Headed to Charlotte and need to make some plans for the kids? Live in Charlotte and need to mix it up a bit? Here’s some must visit spots for you!
1. Discovery Place
301 N Tryon St
Discovery Place is a science and technology museum with plenty of hands on exhibits. There is an area specifically designed for kids ages 7 and under where they can learn by touching and trying things. There is also a Discovery Place Kids about 15 miles north of the city which is an entire hands on museum specifically for kids.
2. Charlotte Knights
324 S. Mint St
The Charlotte Knights are the AAA affiliate of the Chicago White Socks. There is a grass berm in on the first baseline that’s perfect for bringing a blanket and spreading out. That seating is first come first serve and ideal for wiggly little ones. Check the schedule for the frequent fireworks nights as well as days that kids are allowed to run the bases.
3. ImaginOn
300 E 7th St
A library that has a whole lot more than just books! There is also a theater with kid friendly performances. Check their website to see what fun, hands-on event they currently have.
4. Carolinas Aviation Museum
4672 1st Flight Dr
This museum is right next to the Charlotte airport, making it very easy to access. They have military planes and helicopters for you to explore as well as commercial aviation and some of the earliest built planes. Kids under 5 are admitted free.
5. Latta Plantation
5225 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC
The Latta Plantation is a step back in history. They offer daily tours, 35 special events each year, day camps, workshops and educational field trips. Take a hike, explore cotton growing process, and check out the numerous historic buildings on the 5 mile stretch of road. One popular events is the Revolutionary War reenactment over Labor Day weekend. Children under 5 are admitted free.
6. Lake Norman
At about 20 minutes north of the city, Lake Norman is worth the drive. Rent a boat, jet ski, or paddle boards and enjoy a day on the water. If you’re wanting to swim, head up to Lake Norman State Park, where you can use the public beach area for $5 a person.
7. Ray’s Splash Planet
215 N. Sycamore St
This indoor water park is actually part of Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation Department. With multiple water slides and a big pool area, this is a fun place to go year round! Bring your own towel and plan to grab lunch or a snack at Ray’s Snack Shack.
8. Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd
Just off the main highway lies Carowinds theme park, home to the worlds tallest and fastest giga coaster. If you and your kids are feeling adventurous, this is the place for you! The park has Planet Snoopy, with kid friendly rides as well as a water park portion for the hot, southern days.
9. Freedom Park
1900 East Blvd
98 acres, 2 playgrounds, 7 acre lake, 5 shelters with grills, baseball, tennis, basketball, soccer, volleyball. Is there anything else you’d like in a park? It also connects to Little Sugar Creek Greenway, one of Charlotte’s many paths for walking and biking. Freedom Park is a great place to relax and let your little ones burn off some energy.
10. Defy Gravity
8116 University City Blvd
This place is basically a massive indoor trampoline. Wether you want to just bounce, play dodgeball, basketball or take part in some serious ninja warrior type challenges, Defy Gravity has you covered. While it’s an absolute blast for parents as well, you can also sit in an upstairs viewing area and relax while watching your kids below.
If you’ve been to Charlotte, you’ve probably seen the transformation taking place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Along with the new look, they’re holding a fun contest! Take pictures and post them to social media with the #DesignCharlotte hashtag to be entered to win a grand prize giveaway!