Queen City Favorites: My Guide to Charlotte

I’ve lived in Charlotte since 2004, and I personally feel like it’s a pretty cool city with lots to offer. This February, Charlotte hosted the NBA All star weekend, and I had tons of friends who came in town to visit, and they wanted to know the best places to eat and hang in Charlotte. After sharing my go-to spots with my friends, I realized that my list of favorites would be great to share with my readers, so I’ve crafted a list of all the places that I frequent, love and would recommend if you currently live in Charlotte or are planning a visit to the Queen City any time soon.

Hope you enjoy!

Foodie Favorites

Cute Coffee Spot: Coco & The Director

Community Eats: 7th Street Public Market

If you scream for Ice Cream: Jeni’s Scoop Shop

Pasta that will make you think your in Italy: Portofinos

Vegan Bites: Luna’s Living Kitchen

Eclectic Small Plates with Big Flavor: Soul Gastrolounge

Reigning Champ for Ramen: Futo Buto

Best Pad Thai in Town: Co

Sweets & Eats available 24 Hours a day: Amelie’s

Food that taste like your momma cooked it: Pikes Soda Shop

Cookie Craving: Insomnia

Taco Tuesday or Taco Anyday: Sabor Latin Street Grille

Brunch: Toast

If you like Sushi & Burgers: Cowfish

Fresh Catch: Fin & Fino

Hot Diggity Dogs: JJ’s Red Hots

Flavorful Fusion: Essex

Shop til Your Drop

Go-to Consignment Store: Buffalo Exchange

Cute Boutique Shopping: Vestique

Enjoy Outlet deals at Concord Mills & Charlotte Premium Outlets

Cutest Gift Shop Ever: Paper Skyscraper

Hit the Mall at Southpark, Carolina Place or Northlake

Get Out & About

Hike up Crowder’s Mountain

Shake your Butt at The Dance District

Enjoy a day at the park at Romare Bearden

Catch a show at the Knight Theatre

Grab dinner, watch a movie at SMG, then go party afterwards at Epicentre

Hit a Few Balls at Top Golf

Scream on a rollercoaster at Carowinds

Enjoy a waterslide at Great Wolf Lodge (If you have little ones)

Bowl a Strike at Queen Park Social

 Enjoy Uptown Views & Crafty Cocktails: Merchant & Trade 

Photography: Brandon Grate