Now is a perfect opportunity to take in some of what nature has to offer and get out of the house by exploring the best parks in Charlotte. In all directions, the Queen City has some of the most beautiful parks to enjoy with plenty of activities to partake in, including various trails, playgrounds, and courts.
Take a much-needed breather by visiting these Charlotte area parks.
Freedom Park
Spanning over 98 acres, there is no shortage of things to do within Freedom Park. Probably what is most stunning is the seven-acre lake the park is centered around. Just some of what the park includes are walking trails and paths, 12 tennis courts, a full-court basketball court, a demonstration garden, and an NFL Play 60 KidZone. This is one of the most spacious Charlotte area parks.
Where it is located: 1908 East Boulevard, about 10 minutes from Uptown.
Entry cost: Free
First Ward Park
Located in the middle of bustling Uptown, First Ward Park was built after a national competition won by Shadley Associates. The park has over four acres and is known to bring free live performances during the summer months. While you are welcome to bring your own picnic, there are plenty of food vendors surrounding the park to choose from.
Where it is located: 301 E. 7th Street
Entry cost: Free
Rankin Lake Park
Gastonia’s Rankin Lake Park has, in addition to paths, various water activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. If you’d rather stay on land, the park has a 1.6-mile trail, an 18-hole disc golf course, and two corn hole courts. Wildlife is also abundant, with turtles, ducks, and great blue herons frequently seen.
Where it is located: Gastonia, North Carolina, about 30 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free, $2 for fishing. $1 for individuals 15 and under and 70 and older.
Squirrel Lake Park
If you’re looking for a perfect park for the kids, this park is it. With over 35 acres, Squirrel park has something for every member of your family, with beautiful walking trails, a playground, a pond, and two shelters for gatherings.
Where it is located: Matthews, North Carolina, about 30 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free
Veterans Memorial Park
Nestled right in the Plaza Midwood area, Veterans Memorial Parks provides tranquility amidst this neighborhood best known for its nightlife. What’s probably most exciting to experience in this park is its sprayground, a water-themed playground for kids. The park also has a tennis, volleyball, and basketball court.
Where it is located: Plaza-Midwood, just 10 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free
North Mecklenburg Park
If you’re particularly sporty, there are a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Huntersville’s 98 acre North Mecklenburg Park, including a soccer and baseball field, basketball court, mountain biking trails, and six tennis courts. What might be a challenge is choosing what to do.
Where it is located: Huntersville, North Carolina, about 20 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free
Cherry Park
Though it’s known as Rock Hill’s premier baseball and softball facility, having been inducted into the National Softball Association, this park isn’t just known for its athletics. It features a 1.5-mile trail along with a playground and multipurpose field. Athletic programs are also held for both youth and adults.
Where it is located: Rock Hill, South Carolina, about 30 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free
Romare Bearden Park
Named after the renowned Charlotte artist Romare Bearden, this park in Uptown exudes artistry, with its stunning architecture and design. Throughout the year the park also hosts various cultural arts and fitness programs.
Where it is located: 300 S. Church Street
Entry cost: Free
McAlpine Creek Park
Boasting over 114 acres, McAlpine Creek Park is a spacious park with plenty to do. Among the amenities offered are a 1.5-mile nature trail, a two-mile bike trail, a 5k Championship Cross Country Course, and a three-acre lake.
Where it is located: 8711 Monroe Rd, just 20 minutes from Uptown.
Entry cost: Free
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Since its establishment in 1995, Anne Springs Close Greenway is dedicated to providing a quality outdoor experience for its guests. With its hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, biking trails, and community garden, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Where it is located: Fort Mill, South Carolina, about 20 minutes from Uptown.
Entry cost: $6 per person, $4 for youth ages 5-12
Marshall Park
A perfect place for events and gatherings, Marshall Park in Uptown features a small amphitheater used for community events. Named after a Charlotte city manager, James B. Marshall, the park spans six and a half acres and includes a reflecting pond and fountain.
Where is it located: 800 E. 3rd Street
Entry cost: Free
Latta Park
Located in the historic neighborhood of Dilworth, Latta Park includes walking and fitness trails, a sprayground, recreation center, and picnic shelter. With over 32 acres to enjoy, there are also multiple athletic courts, including basketball, tennis, volleyball, and three soccer fields.
Where is it located: 601 E. Park Ave, just 10 minutes from Uptown
Entry cost: Free
Frazier Park
An urban park in Charlotte’s Third Ward, the park still manages to provide enough space for activities in the city. Key features of the park include a community garden that is available to rent and the Our Children’s Memorial Walkway, created to honor the lives of children who have passed.
Where is it located: 1201 West Fourth Street Ext.
Entry cost: Free
Thomas Polk Park
Though small, Thomas Polk is nothing short of a beautiful sanctuary. As Charlotte area parks go, this is a gem. It features a gorgeous 30-foot cascading waterfall fountain, a raised map depicting the 1780 Battle of Charlotte, and granite pillars that stand 25 feet high.
Where is it located: 105 N. Tryon Street
Entry cost: Free
Roosevelt Wilson Park
This waterfront park is great for a family outing and includes a playground, boardwalks, walking trails, and memorial tree garden. Pack a lunch and settle in by this park’s large pond and fountain.
Where is it located: Davidson, North Carolina, about 20 minutes from Uptown.
Entry cost: Free
Find a new one to explore each week, and fully enjoy the parks in Charlotte for yourself.
