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.
Much like SoHo, NoDa (North Davidson Street) is a bustling area in the city of Charlotte. There is lots to see and do in this famous arts district, for both visitors and locals. Restaurants, theatres, bars, shops and galleries abound here. Visit during the annual Gallery Crawl to check out the area's fascinating art scene. An amalgamation of culture and cuisine, this district is cloaked in an air of enjoyment, making it a must-visit. Check the website for what's happening at various venues in the area.
This 98-acre (40 hectare) public park is a slice of nature at its best, right in the middle of the city. Complete with four baseball diamonds, two batting cages, a dozen tennis courts, four soccer fields, a basketball court, a pair of volleyball courts, a pair of playgrounds, a seven-acre (two hectare) lake, an amphitheater, a number of sheltered picnic areas, and miles of trails and paths, Freedom Park has something for everyone. There's even a concession stand for joggers in need of water or sun bathers in need of ice cream. Many of the picnic shelters are reservable, as are the Freedom Park Bandshell and the Mahlon Adams Pavilion, a banquet hall that seats 70 people.
The heart of this museum lies in an exploration of the people who have changed and shaped the social landscape of the South since the end of the Civil War. The exhibit addresses controversial issues like race relations and immigration, providing a forum for discussion and contemplation. The facility is newly renovated and many of the pieces contain modern multimedia displays and virtual tours that make the learning experience fun for all ages. Be sure to explore the 'Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers' exhibit, one of the permanent collections that focuses on the changing face of Charlotte and the Piedmont region of North Carolina.
Even after having done whitewater rafting, kayaking, flat-water paddling, hiking, climbing, or biking at Charlotte's National Whitewater Center, the place is sure to keep you wanting more. An initiative that contributes to the preservation of the Catawba River and its natural surroundings, the activities organized by the center require a certain level of fitness, but are memorable nevertheless.
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.
The Hoyle House in Dallas, North Carolina was the home of Pieter Heyl, a German miller. An extraordinary example of German-American architecture, the two floored house was constructed sometime in the mid 1700s. It underwent various alterations over the years as it was passed from generation from generation and today one can see a mix of many architectural styles, with evident Federal and Georgian influences. The property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
Located close to Uptown Charlotte, Plaza-Midwood is a rising urban district. The place has ample option of public transport which makes it very easy to commute. It also houses a number of exotic restaurants which serve its residents and tourists an array of world class cuisines. The place is also famous for a church that is now an art center, showcasing the works of aspiring local artists.
The eminent First Presbyterian Church in Rock Hill was constructed in 1894. Primly sited at 234 E. Main Street, it is a historic Presbyterian Church building. It is spread over 1.8 acres (0.73 hectares) of land area. The church building and structure is a fine representation of the Late Victorian style of architecture. The historically significant Church is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Sunday school, worship services, Bible study and various other programs are vital initiatives striven by the church.
The St. Mark's Episcopal Church is a historic church located in Huntersville, North Carolina. The church was built in 1886 and features a combination of Gothic and English Country Gothic style architecture. The red brick structure also features beautiful stained glass windows on the inside. The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
The Foundation for the Carolinas is a hub of philanthropy. This foundation brings many different people from the community together and encourages all to do good and to pay it forward. The Luski-Gorelick Center for Philanthropy is home to an art gallery on the first floor that features works from local artists. Admission to the gallery is free.