1) Charlotte is a city of 199 neighborhoods and nestled in vibrant Uptown Charlotte in the city center is The Westin Charlotte, just steps from the Charlotte Convention Center and Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers. Each room is equipped with the Heavenly® Bed for a super comfortable good night's sleep. Start your day by grabbing a latte at the lobby's Cardinal Coffeehouse and enjoy local flavors along with southern culinary excellence for either lunch or dinner at Dogwood Southern Table and Bar – the hotel's recently re-opened restaurant as part of its ongoing $24 million upgrade.
2) Also located in the Uptown Charlotte neighborhood is The NASCAR Hall of Fame. 90% of NASCAR teams are based in the Charlotte region, so the city embraces its racing heritage. But Charlotte is more than a motorsports city. In fact, there are more than 25 museums and art galleries in the region. Grab a Charlotte attractions pass and get access to several of the top museums and enjoy walking the different neighborhoods while exploring the culture of Queen City.
3) Charlotte's culinary scene is one to be envied. From food halls to James Beard recognized chefs to countless international cuisines, it's safe to say Charlotte is a food mecca. After exploring the city, stop in Chief's Modern Cocktail Parlor for a sip or NoDa Brewing Company for a pint. (Charlotte is home to 40+ breweries!) If it's a small bite you're after, check out the marinated shrimp at The Goodyear House or the handcrafted Hispanic cuisine at CustomShop. Just don't ask chef (and owner) Andres Kaifer for a taco.
4) Every city has a great brunch spot. Located in a restored mid-century church in Plaza Midwood, the eclectic, funky and artistic neighborhood of Charlotte, Supperland is a go-to brunch spot. Wood-fired skewers, hot grits with gravy, and homemade pastries await you at the hearty brunch buffet. The heavenly spread also includes fruit, jello, salads, and tea sandwiches, with pull-apart cinnamon rolls brought to your table. Order eggs Benedict from the chef’s counter and share oysters and shrimp cocktail. The 120-year-old pews, handmade tables, and custom plates only add to the ambiance of this beautifully preserved piece of Charlotte history.
5) From history and art to must-see hot spots, there are so many sides of the city to explore. Check out Charlotte Liberty Walk – 19 historic sites in Uptown Charlotte that share the compelling stories of the city’s involvement in the American Revolution from 1775 to 1780. On a self-guided tour, you’ll uncover the hidden history of Charlotte. If art is more your speed, ArtWalks CLT connects you to murals (60+), public art, and street art with 28 self-guided ArtWalks and Art Trails to choose from. There's even a Dolly Parton mural that is sure to make you feel at home.
6) If I haven't yet convinced you to eat and drink your way through this culinary heaven, elevate your Queen City dining experience even further at Mama Ricotta's and La Belle Helene. Mama Ricotta's offers authentic Italian cuisine made from the recipes of founder Frank Scibelli's family. It's consistently voted Best Italian Restaurant and has been a beloved staple in the Midtown neighborhood for over thirty years. The portions are huge and generous, so be sure to go hungry. La Belle Helene is a refined brasserie serving timeless French classics with a contemporary flair. Their menu is steeped in French culinary tradition created by chef partner and Bravo Top Chef alum Jamie Lynch.
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