There is a huge choice of things to do in Charlotte. It’s a city that’s on the rise, and has become a popular vacation destination.

Here are 10 fun things to do in Charlotte:

1.  Get Your Adventure Streak On At The US National Whitewater Center

At the US National Whitewater Center, you can go whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, biking, climbing, or zip-lining.  They often have concerts and other special events like the A Shot in the Dark Night Race.  It’s a perfect place for those who like to be outdoors and active.

2.  Have An Adrenaline Rush At Carowinds Amusement Park

Carowinds Amusement Park has over 50 rides, shows and attractions, including 13 world-class roller coasters, like the Intimidator which is the tallest, fastest, longest coaster in the Southeast.  There’s also a 12-acre children’s area which includes Planet Snoopy and Dinosaurs Alive for the kids.

3. Eat At A Food Truck

photo credit: Susan NYC via photopin cc

The food truck scene has definitely caught on in Charlotte.  Some of the local favorites are Comfort Food on Wheels which serves chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits and Boone’s Bar-B-Que for its smoked pork, ribs, wings, brisket, and smoked sausage. Don’t miss Food Truck Friday where many food trucks gather at the corner of Camden Road and Park Avenue in historic South End from 5-9 pm.

4.  Take The Kids To ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center

ImaginOn is a collaborative venture of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. The library has a Saturday morning story hour, educational exhibits, and a children’s theater.  It’s easy to reach by light rail or car and admission is free.

5.  Get Soaked At Ray’s Splash Planet

Ray’s Splash Planet is a 29,000-square-foot indoor water park and fitness facility. The water park has a double figure-eight water slide, water squirters, a lazy river and tumble buckets.  The fitness area has an aerobic & dance room, cardiovascular theater, free weights and resistance equipment.

6.  Reconnect With Nature At The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

It is located on almost 400 acres on the banks of Lake Wylie. You can enjoy beautiful gardens, stunning fountains, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a visitor pavilion, gift shop, and a nature walk trail.

7.  Enjoy The Art At The Mint Museum

The Mint Museum is filled with classical and modern art. They have two locations, the Mint Museum Uptown and the Mint Museum Randolph. They have wonderful exhibits and fun events such as oyster roasts and Sunday Fun Days.

8.  Let Your Imagination Soar At The Carolinas Aviation Museum

Visit the home of USAirways Flight 1549, the “Miracle on the Hudson”, the historical Piedmont Airlines DC-3, and many other types of military and private airplanes. Their collection of aircraft, helicopters, equipment, gadgets and printed material covers years of aviation history and accomplishments.  It’s a great museum for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and kids.

9.  Enjoy A Night Of Entertainment At The North Carolina Music Factory

The North Carolina Music Factory is a complex of music and comedy venues, bars, and restaurants. It’s your one stop shop for concerts, comedy, drinks, dinner and a good time with friends. There is the Amphitheater for outdoor shows, the Filmore for indoor shows, and plenty of food and drink options.

10. Race Each Other At The Speedpark

Enjoy four go-kart tracks, monster truck rides, mini golf, a 110 foot fun slide, and ice-skating during the holiday season. This is a fun park and offers something for all ages.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Charlotte, and it’s a great place to bring the whole family. Have you been? What are your favorite things to do in Charlotte? Let me know in the comments below!

Featured photo credit: James Willamor via photopin cc