The long, sweet days of summer in Charlotte, NC are here. Kids are out of school, the cool waters of a pool, lake, or ocean beckon, and warm summer nights are greeted by flickering fireflies. This time of year uncovers an abundance of activities to enjoy. If you’re just moving here or need a reminder of some of the fun things to do in and around Charlotte, Shea Homes® has you covered.
Play on the lake or climb a mountain
Charlotte has two lakes: Lake Norman to the north, and Lake Wylie to the south. Each offers activities such as Jet Skiing, paddle-boarding, boating, and has restaurants with a view. Crowders Mountain is just 25 miles west of Charlotte and is a popular place to go hiking, have picnics and take in the 25-mile views of the Piedmont area.
Go to the mountains or the beach
Further west of Crowders Mountain are the Appalachian Mountains, which are about a two-and-a-half hour drive. Headed east, the Carolina beaches are about three-and-a-half hours away. With both the ocean and the mountains within short driving distance, a vacation isn’t far away!
Visit the local wineries
Dozens of wineries pepper Charlotte and the surrounding area. Treehouse Vineyards and Rocky River Vineyards are around a forty-five-minute drive east from Uptown Charlotte. South Creek Winery lies at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains – a little over an hour-and-a-half west of Uptown Charlotte – and hosts events throughout the summer. Raffaldini Vineyards is an hour-and-a-half north of Uptown Charlotte and has a view of the foothills. A quick Google search will list all of the wineries in the area.
Stop by a local brewery
Charlotte’s brewery scene is growing, so we can’t mention the wineries without mentioning the local breweries. Charlotte Agenda cited a finding from JLL Carolinas research that says, "put together, Charlotte’s craft breweries occupy nearly 400,000 square feet." With so many choices, you’re sure to discover a new favorite, local beer.
Spend a day at Carowinds
Carowinds is the Carolinas’ biggest theme park that straddles the state line between North Carolina and South Carolina. Attractions included roller coasters, a kid’s section, shows, dining, games, and more. During the summer, all rides and sections are open, including the “Carolina Harbor Water Park.”
Tour the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Daniel Stow Botanical Garden is a “Garden for all seasons and provides guests a chance to reconnect with nature.” Summer is a wonderful time to see a variety of flowers, plants, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bumblebees, and to appreciate the activities, live music, crafts, and more. Fun fact: The Garden is right across the street from Shea Home Charlotte’s McLean neighborhood.
Explore the U.S. National Whitewater Center
The USNWC offers activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, ropes courses, zip lines, mountain biking, and more. There are also concerts and festivals throughout the year, and summer camps for kids – convenient for when school is out for the summer.
Kayaking
In and around Charlotte, there are many activities, historic sites, and scenic landscape to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring, relaxing, or hanging with the kids, you’re sure to find something here for you.