Welcome to Charlotte, NC!

Welcome to Charlotte, the Queen City, a city with so much to do their literal city tagline is “Charlotte’s Got A Lot.” While on some lesser towns that may sound hokey or like they’re trying to hard, Charlotte lives up to it. A banking and finance city turned hipster hot spot, Charlotte is a great place if you’re looking for art, beer, history, beer, nature, or even beer! Home to dozens of breweries, famous chefs, breathtaking vistas, adrenaline inducing nature, exciting sporting events and so much more, you won’t run out of things to explore in this city that blends it all together so perfectly, you may never want to leave!

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Here's Whym's top ten things to know about Charlotte, NC

Welcome!

Charlotte, known as "The Queen City,” weaves plenty of outdoor beauty with its urban amenities. Full of distinct and diverse neighborhoods, excellent shopping, and award-winning food and beer, you won't run out of fantastic things to fill your time in this lovely city. From sporting events to NoDa (the arts area) there is so much to see and do!

Finding Your Way

The best way to get around downtown is on foot. Charlotte also has a few different railways - the Lynx Blue Line Light Rail commutes from South Charlotte to Center City. CityLynx Gold Line runs east to west Charlotte. Charlotte Area Transit (CARTA) is a bus service accessible through the whole city. Charlotte also offers bike sharing services where you can rent a bike from most street corners. Lyfts & Ubers are easy to call whenever you’re venturing around town and most likely your best bet!

Airport Deets

Roughly a 7 mile car ride from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) to the center of the city, a taxi or Lyft can run you anywhere between $12-$18. Another option is to take the Sprinter Route 5 Airport Bus that gets you from point A to B in 30 minutes or CARTA Route 11.

History

Charlotte was formed in 1768 and was named after Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III. It was known as a “hornet’s nest of rebellion” during the American Revolution, hence the hornet is an iconic symbol here. Charlotte has continued its nature of being distinctly its own throughout history. It was the location of the first gold rush and main mining state until 1849. This massive growth would spur the banking industry to blossom & thrive in this city, leading to explosive growth and an intersection of many different styles all in one burgeoning town.

Why Am I Here?

Sure you’ve been to the airport, but have you left it? Well if not, you’ve been missing out. Charlotte is one of the largest cities in the US with rapid growth occurring around every corner. If you’re a foodie, you’ll find some of the best soul food in the nation right next to celebrity chefs. If you love history, the architecture and stories surrounding this town will leave you enchanted. There is beautiful hiking for the nature lovers, sports for those of us with a competitive streak, amusement parks for the thrill seekers. Charlotte is a city with something for everyone!

Weather

Charlotte is a perfectly temperate city with all four distinct seasons present without usually ever getting too hot or too cold. Expect lots of sun year round & moderate temperatures for that season no matter when you visit.

Local Delicacies

A quarter chicken plate with the works (coleslaw, hush puppies, and a soft roll) is a must eat at Price’s Chicken Coop. Block and Grinder delivers a creamy and delicious Chicken liver mousse that is possibly the best in town. If you need something to help you sleep satisfied, the White Trash Burger at Pinky’s is phenomenal; although you might need a fork and knife for this one.

Souvenirs

Known as the Charlotte beverage, grab yourself a pack of Legendary Cheerwine. Black Hills BBQ seasoning from the savory spice shop is delicious. You can't leave Charlotte without grabbing yourself Cloister Honey to go! It can be found at Pura Vida Or Reid’s Fine Foods.

Style

Casual wear such as a light sweatshirt and comfortable walking shoes works here. Mountain boots, long khakis and sunglasses are preferable for an enjoyable hike. Take an umbrella in case there's a pop up!

Must Know

Charlotte serves as a leader in urban greenways with a commitment to increase its urban canopy by 50% by 2050. NASCAR roots run deep here with the Hall of Fame and Charlotte Motor Speedway buzzing.

I'm gone to Carolina in my mind

- James Taylor