What to Do in Charlotte, North Carolina
Whether you’re interested in culture, outdoor adventures, sports, or dining, Charlotte has something to offer. Here are some popular things to do in Charlotte:
- NASCAR Hall of Fame: Charlotte is often called the “NASCAR Capital of the World,” so a visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must for racing enthusiasts. Explore exhibits on the history of NASCAR and its legendary drivers.
- U.S. National Whitewater Center: This outdoor recreational facility offers a range of activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking. It’s a great spot for adventure seekers.
- Discovery Place Science: Ideal for families and science enthusiasts, this interactive science museum features hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and live science demonstrations.
- Carowinds: This amusement park located on the border between North and South Carolina offers a variety of thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
- Freedom Park: A beautiful urban park in Charlotte with walking trails, playgrounds, and a large lake where you can rent paddleboats or enjoy a picnic.
- Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Explore stunning gardens with a wide variety of plants and flowers. The garden often hosts special events and seasonal displays.
- Mint Museum Uptown: One of Charlotte’s premier art museums, it houses an impressive collection of American, European, and contemporary art.
- South End: This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant art scene, craft breweries, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. It’s a great place to explore and experience Charlotte’s urban culture.
- Levine Museum of the New South: Learn about the history of the American South, including Charlotte’s role in the civil rights movement, through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport Overlook: If you’re interested in aviation, visit this overlook near the airport to watch planes take off and land up close.
- Professional Sports: Depending on the season, you can catch a game featuring Charlotte’s professional sports teams, such as the Charlotte Hornets (NBA) or the Carolina Panthers (NFL).
- Food and Dining: Charlotte has a thriving culinary scene. Explore local restaurants and try some Southern specialties, such as barbecue and fried chicken.
- Live Music: The city has a lively music scene with plenty of venues offering live performances. Check out local bands or enjoy concerts by nationally renowned artists.
- Cultural Festivals: Depending on the time of year, you might stumble upon cultural festivals celebrating food, music, art, and more.
- Hiking and Nature: Beyond the city, there are several hiking trails and outdoor areas to explore in the nearby North Carolina and South Carolina mountains.
Remember that Charlotte is a city with a dynamic and evolving cultural landscape, so be sure to check for the latest events and attractions happening during your visit. Whether you’re interested in sports, culture, or outdoor adventures, Charlotte has something to offer for everyone.
Where to Stay Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Where to Stay Near Charlotte Douglas International AirportIf you’re looking for luxury hotels near Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), you’re in luck. Charlotte offers several upscale accommodation options that cater to travelers seeking a luxurious and comfortable stay. Here are some luxury hotels near CLT:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte: Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, The Ritz-Carlton offers sophisticated accommodations, fine dining at BLT Steak, a luxurious spa, and easy access to the city’s cultural attractions.
- The Westin Charlotte: This elegant hotel is conveniently situated in Uptown Charlotte and features upscale rooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options, including JP Charlotte, known for its Southern cuisine.
- The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Located a bit farther from the airport but still easily accessible, The Ballantyne offers a resort-like experience with a golf course, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and upscale dining.
- The Dunhill Hotel: This historic boutique hotel in Uptown Charlotte offers a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. It’s known for its exceptional service and is within driving distance of the airport.
- Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel: Situated in Uptown Charlotte overlooking Romare Bearden Park, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and an emphasis on personalized service.
- Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection: Located in the heart of Uptown, this boutique hotel is known for its artful design, on-site art gallery, and luxurious rooms and suites.
- The Ivey’s Hotel: A boutique hotel in Uptown Charlotte, The Ivey’s combines historic charm with modern luxury. It’s known for its beautiful rooms and excellent dining options nearby.
- Omni Charlotte Hotel: Located in Uptown, the Omni offers upscale accommodations, multiple dining choices, a rooftop pool, and proximity to the city’s attractions.
These luxury hotels near CLT provide a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and lavish stay. Keep in mind that while they are not located directly at the airport, they offer easy access to both the airport and the vibrant cultural and dining scene of Charlotte. Be sure to check for availability and make reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Where to Eat Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Where to Eat Near Charlotte Douglas International AirportCharlotte Douglas International Airport is conveniently located near several upscale dining options in the surrounding areas. Here are some upscale restaurants near Charlotte Douglas International Airport:
- The Fig Tree Restaurant: Located in historic Dilworth, a short drive from the airport, The Fig Tree is known for its upscale, French-inspired cuisine and intimate dining atmosphere.
- Barrington’s Restaurant: Situated in the Foxcroft neighborhood, Barrington’s is a fine dining establishment featuring a seasonal menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Napa on Providence: This restaurant in Myers Park offers a menu inspired by Californian cuisine, with an extensive wine list to complement your meal.
- Mama Ricotta’s: If you’re in the mood for Italian, Mama Ricotta’s, located in Dilworth, serves classic Italian dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Gallery Restaurant: Located in The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, this restaurant offers farm-to-table dining with a focus on regional and seasonal ingredients.
- Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen: Situated in South Park, Rooster’s is known for its wood-fired cooking and a menu featuring a variety of dishes prepared with a Southern twist.
- Dressler’s Restaurant: With locations in both Huntersville and Birkdale Village, Dressler’s offers an upscale steak and seafood dining experience.
Please note that it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially for upscale restaurants, as they can be popular and busy, especially during peak dining hours. Additionally, restaurant availability and hours of operation may vary, so it’s a good idea to check their websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Charlotte Quick Info
Country: USA
State: North Carolina
Area
308.6 sq mi (799.2 km2)
Coordinates 35°13′38″N 80°50′35″W
Population
872,498 (US: 16th) (2018 est)
Density: 2,827/sq mi (1,092/km2)
Time zone
Eastern (EST) (UTC-5)
| FAA Identifier: | CLT |
| Lat/Long: | 35-12-49.5000N 080-56-56.6000W 35-12.825000N 080-56.943333W 35.2137500,-80.9490556 (estimated) |
| Elevation: | 747.9 ft. / 228.0 m (surveyed) |
| Variation: | 07W (2000) |
| From city: | 4 miles W of CHARLOTTE, NC |
| Time zone: | UTC -4 (UTC -5 during Standard Time) |
| Zip code: | 28208 |
| Dimensions: | 10000 x 150 ft. / 3048 x 46 m | ||
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in good condition | ||
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 77 /R/B/W/T | ||
| Single wheel: | 93.0 | ||
| Double wheel: | 200.0 | ||
| Double tandem: | 350.0 | ||
| Dual double tandem: | 650.0 | ||
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | ||
| RUNWAY 18C | RUNWAY 36C | ||
| Latitude: | 35-13.643782N | 35-11.999535N | |
| Longitude: | 080-57.190157W | 080-57.048695W | |
| Elevation: | 742.0 ft. | 692.2 ft. | |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left | |
| Runway heading: | 183 magnetic, 176 true | 003 magnetic, 356 true | |
| Declared distances: | TORA:10000 TODA:10000 ASDA:10000 LDA:10000 | TORA:10000 TODA:10000 ASDA:10000 LDA:10000 | |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition | |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on right (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout | |
| Approach lights: | MALSR: 1,400 foot medium intensity approach lighting system with runway alignment indicator lights | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes | |
| Touchdown point: | yes, no lights | yes, lighted | |
| Instrument approach: | ILS/DME | ILS | |
| Obstructions: | 25 ft. road, 1350 ft. from runway, 425 ft. left of centerline, 46:1 slope to clear | none | |
| Dimensions: | 9000 x 150 ft. / 2743 x 46 m | |
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in excellent condition | |
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 63 /R/B/W/T | |
| Single wheel: | 93.0 | |
| Double wheel: | 200.0 | |
| Double tandem: | 350.0 | |
| Dual double tandem: | 650.0 | |
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | |
| RUNWAY 18R | RUNWAY 36L | |
| Latitude: | 35-13.516970N | 35-12.037128N |
| Longitude: | 080-58.045117W | 080-57.917785W |
| Elevation: | 744.0 ft. | 743.9 ft. |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left |
| Runway heading: | 183 magnetic, 176 true | 003 magnetic, 356 true |
| Declared distances: | TORA:9000 TODA:9000 ASDA:9000 LDA:9000 | TORA:9000 TODA:9000 ASDA:9000 LDA:9000 |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on right (2.80 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout |
| Approach lights: | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes |
| Touchdown point: | yes, lighted | yes, lighted |
| Instrument approach: | ILS/DME | ILS/DME |
| Dimensions: | 8677 x 150 ft. / 2645 x 46 m | ||
| Surface: | asphalt/concrete/grooved, in good condition | ||
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 100/R/B/W/T | ||
| Single wheel: | 93.0 | ||
| Double wheel: | 200.0 | ||
| Double tandem: | 350.0 | ||
| Dual double tandem: | 650.0 | ||
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | ||
| Operational restrictions: | ARRESTING GEAR/SYSTEM: ENGINEERED MATERIALS ARRESTING GEAR SYSTEM (EMAS) 255 FT IN LENGTH BY 170 FT IN WIDTH AT THE DEPARTURE END OF RWY 36R. | ||
| RUNWAY 18L | RUNWAY 36R | ||
| Latitude: | 35-13.484123N | 35-12.057427N | |
| Longitude: | 080-56.169420W | 080-56.047033W | |
| Elevation: | 746.0 ft. | 723.4 ft. | |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left | |
| Runway heading: | 183 magnetic, 176 true | 003 magnetic, 356 true | |
| Declared distances: | TORA:8676 TODA:8676 ASDA:8676 LDA:8676 | TORA:8676 TODA:8676 ASDA:8390 LDA:8390 | |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition | |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on right (3.00 degrees glide path) | |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout | |
| Approach lights: | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | ||
| Runway end identifier lights: | yes | ||
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes | |
| Touchdown point: | yes, no lights | yes, lighted | |
| Instrument approach: | ILS/DME | ILS/DME | |
| Obstructions: | 19 ft. rr, 523 ft. from runway, 17:1 slope to clear | none | |
| Dimensions: | 7502 x 150 ft. / 2287 x 46 m | |
| Surface: | asphalt/concrete/grooved, in fair condition RWY 5 FIRST 625 FEET CONCRETE GROOVED; SECOND 5377 FEET ASPHALT GROOVED; LAST 1500 FEET CONCRETE WIRE COMBED. RWY 23 FIRST 1500 FEET CONCRETE WIRE COMBED; SECOND 5377 FEET ASPHALT GROOVED; LAST 625 FEET CONCRETE GROOVED. |
|
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 73/R/B/W/T | |
| Single wheel: | 93.0 | |
| Double wheel: | 170.0 | |
| Double tandem: | 350.0 | |
| Dual double tandem: | 650.0 | |
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | |
| RUNWAY 5 | RUNWAY 23 | |
| Latitude: | 35-12.537145N | 35-13.356972N |
| Longitude: | 080-56.996742W | 080-55.868725W |
| Elevation: | 705.9 ft. | 746.7 ft. |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left |
| Runway heading | 055 magnetic, 048 true | 235 magnetic, 228 true |
| Declared distances: | TORA:7502 TODA:7502 ASDA:7092 LDA:7092 | TORA:7502 TODA:7502 ASDA:7502 LDA:7502 |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on right (3.00 degrees glide path) |
| Approach lights: | MALSR: 1,400 foot medium intensity approach lighting system with runway alignment indicator lights | |
| Runway end identifier lights: | yes | |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes |
| Touchdown point: | yes, no lights | yes, no lights |
| Instrument approach: | ILS | ILS/DME |
| Obstructions: | 38 ft. trees, 1500 ft. from runway, 300 ft. right of centerline, 34:1 slope to clear | none |
Other nearby airports with instrument procedures:
- KAKH – Gastonia Municipal Airport (10 nm W)
- KUZA – Rock Hill (York Co) Airport-Bryant Field (15 nm S)
- KJQF – Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (16 nm NE)
- KIPJ – Lincolnton-Lincoln County Regional Airport (19 nm NW)
- KEQY – Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport (20 nm SE)
Best Private Jets To Charter To And From Charlotte Douglas International Airport
When chartering a private jet to and from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), the choice of aircraft depends on your specific needs, including passenger capacity, distance of travel, and personal preferences. Here are some popular private jets that are often chartered for flights to and from CLT:
Light Jets:
- Cessna Citation CJ series: These jets are known for their efficiency and versatility, making them suitable for short to mid-range flights.
- Embraer Phenom 300: A popular light jet with comfortable seating and excellent performance for regional travel.
- Beechcraft Premier 1A: It offers a comfortable cabin and good speed for short to mid-range trips.
Midsize Jets:
- Hawker 800 series: These jets provide a spacious cabin and longer range capabilities, making them ideal for flights from the East Coast to various destinations.
- Cessna Citation XLS/XLS+: Known for its speed and comfort, this midsize jet is a great choice for flights within North America.
Super Midsize Jets:
- Bombardier Challenger 350: A popular super midsize option with a spacious cabin, excellent range, and modern amenities.
- Gulfstream G280: Known for its long-range capabilities, this jet offers a comfortable cabin and advanced technology.
Heavy Jets:
- Gulfstream G550: A top choice for long-haul flights with a luxurious interior, ample space, and exceptional range.
- Bombardier Global Express: Known for its ultra-long range, this jet offers a spacious cabin and high-end amenities.
- Dassault Falcon 7X: A tri-engine jet with a large cabin, providing comfort and range for intercontinental travel.
Ultra-Long Range Jets:
- Gulfstream G650/G650ER: These are among the most luxurious and longest-range private jets available, suitable for non-stop international flights.
VIP and Customized Aircraft:
- For the ultimate luxury experience, some individuals and groups opt for VIP-configured private jets or customized interiors to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Most Popular Routes To Charlotte Douglas International Airport Via Private Jet
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is a major hub for private jet travel in the southeastern United States. As a busy airport, CLT sees private jet traffic from various destinations. Some of the most popular private jet routes to and from Charlotte Douglas International Airport include:
- New York City to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: This is a heavily traveled route, especially for business travelers, connecting the financial centers of the Northeast with Charlotte’s growing business community.
- Atlanta to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: The short distance between these two major southeastern cities makes this a common route for private jet travel.
- Miami to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Miami is a popular destination for leisure and business travelers, and many people choose private jets for this route due to its convenience and time-saving benefits.
- Chicago to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Another major business route, this connects Charlotte with Chicago’s business and financial districts.
- Washington, D.C. to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Business and government travelers frequently use private jets for this route, connecting the nation’s capital with Charlotte.
- Los Angeles to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Transcontinental private jet flights are popular for travelers who want to reach the West Coast from Charlotte quickly and comfortably.
- Dallas to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: This route connects two major southern cities, offering convenience for business and leisure travelers.
- Teterboro Airport (TEB) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Teterboro Airport is a popular private jet hub in the New York City area, and many travelers use this route to access Charlotte.
- Boston to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: The Boston-Charlotte route is frequently used for business and leisure travel.
- Houston to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Connecting the energy and business centers of Houston and Charlotte, this route is popular for private jet travelers.