Charlotte is known for its business prowess as the second-largest financial center in the United States (second to New York City), but even for the avid traveler, you’re spoiled for choice for much-needed rest and relaxation. Charlotte has unique attractions not found in any other state including the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the United States National Whitewater Center. Take a look at some of these other attractions to help you discover Charlotte.
norman lake
If you like the outdoors, Lake Norman is perfect for you! It has much to offer including boating, swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. If you time it right, you might as well catch one of the many yacht races held on the lake that showcases 500 miles of shoreline and 50 square miles of watering hole fun. Gather your friends and family, and you can even spend a weekend camping on the beautiful grounds!
NASCAR speed park
Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines! Head over to the NASCAR Speed Park in Concord, NC, where it offers high-speed entertainment for all ages. It is the official amusement park of NASCAR featuring race tracks, a state-of-the-art interactive arcade, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and games appropriate for children and adults. Check out their passes on the website, group discounts and other great deals!
NASCAR hall of fame
Located in Charlotte, NC, invoke your senses with the exhilaration of going from 0-60 Mph in approximately 2 seconds. You can also take a moment to imagine what it would be like to drive that kind of speed when you visit the sanctuary of the sport of racing. The building itself is a sight to see, being 150,000 square feet and providing a great interactive experience. History comes alive with memories dating back to the days of prohibition. Make sure you run to the store and buy official NASCAR gear.
rays, splash, planet
Need a break from the heat of the race car or the sun? Head over to Rays Splash Planet and take a dip in the lazy river, slide down the water slides, or take a refreshing swim. If you don’t want to get wet, check out the different games and crafts available to complete the day. Located in Charlotte, NC, this year-round indoor facility is sure to be a great stop for everyone to enjoy.
lazy ranch 5
Come see Luther the friendly rhino and some 750 of his friends from around the world at this 3.5-mile-long animal park. Located in Mooresville, NC Lazy 5 Ranch offers animal fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to take your camera when driving through the park, as the animals don’t carry a script and do some of the most “wild” things. One cool feature here is that you can choose to take a horse-drawn open wagon through the ranch. Yee haw!
Shelton Vineyards
Grab some grapes and enjoy the day at Shelton Vineyards. Located in Dobson, NC, Shelton Vineyards is the largest family owned vineyard in North Carolina. The beautifully landscaped vineyard offers tours, a picnic area, and a tasting bar. Concerts, festivals and other various events are held throughout the year. Shelton Vineyards gives us a great way to get a taste of locally grown wines. They also have a Hampton Inn & Suites on the property for your convenience.
Latta Equestrian Center
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends and family, or with your partner, it’s always nice to be able to get away from city life and enjoy some good old fashioned horse riding. Located in Huntersville, NC, Latta Equestrian Center offers a different experience from your usual activities and features manicured grounds, lighted arenas, guided trail rides and pony rides for the little ones.
discovery place
Explore! Take a tour of larger-than-life experiences through interactive science lab stations, a mind-bending 3-D theater, a deep-sea aquarium, and other diverse shows—just a few of Discovery Place’s offerings. Located in Charlotte, Discovery Place will provide a great experience for all ages combining fun and education at the same time. What more could you want!?
phillips place
Located in the heart of Charlotte, Phillips Place offers a variety of shops and restaurants providing the opportunity to experience upscale dining and retail along a leisurely stroll. Find a perfect gift for your loved one or treat yourself to something nice! Come fall in love with the beauty that Phillips Place has to offer!
