Myers Park is a beautifully landscaped neighborhood to the south of Charlotte, and filled with historic homes, educational museums, and one of the longest standing theatres in the state. Not only do you not have to take a long-haul roadtrip to find beautiful gardens, but also can enjoy dipping your toes into historical haunts.
Historical Homes and Gardens
Built in 1915 by James Buchanan Duke, the Duke Mansion is a perfect example of revival architecture. While the historic home currently operates as a nonprofit, the Duke Mansion is the originator of household names like Duke Energy, Duke University, and the Duke Endowment.
Located at 348 Ridgewood Avenue, Elizabeth Lawrence House and Garden was the creation of the first ever female graduate of what is now North Carolina State University. Today, the garden is recognized as part of the Smithsonian’s Archive of American Gardens, and is open to the public. Just 10 houses down, on the same side of the street from this celebrated garden is another wildlife refuge, the Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary, at 260 Ridgewood Avenue. Wing Haven is ideally suited for children or adults looking to seek solace from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Museums and Education
Myers Park is also home to some of the best museums that Charlotte has to offer. Of course, The Mint Museum, located in what was an original branch of the United States Mint, this museum is a cultural icon of the city of Charlotte and simply can’t be missed. Located on Sterling Road is Discovery Place: Nature is the perfect museum to take the whole family to. Your child can learn about the animals in their backyard with Creature Cavern, or explore the collection of live insects.
Entertainment and Eateries
Myers Park also hosts one of the oldest theatres in the state, Theatre Charlotte. This 93-year old theatre has been located in the historic district of Myers Park since 1941, debuting its first production at this location with “George Washington Slept Here.” This historic theatre has had over 400 main stage productions, including during the Depression and throughout World War II.
There are a variety of dining options in Myers Park, and to list them all would be overwhelming. However, the Selwyn Avenue Pub, which offers a more casual dining experience, has been open for over 30 years, so be sure to check out their offerings. Petit Philippe, offers a multitude of services to those who want to indulge a little bit. From wine storage, custom-made artisanal chocolates, to wine cellar consulting, this Petit Philippe is the destination for amateur sommeliers and chocolate lovers.
These aren’t the only restaurants in Myers Park, of course! While these restaurants may be on the border of Myers Park and another neighborhood, they make the cut for us. For the traditional steakhouse experience, try Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. While this is located on the very southern edge of the Myers Park neighborhood, it’s definitely worth the trip for hand cut, aged meats or fresh seafood. Nextdoor to Firebirds is Yafo Kitchen, a fast casual Mediterranean restaurant that offers fresh-made breads, spreads, and shawarma. If you’re craving something sweet, Golden Cow Creamery has you covered; they create small batch ice creams using high quality ingredients based on everything from candies to comfort food.
littleSpoon is an unconventional eatery that isn’t ashamed to be exactly what it is. With an instagram friendly menu, littleSpoon is the perfect spot for mimosas and brunch. Finally, there is Clean Juice, which is less of a juice spot and more of a lifestyle choice. The juice bar offers salads, juice shots, smoothie bowls, and much more.
Shopping
Located on Morrison Street is B.D Jeffries, a purveyor that offers luxury gifts for men and women, as well as curating various pieces of furniture for their clients’ needs. B.D Jeffries also coordinates with bridal parties for bridesmaids gifts and registries, so this store truly can serve as a one-stop shop. Opened in 2008, Boem is designed to make customers feel at home while still offering the best there is to offer in Bohemian fashion–Free People, Daydreamer, the Gypsy Collective, and more!
Finally, if you’re looking for premier pet nutrition, 4 Paws Holistic is the place for you. This pet store was created on a mission to make safe, delicious food for the founder’s new cat, Angie. But because he couldn’t keep the secret to himself, he opened a store to share the good food vibes with every pet in the Charlotte area!
words by: Elizabeth Salerno
