Charlotte Local Guide and Deals

From the historic downtown business district to the waters of Lake Norman, there are many adventures and sights waiting to be discovered in Charlotte. A comprehensive Charlotte guide would always include its native attractions.

A list of Charlotte’s things to do must include its ample shopping opportunities. Northlake Mall houses 150 shops, stores, and restaurants, including Charlotte’s own Belk department store, Macy’s, and Dillard’s, in addition to Coach, Bebe, and Fossil. SouthPark Mall houses tony Louis Vuitton and Burberry shops, as well as mainstream retail stores. The summer months bring the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra to SouthPark’s outdoor amphitheater, performing a free concert series. For an alternative shopping experience, Ballantyne Village features boutiques surrounding a brick courtyard. Open-air cafes serve shoppers taking a breather from seeking everything from wines to lingerie.

Charlotte deals can be found at the flea markets and farmers’ markets, offering unique items and the freshest produce. The Sweet Union Flea Market is one of the largest, with over 300 vendors. Near the Charlotte airport is the year-round Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, which also houses a “craft barn” that sells handmade wares during the summer season.

If outdoor recreation is appealing, the Lake Norman region provides fishing, golf, and boating. The largest man-made lake in the Carolinas, Lake Norman comes alive at night with its many pubs, restaurants, and clubs. Fifteen minutes from uptown Charlotte is Carowinds, known for its Carolina Cyclone, a roller coaster providing 360-degree loops and a 450-degree incline. Carowinds also has a waterpark on the property, with combined discount deals available.

Any guide to Charlotte should mention the Charlotte Motor Speedway, boasting events from NASCAR to lawnmower racing. In addition, Verizon Amphitheater and Time Warner Cable Arena offer performances for all ages and interests. Each have complete schedule and ticket information on their websites. There’s an abundance of things to do in Charlotte. Enjoy what this city has to offer!