31 Fun Things to Do in Charlotte NC with Kids (2023) (2023)

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Okay, it's the weekend or winter break. Maybe it's just a rainy day and now it's time to find fun things to do with kids in Charlotte, NC.

This is not always the easiest task. It can be difficult to find something that everyone in the family loves. Luckily, Charlotte is the perfect place to find wonderful activities for kids.

There seems to be something unique around every corner of Charlotte that kids will love. If you're looking for ideas, you've come to the right place!

In this post, we're going to talk about all of the fun and adventurous kids' activities that Charlotte NC and the surrounding area has to offer for the whole family.

Things to do for kids in Charlotte NC

First we visit Charlotte. Charlotte is the 25th largest city in the country and the largest city in North Carolina. It's only a two hour drive awayAsheville, NC,and 3.5 hours fromKingsport, Tennessee.

In Charlotte, NC alone, there are hundreds of things to do as a family! Let's take a look at the bestthings to do with childrenCharlotte has to offer.

1. Headwind

Location:300 Carowinds Boulevard, Charlotte, North Carolina
Prices:Daily admission tickets start at $29.99 per person. Discounted tickets are available for groups of up to 6 guests at $24.99 per person. Search online for season passes and military discounts.

The most popular and perhaps one of the most popularfun stuff for kidsThings to do in Charlotte NC is the 407-acre amusement park just off I-77 in Charlotte.

For more than 45 years, Carowinds has been bringing joy to family days with nearly 60 world-class rides, the best water park in Carolina, live entertainment and delicious food.

If you have teenagers, they will love thrilling roller coasters like Fury 325North Americalongest steel roller coaster and is over 1.25 miles long.

You'll find rides for the youngest kids and rides that even parents will enjoy, along with seasonal events and an on-site campground.

You can easily spend a few days enjoying the rides and exploring the park.

In winter, visit the Winterfest where you can see most of the attractions and enjoy the Christmas spirit!

Stroll through the festival's millions of themed lights, play games, enjoy live entertainment andIce skating on Snowflake Lake.

2. Discovery Place Science Museum

Designed for people of all ages, Discovery Place Museum is packed with engaging science and technology exhibits. The Discovery Museum is a non-profit museum that has been entertaining children and adults for 75 years.

Their mission is to educate and inspire people while learning about science. As you explore the museum, you'll find exhibits ranging from deep-sea dives to exhibits about outer space, the rainforest, and more.

There are many hands-on activities for kids in Charlotte NC and IMAX experiences that the whole family can take part in.

3. Accenture IMAX Dome Theater

Discover the Accenture IMAX Dome Theater at Discovery Place for the ultimate IMAX experience.

With laser technology, a 12-channel sound system and realistic images, the domed theater is a unique experience that will amaze all visitors.

A few rotating but exciting informational videos are usually played. They are currently showing Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation and Great Bear Rainforest.

4. Naturmuseum Charlotte

Associated with the Discovery Place Museum of Science is the Charlotte Museum of Nature named Discovery Place Nature.

To get kids excited about nature and all the cool and wonderful things the earth has to offer, the museum has many fun and interactive exhibits!

There are live animal exhibits, an insect center, outdoor forts, butterfly pavilions,nature trailsand much more! You can have hours of fun exploring the natural museum.

5. US National Whitewater Center

IsNational Whitewater CenterIt's an outdoor enthusiast's dream!

These recreation areas offer a variety of outdoor adventure activities for kids in Charlotte, from rafting, canoeing and kayaking to abseiling, rock climbing, high ropes courses and zip lining.

There are even over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as special weekend events like Build Your Own Boat.

You don't want an adventure, but want to enjoy nature? Check the yoga schedule! There is something for all ages at this outdoor adventure park.

Free activities for children in Charlotte

Finding fun activities for kids in Charlotte, NC can be difficult enough, let alone the prices of some of them. Sometimes it can be a bit disruptive to get the whole family out.

So what's better than free activities? Almost nothing, so let's dive into the best free things to do in Charlotte with kids.

6. The green

Location:425 S Tryon Street, Charlotte, Carolina del Norte

Known as Charlotte's "Pocket Park," The Green is a small four-acre park in uptown Charlotte.

The Green is a great place to stop, have lunch and a perfect gathering place for families to check in before embarking on another exciting adventure. There are many restaurants and shops nearby.

If you come to visit on a hot summer day, there is a fountain in the park for the kids to have fun.

Be sure to check out all of the fun signs inside The Green, including a signpost pointing to the other cities named Charlotte around the world. The park has an overall theme based on world literature.

7. Park Romans Bearden

Location:300 S Iglesia St. Charlotte, NC

Built in 2013, Romare Bearden Park is a 12-acre park named after one of Charlotte's great artists, "Romare Bearden." The park has a large grassy area perfect for picnics and games.

There are also benches around the park, beautiful ornate statues and a waterfall ideal for children to play.

The park is well maintained and in a great location right in the heart of uptown. Small events are often held here.

8. Reedy Creek Naturzentrum and Reservat

Location:2986 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC

Reedy Creek is a massive 927 acre piece of land and a protected natural forest.

Within the reserve there are more than 10 miles of hiking trails, a huge fenced dog area, disc golf courses and a lake where children can spot turtles, fish, birds and lots of other wildlife.

The reserve is the perfect location for some easy and free hiking trails that are good for a day trip with the family. Inside you will find small pavilions where you can have a good rest.

Stop and enjoy lunch and take in the scenery. In the park you will find a small nature center and a gift shop.

9. Freedom Park

Location:1908 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC

Nestled between Charlotte's historic district and just 3 miles from downtown Charlotte is the 98-acre Freedom Park.

The park is beautiful and spacious which can provide hours of fun on a nice sunny day.

Within the park you will find wonderful walking/biking trails, restrooms and a 7 hectare lake. There is also a great playground in the park that the kids will love!

Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash. Activities like yoga in the park, parades, races and more take place here year-round.

Things to do in Charlotte with kids near the airport

In a way, the airport is the center of the busy city. If you are going on a trip or are in the area with children, don't worry!

There are also some really fun family activities in Charlotte NC around the airport.

10. View of Charlotte Douglas Airport

Location: 7300 Airport Overlook Drive, Charlotte, Carolina del Norte

This is one of the most unique kids' activities and more in Charlotte, North Carolina. We invite you to sit back, spend the afternoon and watch the planes take off!

There is a large gravel parking lot, then a large area for families to sit, have lunch and watch the planes. Food trucks park in the area every weekend.

Use: The viewpoint is currently under construction until 2023. They're adding restrooms, more views, paved parking lots, and an expanded food truck area.

There is a temporary overlook at the corner of Old Dowd Road and Airport Overlook Drive.

11. Carolina's Aviation Museum

Location:4672 1st Flight Dr, Charlotte, NC

After 29 years, the Aviation Museum is proud to partner with Charlotte Douglas International Airport to create a new state-of-the-art aviation museum! It's one of the newer things Charlotte NC has to offer that has to do with kids.

Use: The grand reopening will be sometime in 2023.

This museum is an exciting place for aviation enthusiasts and families to see displays of real aircraft and learn about the history of the airport and the aircraft themselves.

They are also proud to partner with STEM, ainstructivechildren's program

12. Biblioteca Billy Graham

Location:4330 Westmont Dr, Charlotte, North Carolina

A library dedicated to the evangelist "Billy Graham". You can learn about his teachings and achievements and see his original home on tours of the house.

The Christmas season at the library is complete with light shows, live nativity scenes, horse-drawn carriage rides and treats.

13. Charlotte Regional Farmers' Market

Location:1801 Yorkmont Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina

The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market is a large indoor venue open Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. M. to 5 p.m. M. Farmers, bakers and artisans of all stripes come together to sell their handcrafted, locally produced goods.

From fresh produce to grass-fed meats and cheeses to honey, to handmade soaps and delicious baked goods, the Farmers Market is the perfect place to stop and enjoy fresh produce.

Take the kids to the farmers and taste all the delicacies.

Indoor activities in Charlotte, NC

Looking for the perfect activity for a rainy or cold day? We've got you covered! Here's a comprehensive list of all the great indoor activities Charlotte, NC has to offer.

14. Coin Museum

The Mint Museum is North Carolina's premier art museum and has one of the largest art collections in the Southeast.

There are two locations, one downtown and one on Randolph Street. Both places not only have art exhibitions, but also beautiful hands-on exhibits that are great for kids.

Currently, you can visit the Lewis Family Gallery at the Uptown location, which has lots of wonderful puzzles, team building games, and art projects that kids will love.

You can even stop by from time to time and pick up free treats for the kids! Check your calendar for current giveaways and events.

15. park

Location:4400 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina

SouthPark is a large luxury mall with all kinds of exciting shops and restaurants.

There are all kinds of top brand shops and even a children's center to bring the kids along.

Kids can play in the ocean center which includes a pirate ship slide and cannons, there are big sharks and other sea creatures to climb on.

There is also an interactive game with glowing jellyfish. Bring the kids to a fun game after a day of shopping!

16. American girl shop

Location:4400 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina

In the SouthPark shopping center you will find the American Girl Store! Treat your little ones to a fun day out with the American Girl Dolls.

Throughout the year there are special activities such as cookie decorating and manicures. You can also visit the doll hair salon and girls can change their American Girl Doll's hairstyle!

The American Girl Dolls Store offers in-store themed parties and take-home parties to keep your kids entertained. The family fun in Charlotte, NC is endless and every little girl will have a blast creating unforgettable memories.

17. Charlotte Children's Theater

Location:300 E 7th Street, Charlotte, NC

The Children's Theater of Charlotte offers award-winning theater and educational programs for children ages 3-18.

You can bring the family and see live shows and even be a part of the community by attending theater programs or summer camps!

Their goal is to be an open community for any child who wants to learn about theater and join the storytelling community.

For a full list of his various plays and shows throughout the year, see hiswebsite.

18Grand Lodge of the Wolf

Location:10175 Weddington Road, Concord, North Carolina

The hotel is about 30 minutes from CharlotteGrand Lodge of the Wolfis Charlotte's premier and most exciting indoor water park.

There's something for everyone, from great restaurants to kid-friendly activities and interactive games. There are 11 water slides, four pools and lots of fun at the resort. It is even open all year round and always offers water fun!

However, the water park isn't the only fun for kids that can be had here.

The fun is practically endless with laser tag, a bowling alley, arcade, movie theater, miniature golf, high ropes course, interactive fortress and many more fun family games from Charlotte, NC that will keep the kids entertained forever. maybe back then!

19. Concord Mills

Location:8111 Concord Mills Blvd, Concord, NC (12 Millas von Uptown Charlotte)

Concord Mills is a popular indoor family shopping experience.

Here you will find designer brands, family restaurants, a cinema and many seasonal events that take place throughout the year.

It's a great activity on rainy days to explore the mall, maybe go shopping or watch a movie!

20SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

SEA LIFE is an interactive aquarium located inside the Concord Mills Shopping Center.

The aquarium features North Carolina's only underwater ocean tunnel, a touch pool, and thousands of tropical fish, sharks, turtles, and jellyfish.

Admission to the aquarium is subject to availability. Secure your admissionAdvance ticket sales.

Everyone in the family will enjoy strolling through the tunnel surrounded by marine life or enjoying the Ocean Touch Pool filled with starfish, shells and other fun sea creatures.

Things to do in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina

There are so many fun things to do with family in Uptown Charlotte, NC.

Use: Uptown is what locals call Downtown Charlotte.

From super tasty kid-friendly restaurants to theaters and more, downtown Charlotte has so many kid-friendly activities for you to enjoy and have a great time.

21. NASCAR-Ruhmeshalle

For everything NASCAR this is the best place!

You can immerse yourself in vibrant, action-packed, ever-changing exhibits that take a closer look at NASCAR, its leaders, and its history.

Fun for people of all ages, you can also take guided tours for a deeper look into the Hall of Fame.

22. Warehouse Truista

Location:324 S Mint Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Truist Field (formerly BB&T Park) is a large ballpark in Uptown Charlotte.

The stadium is home to the Charlotte Knights, an International League Triple-A baseball team. There are many games throughout the year and they are a great family event.

Bring the kids, eat some Chili Dogs and chocolate chip cookies, and enjoy a baseball game!

Enjoy stunning views of Uptown from inside the stadium while watching a game.

Take the family to the Light the Knights Festival during the holiday season. On the field they have an ice rink and a snow tubing hill. Enjoy the joys of Christmas, shopping and lights!

23. Bank of America-Stadion

Location:800 S Mint Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Bank of America Stadium is a massive (33 acres) football stadium in Uptown Charlotte. It is home to the NFL's Carolina Panthers and the MLS's Charlotte FC.

Here you can not only see professional football and soccer matches, but also experience other live events and concerts.

For a truly unforgettable gaming experience, this is the place to be!

24. Blumenthal Center for the Performing Arts

Location:130 N Tryon Street, Charlotte, Carolina del Norte

Opened in 1992, the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center brings the world's top shows and acts directly to Charlotte. The arts center has six different theaters (including the Belk Theatre), each with their own unique experience.

From Broadway shows to holiday events, plays and ballets, there's always something fun and exciting going on at the theater.

25. Belk-Theater

Location:130 N Tryon Street, Charlotte, Carolina del Norte

Affiliated with the Blumenthal Center for the Performing Arts, the Belk Theater is the grandest and largest of the six theaters operated by the Society.

With over 2,000 seats, you can see everything from lectures and ballets to rock concerts and opera.

Throughout the year they perform various live shows for the whole family. It is a delightful visit to this theater with its beautiful high ceilings and amazing theatrical atmosphere, any child would never forget their visit here.

Things to do near Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte isn't the only place with fun family events! Throughout the greater Charlotte area there are fun places and events that kids will love.

there is a lot of funDay trips from CharlotteChildren will enjoy it too. We will see.

26. Reed-Goldmine

An hour away in Midland is the Reed Gold Mine, site of the first documented gold discovery in the United States. The underground mine is open for self-guided tours Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00am to 4:30pm only.

It is a designated National Historic Landmark due to its importance in American history. Today you can visit it and try your luck panning for gold!

Use:Panorama is weather dependent and not available from November 1st to March 31st.

Take a tour of downtown, see 20th-century steam locomotives, watch live interactive re-enactments, and see other historical artifacts. It's so much fun for kids of all ages!

27. Carolina Boys Center

The Carolina Raptor Center is a nonprofit center that cares for more than 35 species of birds. As you walk along the trail you can observe the birds in their natural habitats and learn more about each species.

The center also offers Raptor Academy classes and tours of the facility. In addition, the hospital treats over 800 injured birds annually and your donation will help save these precious birds!

Kids will love seeing and learning about birds, and it's a great way to get involved.

28. Crowders Mountain Staatspark

Location: 522 Park Office Ln, Kings Mountain, Carolina del Norte

In Gaston County, just 32 miles from Charlotte, is beautiful Crowders Mountain State Park.

The park itself is over 5,000 hectares and has hundreds of kilometershiking trails, and some nice panoramic views.

Here you'll find the popular Backside Trail, which leads straight to the top of Crowders Mountain.

On a clear day you can even see Charlotte's modern skyline. Keep in mind that this is a strenuous 1.6 mile loop trail, but it's worth it for the views.

Within the park you will also find camping, rock climbing and fishing. For a weekend getaway or just a day trip into the woods, this is a great place to bring the kids!

29. Mr. Putty's amusement park

Mr. Putty's Fun Park is the most entertaining theme park. Primarily a miniature golf park, there are many other activities for kids in Charlotte, including ax throwing, wood climbing, bungee jumping, a high ropes course, a challenge zone, carnival rides, and more.

If you are thinking of taking the kids for the day or planning a birthday party this is the perfect place to do it!

With a snack bar, you can easily spend a whole day with the family.

30. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Spread over 300 acres, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a beautiful site of rolling meadows, woodland and lakefront properties. 30 hectares are currently used for visitors.

Just 21 miles from Charlotte, this beautiful piece of land is a wonderful outdoor escape from the excitement of the city.

Seasonal events take place throughout the year, be sure to check out the garden shop and wine corner while you're there!

31. Carolina-Renaissance-Festival

Join in the fun of the Renaissance Festival every Saturday and Sunday from late September to mid-November!

Travel back in time to Camelot for live shows, craft markets, games, fairground meals,horse excursions, falconry shows, kites, fire shows and much more!

Across the country, Renaissance festivals are a huge event where people dress up and go out of their way to have medieval fun.

IsCarolina-Renaissance-PartyIt's one of the largest and most exciting Renaissance shows you can attend, and it's great fun for the whole family!

There's no better way to spend a fall weekend than joining in the festivities.

Family-friendly restaurants in Charlotte, North Carolina

Sometimes the best way to spend a day with kids is to just take them exploring.

Charlotte has so much to see and do, with little shops and many restaurants to visit, you'll never get bored just seeing what there is to see!

Below are some of the best and most fun family restaurants in Charlotte.

Kuhfisch-Sushi-Burger-Bar

Location:4310 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina

Sushi burger? You've probably never heard of anything like this, and neither did the owners when they decided to create this unique experience.

Due to the varied menu, you can easily bring the whole family and everyone will find something delicious that they want to eat.

With its colorful walls, fun artwork and decorations, and even a live aquarium with real cowfish, a visit will not disappoint the whole familySeekuh!

Pinkys West Side Grill

Locations:1600 W Morehead Street, Charlotte, Carolina del Norte
9818 Gilead Rd Suite 101B, Huntersville, Carolina del Norte

Pinky's Grill has a great atmosphere and loads of great food. With a great menu and fast, friendly service, the whole family will love their trip.

Featured at diners, drive-ins and divesGuy Fieri has visited the restaurant several times and always comes back for the amazing food.

Known for their Viking corn dogs, delicious fried pickles and of course the Triple 'G' burger, you and your family will have lots of fun trying out the menu.

original pancake house

Locations:915 Charlottetown Avenue, Charlotte, North Carolina
4736 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina

For over 20 years theoriginal pancake houseIt's a Charlotte favorite for all-day breakfasts and comfort food.

The Original Pancake House has some of the best pancakes you'll ever taste, and what kid doesn't love pancakes? Order online or visit them today for sit down dining.

Red-Eye Eaters

Location:210 E Trade Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

IsRed-Eye EatersIt's the perfect place for every meal, all day long! The menu is extensive and offers a wide variety of Southern and American comfort food.

They are famous for their chicken waffles!

Inside you'll find classic retro decor, complete with red neon lighting and a black-and-white checkerboard floor. Kids will have a great time eating delicious food!

Final Thoughts: Things to do in Charlotte for kids

The variety of family activities in the Charlotte area is huge! In Charlotte, NC you are sure to find activities for kids that everyone will love and enjoy.

From museums to hikes, delicious restaurants and hands-on activities, the fun is endless.

Save this list forthe next time you are thinking of bringing the familyExperience a fun adventure full of memories!

This post was contributed to Our Offbeat Life by SarahDiscover more North Carolina! A native of North Carolina, she loves to share her beautiful home state with others, from hiking and swimming to local foods and fun places.

Never travel without good travel insurance. while we haveWorld Health Insurance, we also choose travel insurance for short trips.
👉 We are happy to use for travel insurancesecurity wing.