20 Fun Things To Do in Charlotte in the Summer
The city of Charlotte, North Carolina thrives during summertime with so many outdoor activities and events happening throughout May to August. There are plenty of Charlotte summer activities to keep you busy every weekend.
Keep reading for a list of things to do in Charlotte in the summer… but first, a little about Charlotte, NC:
Charlotte, NC is a popular city in North Carolina that sits on the border of South Carolina. It is known for being a great place for young adults and bankers alike. Charlotte’s downtown area (called Uptown) is home to many sports teams, with numerous surrounding neighborhoods that are filled with activities: South End, NoDa, Plaza Midwood, etc!
Things To Do in Charlotte in The Summer
River Jam Concert Series
Website: River Jam
Location: White Water Center
Price: Free! (parking is $6)
This is the best way to spend an evening outdoors in the summer is by relaxing on the grass with live music. You can do just that at the River Jam Concert Series hosted by the White Water Center.
This 3x weekly event is the perfect place to wind down after a busy week – and yes, you read that right … River Jam is hosted Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night during the summer months!
I recommend arriving a little early to get a decent spot on the grass. Definitely bring blankets or chairs with you. They do have a quick service restaurant and bar nearby that is available throughout the evening, as outside food is not permitted inside the White Water Center!
Knights Baseball Game
Website: Knights Tickets
Location: BB&T Stadium
Price: $14+ per person
Take me out to a ball game… in Charlotte! Charlotte is home to the Knights Baseball team (minor league baseball). Baseball is one of the most classic things to do in Charlotte in the summer, so it can’t be missed!
The Knights Baseball stadium is located in Uptown next to Romare Bearden Park! It’s always fun to check out Graham Street Pup or the Latta Arcade before a game!
Carowinds
Website: Carowinds Tickets
Location: 14523 Carowinds Blvd
Price: $45+ per day
Did you know Charlotte, NC is just a few minutes away from an amusement park?! Each summer, Carowinds comes to life with rides, entertainment, food, and more for families to enjoy!
Carowinds is the only amusement park located on a state border (NC/SC) making it unique and accessible for so many nearby towns!
Carowinds also has a waterpark that is completely free with entry to the regular theme park, which is a hot destination in the summertime. You can catch me lounging by the wave pool or floating down the lazy river!
Pedal Trolley
Website: Trolley Pub
Location: South End or Noda
Price: $44 per person or $399 for entire trolley
What better way to see Charlotte in the summer then on a pedal trolley around the neighborhoods. Hop on this bike-like trolley and drink your way around the town!
There are a few different companies that provide this service in Charlotte, but my favorite is Trolley Pub. This outfitter allows you to BYOB, makes 3 stops along the trip, and gives you the option to purchase single tickets or the entire trolley. The staff is always friendly and having a good time!
FC Soccer Games
Website: Charlotte FC Schedule
Location: Bank of America Stadium
Price: $40+ per person
Are you ready to cheer on Charlotte’s newest sports team?! Charlotte FC was introduced in 2022 and has taken the city by storm!
Catch a soccer game at the Bank of America Stadium located in Uptown! Be sure to wear your blue and get ready for a high energy game!
Rooftop Bars
If you know me, you know I’m a sucker for a rooftop bar. Luckily, Charlotte has a few really amazing rooftop bars that you won’t want to miss over the summer months!
My favorite rooftop bars in Charlotte are listed below:
- Aura Rooftop | JW Hotel
- Merchant & Trade | Kimpton Hotel
- Fahrenheit | Hyatt Hotel
- Nuvole 22 | AC Hotel & Residence Inn
Rooftops in Charlotte have dress codes, so be sure to do your research before showing up in your summer jean shorts and flip flops.
Float Down the Catawba River
Floating down the river is a classic summertime activity that is budget friendly! The Catawba River is only 20 minutes south of Charlotte, making this perfect for a day activity.
Floating down the Catawba River can take roughly 3-5 hours depending on water flow and recent rain. My favorite start and end are listed below:
Floating Down Catawba River:
Start Point: Lake Wylie Dam
End Point: Pump House Restaurant
There is amble parking at both locations, and its best to have 2 cars (one at the end of the river and one at the beginning of the river). You can bring your own tubes but make sure they are river tubes (general pool floats are sturdy enough if you hit a rock!)
Brewery Hop in Charlotte
One of the most popular things to do in Charlotte in the summer is to visit the many breweries throughout the city! Most of the breweries have outdoor areas to soak in the sun and bring your pups along!
Some of the Best Breweries in Charlotte are listed below:
- Legion Brewery
- OMB Brewery
- Sycamore Brewery
- NoDa Brewery
Related Post: Full Guide to the Best Breweries in Charlotte
Picnic in the Park
Summer is the best time of the year for a picnic in the park! There are two iconic parks in Charlotte that I recommend enjoying a picnic in:
- Freedom Park (best park for overall size)
- Romare Bearden Park (best park in the city with skyline views)
Enjoying a picnic in the park is one of my favorite free things to do in Charlotte NC.
Summer Concert at PNC Pavilion
Website: PNC Pavilion
Location: 707 Pavilion Road, Charlotte
Price: Varies
One of my favorite summer activities is attending an outdoor concert! Each summer, Charlotte hosts many popular artists on tour here at PNC Pavilion.
A few pieces of advice for visiting PNC Pavilion – parking is included in your ticket price, but it is a little outside of the city! Plan ahead with a DD or uber there! You can bring a water bottle into PNC Pavilion along with a low chair (ie beach chair) if you have lawn tickets. Girls, your purse will need to be clear or small.
Camp North End
Website: Camp North End
Location: 300 Camp Road, Charlotte, NC
Price: Free
Camp North End feels like an outdoor playground for adults! There are numerous food stalls, art exhibits, breweries, pop up shops, and more!
Camp North End is 76 acres large (yes, you read that right) so be sure to check out the Map before you go.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
Website: Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
Location: 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, NC 28012
Price: $14.95 per adult
A great way to spend the day outside in Charlotte during the summer is by taking a stroll through Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens! The flowers are in full bloom all summer long with beautiful themed gardens.
This 110 acre garden (map) is home to a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a Dry Piedmont Prairie, annual and perennial displays, sparkling fountains, walking trails and more.
Note: Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens are closed on Tuesdays.
Things To Do Near Charlotte in The Summer
Lake Norman or Lake Wylie
You can’t go wrong with a lake day in the summertime! Charlotte is conveniently nestled between two different lakes, doubling your options for lake days!
Carrigan Farms Quarry
One of the best things to do near Charlotte in the summer is swimming in the Quarry at Carrigan Farms. Here you’ll be able to swim in a natural Quarry surrounded by stunning rocks and forestry. Jump off cliffs, float, or swim to your hearts content!
Related Post: Quarry in Carrigan Farms
Hiking Near Charlotte
Charlotte is within 1.5 hours of many amazing hikes. You can easily take a day trip to enjoy the trails around Charlotte.
The most accessible hike near Charlotte is Crowders Mountain at just 30-45 minutes away in Kings Mountain, NC. This state park is a favorite for locals who need an escape from the city with beautiful views! The main trails include Pinnacle Trail and Ridgeline Trail. Any of the 11 trails in the park will provide you with a stunning view that spans for miles!
Road Trips from Charlotte
If the list of summer activities in Charlotte isn’t enough for you, take a road trip to other parts of North Carolina! You can explore mountain towns, beaches, and so much more! A few of my favorite Charlotte road trips are listed below:
- Wilmington, NC – best road trip for the beach or One Tree Hill
- Linville, NC – best for waterfalls, caverns, wineries, and more!
- Bryson City, NC – best for small mountain town vibes
A lot of items on my North Carolina Bucket list can be considered North Carolina things to do in the summer.
Other Seasonal Activities in Charlotte
There you have it – the best Charlotte summer activities! I hope you get out and explore as much as possible during the summer months and see the best of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Drop your favorite things to do in Charlotte in the summer in the comments below!
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