Whether you are visiting for the first time, looking to put roots down, or a long-standing local, there is an incredibly diverse array of options for your summer activities in Charlotte. Check out some of our favorites.
Our Favorite Summer Activities In Charlotte
Camp at Carowinds Amusement Park
Feel the wind rush across your face at the Carowinds amusement park. Home to 60 world-class rides and the Carolinas’ best waterpark, this adrenaline adventure includes an on-site hotel and campgrounds for day-round enjoyment.
Where: On the border of Charlotte and Fort Mill, South Carolina
Average cost: Daily tickets are currently $52 online
Website: carowinds.com
Lounge by the Lake Norman Shore
Ramsey Creek Beach, a 43-acre lakeside park, is the premier public-access swimming beach on Lake Norman. To see all Lake Norman has to offer, from boat rentals to seasonal events, head over to their website at visitlakenorman.org
Where: 30 minutes north of Charlotte
Average cost: $5-$10 per car
Website: visitlakenorman.org
Gear Up for Adventure at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
The Whitewater Center is your all-in-one location for outdoor summer fun in Charlotte. With activities ranging from whitewater rafting, ziplines, rock climbing, and summer camps for kids, you will never run out of new ways to explore the great outdoors. Check out USNWC’s year-round events such as the River Jam concert series and July fireworks at center.whitewater.org
Where: 20 mins east of Charlotte
Average cost: Day Passes are $75 for adults and $65 for kids under 18
Website: center.whitewater.org
Dine the City
All these activities will make you hungry, so be prepared to map out your favorite Charlotte eateries. Grab a patio dinner at Camp North End, enjoy a sunset dinner on a rooftop restaurant in the South End, or book a Pedal Pub ride through the Second Ward.
Where: All over Charlotte
Average cost: Charlotte has incredible options for every budget
Website: Here is a list of our favorite outdoor dining spots
Cheer for the Charlotte Knights
Take your fam to the ballgame. With 150 games each regular season, there are plenty of opportunities to root for the Charlotte Knights and watch the rising stars of the Triple-A affiliate team of the Chicago White Sox.
Where: 324 South Mint Street, Charlotte
Average cost: Tickets begin at $14
Website: milb.com
Catch a Concert
Although Charlotte’s other sports teams are off for the summer, the Panther’s Bank of America Stadium and the Hornet’s Spectrum Center play host to some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Likewise, smaller venues in the city offer a more intimate feel, leaving you with plenty of options for finding your favorite musical experience.
Where: All over Charlotte
Average cost: Tickets vary by venue
Website: charlottesgotalot.com
Enjoy a Day Together at the Ritz Carlton Spa
The kids are heading back to school, and you need to unwind before the summer ends. Why not treat yourself to the Ritz Carlton Spa? Choose from a variety of services in the chic Aqua Lounge, Relaxation Lounge, or Vitality Lounge to fully refresh from all your summer fun in Charlotte.
Where: 201 E Trade Street, Charlotte
Average cost: Spa offerings vary
Website: ritzcarlton.com
Short Getaways From Charlotte
Escape into the Mountains
Want to beat the heat like a true Charlottean? Escape to the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful mountain villa, the Blue Ridge Mountains boast some of North Carolina’s most scenic views.
Where: 30 minutes-1 hour outside of Charlotte
Average cost: Adventures are available for every budget
Website: Here are our favorite NC mountain getaways
Tour the Surrounding Vineyards
Looking for something a bit more sophisticated? With multiple vineyards within the Yadkin Valley terroir surrounding Charlotte, you can taste various local wines on a designated wine trail or embark on your own wine-tasting tour.
Where: 30 minutes-1 and a half hours outside of Charlotte
Average cost: Private tastings and guided tour pricing vary between each vineyard
Website: Peruse a list of our favorite Carolina wineries here
And if it rains, don’t worry: We’ve still got you covered!
