ByCharlotte, the biggest city in North Carolina, is a popular spot for people seeking a mix of fun, arts, culture, and good food. While the South is generally less expensive than big cities like New York or Los Angeles, Charlotte’s growing popularity has led to rising prices. But don’t worry, if you like saving money, there are still lots of free things to do in Charlotte that won’t cost you a penny!
Explore Free Things to Do in Charlotte
If you’re planning a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, on a tight budget and want to enjoy some free activities, you’re in for a treat. Charlotte has many exciting adventures that won’t cost you much, from museums and historical sites to beautiful gardens and nature spots. This guide, highlighting free things to do in Charlotte NC, will help you make the most of your visit without spending too much money, ensuring you have a great time in the Queen City.
Old Mecklenburg Brewery
In Charlotte, there’s a special place called the Old Mecklenburg Brewery. It’s where they make awesome beer! Imagine walking into a friendly spot filled with the smell of delicious brews.
At the Old Mecklenburg Brewery, they care about making top-quality beer. They use local stuff to make it taste unique. It’s not just about drinking; it’s like a fun adventure into the world of Charlotte’s best brews.
From super hoppy beers to rich and smooth ones, they have a bunch of flavors. Every sip is like a story about Charlotte’s cool beer history and the hard work that goes into making each batch taste just right.
But it’s not just about the beer. The Old Mecklenburg Brewery often throws cool events, making it a lively place to hang out. Whether you’ve lived in Charlotte forever or you’re just visiting, this brewery is like a taste of the city’s spirit and friendliness.
Romare Bearden Park
In the middle of uptown Charlotte, there’s a cool park called Romare Bearden Park. It’s named after a famous artist who was born here. Imagine sitting on a blanket, reading a good book, and looking at tall buildings all around you.
This park has a special waterfall that lights up in different colors at night. It’s like magic! People take lots of pictures here, and some even ask an important question—like getting married!
If you have a family, there’s a fun part with stepping stones that make music. When the sun is shining, everyone comes here to enjoy the views with family, pets, and friends. And guess what? There are yummy places to eat nearby!
You can walk to Mellow Mushroom for pizza, try Angeline’s in the Tryon Kimpton Hotel for something fancy, or check out Day & Night across the street for a fun cereal bar where you can make your mix—exploring some of the delightful and affordable free things to do in Charlotte.
Picnic at Crowders Mountain
For those who love the outdoors and adventure, Crowders Mountain State Park is a perfect destination. You can enjoy a full day there, but remember, if you plan to stay overnight in one of the campgrounds, there’s a small fee.
If camping isn’t your thing, there are other exciting activities. Grab a valid fishing permit and spend time fishing at the wooded lake in the park.
For the more adventurous souls, there’s rock climbing and bouldering—perfect for those seeking a thrilling challenge. If you prefer something more laid-back, you can have a picnic or explore the park’s hiking trails. Crowders Mountain State Park has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature.
UNC’s Botanical Gardens
Unbelievably, the enchanting UNC Charlotte gardens won’t cost you a penny. Spanning a generous 10 acres, take a stroll through the lush greenery, finding moments of serenity on the scattered wooden and stone benches thoughtfully placed throughout the area.
The outdoor gardens are a year-round haven. If you fancy exploring indoors, don’t miss the McMillan Greenhouse, where exotic wonders like tropical ferns and orchids await.
For those who relish guided tours, they’re available for small groups; just be sure to plan. If you prefer a self-guided adventure, worry not – maps are on hand, and plant labels abound, ensuring you’re in the know about the beautiful flora around you. Keep an eye out for the distinctive “corpse flowers” in the garden, known for their less-than-pleasant aroma. Currently, there are two: Odie and Rotney the Magnificent.
UNC Charlotte’s Botanical Gardens, comprising the outdoor gardens and McMillan Greenhouse, graciously welcome visitors without any charge (though donations are appreciated). The outdoor gardens are accessible every day during daylight hours, while the greenhouse has specific opening days and times. For the latest information, consult the official website.
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
This extraordinary space is the result of a collaborative venture between the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, spanning an impressive 102,000 square feet.
Recognized as the top children’s library in the United States by Livability.com, ImaginOn attracts over 300,000 visitors annually. The centre boasts two state-of-the-art theatres, a dedicated library area for kids aged 11 and under, four versatile classrooms, a teen-exclusive library, a multimedia production studio, and interactive exhibit spaces.
ImaginOn goes beyond traditional library services, offering cutting-edge collections, award-winning professional theater, and innovative educational programs. It transforms stories into captivating experiences that challenge, inspire, and captivate young minds. Step into ImaginOn and embark on a journey where imagination knows no bounds, and every visit becomes a unique adventure in learning and creativity.
The Light Factory Photo Arts Center
For the last 40 years, The Light Factory Photo Arts Center has been a home for beautiful pictures. It’s like a special place where people can see different kinds of photos—some taken with old cameras, some with new ones, and even some that move like in the movies. They change what they show now and then, bringing pictures from new and famous artists like Bill Viola, Imogen Cunningham, Stanley Kubrick, and Sarah Moon.
If looking at these pictures makes you want to try taking your own, The Center has something more to offer. They teach classes where you can learn about digital photography (using cameras that don’t need film) and how to make black-and-white pictures in a special darkroom. These classes might cost a bit extra, but they can help you understand and enjoy the magic of pictures even more. Come to The Light Factory Photo Arts Center, where pictures tell stories, and everyone is welcome to learn and be inspired.
SouthPark Shopping Centre
SouthPark offers more than just shopping—it’s a lively neighborhood with lots of exciting free things to do in Charlotte. Apart from the fancy stores, SouthPark has a mix of cultural stuff, green areas, and fun things to enjoy.
The main attraction is SouthPark Mall, perfect for those who love shopping. But there’s more to SouthPark than just shopping. Symphony Park, a beautiful outdoor space, hosts concerts and events. It’s great for a chill picnic or a lively night out.
If you’re into art and culture, SouthPark has galleries and theaters to explore. And when it comes to food, there are lots of restaurants serving tasty dishes for every taste.
SouthPark is not just a place; it’s a cool neighborhood with a bunch of different things to try. Whether you love shopping, enjoy culture, or just want good food, SouthPark has something fun for everyone.
Explore Greenways on Foot or Bike
If you’re in Charlotte and want a break from the city noise, the greenways are perfect. They’re like nature’s secret hideout, with trees, wooden bridges, and a gentle stream making you feel far away.
Charlotte has about 49 miles of greenways for walking, running, and biking. One of the favorites, Clark’s Creek (also called Mallard Creek), is nearly 7.5 miles long. You can park for free at various spots around the city to access these green oases.
So, if you enjoy walking, running, or biking, Charlotte’s greenways are your ticket to a peaceful and natural retreat, right in the middle of the city.
St Peter’s Catholic Church
St. Peter’s Catholic Church is a beautiful place of worship located in Charlotte, North Carolina. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it has been a spiritual home for the community for many years.
The church welcomes people from all walks of life to gather, worship, and find peace. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes St. Peter’s a special place to connect with your faith.
Explore the religious and cultural significance of this church, and you might discover a sense of tranquillity and community that enriches your spiritual journey.
Reclining Bulls Statue
The Reclining Bulls Statue is a cool sculpture in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s like a special piece of art that makes the city more interesting for people who live there or visit, offering a unique attraction among the free things to do in Charlotte.
The statue is in a big open space, and it shows bulls lying down in a cool way. The artist who made it wanted to show how strong and calm these animals can be.
If you ever go there, take a little walk around the statue. Look closely at the details, and maybe think about what the artist wanted to say. This kind of art makes the city more fun and gives everyone something cool to look at!
Hendrick Motorsports Complex
The Hendrick Motorsports Complex is like a special place for race cars in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s where a famous team takes care of their fast cars and gets them ready for exciting races.
This complex is like a big home for race cars. Some special people work here, making sure the cars are super fast and safe. You might see colourful cars zooming in and out, practising for big races.
If you’re a fan of fast cars and races, this is a cool place to visit. You can learn about the history of the team and see the awesome cars up close. It’s like a playground for people who love the roar of race car engines!
Conclusion
To sum it up, Charlotte, NC, has lots of fun things to do that won’t cost you much. You can enjoy the outdoors, explore cool places, and learn interesting stuff—all without breaking the bank.
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, Charlotte has a plethora of cost-free options, ensuring you can have a great time without spending a penny on your visit. Explore these free things to do in Charlotte NC and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
