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7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Charlotte

Saturday, August 19: Exploring Uptown Charlotte

Start your trip by exploring Uptown Charlotte, the city's vibrant downtown area. In the morning, visit the Discovery Place Science museum, where your family can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Afterward, head to The Green, a beautiful urban park, for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Levine Museum of the New South to learn about the region's history. In the evening, catch a baseball game at Truist Field and cheer for the Charlotte Knights.

  • Discovery Place Science: Estimated cost - $25 per adult, $20 per child | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • The Green: Free | Estimated time spent - 1 hour
  • Levine Museum of the New South: Estimated cost - $10 per adult, $6 per child | Estimated time spent - 2 hours
  • Truist Field: Estimated cost varies on game ticket | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Sunday, August 20: Family Fun at Carowinds

Spend the day at Carowinds, a thrilling amusement park located just outside Charlotte. Start your morning with exciting rides like the Fury 325, one of the world's tallest roller coasters. Afterward, cool off at Carolina Harbor, the park's water park, and enjoy various water slides and pools. In the evening, catch a live show or grab a delicious dinner at one of the park's many dining options.

  • Carowinds: Estimated cost - $60 per person | Estimated time spent - 8 hours
Monday, August 21: Natural Beauty at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Spend the morning exploring the stunning gardens, featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and themed areas. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by the serene landscapes. In the afternoon, stroll along the trails, visit the tropical conservatory, and let your kids play in the Lost Hollow Children's Garden. Wrap up the day with a visit to the garden's gift shop.

  • Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Estimated cost - $14 per adult, $7 per child | Estimated time spent - 4 hours
Tuesday, August 22: Discovery Place Nature and Family-Friendly Dining

Start your day at Discovery Place Nature, a hands-on nature museum perfect for families. Explore the exhibits showcasing the region's diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Engage in interactive activities and learn about conservation efforts. For lunch, head to Mert's Heart and Soul, a local favorite known for its delicious Southern cuisine. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

  • Discovery Place Nature: Estimated cost - $8 per adult, $6 per child | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • Mert's Heart and Soul: Estimated cost - $15 per person | Estimated time spent - 1 hour
  • Little Sugar Creek Greenway: Free | Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, August 23: NASCAR Hall of Fame and ImaginOn

Start your morning at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where you can delve into the history of stock car racing and even try your hand at racing simulators. Afterward, head to ImaginOn, a unique interactive library and children's theater. Let your kids unleash their creativity in the various play areas and enjoy a family-friendly performance. In the evening, explore the vibrant dining scene in the EpiCentre, offering a wide range of cuisines.

  • NASCAR Hall of Fame: Estimated cost - $25 per adult, $18 per child | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • ImaginOn: Free admission, some activities may have additional costs | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • EpiCentre: Estimated cost varies based on restaurant choice | Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, August 24: Historic Rosedale Plantation and Freedom Park

Step back in time and visit the Historic Rosedale Plantation, a preserved antebellum plantation house. Embark on a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the house. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the picturesque Freedom Park, offering walking trails, a lake, and open spaces for outdoor activities. In the afternoon, rent paddleboats and explore the park's pond. Wrap up the day with ice cream treats from Elizabeth Creamery.

  • Historic Rosedale Plantation: Estimated cost - $10 per adult, $5 per child | Estimated time spent - 2 hours
  • Freedom Park: Free | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • Elizabeth Creamery: Estimated cost - $5 per person | Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Friday, August 25: Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and Romare Bearden Park

In the morning, immerse yourself in the world of modern art at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Explore the impressive collection of artworks by renowned artists. For lunch, head to 7th Street Public Market, a bustling food market offering a variety of cuisines. In the afternoon, relax at Romare Bearden Park, a beautiful urban park with interactive fountains and stunning city views. Enjoy a family-friendly concert or performance if available.

  • Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: Estimated cost - $9 per adult, $6 per child | Estimated time spent - 3 hours
  • 7th Street Public Market: Estimated cost varies based on restaurant choice | Estimated time spent - 1 hour
  • Romare Bearden Park: Free | Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Discovery Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil nature preserve with hiking trails and wildlife sightings. Families can also enjoy a visit to SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, where they can explore various marine habitats and even touch sea creatures. Don't miss Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, an indoor amusement park offering trampolines, obstacle courses, and other exciting activities.

For a taste of local favorites, try the famous fried chicken at Price's Chicken Coop, a Charlotte institution. Another local favorite is Midwood Smokehouse, known for its mouthwatering barbecued meats. Don't forget to indulge in some sweet treats at Amelie's French Bakery, offering delicious pastries and desserts.

Check hotel and flight prices to plan your trip to Charlotte.

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