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NoDa Arts District
NoDa is Charlotte’s popular arts district. The name stands for “North Davidson,” the street that makes up the heart of this bustling community. Stroll through the shops and galleries, enjoy the murals and public art, then enjoy woodfired pizzas and a fruit-forward beer at Salud Cerveceria.
The Chamber by Wooden Robot
The fun continues with craft beers at The Chamber by Wooden Robot or Growlers Pourhouse, both offering top-notch local brews. If you're bringing your four-legged friend, head to The Dog Bar, a dog-friendly spot with an outdoor patio. Music lovers should check out live performances at Evening Muse or Neighborhood Theatre for an intimate concert experience.
Mint Museum Randolph
It’s time to museum hop, and there’s no better place to start than the Mint Museum Randolph, which became North Carolina’s first art museum when it opened to the public in 1936. The building actually served as the first branch of the United States Mint, coining $5 million in gold between 1836 and the outbreak of the Civil War. Today, the museum hosts a rich and diverse collection of art, ceramics, photography and much more.
Mert’s Heart and Soul
Head Uptown for a soul food feast at Mert’s Heart and Soul, known for its shrimp and grits, fried chicken and warm cornbread. This local favorite is a must-try for anyone craving classic Southern flavors.
Discovery Place Science
Spend the afternoon exploring Discovery Place Science, where you can explore physics, rainforests, oceans and more in one of the country’s top interactive museums. While you’re here, be sure to take in a movie at the IMAX Dome Theatre for a truly amazing experience.
Levine Center for the Arts
Finally, head to the Levine Center for the Arts, where three museums occupy one culture-rich city block. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is easy to spot. The 17-foot-high Firebird, a Niki de Saint Phalle sculpture glittering with mirrored tiles, guards the entrance. Inside, three floors hold some 1,500 works by modern masters like Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso. Next door is the sleek Mint Museum Uptown, where Summer Wheat’s Foragers inspires awe. Four-story-high vinyl panels glow like stained glass, filling the atrium’s 96 windows. Pro tips: Even without an admission ticket, you can dine at chic Mariposa or browse the museum store, and entry is free Wednesday evenings.
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture showcases the cultural achievements of African American artists like Romare Bearden and Jacob Lawrence.
Spectrum Center
When it’s time to wind down, you’re in the right place. Uptown Charlotte has dozens of bars and restaurants to choose from for your evening activities, ranging from laid-back wine bars to lively dance clubs to authentic Irish pubs. With a little planning, you’ll be able to catch a performance at one of the diverse Blumenthal Performing Arts venues, or perhaps a big-name concert or professional sporting event at the Spectrum Center.
Billy Graham Library
He was a pastor to millions and an advisor to eight presidents. Now, the late Billy Graham’s legacy is preserved for future generations at the Billy Graham Library on the southwest side of Charlotte. The $27 million facility is designed to resemble a dairy barn and chronicles the life of “America’s Pastor,” from his boyhood days in rural North Carolina to preaching in the world’s largest stadiums and arenas.
President James K. Polk State Historic Site
Or head to Pineville for a visit to the birthplace of the 11th US president, James K. Polk. Located on a portion of the land that was once part of the 150-acre Polk family farm, the President James K. Polk State Historic Site includes a reconstructed log cabin with furnishings of the time period, visitors center with exhibits on the life of President Polk and a picnic area.
US National Whitewater Center
Up for adventure? Make your way to the US National Whitewater Center, where a hearty lunch at the on-site River’s Edge Bar and Grill will fuel your adventures at this outdoor recreation center. Zip lines, activity courses, rock climbing, kayaking and rafting on the world’s largest man-made whitewater river are all located on 1,300 acres of beautiful NC land, and they invite nature novices and Olympic-caliber athletes alike to get outside and play. If you're more interested in relaxing, spread out a blanket and park up for River Jam — rafters float by, zip liners whiz above and live music takes the outdoor stage. River Jam takes place for free (but parking is $12 per car) Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from May through September.
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
Or slow it down at the Daniel Stowe Conservancy, named one of the nation’s “20 Great Gardens” by HGTV. The Garden features 110 acres of themed plant life, including the Orchid Conservatory, which is the only glass house in the Carolinas dedicated to the display of orchids and tropical plants.
Snapshot Module
Your trip at a glance
Stop 1
NoDa Arts District
Stop 2
The Chamber by Wooden Robot
Stop 3
Mint Museum Randolph
Stop 4
Mert’s Heart and Soul
Stop 5
Discovery Place Science
Stop 6
Levine Center for the Arts
Stop 7
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture
Stop 8
Spectrum Center
Stop 9
Billy Graham Library
Stop 10
President James K. Polk State Historic Site
Stop 11
US National Whitewater Center
Stop 12