Say goodbye to the boring weekends and routine birthday parties. Think outside the box and dare to try something new. Take a look at what your city has to offer – all within driving distance of your location. You might be surprised!
(704) 588-2600
300 Carowinds BoulevardCharlotte, NC 28273 Directions Website
Paramount's Carowinds Water and Theme Park manages to pack an incredible variety of fun activities over its 105 acres that offer a little something for everyone. Their name combines "Carolina" and "winds" to perfectly describe a place that celebrates the history and culture of the Carolinas. It also offers plenty to do, as the water park features several waterslides for various age groups. In addition to the water park, there are also over 100 rides and attractions as well as a musical review in one of the park's theaters.
(704) 455-3200
5555 Concord Parkway SConcord, NC 28027 Directions Website
The Charlotte Motor Speedway is a mecca for NASCAR fans, and the venue consistently attracts motorsports fans from all over the country. Several of the races that are run in this highly popular venue include the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race and the Bank of America 500. Find out what it's like behind the scenes when you take one of the tours or feel the immense power when you drive an 800-horsepower stock car, just two of the many activities and attractions you can enjoy when you visit what many consider to be the Greatest Place to See the Race!
(704) 372-6261
1658 Sterling RdCharlotte, NC 28209 Directions Website
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.
(704) 853-5375
522 Park Office LnKings Mountain, NC 28086 Directions Website
Reaching the top takes a lot of work, and that is definitely the case when you venture out for a day of rock climbing at Crowders Mountain State Park. Climbers test their skills at their own risk as they take on the various jagged surfaces. No matter how risky, the thrill of the climb, as well as the breathtaking scenery from way up high makes it all worth it. Other activities are available here, too, like canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. And, after all that adventure, bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's many picnic areas.
(704) 372-6261
301 N Tyron StCharlotte, NC 28202 Directions Website
Your child's inquisitive mind is always primed for discovering new things, and he or she will absolutely love all of the adventures that await them at Discovery Place. The venue offers so many different types of exhibits and experiences that you and the family can easily spend a whole day taking it all in. Learn about a variety of subjects like anatomy, physics, natural science, mechanics and much more. As if all those exhibits and attractions weren't enough, make sure to see Discovery Place's aquarium, rain forest, planetarium and numerous activity areas.
(980) 314-1002
1900 E BlvdCharlotte, NC 28203 Directions Website
Freedom Park truly lives up to its name. If you want to break away from your usual daily routine or bring the family out for an active afternoon in the sun, this park is the perfect destination. Located between the Myers Park and Dilworth areas of town, this park offers basketball and volleyball courts that are always bustling with friends enjoying some recreational time out. If you want to relax, there's the serene Sugar Creek and large duck pond that will calm you down with its inviting scenery. There is an amphitheater in the back of the park, and usually there is some sort of concert or performance happening at various times during the week. You won't be disappointed with the attractions at this park.
(704) 416-4600
300 E 7th StCharlotte, NC 28202 Directions Website
ImaginOn celebrates the arts in quite a unique way. This facility is geared toward infusing young minds with the wonder and possibilities of artistic expression through various exhibits and attractions. This goal is achieved to great effect thanks to the collaboration between various organizations affiliated with area libraries and theaters and together, they offer some highly thought-provoking activities that enable kids to learn about the arts. Some of these projects include teen programs, theater performances, technology classes and lots more.
(704) 588-5224
15222 York RdCharlotte, NC 28278 Directions Website
Nature is not only to be enjoyed but also preserved for future generations. That is the ultimate mission of the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve. This facility opened in the mid-70s and it quickly moved beyond its humble beginnings to now encompass over 1,108 acres; the center is considered to be one of Charlotte's most prized natural attractions. Over the sprawling area, you will encounter several species of animals still living in their natural habitats, as well as breathtaking views from nearly every vantage point. The area is also quite popular with bird-watchers, campers, and trail enthusiasts. Make sure to swing by the McDowell Nature Center to not only take in the captivating butterfly gardens but to also pick up a few keepsakes at the gift shop.
(800) 237-3889
5555 Concord ParkwayConcord, NC 28027 Directions Website
Rev it up and go when you head to the Richard Petty Driving Experience. This highly unique, hands-on attraction offers you a chance to experience racing like the pros as you receive instruction from professional race car drivers and their crews. Whether you're a serious driver or a serious fan, you'll feel the unmistakable rush when your tires hit the track. There are various packages available that range from individual driving lessons to 30 and 40 laps around the track.
(855) 450-0512
8111 Concord Mills BlvdConcord, NC 28027 Directions Website
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!
(704) 279-6363
4400 Cook RdRockwell, NC 28138 Directions Website
Tiger World is a conservation center where the animals come first. Every imaginable creature, from farm animals to some of the world's most exotic species can all be found here. The conservation center attraction also takes great care to recreate the natural habitats of these animals to not only help rehabilitate them but to also offer visitors a chance to get up close and interact with them in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
(704) 391-3900
5000 Whitewater Center PkwyCharlotte, NC 28214 Directions Website
The US National Whitewater Center gives you that much-needed shot of adrenaline with their variety of outdoor adventures and attractions like rafting, kayaking, and paddling. If you prefer to stay dry, there's more outdoor adventures available like rock climbing, mountain biking and climbing your way around various rope courses. You'll definitely work up an appetite with all this brisk activity, so stop in for one of the healthy menu items at the River's Edge Bar and Grill that's on the premises and offers a great place to refuel before continuing your adventures.
Page Sponsor
- • Wrought Iron Balusters, Panels & Handrails For Custom Staircases & Railings
- • Local & Dependable Manufacturer
- • High-Quality Materials