5 Best Things About the Queen City, Charlotte

Charlotte, NC, affectionately known as the Queen City, is a gem for families, adventure seekers, and anyone who loves a mix of Southern charm and modern living. Whether you’re strolling through uptown or seeking out thrills, this city has a bit of everything. Let’s take a look at the five best things about Charlotte—and why it’s worth exploring with your crew.

1. Uptown Charlotte’s Energy

Uptown Charlotte is the heart of the city and has something for everyone. From skyscrapers to green spaces, it’s buzzing with excitement. A must-visit is the Discovery Place Science Museum, where kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits and explore the wonders of science. And don’t miss Romare Bearden Park, where families can relax, have picnics, or join in on outdoor concerts and festivals. The park’s beautiful fountains and open space make it a favorite for kids to burn off some energy.

2. NASCAR Culture

If you’re a fan of speed and motorsports, you’re in the right place. Charlotte is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a must-see for racing enthusiasts. Explore the rich history of NASCAR, get up close with historic race cars, and experience interactive exhibits that bring the excitement of the track to life. And if you want to take the thrill up a notch, catch a race at the legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway. Perfect for little racers, these spots are a must-visit for families who love cars and adrenaline!

3. Outdoor Adventures at U.S. National Whitewater Center

For nature lovers and thrill-seeking families, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is the ultimate playground. This sprawling outdoor adventure park offers whitewater rafting, zip-lining, paddleboarding, hiking, and mountain biking, making it perfect for an adventurous day out. With over 1,300 acres of space to explore, you can spend the whole day out in nature while keeping the kids active and engaged. The center also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, so there’s always something fun happening.

4. South End’s Arts and Food Scene

The South End neighborhood of Charlotte is where creativity and culture come alive. This vibrant area is home to trendy restaurants, breweries, and incredible street art. Explore the local food scene at Atherton Mill & Market, which features local vendors selling everything from handmade goods to fresh produce. Or, take a family bike ride along the Rail Trail, where you can enjoy public art, street performances, and pop-up markets. South End’s artsy, family-friendly vibe makes it the perfect spot for a day out.

5. Carowinds Amusement Park

No Charlotte adventure is complete without a trip to Carowinds, the ultimate destination for family fun. This massive amusement park, located on the NC/SC border, features adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, water rides, and attractions for all ages. Whether your family loves fast rides or prefers to take it easy with carnival games, Carowinds has it all. The park also has a water park, Carolina Harbor, which is perfect for cooling off in the summer heat, plus seasonal events like WinterFest that bring holiday magic to life.

And while we’re talking about all the amazing things Charlotte has to offer, we can’t forget about our very own Queen City Garage Tee! Inspired by Charlotte’s motorsports legacy and the city’s vibrant energy, this tee combines vintage, garage-style graphics with a soft, durable fit that your little racer will love. Perfect for running around, climbing trees, or just showing off some Charlotte pride.

Check out the Queen City Garage Tee from Little Rad Things and bring a bit of the Queen City into your child’s wardrobe today!