James F Matthews

Numerous natural adventures await at the Charlotte Nature Museum . Instead of "don't touch," the phrase of choice at this highly popular family venue is "hands-on"! These inviting surroundings make learning about nature fun, and the museum does an excellent job with various exhibits like the Great Hall that outlines the life cycles of various species. Other popular attractions are the Creature Cavern that spotlight animals indigenous to the Carolinas; the kids will also be fascinated by Insect Alley and Butterfly Pavilion as well as the various fun that awaits outside on the Paw Paw Nature Trail.

SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord sends guests through a 36,000 square foot interactive aquarium experience that brings you face-to-face with over 5,000 creatures including sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, seahorses and much more! SEA LIFE transports visitors into the amazing underwater world. Prepare for astonishingly close views of everything!

Charlotte's Festival in the Park takes place every September in Freedom Park and offers locals and visitors a chance to celebrate the spirit of the city in a variety of ways. There's live music, great food, and a large selection of arts and crafts created by local artisans that truly capture the spirit of the area. There are also several displays of art from local, regional and even nationally recognized talents. Just be prepared for a long walk into the park, as parking spaces are at a premium and often the only one you'll find is relatively far away - just look at the walk as a chance to enjoy the scenery and bond with fellow festival-goers.

You and your loved one have seen little of each other lately, and even less of the outside world! So make a romantic date to spend some quality time together while enjoying the natural surroundings of the Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary. The gardens are lush and inviting, and walking along the trails or finding a spot on one of the benches will allow both of you to unwind as you breathe in the fresh air and take in the beauty of the scenery. Your commune with nature continues when you enter the bird sanctuary that houses several different types of fine feathered friends. Watch with your date, as the birds fly from one point to another, creating the perfect afternoon of relaxation, nature and even a dash of romance.