A trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, is a visit to a city filled with Southern hospitality, charm, great architecture, and famous attractions. Known as the Queen City because it’s named after Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III, all visitors are sure to have an adventure here.
Staying within the city centre is the most convenient for a first-time visitor who plans to explore the main tourist attractions by foot. To follow are five experiences and attractions to check out.
Featured image via Flickr by James Willamor
Segway Experience
An ideal way to begin an adventure in any city is with an overview of the various neighbourhoods and streets. Hopping on a group Segway tour sounds like a fun, adventurous way to start. For about two hours, this tour by Queen City Segway guides you through sites in all four areas of the city. Included in the cost of the tour is all training and equipment, so don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a Segway before.
The Mint Museum
Image via Flickr by James Willamor
Don’t be confused. The Mint Museum is an art museum, not a coin repository, although it does have an extensive collection of gold coins in its collection. This art gallery got its name because the original building was the first branch of the U.S. Mint. In 1936 the building transformed to become the Mint Museum of Art.
With two locations to explore — the Mint Museum Uptown and the original U.S. Mint site, Mint Museum Randolph — the museum offers free shuttle service for easy access between the two. As the oldest art museum in North Carolina, the collection is expansive, featuring exhibits that showcase Native American art, Modern and Contemporary art, American art, Decorative arts, and even fashion, jewelry, and furniture.
Tour de Food Charlotte
My stomach is always hungry for a food adventure in a new city. What better way to see what Charlotte has to offer than by taking a local food tour? Tour de Food Charlotte offers three tours to fill your belly in Uptown, the Historic South End, and the North Davidson Art District. Arrive hungry and be ready for lots of walking!
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Image via Flickr by David Berkowitz
Located in the Uptown area of Charlotte, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing or NASCAR Hall of Fame is a great pit stop if you’re a fan of fast cars and racing. This four-storey museum to the sport profiles the history, cars, and drivers that make NASCAR one of the most popular sports in America. With lots of interactive exhibits, films, and cars on display, there’s a lot to see and do. If you have the need for speed, go for a test drive in one of the racecar simulators and try your hand at being part of the pit crew.
Carolina History and Haunts Ghost Tour
Image via Flickr by C Griffith
It’s time to explore the paranormal side of Charlotte now with a scary ghost story. This 90-minute historical walking tour from Carolina History and Haunts takes participants beyond the grave through the landmarks of the city. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your courage with you.
