Free Things to Do in Charlotte, NC

We're approaching mid-summer, and if you're like me, you're looking for that last minute get-away before the cool temperatures of fall set in. Whether you're looking for a final destination or a place to stop on your way somewhere, the Queen City of Charlotte, NC holds many treasures to keep your family entertained.

Music:

My personal favorite summer treat is Summer Pops at Southpark. The Charlotte symphony orchestra plays free jazz music most weekends. Check the charlotte symphony's website for exact dates and times. Bring a blanket, food, and friends. The music provides a wonderful backdrop for dates, family memories, or just fun conversation.

Museums:

The Charlotte Museum of History is a wonderful experience for any history buff. Please note, this museum is only free on Sundays. You can also visit the eight acre Hezekiah Alexander homesite. This home was completed in 1774, and is the oldest home standing in Mecklenburg County.

The Billy Graham Library...which is anything but the stereotypical library. I love walking through these buildings and seeing all the exhibits; Billy Graham knew so many influential people, and seeing the broad scope of items he collected is truly amazing. You'll find everything from a Louisville slugger from Babe Ruth to pieces from the Berlin Wall. Children will love meeting "Bessie", the talking cow, and adults will love the serene peacefulness of the location.

Parks:

Frank Liske Park in Concord offers a playground and hiking activities. Bring a picnic, frisbee, and the dog!

Reed Goldmine State historic park is just to the east of Charlotte in Locust, NC. Admission is free Tuesday through Saturday. This park is home to America's first documented gold rush in 1799. (You have to admit, that's just cool. I always thought some city in California would get credit for that.) You can even take tours of the mines here.

For Racing Fans:

If you've ever heard of racing, you've heard of Dale Earnhardt. He's from this neck of the woods. Nascar fans need to make time to head up I-85 to Kannapolis. The "Dale Trail" is a free experience that will take you on a brief tour of the driver's life. Make sure to stop in the Cabarrus County visitor's center to get more information, free maps, and brochures.

Malls:

For the shopaholics, Charlotte has it all. Free to roam through and window-shop!

*Northlake mall is one of the city's newest, located just off exit 18 on I-77. Northlake is enacting a curfew for unaccompanied teens on the weekends.

*If you've ever been to the OpryMills mall in Nashville, TN, you'll find its sister mall, Concord Mills right here. Walk the mall, stop in and see a $5 movie during the summer (Mon-Thurs nights only), and have dinner in the food court. Your kids will have a blast on the merry-go-round! (Please note, that's not free...but easier to shell out the cash for after seeing a $5 movie!)

*Carolina Mall is a few exits up I-85 from Concord Mills. More of a hometown feel; if you're looking for a quick and easy in-and-out shopping experience, this will serve your needs. I love being able to pop in, find what I need, and leave without having to fight crowds in the hallway here.

*Carolina Place is south of the city in Pineville. Close to the South Carolina border, and convenient to I-485.

*Southpark mall will serve your taste for the finer goods. With a covered parking garage to save your car from being too hot to handle after your shop-til-you-drop fun, Southpark is the answer to any major retail therapy you may need!

Destinations:

The Queen City sits in the perfect location for get-aways. Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head are each a simple 3 hour drive away; makes for a wonderful day trip on the weekends. Split the gas money with friends, and go soak up some sun!

The mountains of NC are just a few hours off to your west!

For anyone who grew up on Nick-at-Nite reruns, you remember Andy Griffith and Mayberry. A quick day trip from Charlotte would also bring you to the actual town of Mount Airy, which was modeled after Mayberry. Take a stroll down Main Street and see Floyd's barber shop! Drive by the house Andy grew up in, and see where he went to school.

Have fun with your trip to Charlotte!