The ultimate Charlotte bucket list, according to a local author
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Charlotte is brimming with breweries and banks, but there's a bevy of other things to do, too.
Why it matters: I've been writing about Charlotte for almost a decade now, and put all of that expertise into one handy book called "100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die."
- In the book, you can choose your own adventure or follow one of the itineraries and seasonal guides curated just for you.
Consider the list below your introduction to what makes our city special, and a preview of what to expect from my book.
Pair your hike with a wine flight
Hiking Crowders Mountain is a right of passage for Charlotteans. The mountain, less than an hour outside of town, has miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous.
After your hike, head to Veronet Vineyards for a wine flight and picnic. The winery has a market on-site with shareable charcuterie boxes and other provisions. They also have a rotating lineup of food trucks on weekends, if you're looking for more robust meal options.
Work your way through Axios Charlotte's best restaurants list
Whether you're trying to find your go-to restaurant or break out of your dinner routine rut, our annual best restaurants guide is a good place to start.
- Splash out on a tasting menu-style meal at trendy high-end spots like Counter- or L'Ostrica, or stick with the classics like Lang Van or Al Mike's.
Score something secondhand for your closet or home
Funky clothing, one-of-a-kind home decor, discounted designer handbags — you can find all of that and more at any number of Charlotte's well-curated Charlotte's consignment stores. Save these ideas for a rainy day:
- Thrift Pony: A trendy, affordable second-hand clothing store that also does pop-ups in a pink bus.
- EDIT sale: Make your calendar for this semi-annual designer consignment sale with brands like Gucci, Dries Van Noten, and Ganni.
- Sleepy Poet: A 48,000-square-foot treasure hunter's paradise with anything from antiques to quirky home finds.
- South End Exchange: A well-curated consignment shop with a great rug selection.
Cheer on one of our sports teams
Charlotte is home to several professional sports teams, including the Panthers and Hornets. If your NFL and NBA loyalties lie outside of town, cheer for the Charlotte Checkers and/or the Charlotte Knights.
In recent years, Charlotte got a Major League Soccer team. Known for the high-energy atmosphere, a Charlotte FC game is a bucket list-worthy occasion.
- Pro tip: If you really want to cement your status as a Charlottean, catch a golf tournament at Quail Hollow. Lucky for this golf-loving city, we're hosting the PGA Championship in 2025.
Join a group to meet new friends
Charlotte is filled with transplants and people hoping to make new connections. You'll love Mad Miles Run Club if you like group fitness (with a heavy dose of music and dancing). Or join Counterculture Club if you want to socialize sans hangover. Rally Pickleball has social meetup events with a little paddling in between.
Go deeper: Need more ideas for your Charlotte bucket list? Consider this list a taste of all the city has to offer. Grab "100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die" from Park Road Books or online. Or you can check out a copy from the library.