Welcome to Charlotte, NC! As a UNCC student, you’re in the heart of the action. The Queen City is brimming with exciting activities, and this guide is your key to unlocking them. We’ve put together the ultimate student guide for exploring Charlotte’s top attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique local spots.
Living at Arcadia Student Living puts you in the perfect position to experience all these amazing things to do in Charlotte. After a day of exploring, you’ll have the perfect student apartment to come home to.
Key Takeaways
- Charlotte offers a diverse range of attractions, from the high-speed thrills of the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Carowinds to the tranquil nature of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
- Explore vibrant neighborhoods like Uptown Charlotte for museums and sports, or unique spots like Camp North End for food and art.
- Outdoor enthusiasts have endless options, including the U.S. National Whitewater Center and the extensive greenways managed by Mecklenburg County.
- Living near campus at Arcadia provides easy access to the city’s best activities while offering a comfortable retreat to come home to.
- Many attractions offer student discounts or are free, making it easy to have fun on a budget in the 704.
Outdoor Adventures and Parks in the Queen City
When you need a break from studying, Charlotte’s outdoor scene is the perfect escape. From thrilling adventures to tranquil parks, there’s always a reason to get outside.
Conquer the U.S. National Whitewater Center
For the ultimate adventure, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is a must-visit. You can go whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and rock climbing all in one place. They also host live music and events, making it a great spot for a full day of fun with friends. You can get a day pass to access most of the outdoor adventures. For more ways to balance school and fun, you can find more student life tips on our blog.
Relax at Freedom Park
Often called the “Central Park of Charlotte,” Freedom Park is the perfect spot for a low-key weekend. Located near the Dilworth neighborhood, it features a large pond, walking trails, and sports fields. Pack a picnic, toss a Frisbee, or just relax by the fountain. It’s a tranquil nature preserve in the middle of the city, managed by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation.
Explore the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic day trip, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is your answer. With stunning gardens, beautiful fountains, and the impressive Orchid Conservatory, it’s a tranquil escape from your studies. It’s the perfect place to clear your head and snap some great photos.
Walk or Bike the Little Sugar Creek Greenway
This urban greenway is one of the best ways to see different parts of Charlotte for free. The Little Sugar Creek Greenway connects several parks and neighborhoods, including an entrance at Romare Bearden Park in Uptown Charlotte. It’s ideal for a walk, run, or bike ride while taking in the city views.
Thrills and Entertainment for Students
Ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun? Charlotte is home to some of the best entertainment and amusement park attractions in the Carolinas.
Experience Carowinds Amusement Park
Known as the “Thrill Capital of the Southeast,” Carowinds sits right on the North Carolina and South Carolina border. This massive amusement park is home to famous roller coasters like Fury 325, one of the tallest and fastest giga coasters in the world. Plus, your ticket includes admission to the Carolina Harbor water park, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. You can see what fun looks like at Arcadia when you’re not out seeking thrills.
Feel the Speed at the NASCAR Hall of Fame & Charlotte Motor Speedway
You can’t live in Charlotte without experiencing the home of NASCAR. Head to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Uptown to check out interactive exhibits, try racing simulators, and see historic cars. For the real deal, catch a race or event at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in nearby Concord.
Museums, Arts, and Culture in Uptown Charlotte
Uptown Charlotte is the cultural heart of the city, packed with world-class museums and performance venues that are perfect for a weekend outing or a sophisticated night out.
Get Hands-On at Discovery Place Science
This isn’t your average museum. Discovery Place Science is an interactive museum in the uptown area that makes learning fun. You can explore hands-on labs, watch a film in the IMAX Dome Theatre, and check out amazing special exhibits. It’s a great way to spend a rainy day. You can plan your visit to Discovery Place on their website.
Appreciate Art at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Located within the Levine Center for the Arts, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art features an incredible collection of mid-20th-century modern art. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, and it’s a must-visit museum uptown for anyone who appreciates art and design.
Catch a Show at Blumenthal Performing Arts
From Broadway tours and big-name concerts to comedy acts, Blumenthal Performing Arts hosts a huge variety of shows across several theaters in Uptown. Check their calendar for featured events and plan a memorable night out with friends.
Explore History at the Levine Museum of the New South
The Levine Museum of the New South tells the story of the South since the Civil War. Through powerful oral histories and interactive exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and its impact on today.
Your Home Base for Charlotte Adventures at Arcadia
With so much to see and do, you need a comfortable and convenient place to call home. Arcadia Student Living offers the perfect base for all your Charlotte adventures.
The Perfect Location for UNCC Students
Arcadia’s location offers the best of both worlds: proximity to the UNCC campus and easy access to all the Charlotte attractions on this list. Getting around the city is a breeze, so you can spend less time commuting and more time exploring. Explore our unbeatable location to see for yourself.
Unwind with Resort-Style Amenities
After a long day of classes or a weekend of exploring, come home to Arcadia and relax. Take a dip in the resort-style pool, hang out with friends in the clubhouse, or get a workout in at the fully-equipped fitness center. Check out our full list of amenities designed for the ultimate student lifestyle.
Space for You and Your Friends
Exploring Charlotte is better with friends, and living at Arcadia means you have the perfect space for your crew. Our spacious layouts are designed for student life, giving you and your roommates plenty of room to study, socialize, and relax. Find the perfect floor plan for you and your friends.
FAQs: Your Charlotte Questions Answered
Absolutely! Charlotte is packed with fun activities for everyone. You can experience thrilling rides at Carowinds, explore world-class museums in Uptown like Discovery Place Science, enjoy outdoor adventures at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, or catch a pro sports game.
For students, must-sees include the NASCAR Hall of Fame for a taste of local culture, a day trip to the Whitewater Center for an adrenaline rush, exploring the unique shops and food stalls at Camp North End, and walking through Freedom Park on a sunny day.
Exploring Charlotte on a budget is easy. Walk or bike the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, enjoy a picnic at Romare Bearden Park with skyline views, explore the Billy Graham Library (free admission), and check out the various free festivals and events listed on charlottesgotalot.com. You can also check out this guide to the best things to do in Charlotte.
Make Charlotte Your Playground
From thrilling roller coasters and outdoor adventures to amazing museums and cultural experiences, there are so many things to do in Charlotte, NC. As a UNCC student, the Queen City is yours to explore.
Living at Arcadia Student Living provides the perfect home base to experience it all. Ready to start your adventure? Schedule a tour or check out our floor plans today. Learn more about the best in UNCC student housing and make Arcadia your home.
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Kyle Knutsen
Community Manager
Kyle Knutsen, a proud West Virginian, has built over eight years of experience in property management, bringing dedication and expertise to every corner of the industry. Known for his hands-on approach and strong community ties, Kyle is committed to creating spaces people are proud to call home.
