Things to Do in Charlotte, North Carolina
Events, Life, Sports, Weather, News
Charlotte is one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, thanks to a booming financial industry, mild climate, and up-and-coming food scene. But it’s not just the twinkly skyline and a wealth of things to do that attract new residents from across the country—the city’s welcoming culture is a major selling point, too. From fiery sports rivalries to chart-topping concerts and vibrant city celebrations, there’s always something going on in Charlotte.
While a move to the Queen City comes with its fair share of perks, some downsides are worth considering. For starters, income taxes can be high: residents pay between 4% and 5% of their annual salary in state and local tax.
In addition, a shortage of public transportation options can make commuting challenging, especially during peak hours. However, a growing number of residents are choosing to circumvent these challenges by combining a car with ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.
Despite a reputation for being a cold city, winters in Charlotte are mostly mild and the summers are hot, dry, and sunny. During these seasons, Charlotte’s beaches and outdoor activities are at their peak. For instance, during the holidays, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden puts on Holidays at the Garden, a spectacular light display that runs from November through December. You can also check out the Circle K Speed Street 600 Festival, a popular event that takes over Uptown Charlotte streets for a weekend of racing festivities and live music ahead of May’s Coca-Cola 600 race.