Apr 21, 2016

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Charlotte is a captivating town with tons to do. Its youthful energy and jam-packed events calendar make it a top destination for young professionals, history lovers, and speed demons. Here are some of the must-sees in the Queen City:

Racing in Charlotte

Almost 90 percent of car racing teams are based out of the Charlotte area. The Charlotte Motor Speedway is home to three large races on the circuit: the Bank of America 500, the Coca-Cola 600, and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series All-Star Race. If you want to be a part of the action, there’s the NASCAR Racing Experience, which allows race fans to enjoy a 160 mph ride in race cars once driven by drivers like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jeff Gordon.

Want more racing? Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame to get a better appreciation for this sport. Souvenir shopping is easy with NASCAR race shops all around Charlotte.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

If you prefer your thrills in the water, you will enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience. There are 24 activities in this 500-acre facility, including a must-see with the world’s largest artificial whitewater river. In addition to kayaking, paddle boarding, and whitewater rafting, visitors to the U.S. National Whitewater Center can enjoy a variety of land-based thrills including mountain biking, zip-lining, rock climbing, and obstacle courses. Admission is pricey and outside food is not allowed, but it’s the type of place you can spend an entire day and never do the same activity twice.

The Culinary Scene

This is not exactly a site, but it is one of the best experiences in Charlotte. The Queen City’s culinary scene draws visitors from around the world. Check out the 7th Street Public Market for a taste of local deliciousness. With homegrown goodness at every stall and local eateries plying their sumptuous wares, you might be tempted to spend the better part of a day here. Charlotte offers a variety of restaurants. You can find deep-fried pickles just as easily as you can French-inspired dishes served up at a table with panoramic views of the city.

Carowinds

This local amusement park is a nice break from the larger corporations and franchises. One of the main draws of the park is the Intimidator, which lives up to its name. A coaster inspired by Dale Earnhardt, it’s the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in the Southeast. You’ll find the shortest lines on weekdays. Paying for parking and food adds up, but if you go online and buy your tickets three days ahead of time, you’ll enjoy an $11 savings. The park is open April through October. Regular adult admission is $57.99, purchased at the park day of admission. Tickets to Carowinds also come with admission to Boomerang Bay, the adjacent water park.

Charlotte is a treasure trove of tastes and experiences. It’s an interesting mix of new and old South, a place to go fast and take it easy. Start exploring today and you’ll uncover countless gems while making extraordinary memories.