Top Rated Attractions in Charlotte

The Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County and the Children's Theatre of Charlotte have come together to create this awesome complex that houses the McColl Family Theatre, the Spangler Library, the Wachovia Playhouse, a Scene and Paint Shop, several studios, rehearsal rooms and a costume shop. A veritable entertainment center, this is the hub of family amusement activities in the area. A comprehensive collection of books and videos fills the library, while a number of educational programs for kids takes place at regular intervals.

Over the years, this historic building has been home to many different theatres and shops, but now it is one of the best places around to hear live music. All different types of music genres frequent the Visulite Theatre - alternative, bluegrass, jazz, rock and more. It attracts a wide variety of music lovers from the Elizabeth neighborhood and can hold up to 540 people. In addition, it boasts a full bar and plenty of comfortable couches so you can sit back and take in the mellow atmosphere while listening to your favorite performers. Check out the website for new bookings and events as the hours may vary.

This low-key venue, where one can enjoy some quality folk music, is located at Davidson Street in Historic North Charlotte. It is open only four days a week and has a seating capacity of 80. Not one of those noisy places where the engrossed audiences sing louder than the performers, the Evening Muse has a dedicated following of true listeners, who come to enjoy performances by artists like the Near Misses, Dan Bern and Martha Wainwright. Apart from the great accoustics, the decor is worth noting, with original artwork adorning the walls. You can order tickets online with your credit card, but the box office accepts cash only.

The PNC Music Pavilion (former Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre) in Charlotte hosts many concerts by headliners such as Dave Matthews Band, Def Leppard, and Ozzy Osbourne. Check their website for a calendar of events and ticketing information.

Ovens Auditorium opened in 1955 and has hosted a wide range of top events, from Broadway shows to speaking tours to concerts by Bruce Springsteen and Bob Hope. The theater has a seating capacity of nearly 2,500 and has had recent renovations to the auditorium, lobby, and exterior grounds. It is considered to be one of the top landmarks in the city, as its rose gardens and impressive fountains draw concert-goers and tourists alike. Make sure to visit the website for upcoming events. So stop by to check out the sights and maybe you will end up catching one of your favorite performers.

Spectrum Center, formerly known as the Time Warner Cable Arena, has something for everyone. Charlotte's premier entertainment and sports venue has a seating capacity of over 20,000 and hosts the city's most popular games, concerts and performances. This indoor arena has played host to big names like Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones and U2 amongst others. The stadium serves as the home venue for Charlotte Hornets and the Charlotte Sting.