Nicknamed the “Queen City”, Charlotte is second to none with its plethora of restaurants, outdoor adventures and entertainment. Nonstop flights to Charlotte (CLT) from South Bend International Airport (SBN) on American Airlines are quick and convenient. From NASCAR Hall of Fame exhibits to relaxing in a hammock, there is sure to be something for everyone of all ages to love in Charlotte.
Food
Start your day off the best way with some of the Queen City’s best coffee from Not Just Coffee. Not Just Coffee not only offers a variety of drinks to get you your caffeine fix, but also offers classes and an interactive brewing experience. No trip to Charlotte would be complete without a “sea to fork” seafood experience! The Waterman Fish Bar offers just that and more. Stop in for their Oyster Happy Hour for $1 House Oysters. If you stick around, you can go to the rooftop bar above and see views of the city. Just make sure you save room for dessert and make your way to Stoke, which offers “THE donut” that weighs in at over one pound.
Entertainment
Charlotte is full of adventures, and one of yours can start at the North Carolina Zoo. If you head northeast to Asheboro, you’ll be able to observe the more than 1,800 animals that call the Zoo home. Pro tip: The Zoo lists feeding times for various animals on their website, so you’ll never miss the best time to see your favorite animal. If history is something that stirs your interest, follow along with the Charlotte Liberty Walk where you will see bronze monuments and plaques that point out the criticalness of the city to the American Revolution.
Sports
Charlotte is an ideal destination spot for any sports fan. Not only is it the home of the Panthers of the NFL and the Hornets of the NBA, but you can also find the NASCAR Hall of Fame here. With exhibits, artifacts, and a state-of-the-art theatre, you’ll find yourself entertained even if you are not a race fan. Save time to tee up some golf balls and dine at Top Golf just outside of the city.
Explore Outdoors
The nature of North Carolina knows no bounds. Plus, Charlotte has one of the largest man-made whitewater rivers. Here you will be able to ride the rapids, paddleboard, zipline or even mountain bike. If gardening is more your style, you must spend time walking around the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, McGill Rose Garden, Wing Haven Gardens & Bird Sanctuary or the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens.
Shopping
Need some retail therapy while in Charlotte? They’ve got you covered. The oldest shopping mall in Charlotte is also one of the largest in the region. SouthPark Mall has all of the stores your heart could possibly desire. Wander into South Charlotte for a three-story shopping and entertainment experience. At the Ballantyne Village, you’ll find salon/spa treatments, dining, an art house theater, and unique shops you won’t find anywhere else but Charlotte.
