HISTORIC, FRIENDLY, THRIVING
The west end of Charlotte – sometimes referred to as FreeMoreWest – is booming. New coffee shops, restaurants and breweries are popping up all over this area, just minutes from both Uptown and I-77.
Residents here can skip the stress of street parking, instead opting to walk to Carolina Panthers games at Bank of America Stadium or Charlotte Knights games at BB&T Ballpark. Here, historic homes on tree-lined streets still offer skyline views of Center City — so it’s no wonder the neighborhood continues to see such massive growth.
Wesley Heights
By Morning
The original Rhino Market and Deli is a must-visit for breakfast, whether you stop by for a grab-and-go option like a classic English muffin sandwich or you stick around to enjoy some French toast or a build-your-own omelette. You can certainly get your coffee at Rhino Market, if you’re already there for breakfast — or you can get your morning beverage of choice at the counter at Not Just Coffee on Jay Street or from the drive-thru at CupLux.
Once you’re sufficiently caffeinated, explore the latest exhibits at LaCa Projects, a gallery with locations both in Charlotte and in Buenos Aires featuring Latin American contemporary art.
Things to do
Wesley Heights
By Afternoon
Get ready for some greasy goodness at Pinky’s Westside Grill, a restaurant whose self-proclaimed “low brow eats and drinks” have been featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” not once, but twice. Try the Pterodactyl, chef Greg Auten’s award-winning 5 oz. beef burger, served “Westside” (with mustard, chili, slaw and onions).
Walk off your lunch with a two-mile creek side stroll along the Irwin Creek and Stewart Creek Greenways, urban walking trails connecting Wesley Heights to Uptown.
Wesley Heights
By Night
Dig into some true North Carolina barbecue at Jim Noble’s newest concept Noble Smoke, ranging from chopped Cheshire pork to prime beef brisket and beyond, along with sides like pan-fried corn, collard greens and, of course, hush puppies.
Wash it down with a local craft beer or two from Town Brewing Co. or Blue Blaze Brewing — or both, since the two are so close to one another. If you prefer your pints with pups, you can swing by Lucky Dog Bark and Brew, where dogs roam and play off leash while their owners enjoy drinks with other dog-lovers.
