spend your afternoon relaxing at Freedom Park. This expansive park offers walking trails, scenic views, playgrounds, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor activities and leisure.
  • Charlotte Museum of History: Dive into Charlotte's rich history at the Charlotte Museum of History. Explore exhibits highlighting the city's past, including its role in the Revolutionary War and Civil Rights Movement.
Evening:
  • Dinner at Plaza Midwood: Venture to Plaza Midwood, a hip neighborhood known for its eclectic dining scene. Choose from a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from Southern comfort food to international fare.
  • Barbecue and Brews: Charlotte is known for its barbecue, so be sure to sample some local favorites for dinner. Pair your meal with craft beers from one of the city's breweries, such as Birdsong Brewing Co. or NoDa Brewing Company.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:
  • Breakfast at Sunflour Baking Company: Enjoy breakfast at Sunflour Baking Company, known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches.
  • Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary: Explore the serene beauty of Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary. This hidden gem features lush gardens, tranquil walking paths, and a variety of bird species.
Afternoon:
  • Carowinds: Spend your afternoon at Carowinds, a premier amusement park located on the border of North and South Carolina. Enjoy thrilling rides, water attractions, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun.
  • Carolina Raptor Center: Discover North Carolina's native birds of prey at the Carolina Raptor Center. Explore exhibits featuring eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons, and learn about conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
Evening:
  • Farewell Dinner at South End: Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner in South End, a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant culinary scene. Choose from upscale restaurants, cozy cafes, or lively breweries to enjoy a memorable meal.
  • Stroll along the Rail Trail: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Rail Trail, a popular walking and biking path that runs through South End. Enjoy the city lights and urban art installations as you reflect on your Charlotte adventure.

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, dining options, and entertainment venues, ensuring a memorable and diverse visit to Charlotte, North Carolina.