South Charlotte Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in South Charlotte. Learn about the culture, safety, and transportation options for a memorable trip.


When it comes to exploring the heart of North Carolina, South Charlotte is the ideal place to start. Nestled in the vibrant Charlotte Metro region, South Charlotte boasts a plethora of cultural and natural attractions that cater to travelers of all ages and preferences. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the must-visit places, best activities, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip to South Charlotte.

Introduction to South Charlotte

South Charlotte is a bustling neighborhood located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. This beautiful district is known for its upscale shopping, award-winning restaurants, and world-class golf courses. Despite its rapid growth and urbanization, South Charlotte has managed to maintain its Southern charm and small-town feel. In fact, many of the residents here are proud to call themselves “Charlotteans”.

List of Places to Visit in South Charlotte

When it comes to attractions, South Charlotte has something for everyone. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, here are the top places to visit in South Charlotte.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mint Museum Randolph: This art museum is home to a vast collection of American, European, and contemporary art, as well as ancient artifacts.

  2. The Billy Graham Library: This museum honors the life and legacy of the famous evangelist Billy Graham and features exhibits on his life and work.

  3. President James K. Polk State Historic Site: This historic site commemorates the life of the 11th US President, who was born and raised in Mecklenburg County.

Natural Attractions of South Charlotte: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve: This 1,000-acre park is perfect for hiking, fishing, and bird watching.

  2. Carowinds: This popular amusement park offers thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.

  3. McDowell Nature Preserve: This 1,107-acre nature preserve is home to diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Charlotte

One of the best ways to explore South Charlotte’s natural beauty is by going on a hiking or biking trip. Here are some of the most popular routes to check out:

  1. Little Sugar Creek Greenway: This 5.5-mile trail follows the scenic Little Sugar Creek and passes through several parks and neighborhoods.

  2. Four Mile Creek Greenway: This 2.75-mile trail winds through a wooded area and ends at the Matthews Community Center.

  3. McAlpine Creek Greenway: This 3.5-mile paved trail runs along McAlpine Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding wetlands.

Best Things to Do in South Charlotte: Activities and Tours

South Charlotte offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in South Charlotte:

  1. Visit Charlotte Premium Outlets: This upscale shopping center is home to over 100 designer brands and is perfect for bargain hunters.

  2. Take a Food Tour: Charlotte’s culinary scene is known for its diversity and deliciousness. Check out the city’s best restaurants and breweries on a guided food tour.

  3. Explore Uptown Charlotte: Located just a few miles from South Charlotte, Uptown is the cultural and business center of the city. Be sure to check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art while you’re there.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Charlotte

If you have a week to spare, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time in South Charlotte:

Day Activity
1 Visit Mint Museum Randolph and Billy Graham Library
2 Hike at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve and explore Southpark Mall
3 Tour the President James K. Polk State Historic Site and shop at Ballantyne Village
4 Visit Carowinds and have dinner at one of the many award-winning restaurants in the area
5 Take a food tour in Uptown Charlotte and visit the Charlotte Convention Center
6 Biking along Little Sugar Creek Greenway and visit McDowell Nature Preserve
7 Enjoy a round of golf at one of the local courses and visit Charlotte Premium Outlets

Food and Drink Scene of South Charlotte

When it comes to food and drink, South Charlotte’s culinary scene is second-to-none. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. North Carolina-style barbecue: This slow-cooked pork dish is a regional specialty and can be found at most BBQ joints in the area.

  2. Cheerwine: This cherry-flavored soda is a Southern classic and pairs perfectly with any BBQ dish.

  3. Biscuits and Gravy: This hearty breakfast dish is a staple in the South and is best enjoyed with a cup of freshly-brewed coffee.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer: Charlotte is known for its craft beer scene, and you can find a variety of local breweries and taprooms in South Charlotte.

  2. Sweet Tea: This refreshing drink is a Southern must-have and can be found at most restaurants in the area.

  3. Wine: North Carolina is home to several award-winning wineries, and you can sample some of the best local vintages in South Charlotte.

Where to Stay in South Charlotte: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Charlotte offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in South Charlotte:

  1. Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge: This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a top-rated restaurant.

  2. Aloft Charlotte Balantyne: This modern hotel features a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a bar.

  3. Sleep Inn Matthews: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

What to Buy in South Charlotte: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, South Charlotte offers a variety of local products to choose from. Here are some of the best places to shop for local products:

  1. Charlotte Regional Farmers Market: This farmers market features a wide selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

  2. Carolina Place Mall: This shopping center is home to several specialty stores and designer brands, including Belk and JCPenney.

  3. The Village at Southpark: This outdoor mall features several high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Michael Kors.

Local Culture and Customs of South Charlotte

In South Charlotte, the emphasis is on Southern hospitality and charm. The people here are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are generally treated with warmth and respect. Some local customs to keep in mind include:

  • Appropriate dress: South Charlotte is a relatively conservative area, and visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for the occasion. Business attire is generally expected in formal settings, while casual wear is acceptable for most everyday activities.

  • Respect for religion: Charlotte is known as the “City of Churches”, and religion plays an important role in the local culture. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of people’s beliefs and customs.

Best Time to Visit South Charlotte

South Charlotte enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, making it a great destination any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant, and the city comes alive with festivals and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Charlotte

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting South Charlotte:

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: South Charlotte’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions. Be sure to spend some time hiking, biking, or simply strolling in one of the local parks.

  • Try local cuisine: Southern food is among the most delicious in the world, and South Charlotte’s culinary scene is no exception. Be sure to sample some local specialties during your visit.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful: The people of South Charlotte take pride in their customs and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful and courteous at all times.

  • Be careless with your belongings: South Charlotte, like any other city, has its fair share of petty crime. Visitors are encouraged to be vigilant and keep an eye on their belongings at all times.

Safety and Health

South Charlotte is generally a safe and healthy destination, but visitors are encouraged to take some basic precautions:

Safety in South Charlotte

  • Stay aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid areas that seem unsafe or unfamiliar.

  • Use transportation wisely: Use reputable transportation services, and avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in South Charlotte

  • Stay hydrated: Charlotte can get hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Be sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.

  • Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen and covering up during prolonged periods of sun exposure.

Getting to South Charlotte: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Charlotte is easily accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near South Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport: This airport is located just 14 miles from South Charlotte and offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near South Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Greyhound Bus Station: This bus station is located in Uptown Charlotte, just a few miles from South Charlotte.

  • Charlotte Transportation Center: This bus station is located in South Charlotte and offers local and regional bus services.

Other Options:

  • Car Rental: Several national car rental brands operate in South Charlotte, making it a convenient option for visitors who want to explore the city at their own pace.

  • Taxi: Taxis and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are widely available in South Charlotte.

How to Get Around in South Charlotte

South Charlotte is a car-friendly city, and renting a car is the most convenient way to get around. However, public transportation is also available and can be used to explore the popular attractions in the area. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates local and regional bus services in the city.

Where to Go Next from South Charlotte: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

South Charlotte is a great base for exploring nearby destinations, including:

  • Lake Norman: Located just 20 miles north of Charlotte, this scenic lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.

  • Asheville: This charming city is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities, and craft breweries.

  • Columbia: This historic city is located just two hours south of Charlotte and is home to several museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

South Charlotte is a vibrant and charming destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, there’s plenty to see and do here. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your next trip to South Charlotte and make the most of your stay.