New to Uptown Charlotte? Start Here
As the bustling center of North Carolina’s largest city, Uptown Charlotte has its own unique rhythm. This Insider Guide will help you find your feet in your new favorite neighborhood — and discover fun things to do in Uptown Charlotte.
Getting to Know Uptown
However you like to spend your time, you’re sure to find plenty to love in Uptown. From the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits bring the thrill of racing to life, to the Mint Museum’s classic and contemporary art, there’s something for every taste.
If you love local history, the Levine Museum of the New South offers a compelling journey through the post-Civil War South. Meanwhile, the Harvey B. Gantt Center celebrates the rich tapestry of African-American arts and culture. Sports fans can roar with the Panthers at Bank of America Stadium or cheer on the Hornets at Spectrum Center. And when you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle, Romare Bearden Park and First Ward Park offer leafy retreats for picnics, people-watching, or picking a spot to lay in the sun.
The Best Uptown Charlotte Dining
Indulge in refined fare at Church and Union, where innovative dishes meet stylish surroundings. Or enjoy sophisticated Italian cuisine at Angelina’s or Aria Tuscan Grill. For more casual dining, Alexander Michael’s has been a local favorite for decades, known throughout Uptown for its comfort food and cozy atmosphere. Don’t forget Green’s Lunch, an Uptown institution since 1926 — their hot dogs, topped with a secret-recipe chili, are a must-try for anyone new to the neighborhood. If your tastes run toward international flavors, Basil Thai serves up authentic Thai cuisine, while MOA Korean BBQ offers a grill-at-your-table dining experience. Seafood lover? Don’t miss Fin & Fino, which is known for its fresh catches.
Uptown at Night
As twilight settles in, Uptown’s nightlife awakens. Sip cocktails while drinking in the skyline vistas at Merchant & Trade, a rooftop bar that epitomizes urban sophistication. Or, for a change of pace, step into the speakeasy-style world of The Cellar at Duckworth’s, where craft cocktails and gastropub dishes transport you to another era. Craft beer enthusiasts will find choice pints at Resident Culture Brewing’s Uptown taproom. Here, you can sample a rotating selection of innovative brews in a laid-back atmosphere — and don’t miss Food Truck Fridays.
Getting Around Uptown
Yes, of course you could drive — but if you’re more inclined to take public transit, the LYNX Blue Line light rail offers a smooth ride across nearly 20 miles, making almost 30 stops along the way. For those who prefer pedal power, Charlotte Joy Rides has been “transforming urban transportation for over 10 years.” You’ll find close to three dozen bicycle-sharing stations throughout the area, perfect for impromptu explorations when you want to just get on a bike and go.
Uptown Charlotte Is Yours to Discover
Uptown Charlotte marries Southern hospitality with metropolitan flair. As the city’s commercial nucleus, it hums with energy during business hours, while evenings and weekends bring a different kind of vitality. From thought-provoking museums to electrifying sports venues and eclectic eateries to pulsing nightspots, Uptown constantly reveals new features and facets.
As you wander the streets, breathe in the atmosphere, and uncover hidden gems, you’ll find yourself becoming part of Uptown’s ongoing story. And no matter whether work or pleasure brings you here, Uptown Charlotte’s dynamism and amenities will soon make you feel right at home.
