Charlotte offers a range of free activities for visitors and residents alike. Here’s our list of the free things to do when traveling to Charlotte, NC.
Freedom Park
Explore Charlotte’s largest city park, Freedom Park, offering scenic walking trails, sports facilities, and beautiful lakeside views.
NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza
Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza located in Uptown Charlotte. You can see historic race cars, sculptures, and memorials dedicated to NASCAR legends. While entrance to the NASCAR Hall of Fame requires a fee, you can enjoy the plaza for free.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
While some activities require payment, entry to the U.S. National Whitewater Center is free. Enjoy trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking. You can also watch kayakers and rafters navigate the man-made whitewater rapids.
Lake Norman
Spend a day at Lake Norman, the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, located just north of Charlotte. Enjoy free activities like swimming at designated swimming areas, picnicking at lakeside parks, and fishing from public fishing piers. Lake Norman State Park offers hiking trails, a beach area, and opportunities for boating and kayaking (some activities may require rental fees).
NoDa Arts District
Everyone that visits Charlotte should take time to explore NoDa (North Davidson) Arts District, known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic galleries, and colorful street murals. Visit and admire the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere, artwork, and food scene.
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
Stroll through the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, where you can browse a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and crafts. Entry is free, and it’s a great way to experience the local flavor of Charlotte.
Crowders Mountain State Park
Crowders Mountain State Park, located just a short drive from Charlotte, is the perfect stop for panoramic views of Uptown Charlotte and the surrounding landscape. The park offers various hiking trails of different difficulty levels, making it suitable for all skill levels of hikers. Enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and rock climbing in this scenic natural area.
Public Art Walking Tour
Take a self-guided walking tour of Charlotte’s public art scene. Walk through Uptown Charlotte and surrounding neighborhoods to discover murals, sculptures, and installations by local and international artists. Check out ArtWalk for a variety of walking tours.
Charlotte Trolley Powerhouse Museum
The Charlotte Trolley Powerhouse Museum, located in South End, highlights Charlotte’s historic streetcar system, with vintage trolleys and artifacts on display.
Charlotte Museum of History’s Hezekiah Alexander Homesite
Visit the Hezekiah Alexander Homesite, a historic site managed by the Charlotte Museum of History. Explore the 1774 Alexander Rock House, the oldest surviving structure in Mecklenburg County, and learn about Charlotte’s early history.
Here’s our list of some free things to do when traveling to Charlotte, NC. These free activities offer a fantastic way to experience the diverse attractions and vibrant culture of Charlotte without spending a dime.
Looking for other East Coast cities to visit? Check out our blog “10 Best East-Coast Cities For The Perfect Weekend Getaway.”
