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

Discover Charlotte's Best in 4 Days

A trip to Charlotte, United States as a tourist offers a mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Visitors can explore various museums and art galleries, tour the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and enjoy outdoor activities in nearby parks. The city also boasts a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants serving up Southern favorites and international cuisine.

Charlotte Circus: A Fun 5-Day Family Adventure!

Charlotte, in the United States, makes for an ideal family-friendly getaway. Explore Discovery Place Science Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on exhibits, or visit the fascinating sea creatures at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. For outdoor adventures, head to Carowinds amusement park, offering thrilling rides and water slides, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family.

Charlotte, USA: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Fun-fest!

A family-friendly trip to Charlotte, United States promises a perfect blend of fun and educational experiences. Explore Discovery Place Science Museum to engage in interactive exhibits, watch an IMAX movie, or discover the wonders of nature at the highly-acclaimed Charlotte Nature Museum. Treat your kids to the thrilling rides and entertainment at Paramount's Carowinds amusement park, making unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Charlotte, USA: Exploring the Queen City of Fun

A family-friendly trip to Charlotte, United States provides an exciting blend of educational and entertaining experiences. Visit Discovery Place, a renowned science museum with interactive exhibits that will captivate both children and adults. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden or explore the enchanting world of animals at the Charlotte Nature Museum for a memorable family adventure.