The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs regularly at the Belk Theater, the largest auditorium at the North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The theater is constructed so that there are no seats more than 135 feet away from the stage, providing an intimate setting even with over 2,000 people in the audience. In addition, a fiber-optic network with thousands of multi-colored pinpoints of light is placed throughout the audience chamber for spectacular light displays. Call or visit the Blumenthal Center's website for information on upcoming events and tickets.
From 1836 to around 1861 this Federal-style building served as the first branch of the United States Mint. During the Depression it was saved from demolition through a community effort and became North Carolina's first art museum. Now it is one of the major collections of American, European, African, and Asian artwork, along with ceramics, photography, maps and contemporary art. There are daily tours, lectures, art classes, and festivals that invite the public to come and enjoy the exhibitions. With such an extensive collection of over 72,000 items and a building rich in history, this museum is a must-see for any art lover! Also be sure to check out the Mint Museum Uptown, located in nearby Uptown.
The Washington Redskins coach and his team organize regular racing events since 1991 to collect money for various charities. Fans can come and watch some wild action on the course as they cheer on the very professional drivers. The posh venue also features the odd workshop that educates aspiring racers on the nitty-gritties of the sport, while guiding them toward a glamorous future in motor-racing. Those interested can also run a hand over the various models of race-cars, or even hire them for a personal show! Check the website for upcoming events and other details.
In the mood for laughs but looking for something more innovative than the traditional stand-up routines on offer at The Comedy Zone? Head over to the Charlotte Comedy Theatre for an entirely different experience. The theatre is home to Charlotte's very own company of improv specialists. Rather than delivering overly rehearsed bits, these entertainers start from scratch every time. No rehearsal at all! Audience members are often invited to supply a situation or a buzzword, and then off the players go, making them roar with completely improvised comedy. Drinks are supplied by Joe's Raw Bar right next door. See website for details on weekly improv lessons, as well as a complete calendar of events.
A haven for ice skating and ballet enthusiasts, Extreme Ice Center offers multiple ice rinks, a fitness facility and a restaurant in Indian Trail town of North Carolina. The NHL standard ice-rinks play host to a number of hockey and broomball league games and also offers training facility for young amateur skaters. Besides this, you can also workout at the state-of-the-art fitness club, which is housed inside the center. A perfect place for family recreational and fun outing. Call or visit their website for information about public hours and events.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of the important and well known venues of Charlotte. Spread across an area of 150,000-square-feet (13,935 square meter), this sprawling facility boasts ultra modern equipment and sophisticated amenities. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to NASCAR, and is a perfect starting point for all those who are unaware about auto racing. The Hall of Fame has a special exhibition hall that displays artifacts that give you detailed information on car racing. It also has specialized simulator rides and interactive displays that further add to the experience. Apart from that, the on-site venues like Belk High Octane Theater, Great Hall and Legends Room can be hired for private functions.