It’s been nearly 2 years since we moved to Charlotte. I really can’t believe that, can you?! One of my favorite parts about moving so often, is getting to experience so many awesome cities. In the past couple years, I’ve had the chance to eat, drink, shop and play a lot here in Charlotte. There is so much that I love and today, I’m sharing my favorite spots with you!
Charlotte Premium Outlets
5404 New Fashion Way, Charlotte, North Carolina 28278
New to Charlotte, this outdoor outlet mall offers a beautiful setting for shopping. You’ll find string lights and cozy seating areas scattered throughout the 100+ outlet stores. Kate Spade New York, White House Black Market, Under Armour and Vera Bradley are just a few favorites.
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
1801 Yorkmont Road, Charlotte, North Carolina 28266
While this place bustles in the spring and summer, it’s still open in the winter! Local farmers bring fruits and vegetables, meats, flowers and much more to this market, run by the North Carolina department of agriculture.
7th Street Public Market
224 E 7th St Charlotte, North Carolina, 28202
From sushi to coffee, fresh juices and meats, there’s a little bit of everything at the 7th Street Public Market. Stop in for lunch, coffee, or a locally brewed beer. Park in the attached parking garage and have your parking ticket validated!
Swoozies
SouthPark Mall
4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte, North Carolina 28211
This mall is full of high end retailers, along with all your everyday favorites. A new children’s play area and great restaurants make it a great spot with something for everyone.
Not Just Coffee
224 E 7th St Charlotte, North Carolina, 28202
Known for their amazing pour over coffee, this place is truly dedicated to making the perfect cup of joe. With 2 locations, one in the 7th Street Public Market and one in the Atherton Mill Market, you’re never too far from the most talented baristas in Charlotte. Bring your camera, because you won’t want to miss the gorgeous latte art that comes on top of your drink.
Food Truck Friday
Corner of Camden Road and Park Ave., Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
You can find food trucks in different places all over Charlotte, but to taste the best in meals on wheels? You must go to Food Truck Friday. Every Friday, between 5-9pm, head to the corner of Camden Road and Park Avenue for a food truck experience like no other. Bring your chairs and blankets and plan to taste from all the different trucks there, which change weekly.
Vida Cantina
210 East Trade Street, Suite 104A, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
Conveniently located in the EpiCentre, Vida Cantina has amazing Mexican food and a fun atmosphere. Grab your friends to watch the game from the bar area, or join them for their delicious weekend brunch. It would be a shame if you missed their homemade guacamole, or Dulce De Leche Cheesecake.
Enso
210 East Trade Street, Suite A-108, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
Another EpiCentre restaurant, Enso offers an elegant atmosphere, perfect for a date night or work dinner. They offer a large sushi menu, as well as other asian dishes, Happy Hour specials and a live DJ every Friday night.
Tupelo Honey
1820 South Blvd., Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
Their saying “Southern Food is Good For the Soul” couldn’t be more accurate. This place is comfort food to the max. To start, they’ll bring you out their homemade biscuits and honey and you shouldn’t pass up ordering some fried okra. They offer lunch and dinner daily, as well as weekend brunch.
131 Main
1315 East Blvd., Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
Located in the Dilworth area of Charlotte, this restaurant defines fresh food. Operating without freezers, means all the food they serve is as fresh as possible. They have great variety on their menu, from Crab Cakes and Shrimp and Grits, to Filet Mignon and Classic Burgers.
ImaginOn
300 East Seventh St., Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
ImaginOn is a library, but so much more. You’ll find a huge selection of books, with special sections for different age groups. There’s also a Children’s theater, where you can see age appropriate productions as well as theater classes where kids can learn from the pros!
U.S. National Whitewater Center
5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, North Carolina 28214
The fun doesn’t stop with whitewater rafting here! Enjoy zip lining, trail walks, ropes courses and rock climbing in addition to rafting and paddle boarding! Adventure not your thing? Relax with a cold one in the bar & grill, while watching your friends paddle down the river. In the summer, you can hear a wide variety of live bands in the River Jam concert series.
BB&T Ballpark
324 South Mint Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
The Charlotte Knights are the AAA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and play at the new BB&T Ballpark. With beautiful views of the city and it’s convenient location, the ballpark was just selected for the 2016 AAA All-Star Game. It’s a perfect place to take family or friends out to the ballgame.
Romare Bearden Park
300 S Church St, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
The park is 5.4 beautiful acres, sitting right outside the entrance of both BB&T Ballpark and Bank of America Stadium. With 2 gardens, a concession stand and plenty of room for kids and pets to roam, this park is a piece of solitude in the middle of a bustling city. Don’t miss Party in the Park; live music every Wednesday night from May-September.
EpiCentre
210 East Trade Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
If you’re looking for a one stop shop, the EpiCentre is the place to go. There are multiple restaurants, from casual to fine dining, a movie theater, bowling alley, night clubs and more. Many places offer outdoor seating and live music, making it a fun, inviting atmosphere.
Hyatt House
435 East Trade Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
Hyatt House Uptown is the perfect location to stay if you want to make the best out of your Charlotte trip. It’s right in the heart of the city; walking distance to several of the favorites I listed. Modern, clean decor and spacious rooms, give you a taste of luxury. From studio rooms to suites with full kitchens and a terrace, there’s a room for everyone. Having lived in hotels for extended periods of time, twice in my life, I can say Hyatt House is somewhere I would like to stay a while. Complementary breakfast (that includes an omelet bar!), fitness center, the H Bar, featuring a full bar and sip + savor menu, and a rooftop pool and terrace are just a few of the many amenities.
I think I need to move to North Carolina! Hopefully someday!