Ruby Sunshine

Fans of nature will gravitate to the outdoor beauty that lives at the UNC-Charlotte Botanical Gardens. This is where you will find several different varieties of plants and flowers that all make this place a truly captivating experience for the senses. You'll find several fine examples of rare species, as well. Plus, the two-story rain forest is something that no visitor to the garden should miss. This incredible slice of nature is located on the campus of the University of North Carolina, and if you are planning to take a group that has more than 10 people in it, you must schedule your visit.

300 East is found in the historic Dilworth neighborhood in Charlotte. That rustic setting only adds the right touch of class to this highly popular restaurant and bar. The interior mood is one of casual elegance, so if you're on a date you can sip wine with your companion and not have to shout to hear one another. 300 East is also a popular nightlife hangout for groups of friends or coworkers to enjoy something off the impressive New American menu and have a few beers to help close down the workday. Also, there's an inviting patio that's the center of activity during the warmer months of the year.

The Charlotte Checkers belong to the Midwestern Division of the Western Conference of the American Hockey League. The sports team is the AHL affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League. Their home games are played at the Time Warner Cable Arena.