Explore the Neighborhoods
Beyond the skyline of the nation’s second-leading financial center, lie Charlotte’s historical and visually stunning neighborhoods. Stroll through Charlotte’s most diverse streetcar-era neighborhoods, where buildings range from vintage factories to grand Southern estates. Take in turn-of-the-century architecture and traditional idyllic thoroughfares with boutiques and restaurants scattered along tree-lined streets.
Main Areas of Charlotte
One of Charlotte’s streetcar-era suburbs, the captivating neighborhood of Dilworth is, as Southern Living puts it, “the picture of vitality.” Bungalow-style homes, oak-shaded sidewalks, and a traditional neighborhood feel characterize this popular area. Up and down Dilworth’s main thoroughfare, East Boulevard, visitors can stumble on hip eateries, trendy boutiques, corner cafes and more.
Myers Park, an area with old Southern estates and streets lined with towering oaks, is known by Charlotteans as one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. Nestled amongst the winding, shady streets is the not-to-be-missed Mint Museum of Art. And tucked between a stretch of breathtaking residences is Duke Mansion, the former home of Duke University founder James Buchanan Duke, which is now a bed and breakfast.
Dilworth’s neighbor, South End, is just a trolley stop away from Center City and pairs an assorted mix of restaurants, antique shops, and retail with a relaxed atmosphere. Fine local and regional performing and visual artists host a bevy of live music, monthly gallery crawl events, and festivals like the “Art and Soul of South End.”
NoDa, SoHo’s little sister, is Charlotte’s historic “arts district” located on North Davidson, just north of Center City. After the closing of the area’s last mill, NoDa began a renaissance of sorts in the 1980s that drew young artists into the area who had a vision of developing a new art community for Charlotte residents. Today, NoDa is home to a funky collection of galleries, performance venues and dining hotspots.
Also, be sure to check out the South Park, Plaza-Midwood, Ballantyne, and University neighborhoods.
Charlotte is truly a dynamic city. Walk along the bustling streets of Center City Charlotte, step aboard the historic Charlotte Trolley or stroll along the tree-lined streets of our neighborhoods and experience the warmth and southern hospitality visitors to the Queen City have come to know.
Center City comprises the key business, cultural and entertainment district of Charlotte. Historic neighborhoods South End, NoDa, Dilworth, Myers Park and Plaza Midwood offer a glimpse into the city’s past and offer new, eclectic options for dining and entertainment.
South Park, Charlotte’s original upscale shopping destination, SouthPark Mall, and neighboring Phillips Place have been touted “One of the Four Best Places in the South for Luxury Shopping,” not to mention living and entertainment.
Ballantyne, a pre-planned community further south, offers a perfect mix of dining, entertainment, and the five-star Ballantyne Golf Resort & Spa. Just a short drive from Charlotte, Historic Waxhaw, Pineville and the Metrolina Expo offer shoppers a wealth of antiques and home furnishings.
The suburban Birkdale Village to the north is dotted with clothing stores for men, women and children. And while on the waters of two major man-made lakes, both within 20 minutes of Charlotte – Lake Norman to the north and Lake Wylie to the south – enjoy excellent water recreation, including fishing, boating and swimming.
Fans of NASCAR find Charlotte a dream. Eighty percent of all NASCAR Sprint Cup teams are headquartered within 50 miles of Charlotte, several of which offer gift shops and retail stores.