Charlotte, North Carolina is a city that certainly has a lot to offer families with children, especially when it comes to the most fun of activities. In fact, this city offers more than most metro areas in the Southeast. There are plenty of things to do with kids in Charlotte, from amusement parks to sporting events, so read our list, and then get out there and explore the Queen City!
Here are some of the top things to do with kids in Charlotte NC!
Head to Carowinds
Carowinds in Charlotte NC, is a thrilling amusement park that offers something for everyone. The 407-acre amusement park provides a campground-style resort named Carowinds Camp Wilderness for a “stay and play” family experience, and it is located 15 minutes southwest of Charlotte Uptown.
Additionally, with over 60 rides, including 14 roller coasters, it is perfect for adrenaline junkies. First off, there are plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. Take the chance to visit this exciting destination and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. It is one of the most-recommended things to do with kids in Charlotte NC.
See The Panthers Play
It is a great way to expose kids to football’s thrills by taking them to see Carolina Panthers play in Charlotte. Because there are various dining options and kid-friendly activities, Bank of America Stadium offers a welcoming atmosphere for families. Plus, kids will certainly cherish the memory of watching the Panthers play in person for years to come. This is one of the top things to do in Charlotte NC.
Next, You Can Go See Charlotte FC Play
Another excellent way to introduce kids to professional soccer is to take them to a Charlotte FC game in Charlotte, North Carolina. Bank of America Stadium, the team’s home field, provides a lively and welcoming atmosphere with fantastic views and food options. And, kids will enjoy and remember watching the team play live.
Attend a Knights Baseball Game
Attending a Knights baseball game in Charlotte, NC, can be a fun and exciting activity for kids. The team’s home stadium, Truist Field, offers a family-friendly environment with plenty of food options and activities for children. Next, kids get to enjoy the breathtaking views of Uptown while watching a game inside the ballpark.
Head to a Hornets Game
Want more sports? Kids can certainly have a fantastic time at a Charlotte Hornets game in Charlotte, NC. The team’s home stadium, Spectrum Center, provides a lively and family-friendly atmosphere with tasty food choices and entertaining activities for kids. Kids will have an exciting experience supporting the Hornets and watching their favorite basketball stars in action.
Or, Explore Anne Springs Close Greenway
Charlotte, North Carolina’s Anne Springs Close Greenway is a fantastic spot for kids to discover nature and have fun outside. Firstly, there are also several options for biking, hiking, fishing for seafood, and pony trekking on the 2,100 acres of forests, lakes, and trails. Finally, the Greenway also provides educational events and programs for kids of all ages.
Mini Beach at Ramsey State Park
Children can have a little beach experience at Ramsey Creek Beach in Lake Norman State Park in Charlotte. Because the park has a sandy beach area with crystal-clear seas, there are lots of room to play and swim. Additionally, Ramsey Creek Beach is a beautiful destination for families to spend a fun-filled day with games and picnicking, thanks to its hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic sites.
Mini Beach at Lake Norman State Park
From there, an ideal spot for kids is Ramsey Creek’s little beach near Charlotte, North Carolina’s Lake Norman State Park. In the shallow lake waters, the sandy beach area is perfect for swimming and playing. A park is certainly a great option for a fun-filled family day in nature because of the picnic sites, hiking and bike routes, fishing holes, and playgrounds.
Frankie’s Fun Park
Frankie’s Fun Park in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an absolute blast for kids of all ages. Firstly, this exciting venue boasts a variety of activities sure to satisfy even the most adventurous spirits. Secondly, whether you are looking to race around the track in a go-kart, test your aim in laser tag, or get soaked on the bumper boats, there is something for everyone at Frankie’s. No wonder it is one of the top-fun things to do with kids Charlotte NC.
Reed Gold Mine
Reed Gold Mine is an excellent destination for kids in Charlotte. Firstly, children can enjoy panning for gold and keep any treasures they find. Secondly, they can also explore the underground tunnels and learn about the history of gold mining in North Carolina. Plus, the museum within has interactive exhibits, including a virtual tour of a mine, and the restored stamp mill is a fascinating display of how gold was extracted from the ore.
Discovery Place Science
Discovery Place Science is a dynamic and engaging museum in Charlotte, NC that provides a fantastic opportunity for children to delve into the exciting world of science. With interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live demonstrations, kids can engage with STEM concepts in a fun and educational way.
Additionally, the museum offers a variety of special exhibits, workshops, and programs that are certainly suitable for children of all ages. Discovery Place Science is the best destination if your child is interested in exploring space or learning about the human body.
Go Have a Picnic at Freedom Park
An ideal spot to spend a picnic with your kids is Freedom Park in Charlotte, NC. Firstly, kids can play on the playground, run around the open fields, and feed the ducks at the pond, among other things, to keep themselves entertained. Also, explore the lake by renting a paddleboat or taking a stroll on the walking pathways.
Charlotte Museum of History
Next, taking your kids to the Charlotte Museum of History can be a great family day excursion. They can discover the city’s rich past through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities. Plus, you can explore historic houses, gardens, and farmland on the museum grounds. Children can also participate in seminars and educational programs that encourage learning through play.
A Sweet Treat at Ninety’s Milkshake Bar
Afterwards, if you are craving for something sweet in Charlotte, NC, head to Ninety’s Milkshake Bar! This vibrant and fun milkshake bar offers an impressive selection of mouth-watering treats that will satisfy every family member’s sweet tooth. There is something for everyone because of the menus of classic shakes to creative and decadent concoctions. Plus, the ambiance is perfect for an Instagram-worthy family photo op!
Have a Hot Dog at JJ’s Red Hots
If you’re in the mood for savory not sweet, JJs is where it’s at. For a family-friendly restaurant in Charlotte, NC that offers a delicious and exciting meal, you must visit JJ’s Red Hots! Because there’s a wide variety of hot dogs and sausages on the menu, including vegetarian options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the retro decor and lively atmosphere will keep kids entertained and engaged throughout the meal.
NASCAR Hall of Fame
If you are looking for a fun day out with the kids in Charlotte, NC, look no further than the NASCAR Hall of Fame! Firstly, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, kids of all ages will certainly love learning about the history of NASCAR and exploring the sport’s exciting world. Also, from racing simulators to a pit crew challenge, this unique attraction has something for everyone. In short, it is one of the top things to do in Charlotte.
Carrigan Farms
Next, Carrigan Farms in Charlotte, NC, is a fantastic destination for families with kids. There is plenty to keep your little ones entertained, from exploring the scenic farmland to picking fresh fruits and veggies. Plus, kids can also learn about farm life while feeding the animals, playing in the hay, and taking tractor rides. Don’t forget to stop by the famous quarry, where you can swim, jump off cliffs, and even scuba dive!
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
At Children’s Theatre, various shows and events are geared toward kids of all ages, the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte can entertain your little ones well. From interactive performances to behind-the-scenes tours, the Children’s Theatre is the perfect place to spark your child’s imagination and create lasting memories.
Schiele Museum of Natural History
If you are looking for some fun and educational activities with your kids in Charlotte, visit the Schiele Museum of Natural History! In short, the place will fascinate and engage children of all ages with exhibits on everything from prehistoric creatures to local wildlife. Also, check out the planetarium, take a nature walk, or participate in one of the many hands-on programs designed to spark your child’s curiosity and love of learning.
SkyZone Trampoline Park Charlotte NC
SkyZone Trampoline Park offers a fun and exhilarating experience for people of all ages. Firstly, the park features a variety of trampoline-based activities, including dodgeball, basketball and open jump areas. Secondly, visitors can also enjoy special events such as glow-in-the-dark jumping and fitness classes. Because SkyZone offers a safe environment with trained staff members and strict safety rules, you’ll ensure a fun and worry-free experience. It is one of the top fun things to do Charlotte NC.
US Whitewater Center
Your entire family can certainly have a good time at the US Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC, while kids learn about the world. Activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing will keep the whole family engaged. Plus, they also have hiking paths, ropes courses, and ziplining. There is a playground, splash pad, and mini-golf for smaller kids.
Sea Life Aquarium
Sea Life Aquarium in Charlotte, NC, is a fantastic place for families with kids. The aquarium boasts a variety of exhibits, including a stunning underwater tunnel and interactive touch tanks. Also, kids can get up close and personal with sea creatures like sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Charlotte Checkers Hockey Game
Charlotte offers many activities to do with kids, and attending a Charlotte Checkers hockey game is an experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is electric, from cheering on the team to enjoying tasty snacks. Plus, kids will love the interactive games and activities throughout their stay. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the team mascot! With an exciting game and plenty of entertainment, the Charlotte Checkers hockey game is a fun-filled adventure for the whole family.
Finally, there’s Victory Lane Carting
Are you looking for a thrilling adventure with your kids in Charlotte, NC? Head over to Victory Lane Karting and experience the rush of indoor go-kart racing. But that is not all, as plenty of other family-friendly activities are available, including laser tag, mini-golf, and arcade games. Refuel at the on-site restaurant serving delicious pizzas, burgers, and more.
To sum it all up:
Charlotte, NC, has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained. From exploring interactive museum with hands-on exhibits to learning about local wildlife to ziplining, kayaking, and hiking for outdoor fun, Charlotte has everything for kids and you.
