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Planning your Charlotte adventure? You just found your go-to guide!
We’ve spent a good amount of time exploring the Queen City, and every time, we find something new that makes us love it even more. From hilarious comedy tours and street art safaris to Segway rides and fuzzy scooter escapades, Charlotte isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience.
We tried out all of these activities ourselves and had a blast doing them. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or plotting your perfect city escape, this list covers 10 fun, unique, and memorable things to do in Charlotte that you won’t want to miss. Buckle up and let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this golf cart city tour! This was a fun and comfortable way to see the city, and we covered more ground than on foot and learned so much from our guide!
Check out the 1,200+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Charlotte
- 1. Spend a day at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
- 2. Get inspired by Charlotte’s murals
- 3. See the city on a golf cart history tour
- 4. Glide through Uptown Charlotte on a fun and easy Segway tour
- 5. Tour the Charlotte Motor Speedway
- 6. Hear ghostly tales and punchlines on a one-of-a-kind comedy tour
- 7. Try some Carolina BBQ
- 8. Ride giant plush animals through the city (yes, that’s right!)
- 9. Visit the Museum of Illusions
- 10. Taste the best of Charlotte’s craft beer scene with a local guide
- Where to Stay in Charlotte, North Carolina
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Charlotte
1. Spend a day at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
If your idea of a good time involves a little adrenaline and a lot of fresh air, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is calling your name. This place isn’t just impressive, it’s home to the world’s largest man-made whitewater river. Yes, you read that right!
Originally built as an Olympic training facility, the center is now a nonprofit dedicated to getting people outside and making outdoor recreation accessible. And while whitewater rafting might be the headline activity, it’s really just the beginning.
You can zipline through the trees, tackle a rock climbing wall, paddleboard or kayak on calmer water, and hit the trails for mountain biking. Depending on the season, there’s even ice skating. It’s basically an outdoor playground for all ages and skill levels, whether you’re chasing thrills or just want to spend the day moving.
One of the best parts? You can choose your level of adventure. Go all in with rafting and ziplines, or keep it low-key with a scenic walk along the river and a drink at one of the on-site spots overlooking the water—and if you’re planning to try a little bit of everything, the $79 USD all-access pass is absolutely worth it.
If you’re looking to balance city sightseeing with something active and outdoorsy, this is one of the most fun and uniquely Charlotte experiences you can add to your trip.
2. Get inspired by Charlotte’s murals
- Duration: 30 minutes–1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 8 am–8 pm
- Highlights: Small-group tour exploring Charlotte’s iconic street art culture in an open-air cart
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, handheld fan to stay cool, city hotels pick up for groups of four or more, live karaoke, new carts with seat belts, cart cover when needed
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We always try to find something a little different when exploring a new city, and this small group mural tour was the perfect mix of art, local flavor, and unexpected fun that had us grinning the whole ride. It’s the kind of experience that turns a regular afternoon into a rolling discovery of color, creativity, and stories you won’t find on a plaque.
Riding through Uptown in a comfy open-air cart, we cruised past some of Charlotte’s boldest and most beautiful murals, with our guide, Darius, pointing out hidden meanings, local legends, and artist backstories that brought the artwork to life. He showed us way more than we expected—things we wouldn’t have noticed on our own—and made it all feel laid-back and welcoming.
From the Federal Reserve Bank and Romare Bearden Park to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Dunhill Hotel, this tour covers way more ground than you’d expect in just one ride. You can even ask to stop for photos whenever inspiration hits (and believe me, it will).
After the tour, we grabbed snacks and a souvenir at the nearby Market at 7th Street on our own, and it was the perfect way to round out the experience.
We loved how this tour mixed laid-back exploring with a deep dive into Charlotte’s creative side. It was a unique way to see the city—vibrant, insightful, and full of surprises around every corner!
This tour is likely to sell out—reserve it here before spots fill up!
3. See the city on a golf cart history tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 5 pm
- Highlights: Ultra-comfortable golf cart to drive around in, non-script historic commentary and southern hospitality, food discounts, photo stops, and blankets provided if it’s a cold day.
- Inclusions: Comfortable cart, local guide, discounts on local food spots.
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here!)
- Free Cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Charlotte looks walkable—until you actually try to walk it. Between modern Uptown, historic neighborhoods, and stadiums on nearly every corner, trying to see it all on foot can turn into an accidental endurance event. Instead of logging 25,000 steps before lunch, hop on this award-winning golf cart tour and let someone else handle the route while you cruise comfortably through the Queen City.
What makes this ride stand out is that it’s far more than a checklist of buildings. Your guide brings Charlotte to life with stories you’d never pick up wandering around on your own, from how the city earned its nickname to its 1700s gold mining roots and the surprising spot where Elvis once took the stage. There are plenty of colorful local tales mixed in, too—old bootlegger houses from Prohibition days, a mysterious “medicine man” who once roamed the city, and other quirky facts that really stick with you.
Along the way, you’ll roll past major landmarks like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Bank of America Stadium, and Truist Field, then shift gears into the charming Fourth Ward, where historic homes and tree-lined streets show off a completely different side of the city.
It’s the kind of experience that lets you cover serious ground without feeling it in your legs later. Voted one of Charlotte’s best tours and praised in countless five-star reviews, this golf cart ride has built quite a reputation. For an easygoing way to cover it all without the hassle, this is an easy win!
Book this golf cart tour and enjoy some good ole Southern hospitality!
4. Glide through Uptown Charlotte on a fun and easy Segway tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours–2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Small-group Segway tour exploring historic highlights and learning about Charlotte’s history
- Inclusions: Use of Segway and helmet, guide, Segway training
- Rating: 5 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you want to see a lot of Uptown in a short amount of time and have a little fun doing it, this small-group Segway tour is a total game changer. It’s equal parts sightseeing and novelty, and yes, riding a Segway is way easier than it looks.
The experience starts with a quick training session to get everyone comfortable, then you’ll glide off through Charlotte’s art and history scene with a friendly local guide pointing out all the city secrets along the way. It’s smooth, surprisingly intuitive, and just different enough to make the whole experience feel memorable.
The 1.5-hour tour covers many of Uptown’s highlights, including the Bechtler Museum’s shimmering Firebird sculpture, the Mint Museum, and the Harvey B. Gantt Center, a hub for African American art and history. You’ll also cruise through The Green, a quirky little park dedicated to world literature, and roll through the charming Fourth Ward, known for its historic Victorian homes.
Opt for the 2-hour tour, and you’ll add even more history to the route, including Old Settlers’ Cemetery, dating back to 1776, and even roll by the Carolina Panthers’ stadium. It’s totally worth the extra time!
With plenty of glowing five-star reviews and an easygoing pace from start to finish, this Segway tour is a fun and efficient way to experience Uptown from a whole new perspective.
Book your spot here and see why this is one of Charlotte’s favorite adventures!
5. Tour the Charlotte Motor Speedway
Even if you’re not a die-hard NASCAR fan, the Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of those places that’s hard not to be impressed by. It’s home to the Coca-Cola 600 each May—one of the crown jewels of the NASCAR calendar—and the energy here on race weekend is electric.
If you can’t make it to the big event, there’s still plenty to see. The speedway offers daily behind-the-scenes tours that give you a real feel for the scale of the place. You’ll get access to areas most fans only see on TV, including pit road and parts of the track itself. Getting that close to the action helps you understand just how much work and coordination go into pulling off a major race.
Tours are affordable at around $20 USD and run multiple times daily, making it an easy addition to your Charlotte itinerary. Just be sure to check the schedule in advance so you can plan around race events or special track activities.
If watching from the sidelines isn’t enough, you can sign up for a racing school or ride-along experience and feel the speed for yourself as you tear around the track. Even if you don’t make it out to the speedway, the NASCAR Hall of Fame in downtown Charlotte offers a deep dive into the sport’s history and legendary drivers. Either way, Charlotte’s racing culture is something you won’t want to miss.
6. Hear ghostly tales and punchlines on a one-of-a-kind comedy tour
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 6 pm, 7 pm, and 8:30 pm
- Highlights: Rolling theatre show with professional actors, hilarious storytelling, and real haunted locations
- Inclusions: Sketch comedy, bring your own drinks, ghost and true crime stories, private tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We love a good ghost tour, but most of them fall into the same rhythm: walk, talk, maybe a spooky story, and then you’re done. So when we found this private rolling ghost comedy show, we knew we had to check it out. And we’re so glad we did—it was nothing like a usual ghost walk.
From the moment we stepped onto the bright purple bus, the energy was electric. With professional actors leading the way, this was part ghost tour, part comedy sketch, and 100% entertainment.
We brought our own drinks (yes, it’s BYOB!), settled into our seats and prepared to be heckled. At one point, we were laughing so hard we nearly missed the creepy tale unfolding outside the window—these performers don’t hold back.
We cruised past Elmwood Cemetery and Old Settlers’ Cemetery, heard wild stories about everything from ghostly bartenders to the infamous “Razor Girl,” and even learned about the jumpers of the Dunhill Hotel. The stories were genuinely chilling, but the delivery was hysterical. The mix of dark history and sharp comedy made for a completely unforgettable night.
We loved how original and unexpectedly hilarious this bus tour was, and clearly, we aren’t the only ones. Check out the five-star reviews here to see why this wild ride is one of Charlotte’s most talked-about experiences!
Secure this private ghost tour here and experience five-star fun!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Try some Carolina BBQ
You can’t visit Charlotte without diving into Carolina BBQ at least once. Barbecue is serious business in North Carolina, and debates often come down to the sauce—vinegar-heavy Eastern style versus the ketchup-forward Lexington version. Here, you’ll find a mix of both, along with plenty of spots that focus just as much on perfectly smoked meat as what goes on top of it.
Midwood Smokehouse is a go-to for many visitors and locals alike. While sauce usually steals the spotlight in the BBQ world, this place nails the meat itself with tender brisket, juicy pulled pork, and ribs with that just-right smoky flavor. It’s the kind of spot where the portions are generous, the sides are classic, and you’ll probably leave planning your next visit before you’ve even paid the bill.
Another local favorite is Noble Smoke, especially if you want to try Lexington-style pork with its signature ketchup-and-vinegar sauce. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and seriously addictive. The menu leans traditional Southern, so expect hearty plates, comforting sides, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels very Carolina.
And don’t overlook McKoy’s Smokehouse. Yes, the barbecue is solid, but the smoked mac n’ cheese deserves its own fan club. It’s rich, creamy, and exactly what you want alongside a plate of pulled pork or ribs. Add in the casual brewpub vibe, and it’s an easy place to settle in for a proper Southern meal.
Whether you’re a full-on BBQ enthusiast or just BBQ-curious, sampling a few local spots is one of the tastiest ways to experience Charlotte’s comfort food culture.
8. Ride giant plush animals through the city (yes, that’s right!)
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Guided tour of Uptown Charlotte driving easy-to-operate Rydables, indulge your inner child as you whiz through parks and historic areas
- Inclusions: Guide, all fees and taxes, small-group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check the 60+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sure, walking tours are great, and bus tours get the job done, but if you want something that’s guaranteed to turn heads, this small-group Rydables tour takes sightseeing to a whole new level. Instead of strolling through Uptown, you’ll cruise around on a motorized, fuzzy animal scooter (yes, a rhino is an option), and it’s almost impossible not to smile the entire time. Don’t be surprised if people stop to ask what’s going on.
The experience starts with a quick training session, and the scooters are surprisingly easy to operate. Once everyone’s comfortable, the group heads out single file for a playful ride through the heart of the city.
The route winds through Romare Bearden Park, past the charming post-Civil War homes of the Fourth Ward, and over to The Green, where whimsical sculptures make for fun photo stops. There are also stops at the Market at 7th Street and Levine Avenue of the Arts, blending local food, culture, and history into the ride.
Cruising past the old homes in the Fourth Ward feels like discovering hidden gems tucked right into Uptown, all while riding something that looks straight out of a cartoon.
With upbeat guides setting the pace and keeping the group comfortable, it’s a lighthearted way to learn about Charlotte. I mean, when else are you going to cruise through Uptown on a fuzzy rhino while getting a mini history lesson along the way?
Book this Rydables tour here and see Charlotte in the most fun way possible!
9. Visit the Museum of Illusions
Need a break from the heat—or just want something a little different? The Museum of Illusions is a fun, family-friendly stop that flips reality on its head and keeps everyone guessing.
This isn’t your typical “look but don’t touch” museum. It’s packed with perspective-changing rooms, mind-bending installations, and optical illusions that make you question what you’re seeing. One minute you’ll feel like you’re shrinking, the next you’ll look like a giant towering over your friends. There are tilted rooms that throw off your balance, holograms that seem to float in midair, and brain teasers that will have you staring a little longer than you expected.
It’s playful, interactive, and surprisingly educational. Many of the exhibits explain the science behind the illusions, so you walk away not just entertained, but slightly smarter, too. Kids love it, adults get just as into it, and it’s one of those places where everyone ends up taking way more photos than planned.
Expect to spend about one to two hours exploring, depending on how long you linger at each exhibit. Adult tickets run around $33 USD, and it’s an easy indoor activity if you need to cool off or escape a rainy afternoon.
If you’re ready to be mesmerized and reminded that nothing is ever quite as it seems, this is a quirky and memorable stop to add to your Charlotte itinerary.
10. Taste the best of Charlotte’s craft beer scene with a local guide
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 11:30 am and 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Visit four local breweries, sample craft beer, learn about the brewing process, enjoy dinner at Midwood Smokehouse
- Inclusions: Three beer flights, BBQ meal platter, all fees and taxes, air-conditioned vehicle, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 50+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
After a packed day of sightseeing, we were ready to slow down, sip something cold, and dive into Charlotte’s thriving craft beer scene. This small group brewery tour was the perfect way to wind down with great drinks, smoky barbecue, and a guide who made the entire experience fun and informative.
We visited three of Charlotte’s standout breweries, including Petty Thieves, Protagonist, and Lower Left, where we sampled beer flights, learned about the brewing process, and got a real feel for the local craft scene.
Our guide, Vinnie, was super knowledgeable, genuinely funny, and great at helping everyone discover styles they’d never tried before. He even shared insider tips and local favorites, so by the end of the night, we knew exactly which breweries we wanted to come back to.
Midway through the evening, we made a stop at Midwood Smokehouse for a full BBQ meal that was included with the tour. Between the beer, the food, and the easygoing vibe, it felt more like a night out with friends than a structured tour.
We came for the beer and left with a deeper appreciation for Charlotte’s brewing scene. It was the kind of night that was equal parts relaxing, flavorful, and just plain fun—definitely a highlight of our time in the city!
Book this tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Where to Stay in Charlotte, North Carolina
To help you find the perfect place to stay, we’ve picked out the top accommodations in Charlotte, whether you want to splurge, save, or land somewhere in between. And if any of these still have availability, I’d book fast—these picks tend to go quickly. Just pick your vibe, settle in, and get ready to enjoy everything this dynamic city has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Set in the heart of Uptown, the Omni Charlotte Hotel offers a luxurious stay with sleek, modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views. It’s within walking distance of major attractions like the Spectrum Center, Romare Bearden Park, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Guests rave about the friendly service, elegant decor, and unbeatable location—just steps from Charlotte’s light rail. Whether you’re in town for fun or business, this 4-star stay puts you right in the middle of it all.
Rooms typically range from $250–$600 USD per night. Check prices and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Sheraton Charlotte Hotel is a fantastic mid-range pick just a short walk from Uptown. With comfy rooms, friendly staff, and an outdoor pool, it’s a great base for exploring the city. Guests love the on-site dining, clean and modern rooms, and location close to the Convention Center and South End. The hotel also offers a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and convenient parking—plus it’s pet-friendly! Whether you’re in town for business or sightseeing, it hits all the right notes.
Rooms typically range from $150–$250 USD per night. Check availability now on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a clean, comfortable, and affordable stay in Charlotte, the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Northlake is a solid choice. Located just 10 minutes from Uptown, this hotel offers cozy rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guests love the quiet location, friendly staff, and easy access to I-77. Bonus: it’s pet-friendly and close to coffee shops and restaurants! Whether you’re road-tripping or traveling on a budget, this place checks all the boxes.
Rooms start around $85 USD per night. Check availability and book your reservation on Booking.com.
Looking for more stays? See the full list of Charlotte hotels here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Charlotte was such a unique place to visit! Whether you want to explore its charming and historic homes, check out the street art, or roll around on a comedy tour, you’ll find plenty to do here. We are already looking forward to our next visit, thanks to these epic activities we got to do!
Before you go, check out our other USA blogs. We have a ton of resources to help you plan your next getaway, and we love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few more related blogs you should check out:
10 Best Things to do in Charleston, South Carolina
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Charleston, South Carolina: 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend THREE Days in Savannah, Georgia: 3-Day Itinerary