Live it Up in Charlotte: a 3 Day Adventure

Experience Southern charm on a budget in Charlotte.

21 June 2023

Charlotte is an exciting city to visit on a limited budget. With plenty of affordable accommodation options, great food deals and free activities, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Be sure to check out the city's museums, parks and historical landmarks, and experience the vibrant cultural scene.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Get to Know Charlotte

  • Stay at the budget-friendly Tryon Street Hotel, located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte
  • Start the day with a cup of coffee at Not Just Coffee, a local coffee shop with a cozy atmosphere
  • Visit the Mint Museum Uptown to admire its contemporary art exhibits and beautiful architecture
  • Stroll through Romare Bearden Park, a picturesque public park complete with fountains, green spaces, and a splash pad
  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at The Common Market, a funky deli that serves delicious sandwiches and craft beer
  • End the day by watching the sunset over Charlotte at one of the city's best rooftop bars, Fahrenheit.
Day 2

Exploring Charlotte's Art Scene

  • Grab breakfast at Amélie's French Bakery, a charming bakery known for its pastries and coffee
  • Art lovers should head to Noda (North Davidson), the arts district of Charlotte, containing galleries, shops, and murals
  • Discover the works of Charlotte's native artist, Romare Bearden, at the Bearden Birthday Bash at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Art + Culture
  • Brunch at Haberdish, a popular Southern-style restaurant, for some delicious fried chicken and waffles
  • Attend a museum crawl through seven museums for free as part of the Levine Center for the Arts, such as the Mint Museum, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, and the Harvey B. Gantt Museum of African-American Culture.
  • Complete your day by exploring Charlotte's nightlife with live music at The Jazz Room or visiting the speakeasy at The Cellar at Duckworth’s to experience some Prohibition-era cocktails.
Day 3

Fun and Adventure in Charlotte

  • Fuel up with breakfast at the funky Midnight Diner, known for its classic American breakfast fare
  • For adrenaline junkies, Carowinds Amusement Park is a must-visit for their roller coasters and attractions.
  • Check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame and get the full racing experience with simulators, hands-on exhibits, and history displays.
  • Lunch at the famous BBQ joint, Mac's Speed Shop, known for their southern comfort food and killer barbeque.
  • Go for a hike at the nearby Crowders Mountain State Park for panoramic views of the Charlotte skyline.
  • End your day by catching a movie at the independent theater, Studio Movie Grill, where you can watch films and dine on delicious comfort foods and cocktails.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Charlotte, United States by plane is to fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is located approximately 8 miles west of downtown Charlotte. The airport serves several domestic and international airlines, making it easy to find a direct flight or connecting flights from most major cities.

Car

Driving to Charlotte, United States is easy, with several highways leading into the city, including I-85, I-77, and I-485. Car rentals are available at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, making it convenient for travelers arriving by plane.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Charlotte, United States from other cities. However, you can take the Amtrak train to Charlotte Station located in Uptown Charlotte, with connecting bus services for transportation within the city.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no waterways that lead directly to Charlotte, United States. However, the city is within driving distance of several coastal cities, including Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, making it possible to take a ferry or boat to these cities and then drive to Charlotte.

Bus

Taking a bus to Charlotte, United States is a cost-effective option, with several bus companies offering services to Charlotte Bus Station. The bus station is located in Center City, Charlotte, making it convenient for transportation within the city.

Destination

Charlotte

Located in the heart of the South, Charlotte is a city that loves its sweet tea and NASCAR almost as much as it loves its barbeque and craft beer. Don't be surprised if you hear a y'all or two while exploring all that this charming city has to offer.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Charlotte, USA

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3 Days of Fun in Charlotte, USA

A trip to Charlotte, United States as a tourist offers an exciting mix of culture, entertainment, and history with something for everyone. Visitors can explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame, take a stroll through the picturesque Freedom Park, and indulge in some delicious barbecue. With its charming Southern hospitality, Charlotte has a unique blend of modern and traditional attractions that will make for a memorable holiday.

Uptown to Underground: Charlotte on a Budget

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